Beauty Splurges and Steals
MAKEUP
Spend On
Brushes. Los Angeles makeup artist Jillian Fink Dempsey swears by Shu Uemura's synthetic- and natural-bristle makeup brushes (average price: $20 to $40). "They have the best cut, shape and density of hair, and they're so well made. Invest in a set, and they'll last a lifetime."
Cream blushes and lip glosses. Dempsey recommends her own Delux Beauty Flush Stick, $30 (left), because the creamy formula gives cheeks a natural glow that's more modern than powder. And Sephora makeup artist Mally Roncal loves Versace Wet Cream Lipgloss, $20 (right), for its incredible shine and intense, long-lasting color.
Lip liners. "This product can't be greasy, or it won't keep your lip color in place," says Roncal. Try Estée Lauder Artist's Lip Pencil, $17.50.
Professional pedicures. "Proper polishing technique ensures a longer-lasting pedicure," says Ji Baek, owner of Rescue Aromatherapy Nail Salon in NYC. Plus, a pro knows how to shape your toenails so you don't end up at the podiatrist's office with ingrowns. Average price: $20.
Professional tanning treatments. "They guarantee streak-proof, longer-lasting color," says Regina Viotto, spa director at Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa in NYC. And at $65 to $125, they still cost less than a trip to the beach!
Save On
Lipsticks. Roncal picks up lipstick on the cheap. "You can pretty much get any formula and color you'll ever need at the drugstore," she says. Try Revlon Moisturous Lipcolor (left, in Tickled Pink), $7.50.
Matte eyeshadows. Buy matte-powder shadows in neutrals like taupe and brown at the drugstore. "Every cosmetic company makes them, and the formulas and colors are really wearable," says Dempsey. She likes Maybelline Expert Eyes Trio Eye Shadow Kit in Chocolate Mousse, $5.25.
Nail colors. "Nail-color trends change so often, it's best not to invest in the hot hue of the moment," says Baek. And since a cheaper polish doesn't necessarily mean poorer quality, it's a good buy. One of this summer's freshest shades, Cover Girl NailSlicks in Baja (left), is a bargain at $2.60.
