High-end vs. Drugstore Makeup
If you’re reading this blog, you’re probably well aware that drugstore v. high-end makeup is a thing. Everyone knows the household brands such as Covergirl, Revlon, L’Oréal, and Maybelline, but some brands you can only find online, in department stores, or at retailers like Sephora; brands such as Mac, Urban Decay, Lancôme, Estée Lauder, Nars, etc.
Logically, if the price is higher that would indicate higher quality, more product, better results… right? Or is the price the cost of a name?
The debate between high-end and drugstore makeup brands often hinges on several key factors, including ingredients, packaging, performance, and brand prestige. High-end makeup brands typically boast superior ingredients, often incorporating high-quality pigments, refined oils, and advanced skincare benefits into their formulations. These brands invest in research and development to create innovative products that not only enhance appearance but also provide long-term skin benefits. For example, luxury foundations may include hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid or anti-aging components such as peptides, which can improve skin texture and health over time.
Packaging is another area where high-end brands tend to excel. Luxury makeup often comes in sleek, elegant packaging designed to offer a premium user experience. This not only includes the aesthetic appeal but also the functional aspects, such as airtight containers that preserve the product's integrity and longevity. Drugstore brands, while improving in this area, often opt for more cost-effective packaging solutions, which can sometimes lead to faster degradation of the product or a less satisfying user experience. The attention to detail in the packaging of high-end brands can enhance the overall feel of the product, making it a more luxurious experience for the consumer.
Dior Prestige Moisturizer
The packaging for this moisturizer is beautiful, elegant, and luxurious. When you go to purchase a higher-end product you should expect the packaging to be of equal quality.
Image Credit: Dior
Performance is a critical differentiator as well. High-end makeup brands are known for their superior performance, including better color payoff, longer wear time, and more refined finishes. For instance, luxury eyeshadows might offer more intense pigmentation and smoother blending capabilities compared to their drugstore counterparts. This higher performance is often due to the quality and concentration of ingredients used in the formulations. While drugstore makeup has significantly improved over the years and can offer impressive results, the consistency and reliability of high-end products often justify their higher price points for many consumers.
With my experience of using drugstore makeup since I was around the age of twelve, and moving towards high-end products during high school, I would say these statements are mostly true. However, I have noticed that for my personal use of cosmetics, drugstore makeup usually works perfectly fine. Though, I would emphasize that it depends on the brand and the type of product. For example:
Mascaras - In my personal opinion the only difference is the brush. I have a preference for brush types and I purchase most of my mascaras from the drugstore.
Lipsticks - I’ll buy a mix of drugstore and high-end. High-end tends to be more pigmented and have a much more pleasant smell/taste, but as I don’t tend to like highly pigmented colors on my lips, I think the drugstore brands - especially Maybelline & NYX, work very well for me.
Foundations - The quality difference is very clear, I only purchase high-end foundations. It’s a must for me. The color match and the long-term wear are unbeatable. My absolute favorite foundation is Estée Lauder’s Double Wear Foundation. It’s the absolute best.
Lastly, brand prestige and the associated customer service play a significant role in the perceived value of high-end makeup. Luxury brands often invest heavily in building a prestigious image through marketing, collaborations, and maintaining a presence in upscale retail environments. This brand prestige can influence consumer perceptions and preferences, making high-end products more desirable. Additionally, the customer service experience, including personalized consultations and exclusive services, adds to the overall value proposition of high-end brands. While drugstore brands are more accessible and budget-friendly, they typically do not offer the same level of personalized service or brand prestige.
Lancôme Counter Experience
The luxury experience of having someone personally select products for you and allow you to try them on aids in these companies’ luxury branding.
Image Credit: The Moodie Davitt Report
Overall, I do believe the higher-end brands are better quality - now are they always worth the money? Certainly not. It’s about testing and finding certain products you value and finding the formula and price range that makes sense for you. I’m willing to spend extra on a great foundation - but not on a mascara. I’m willing to splurge on a certain lipstick because the smell is pleasant and the wear is comfortable and long-lasting, but not on an eyeshadow palette that has too many colors I won’t use and has tons of fall-out!
My best advice is to buy high-end samples to try, or ask the employees behind the counters if they offer free samples! You can try them out and compare them to the drugstore products to find what works for you. That’s how I decided all mascaras were essentially the same minus the brush!
