The SAD TRUTH About Drugstore Makeup in 2024

[@JenPhelps]

Do you think that drugstore makeup is not as popular as it once was? Are you buying more luxury makeup or drugstore?

[@marylove909]

I'm kind of over dupe products. It's starting to feel like all companies are just selling the same thing. I've started buying less, and sticking more to some basics. I miss the days when drugstore brands were kind of doing their own thing.

[@CocosMama100]

I’ve done the same! It’s literally become irritating to look at the sea of “samesies”… I’ve severely pared down my products to those I know work and leave it at that. It’s become discouraging to not be able to try new things because of the cost and variety

[@betsyvazquez3498]

I totally agree!

[@jenniferrichardson8474]

I totally agree. I am not liking the whole dupe thing either. However, I'm on a super tight budget and I can't afford to spend money on high end products. I must buy drugstore products. And I have bought some of the "dupes". But I don't think of it in terms of buying a dupe. I instead think of it as a more affordable option. Which, yes, $14 or more at the drugstore is still pricey. But it's much more doable for me than spending $50+ on a high end item. However, I also completely understand your point. It would be nice if the drugstore companies would go back to doing their own thing instead of feeling the need to be copy cats (MEOW!! 😸). So I am definitely onboard with you on that!

[@20thcenturyrelic]

I suspect that dupes are a trend that's nearing its end.

[@andmoreagain7]

This!

[@beckyrobbins445]

Honestly I think the quality of MANY things, not just drugstore makeup, has gone down while prices have gone up. Even grocery portions are smaller but more expensive. It’s disheartening.

[@JenPhelps]

That's a great point! It's not just makeup at all. And it can be downright scary when it comes to our food.

[@beckyrobbins445]

@@JenPhelps EXACTLY! I think you’re spot on with one reason being the economy and I feel all the other points snowball from that. You are also spot on with I’d rather pay $5-$6 for the quality we know and love rather than WASTE $3-$4. Most of us don’t have that TO waste. If we did have that kind of income, we’d just apply it toward high end products and not have to worry about it. Until the economy starts affecting them too. Then I’m at a loss. I love how you stay unsponsored, unbiased and true to yourself & followers. Thank you so much.

[@beckyrobbins445]

@@JenPhelpsSide note: I’m not a Charlotte Tillbury fan overall. I think it’s over priced and over hyped. But if drugstore brands don’t fix their game, I may be eating those words and have to start purchasing CT 😝

[@beckyrobbins445]

@@JenPhelps…and I LOVE your point that we are seeing drugstore brands losing their identity while caught up in trying to dupe the high end ones. BOOM!

[@lindabenson1764]

Yes, it's called "shrinkflation" (increasing price & decreasing product amount/quality) & the corporations are profiting by the billions!

[@BuyLessJess]

Price increases have made makeup utilitarian for me. I have actually spent much less, the price hikes will eventually hurt the manufacturers and retailers more than they hurt me.

[@karishmadesai1408]

Yeah I no longer find joy in makeup. I'm just using my products up at this point to use them lol

[@lynettefinnigan9540]

I think everyone over purchased in Covid, but now the habit is wearing off, and we're looking at the pile of make-up we have thinking "I really need to use that up before I buy any more!!😂😂

[@LisaMarlene.]

@@karishmadesai1408oh I’m so sorry that happened. I find the whole process of applying makeup, starting with the choosing of what colour to use, which products to use, and applying them a very creative, relaxing, and enjoyable part of my day. I suppose if you felt you had to wear make up every day and had to apply it at 6 am every morning, that it would feel like a chore. I clean up people’s flower gardens and landscaping for a living, so the only thing on my face most days is my Australian Gold Botanicals sunscreen.

[@taylorwilliams4179]

​@@karishmadesai1408Im getting there in terms of makeup. Im obsessed with eyeshadow palettes but rarely if ever use them. In the past 4 years, Ive put on makeup maybe 5 times. Compared to every day before then.

[@TracyD2]

@@LisaMarlene.I still enjoy the ritual of makeup, skin/hair/body care. I go through cycles where I’m doing the minimum then I’m doing the most. As far as drugstore makeup, I rarely bother with it anymore unless something phenomenal comes along. I wait for sales for higher end and a lot less of it.

[@ladidaohoh3168]

Maybe the high cost of things curbing consumerism might not be the worst thing in the world. When you have 10 year olds on tiktok talking about how a $80 drunk elephant product is a must have, we may have went off a cliff and might need a priority correction lol.

[@SnazzyBabe]

They must put gold in there products for it to cost that much lol

[@jillpotts7472]

so true!

[@20thcenturyrelic]

They're getting the money from their affluent parents to buy this stuff. I can just imagine what my mom's response would have been! She never hesitated to say "No, we can't afford it." Or just "No."

[@candacechavigne5560]

1000% agree

[@mqgriffi]

Preach 😂

[@kaivickers166]

I think a lot of makeup markups aren’t costs rising, they’re price gouging. If an Essence can have a great foundation for $6 then Cover Girl doesn’t need to charge $22. I’m fine with a 20% increase but we’re talking 70%+.

[@makeuplover6852]

As a retired retailer who spent over 33 years in retail in Canada I urge people to always return products you are unhappy with, the notion that "returns drive the price up" is just not true. All financial budgets in retail are created with around a 2% shrink factor, that accounts for returns as well. The returns are so minimal because most consumers simply can not be bothered to return a product that they end up not liking or does not work for them. With the huge increase in the cost of living it is absolutely worth it to take the time to take back any item that falls short of your expectation. Just know what the return policy is from the retailer and stick within their guidelines, the avg is 2 weeks with receipt and you will get a full refund, this is for the USA and Canada, I know that this is very different in the UK and AUS. If you can not use a tester to determine your best shade, then it is 100% okay that you return something that turns out to be the wrong shade for you. If a product has such a strong fragrance you can not use it, return it. Returns are also the very best way for companies to get feedback on a product that is not meeting customers expectations or was too heavily fragranced or the bottle/packaging is faulty and hard to deal with/messy etc. Most retailers will get a credit from the brand when they return the defective goods or goods that a customer returned stating it did not meet their expectations. These credits are used by the retailer to offset markdowns if the product ends up being a dud and slow seller.

[@kathleenp3135]

Excellent reminder. I used to not bother returning products but everything is just too pricey to settle. I return.

[@maryabdel-malik656]

Does Canada allow returning 🙀 Because I lived in Montreal & I still have all my family in Montreal & we never could return anything

[@purrceys7959]

I'm in Toronto and I've never been able to return anything with a receipt once it's been opened. I'd like to to know who accepts opened returns in Canada.

[@queenbunnyfoofoo6112]

​@@maryabdel-malik656I wonder if that's specific to the Quebec Province? Quebec tends to be, well, Quebec 😂.

[@bonniebailey1657]

Shoppers drug mart has a 30 day return policy for beauty products but Rexall does not allow returns on opened beauty products. I’ve also bought a few things on Amazon because of their return policy

[@SydneyShooksOffical]

I kind of get irritated with the drugstore prices on mascara. Mascaras used to be the #1 thing I would never buy "high end", but with the drugstore prices increasing, you could buy a L'Oreal mascara for the same price as Tower28. Not even kidding.

[@lauriehunsaker9470]

Literally what I came to say! I’ve actually switched from Loreal to Tower 28 as well, and it doesn’t dry out nearly as quickly as Loreal which even with a coupon is still over $13. I’ll spent $19 on Tower28

[@bestiefswlady5251]

Thank you for the tip - I’ll look into that mascara. I actually have heard about it a couple of times but I’ve never seen a review of it. Time to start looking up some info :-). Shelf longevity is important to me probably even more than performance, since I only wear mascara about twice a month, but finding a product that doesn’t irritate my eyes and it’s better quality for semi-near the same price makes it worth it.

[@marywebb9127]

Put your open mascara in a plastic Ziploc bag and it will not dry out as fast.

[@andreacamp936]

Essence has really great mascaras for around $5-6 dollars. It's even recommended to change out your mascara every 3 or 4 months bc of bacteria buildup, so stick w the cheap ones.

[@SydneyShooksOffical]

@@andreacamp936 I love Essence and I really wanted to love their mascaras, but with my watery eyes, all of them smudged, ran, or flaked on me :/ But I know a lot of people love them and don't have that problem.

[@janetv2928]

I am so tired of incentivized reviews on websites. I rarely buy anything blind based on e-commerce sites. This is why I love your channel - honest reviews, we're the same age range, similar skin types in terms of dryness. You are one of my favorite channels so please keep it coming with affordable makeup plus dupe/alternatives! They are the best!

[@BunnySlippers82]

I agree completely. I love Jen for her unbiased, unsponsored reviews. Emily Noel is another KZbin reviewer whom I trust completely, but other than that it can be hard to find people who can't be bought by companies.

[@aiver.a]

I fell like 70% are incentivized reviews. So frustrating

[@noemimatias3729]

Please do a video on all your favorite “classic” drugstore/affordable makeup in every category. I would love to see your picks .

[@katypiette3581]

It’s not operating costs…it’s price gouging like ALL companies have since COVID. Record profits have been posted and the CEO’s take home pay has spiked. Also, these drugstore brands OWN the luxury brands-they’re not hurting for money. It’s a bunch of crap 💩. The beauty industry is absolutely terrible.

[@jane_7375_]

Agree!

[@JenPhelps]

I think it's both- everything is definitely expensive these days but there is also a lot of greed going on

[@katfayegarrett3872]

💯💯💯💯❤️

[@blaquelove]

THIS

[@notimportant123]

An INFORMED perspective rather than just speculation!

[@gigi2k326]

Seems like a lot of brands are content to just sell us the product one time. Then they move on to the next viral product. Business is booming, & it's lead to a rat race.

[@JenPhelps]

I agree! I think they're just worried about becoming the next "viral" thing.

[@jackiestone5808]

Yes and they often discontinue their very best products which would be continual repurchases from customers I really don’t understand it🤷‍♀️

[@laikanbarth]

@@jackiestone5808I don’t understand that either!!

[@pippaloves]

Spot on!

[@SnazzyBabe]

a high demand popularity and a big market

[@annelieberman7221]

I always wait to buy for at least a few weeks. That way I can read the real reviews, not just the incentivized ones. It really saves me so much disappointment, not to mention cash.

[@20thcenturyrelic]

Me too.

[@kaylan2083]

I do like that elf still has their cheaper products. They still sell their standard cheap collection alongside their more expensive "dupes". I'll be bummed if they ever get rid of the cheap products and brushes/tools.

[@SnazzyBabe]

@@kaylan2083 I found that with elf it's hit or miss with there products. So far i tried a few elf products and I like the jelly pop primer and lip oil blushes and Make up brushes ok. Don't like their mascara or lip liners so far not my fave.

[@SnazzyBabe]

@@kaylan2083 elf makeup brushes ok 👌

[@abbyschwendler1107]

I don't like a lot of elf stuff but their 3 dollar blush duos were excellent. I wish I grabbed more colors when they were available

[@LisaMarlene.]

My daughter who is 29 yrs old with flawless skin loves the Elf Halo Glow better than the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood flawless filter, she tried my Elf one day and she ended up giving her CT to me, and I gave her the elf. We both felt like we scored! Lol

[@delilahdelaney]

​@@abbyschwendler1107 I loved the apple one

[@GrandmaRose9000]

Yeah, nah. Retailers and brands are price gouging like the grocery stores. We've all got plenty of makeup. Refuse to buy until the prices come down.

[@JenPhelps]

Supply and demand! 🙌 If we stop buying as much they'll have to lower the prices.

[@zizzie4081]

Yes! Vote with your feet!!

[@lindabenson1764]

Also vote 💙

[@leahwitt7895]

Hi Jen-thank you for this video! I have been buying drugstore makeup since a teen in the late 70’s, and it used to be that brands like Covergirl and Maybelline were considered the “affordable” ones, Revlon was higher, and L’Oreal was “expensive.” Now, it seems they’re all expensive-though, I have to say, I really have grown to love L’Oreal’s products for mature skin. My dream would be that drugstore brands go back to basic packaging and the things that made/make them desireable-and skip the frou-frou packaging and the hype marketing, and maybe they’ll last another few decades. But those are just my thoughts.

[@lynettefinnigan9540]

I agree, we just need to see older women with good skin using the skincare products and attractive models using the make-up....we don't need the added costs of a famous face, it doesn't prove its better just because a celeb is endorsing it...we aren't fooled by that kind of sales plug anymore. We don't want to pay the extra cost of it either!!

[@laikanbarth]

It’s upsetting how expensive drugstore makeup is getting because it’s all I can afford right now. My husband needs a liver transplant so I have to watch every penny but I still want to look presentable and feel pretty. I love makeup so much. Since I was a little girl I’ve loved makeup 💄.

[@cathygiuliana9089]

My prayers that all goes well with your husband’s liver transplant! Sending you a big warm reassuring hug from a retired nurse in upstate NY! 🥰🙏🏻🕊️

[@cathygiuliana9089]

Hi Jen, just wanted to say that you have a gorgeous complexion and are beautiful without make up! My number #1 rule is to stick to Ulta’s sales and 50% off sale. I won’t buy any makeup unless it’s on sale. I just bought the Cosrx 6 peptide serum, which is amazing for my skin, it really does help the other products I layer with it to work better. I even bought a Colourpop eyeshadow palette for 75% off $3.50. Such pretty muted rosy tones perfect for my light skin. But I am done now til the Black Friday sale. I really don’t need anything , so maybe I’ll just skip that also. As for Elf I was a little disappointed when they came out with their glowy setting spray this spring, I think it was, it was supposed to be a dupe for CT glowy setting spray and it was so far off the mark. I also bought two LA Girl eyeshadow palettes that were patchy and didn’t blend. Unless you can get drugstore brands at a good sale price they are not worth the jacked up price. Powder products are loaded with talc, and if they contain mica, I worry if they’re being mined correctly. Lip products contain low budget mineral oil which runs into lines and wrinkles and cheap waxes that make them greasy. If a lip, eye or any other kind of cosmetic pencil isn’t made in Germany, I don’t buy it. Otherwise, the lead inside will be dry and break easily. Also Italy has great pencils also, if you can find them at drugstore. I’m no expert on anything, not by a long shot, I’m 72 yrs old, loved cosmetics and skincare since I was a child, I’ve just lived long enough to know good makeup and skincare. Thanks for a very interesting topic Jen! I’d love to see you do a video on KBeauty. Been using their products for over 20 yrs. Been using Missha, Lanierge, etc cushion foundations and highlighters for over 10 yrs.

[@cathygiuliana9089]

Oops almost forgot the Cosrx peptide serum is 50% off for $12.50 which is what I’d say it’s worth. For today only! Great product! Ok now I’m done! Sorry for the long comment!

[@corriesites2431]

My husband had a kidney transplant last year. So I feel the struggle. It was easier than we expected and hes doung great! Medicine is amazing. So stay positive. Hope he gets a liver soon.

[@mdickard8354]

Good luck to your family, that must be very hard. Hang in there!!

[@AngelleKomp]

I’ve gotten to the point where I’d rather invest my money into one or two good products. Instead of splurging on every release that comes out I’ve been shifting my focus on skincare instead.

[@CixiaKyrrah]

Corporate greed has been the main driver for inflation in the last 2 years. Companies have admitted to it/got caught.

[@drina4706]

👏👏👏

[@scarlethara1]

K-beauty all the way! I havent been interested in much at the drugstore, so I am overdue to get some things from a K-beauty site. It’s worth it even if I have to wait longer for the items to get to my door.

[@nickimontie]

I love that CVS carries Joah, too. I'm slowly discovering some really nice items in their line. I have gotten excellent coupons for them also.

[@banditogirl197]

You're so right. I've lost all interest in drug store makeup, but I've been having a great time with K-beauty products.

[@LauraMidwest]

i'm not interested in drugstore makeup anymore. I used to treat myself on paydays because it was easy and accessible. but now it's too expensive for what it is and it's not fun anymore

[@Trudence2]

What I'm realizing is how much money I've wasted on buying makeup that I didn't need and much of it I don't even enjoy. I am not buying makeup, haven't bought it in several months now. I am enjoying using my stash. I have SO MUCH makeup! And each product lasts quite awhile. Although I know liquid products and especially mascaras need to be replaced regularly, I have other products that I'm rediscovering and really liking again.

[@ildaam.4365]

I am so with you. I bought products that I didn't need. 😢 I've stopped buying makeup for awhile just using what I have.

[@20thcenturyrelic]

According to the FDA, mascara should be replaced within 2 to 4 months of the first use. It sounds like you know this, so forgive me for making the point. I like to get the word out on this every chance I get!

[@Jacqueline_R]

Gosh yes, I love sticking with older, classic makeup when possible. ❤

[@DIVAABY]

Btw, I am 64 years old and can pay for high end products if I want to. But I have to be very highly motivated to drop a 50 dollar bill for a single lipstick, ya know? 😖

[@rebeccapotter3413]

Same here I just refuse to do it.

[@wyline53]

I can afford anything I want, I’m older than you, but I resent paying for PR/models/influencers etc. It’s well known that there are only a few manufacturers that make EVERYTHING for all labels

[@AprilSilvers-py4zj]

​@wyline53 absolutely. I'm sick with myself for listening to all these KZbin who get most there stuff for free

[@laurielyons2284]

I would love a K Beauty makeup video. Thanks for this because I have really noticed and wondered why things were getting so expensive.

[@k.popper2620]

I agree with the silly beauty colabs with celebs- I could care less about that mess. I'm an older woman who is interested in quality, not what doja cat or whatever her name is is on the cover.....it's stupid - in fact that's a sure-fire way for me to NOT buy it. But then again, we live in the age of parents are indulging their children in high-end makeup at Sephora, I'm sure the companies don't know what to do in terms of marketing. I agree that I would rather pay a few more bucks for a good product (especially in this economy) but for the most part I stick to what I trust and know works for me. And there are only a rare few beauty KZbinrs I listen to. I could care less about TikTok (I will not even download it) and I still love makeup, Ignore the "trends" like eyeshadow is dead (not for me!). I always appreciate your reviews Jen, I have purchased several of your recommendations and you have not let me down! ❤

[@TwoBs]

Not only celeb collabs, but IP collabs … brands releasing “collections” at a higher price because it has some ridiculous cartoon character or a beloved movie slapped on to the packaging that they rely on fans of such to run out and buy solely for the iconography. Seems like every week, a brand is doing a collab and being lazy with products for a quick buck. Even worse when they do this on top of making it holiday-themed. They wouldn’t bother wasting time with that garbage if people didn’t fawn over it and run to buy it as soon as it drops because “omg Disney!! omg a show I’m obsessed with!! omg HELLO KITTY!!!” - it’s like, come on … why justify this nonsense from brands? Are people seriously that easily satisfied with generic bull because they print a character on a package with the most boring color story that looks like they took a color dropper on the image that is on the package and said “that’ll do, they’ll eat that up”. Because time and time again, we learn that more often than not, the products are bland and are basically a shade they already had but now has a higher price out on it because it has different packaging. Consumers are just as much as part of the issue as brands are doing this stuff, because they only do it knowing people will buy it and defend it because they need to justify their purchase. 🫤

[@anandeztvseries8498]

Also, in Chinese market, there is this weird situation. Makeup brands put very thick packages and put very little products inside. They even put very short brushes for liquid lipsticks to make you use less products in order to make you repurchase.

[@janetp5956]

Great analysis Jen. Thanks for staying on top of these issues. Not one of us ever wants to feel like we’re not getting our monies worth.

[@Jess-bee]

People power - we have to stop buying products that aren’t priced fairly!

[@kristylopez6869]

This is the only way it gets better.

[@AprilSilvers-py4zj]

Yes absolutely true. I've stopped watching almost all KZbin when it comes to makeup. This is the 1st one I've stopped to watch in months

[@elizabethb5210]

Drug store companies better be listening. You've got some wisdom on this.

[@kathleenp3135]

Agreed. She’s so knowledgeable.

[@SnazzyBabe]

@@elizabethb5210 listen up! am I right or wrong. I think drugstore make-up is also going up because of viral influencers.? right something goes viral and boom i think it's called need and demand.

[@20thcenturyrelic]

Hopefully their market research is turning up this information.

[@LilyOlea777]

I would love to see K Beauty videos. I love their products but there are so many and it’s difficult to know what to buy.

[@lifeandhomewithmeredith9050]

they can also be a lot less expensive

[@Kori-Barrenger]

I agree, I really want to get into k beauty but every time I go on stylevana I get overwhelmed by the amount of products on there. State of Kait actually has some good content on this! I should refer back to that

[@embeth446]

Interesting topic. For me it’s the crappy drugstore packaging that makes me lean toward high end. All my drugstore blush and bronzer compacts break every time. Can’t stand when the lid breaks all the way off due to cheap, thin plastic

[@Andromeda14161]

Saaaaaaame. The cheap plastic compact is so off-putting.

[@spgthd1]

Really enjoy and value your views. Love these types of videos from you. It's honest and refreshing while still being kind and considerate. I love the way you try new products and explain your value and performance thoughts. You truly are so relatable.

[@JenPhelps]

Aww thank you!🩷

[@GhosstRyder]

I agree I rather pay a few $ more for better quality products. I don’t care about the packaging when I am purchasing drugstore items. I also wish brands would Stop collaborating with celebrities that I don’t care about. I do miss BH items so much. You along with Emily Noel are the only people I trust on KZbin especially after the mascara drama video. You both have integrity and are honest two qualities I admire. ❤️❤️❤️

[@jtidema]

I agree if it IS a FEW dollars. But sorry, not paying $50 or more for Foundation...

[@GhosstRyder]

I refuse to pay $50 or more for foundations. Even the price of pallets is out of control these days. I used to buy whatever I wanted, but now I wait for sales only purchasing very few products.

[@carolklein8049]

Yes, I FEEL the same about drugstore. I can't believe that the nyx viral blushes are 17-21$ Canadian. I can't justify buying them or paying that. Right now on Amazon they are "on sale" for 16$ .....for BLUSH. The Sephora brand blushes are cheaper.

[@lynettefinnigan9540]

I wish it was more available in Australia, that price is good.. I decided to splash out and buy myself an Hourglass blush $75 later!! For a single blush....and Americans get a set of 6 blush/bronzer/highlighter for $90!!

[@luisacerrato331]

I do not like the NYX blushes or bronzer. They do not blend well at all and are patchy. Had to return even though the colors were beautiful.

[@luisacerrato331]

By the way, they are 9.00 in Buffalo, NY. The Hourglass are 45.00 but work great.

[@anniegraves8625]

As i got older, I've noticed im buying more quality makeup than quantities of cheaper makeup. Only drugstore makeup, i think, is still better than expensive makeup is mascara xx

[@AprilSilvers-py4zj]

I have lots of drugstore foundations I prefer in drugstore

[@kentuckywildcatfan5096]

I’d definitely like a K beauty makeup video. I’ve bought several K beauty skincare products based on your recommendations. I have been very happy with those products.

[@laurareneehall]

You are spot on about packaging! My teenage daughter cares SO MUCH about packaging that it majorly affects her buying choices! I DO NOT UNDERSTAND it, but I think it's largely due to social media. With a few exceptions, visual appeal even trumps brand recognition; appearance seems more important than brand name or the product quality. I'm gobsmacked!

[@MZB80]

I'll admit, I have one lipstick that I bought for the packaging. It's a Guerlain one that is refillable, includes a mirror and is designed to last decades. The lipstick is lovely, but the case is a truly special item in my bag.

[@kam0406]

The Revlon Kiss Balm is one of those products that is really great, but underrated. It also has spf 20! I love how it leaves a noticeable bit of color and shine but it’s sheer enough to apply without a mirror.

[@ShirleyCoddington]

Thank you Jen for such a in depth and thought out content. This is becoming your signature for such mature and fascinating videos. Keep up! I love it!

[@iamlilxsassy]

Yes to the K-Beauty video! I love buying K-beauty makeup and skincare but there are so few KZbinrs reviewing them. Your videos are always so informative and organized, I wish you could review them all!

[@jtidema]

I still get my ELF foundation for $6 (in a glass bottle as it always was - was never plastic that I remember), eyeshadows for $3 quads, brushes for $3-5, Lipsticks for $9, Blush and Highlighter duo for $4. And free shipping! So... it just depends on what you're looking for. Sure you can buy the Halo Glow for $14, but you ONLY buy that if you really wanted Charlotte Tillbury, so I think it's right that that is what it is compared to... Oh and your comment about dewy... I cannot stand to look 'dewy' - it just looks greasy to me. That is one trend I can't wait to get rid of!

[@AndreeaC.]

Same, i was never into "dewy" makeup at all i am all matte, satin look , usually glowy products never go well with pores and textured skin ! I also have many drugstore foundations/ concealers that i love for years and i always go back to them !

[@laikanbarth]

I absolutely hate the “dewy look” on me and even other people I’ve tried it on. I think it must only look good in pictures but not in real life or maybe if you have perfect skin.

[@candoall]

For me, with dry, mature skin and living in a hot arid climate, sometimes dewy complexion products are the only ones that work. They don't look dewy on me, they look "normal."

[@Iquey]

​​@@candoallseconding this. I have satin finish foundation and powder to mattify for summer when you're gonna sweat, but my dry skin in the winter loves dewy makeup because it gets absorbed ? ?

[@GLAMGENX]

For real, prices on drugstore are skyrocketing and quality is plummeting!!

[@amandawhitlock8607]

Hi Jen! I can tell that you really care about drugstore makeup and want to see the brands succeed. 🙏🙏💕It's sad that it's gotten so expensive. I used to be a big drugstore makeup user but nowadays it's gotten so expensive I end up just buying high end. There's not that much of a difference in the price and I buy fewer products so I end up spending less anyway.

[@debrabarycki8819]

Exactly!!!! That’s what I do now

[@20thcenturyrelic]

I suspect a lot of people are doing this.

[@walkofnails2923]

Yes to k-beauty! I’ve been getting some blushes and palettes from Amazon and they are fantastic. I have a fair skin tone and I like that they always have a pale option that will work for me

[@sandybowers5085]

I trust you Jen!!! I don’t think there is anything you’ve ever recommended that I have tried that disappointed me❣️💯 Also, I would love to see a K Beauty products video!!! I definitely still use more of the classics for drugstore products. I do use high end products when it comes to base products, like foundations and concealers. I can only use the Thrive tubing mascara for my extremely sensitive eyes. Most of my other products are drugstore and K Beauty. Thanks so much for this video! It was very informative and helpful❤️

[@anncollard1742]

YES K BEAUTY UPDATE

[@carolyna4484]

It's an extremely cluttered market and a big proportion of customers don't have brand loyalty or long term longevity. Most companies going for the sales grab, as long as they've got sales they don't care who's buying.

[@chrissybacon8430]

That is a fact!

[@aoi6]

I'm glad you're bringing this up!! Everything had gotten so expensive!

[@JemH1986]

Definitely wanted to hear this. Yes sometimes the new trendy products stink. Especially when they take most of the ingredients out like talc and mineral oil and etc. for example I tried the Covergirl clean eyeshadow palette and I didn’t like it at all. It wasn’t any pigmentation in it, and the glitter metallics was so much fall out. Plus the colors were boring. So I switched back to Covergirl TruNaked eyeshadow palette. What a difference! Plus this is what I was use to. Same with the new mascaras and eyeliners and tru blend blushes I had to change everything again. So back to the classics. Been using TruNaked eyeshadow palette from Covergirl since 2015. That’s what works for me.

[@nicolemsoer]

I’ve realized that I DO NOT need more makeup and I have been buying just because I want to try out a formula or just to see if something is better than what I have and is fine. What the heck?!?! I’m not an influencer- just one woman with one face. Mascara and eyebrow pencils are it for me for the rest of the year if I runout.

[@kristylopez6869]

Yes to K-beauty vid, pls! So many k-beauty companies sell directly on Amazon these days that you don't have to wait 3-4 weeks for a shipment to arrive from Korea. It's so much more accessible now.

[@marewood]

I’m always up for a K-Beauty skincare or makeup video!!

[@SharrellKline]

It's not supply chain and inflation. It's corporate price gouging to give stockholders and executives more money. We rightfully paid higher prices during the pandemic because of supply chain problems, and inflation was real. But now the US leads the world in lowering inflation and corporations are gaslighting us about who's to blame for climbing prices. We have to start calling it out, so it stops. As long as we keep saying "inflation and supply chain to keep profit margins" they can get away with price gouging.

[@l.c.8798]

I think it's both.

[@queenbunnyfoofoo6112]

The US isn't lowering inflation. The government is printing money like crazy, which makes every single one of those dollars worth even less than the one before it. It takes more of those dollars to buy products.

[@cj5056]

Enjoyed your take on drugstore prices and quality. It’s crazy how expensive everything has become. I’m buying less because I want to buy quality not quantity. This applies for drug store and high end. Skincare is definitely taking center stage.

[@duck8589]

Just subscribed. There are video creators I don't watch bc their voices, diction, narration are too jarring for me. You are really clear, coherent and a joy to listen to and watch. Thank you for your work and uploads

[@janettehale3109]

Yes, please!! I would love to see more k-beauty content!!! I recently started using some of their skincare (thank you, Jen!!) and I am very much enjoying it!!

[@khill6510]

Your camera quality today is awesome! I've been sticking with tried and true lately because the let down of spending money on products that don't perform is just so disappointing.

[@californiadoll6273]

ELF if being ridiculous, their undereye cream was 1oz for $5 but now its HALF an oz for $10, with the same ingredients. They've been raising their prices drastically, before everything they sold cost $1

[@drina4706]

And they are still not paying their Chinese employees proper, livable wages.

[@JasmineTea127]

Fast fashion has the same issue and I've gradually gravitated towards luxury while being more thoughtful. I'm learning to make my own body butters and eventually I can make some of my own clothing!

[@Pinky.Fuchsia]

I have been a member of the online beauty blogging community for many years, and I personally feel that the boom of influencers and companies prioritizing PR, paid ads, and brand trips for said influencers is the reason for their price raises and quality downfall. The amount of PR that is sent out to only be shown on-screen for 5-10 seconds, if that, in bulky packaging or bedazzled to catch the influencer’s eye, is wasteful, ridiculous, and why we’re all digging deeper in our pockets to buy our makeup. People have lost almost all faith in beauty influencer reviews. Makeup companies need to take note and invest that money into putting professional makeup artists on their social channels to demo their products, give tutorials, and work on repairing customer relations. The amount of money saved could both improve product quality and lower prices.

[@Julia-de3no]

Those are incredible points, Jen... I'm 100% guilty of thinking about dupes in comparison and accepting a higher price point, instead of thinking about them as standalone products. Never thought about that, and we'll definitely think twice from now on.

[@enchantedpathstarot1013]

Yes to KBeauty video and classic drugstore video!

[@Julia-de3no]

Yes, please! K beauty video!

[@SuzieBear]

Love to see a Korean make up video. Have purchased some of their skincare products from your videos. Love your channel xx❤

[@mamacita6500]

Fantastic educational video! Eloquent and persuasive presentation. Thank you Jen! Your work is very much appreciated 🙏💜💜

[@Faye786]

I noticed this too, what ever happened to drugstore makeup being affordable? It’s getting ridiculously pricy. 😭

[@beverlynelson599]

Jen, You look so good in pink and your pink blush. So flattering!

[@l.c.8798]

I'm liking K Beauty Makeup a lot these days. *Everything* is SO expensive these days, unfortunately including drugstore makeup, which I used to buy a lot of 😒

[@jilla8503]

Jen I caved and bought the dragon Hourglass palette and got it today. It’s my first Hourglass purchase. I have fair skin and we’re the same age. It’s stunning. The blushes, bronzer & highlight are gorgeous and to finish them off with the finishing powders. Wow. There’s a mauve blush in the palette that is so beautiful I’m obsessed. Just wanted to share in case anyone was thinking about it. Btw 95% of my makeup collection is drugstore. I used a 10% off coupon code to buy this palette. To me it’s worth the price tag❤

[@mouse2390]

There's a lot of high-end crap out there too--those lofty brands will put out garbage knowing there are enough suckers out there who will buy it by name only then refuse to admit that it's junk (don't want to get knocked off the PR list). I don't even watch content about 'luxury' stuff anymore because of the bias. It's all a crapshoot as to what may or may not work for any one person.

[@mimzyc9949]

Thankfully I don’t fall for the trendy and dupe products. I rarely buy high end anymore because I’m finally retired. Drugstore products fit my budget and lifestyle and I use my tried and true brands. I appreciated this video and feel you really care about us ❤

[@Areutherehello]

I used to buy tons of makeup, luxury and drugstore. Didn't matter. I had a drawer full of makeup for over 20 years. Now that I'm older, I've gotten more comfortable with living with minimal to no makeup on at all. Because I was so makeup crazy for so long, I always had expired makeup that I had to throw away. Waste of money. A lot of women I know go bare-faced every day, and they look just fine as they are. Plus, the CHEMICALS in makeup is scary!

[@mahareslan641]

I’m impressed the most with essence and elf cosmetics ❤ quality and price wise!

[@larissamartinez6880]

I have the opposite reaction. Essence used to be so good and the only decent thing they've launched recently is the new blushes. They used to make the products in Europe and the past couple years they're all made in China. The mascaras give raccoon eyes, the lip products smell weird and don't do anything for the lips, they don't have great eyeshadows. IDK they used to be better. Elf has certain products that work well but they've also raised the prices a lot!

[@jtidema]

I haven't tried Essence, but I love ELF. Except for my eyebrow pen, which is NYX. That's really all I need.

[@Andromeda14161]

Essence Brighten Up banana powder is sooooooooo good.

[@mahareslan641]

@@Andromeda14161 their new glowy baked blushes are great 👍 I have mature skin and they look flawless and flattering on me 😍

[@mariekevee4501]

I'm in Europe, drugstore for me is mostly Catrice. We recently got elf in stores too, lol! And I'm always keeping an eye on NYX. For eyeshadow I don't go to these brands though. Indie all the way.

[@kikiTHEalien]

What about Essence?

[@mariekevee4501]

@@kikiTHEalien Personal taste, I find them a little too childish. And other products are very hit or miss. But I do enjoy their blushes and nail polish!

[@denisemcclain6816]

I only have a few high end eye pallets (Huda Beauty and Too faced), and because they’re pricey I made sure that they all had colors for spring/summer and fall/winter, this way I get use of them all year, not just during certain seasons,,,Love your channel and your honesty Jenn! 💄💄❤️❤️❤️

[@ursula.m8265]

Yes please, KBeauty reviews and where to buy it. Thank you for the great and honest reviews!❤

[@carolpeterson5515]

I’m glad less expensive brands are trying to “dupe” or at least provide similar makeup results and options as higher priced products. So many drugstore makeup brands have been doing a great job of that so I can’t justify spending twice the amount of money for a “luxury” brand product if it doesn’t perform twice as well as the drugstore one (which most don’t). As an extreme example, Nikki La Rose said the L’Oreal Age Perfect Serum Foundation looked and performed nearly the same as the $250 La Prairie foundation. The ingredients probably differ but I don’t care if the results are comparable. I do agree that rather than compromise on ingredient quality lower priced brands should raise their prices by whatever margin they need for a profit if their costs are rising.

[@JenPhelps]

I have nothing against that kind of dupe that you mentioned because it wasn't intentional and L'oreal didn't create the packaging to look like La Prairie. But I love finding those "unintentional" dupes that perform just as well as high-end. The issue for me is when brands create the exact same packaging as the high-end and people expect it to be exactly the same when more often than not it isn't. 🥰

[@soniaalvarado5372]

I’m 61 and still remember the paucity of drugstore cosmetics in the 70’s and early 80’s and the absolutely atrocious quality. I am not ready to write drugstore products out. It may be a temporary lull in the industry. Reminds me of what is happening in the movie industry. Things are changing. I’m hoping that the industry finds new inspiration and moves forward.

[@Stacey7742]

I was a teen in the 70s and I remember all the crappy makeup drugstores sold. And they had absolutely nothing for oily skin.

[@annasharkey6299]

Yes, would love another K beauty makeup review. Love all your information.

[@kimberly6123]

As long as my grocery, gasoline, and electricity prices are as high as they are now, I will not be splurging on makeup. I never shop luxury bull$hit waste of money. Drug store all the way for me, but I will not pay these increasing drug store prices either. I’m embracing my natural skin these days and using very minimal makeup. If they want me back, those drug store brands are going to have to lower prices. Even ELF has gotten too big for its britches.

[@paulachristie7807]

During COVID I was watching makeup tutorials and buying more skincare and makeup, I was in a place where I needed a change. Now I’ve found the products that work for me, some high end, some not. I have plenty of makeup that I’m not buying more. As for skincare I purchase only what I need. I keep one backup when I open the backup I buy another. I’ve learned some sales aren’t really sales. I’ve looked over all the items in the Ulta 21 Days of Beauty that is going on now and for the first time in a long time I didn’t see a single thing I wanted to buy. Last 21 Days of Beauty I only bought a mascara that turned out to be old and dried out.

[@BAmerica2024]

Rising prices of ‘drug store’ brands have just made me more wary of what to spend my money on. Before I wasn’t as disappointed if it was bad, because it was cheap. But now… Thankfully there are still a few creators out there I can get honest review from, which really helps me figure out what to take the risk on. So thank you!

[@lauradebellas2988]

Girllllllll! This is so brilliant!

[@juliewells4282]

I used to buy a lot more makeup, both drug store and high end. I have slowed down a lot, enjoying what I have and pretty much just repurchasing when I need a replacement. I have found what I like and don’t feel the need to try every new thing. And I feel both drugstore and a lot of high end stuff have gotten too expensive. I’m sure age is a factor too, I’m 44 and my makeup likes and style has changed over the years, and I’m wearing less eyeshadow and more simple looks than I used to.

[@MiaHessMusic]

ColorPop has amazing eyeshadows! I like their foundation too (it comes in a tube with a pump.) Great video, Jen!

[@JenPhelps]

Yes they're one of the good ones!

[@anasalazar6164]

Outstanding video! Thank you for addressing this matter! Both drugstore and high-end makeup have gone way up in price in recent years, it's so unfortunate. I now usually wait for sales on makeup and skincare websites and/or retailers, or use app coupons from retailers to purchase and stock up on both on a continual basis. Not that I can't afford the higher prices; I just think that the prices are too high for the quality of most makeup and I don't care to spend that much money.

[@breonnaevans6372]

Ive started buying less due to the price hikes. I stick to basics or what I know for sure I’ll use, not really branching out and just picking up stuff to “try out” anymore. It’s just too much. Great video! More of the beauty community needs to talk about this! ❤

[@mels7360]

I was a broke, single mom for years. Drugstore make up was a luxury. Once my kids started moving out, and I was able to afford high end, that's what I bought. Now, I am pretty happy with drugstore makeup. For the most part, the prices don't bother me. It's still cheaper than Sephora brands (usually), and the quality is what I expect.

[@SJL07]

Same for me

[@judyhechinger-5946]

Great topic! Would love to see a K-beauty video! You are the best!!!

[@SnazzyBabe]

❤️ these kind of discussion. And ❤️ this kind of videos

[@SnazzyBabe]

Good Job 👏👍

[@snoot4873]

Finally you're the few who have said anything and even skincare at the drugstore/bath products alllll prices rival sephora now! It's honestly ridiculous. I almost gagged seeing what elf and wet and wild has become

Wet and wild has always had crap products, but I like Elf a lot. Their liquid eyeliner is $3 and works well

[@bons.ageless.beauty]

Thank you so much for this video I agree with you on almost everything I would love to see a K Beauty brand video

[@AndreeaC.]

I am mostly a drugstore lover but as of late some things like a good foundation,concealer,powder , eyeshadow i do tend to spend more money, usually drugstore doesn't offer a good shade range, if they release bronzers, blushes etc. they do only 2 shades ! Many american drugstore brands aren't available here in Europe so we are in disadvantage!

[@jeanneshaw.freshskin.thank4998]

Love your video Jenn. Yes please a video of K brand makeup !

[@JonEllis-o1q]

Yes on a K beauty video!

[@mamacita6500]

Please do a K-Beauty video! As you said, K-beauty products hardly ever disappoint. Thank you💜💜

[@eliseraifman4766]

I mostly buy drugstore makeup but have been purchasing skin serums from Sephora like The Ordinary and The Inkey list. Also recently bought a Merit foundation stick and an Anastasia of Beverly Hills brow product. I haven’t really noticed a decline in quality, at the drugstore, but have definitely seen an increase in prices. I usually do wait to see a few influencers talk about liking a product and reading reviews before thinking about purchasing it. I would like to see a video about makeup from Korean brands. I have tried a few Asian sunscreens and skin care that I have liked. I know that you’re going to give us an honest review, Jenn, so I really trust what you say.

[@deejohnson827]

Very good points, Jen. Yes to a K beauty makeup video! I've heard about some things, but I just don't have enough knowledge to make wise decisions about them.

[@debedwards1717]

In Australia, I never pay full price for drugstore makeup or skincare. Shops and chemists are ALWAYS having 40-50% off sales and they still make 100% profit because they price 200% markups to start with. I wish they would just price their products properly. I don’t know anyone who will pay full price for things these days.