By: Isabelle Singleton

You’re a student and are therefore by definition, skint. But whether you like rocking the natural makeup or just being a full-time glam goddess, there are plenty of products that will help you look good for less.

One place to look for these products would be Primark. I know what you’re thinking, the retailer hasn’t really been the front-runner when it comes to quality makeup products before. Well, if you haven’t gone down recently and checked out their new and improved beauty department, then you’ll be in for a surprise.

Primark has really stepped up their game, especially when it comes to their makeup selection. One product that is certainly worth mentioning is their eye shadow palettes. Especially as we’re in the spooky season and approaching Christmas, the wide range of colours that these palettes have will give you a lot to work with. Whether you’re feeding your vampire fantasy or planning that Christmas day glam, there’s an affordable palette for everyone.

Crying over uni work already? Don’t let it show with the NYX PROOF IT! waterproof primer. From seminars to late-night seshes, this primer holds it all in place. A must-have for anyone who suffers from mascara panda-eyes, and slippery liners. It’s been tried and tested, and honestly, it is my go-to (I’ve even got my grandma hooked on the stuff!) At the price of £6.00 a pop, what more could you ask for?

NYX has always been a haven for affordable but high-quality makeup, and even though it’s crept up a little in price over the years, it is still perfect for those last-minute night-out purchases or late birthday gifts. They’ve even released new CBD-infused beauty and skincare products. As well as their Bare with me range, there really is a little something for everybody with NYX. Check them out in Boots, Superdrug, and even online at ASOS as well.

Talking of mascara mishaps, beauty house e.l.f, known for its cheap yet quality products, has a water-proof mascara just for you. Their Length and Volume mascara gives you a natural look, devoid of clumps, that will last from morning to nighttime. It has even been approved by YouTuber and beauty mogul Jeffree Star on a visit to Manchester earlier this year. A product even millionaires swear by has to have a place in your beauty routine.

e.l.f doesn’t just stop at magical mascaras either. Another product to try would be their Monochromatic Multi-stick. Tint sticks are a great way to save money because they can double as a blush and a lip tint. e.l.f has four shades ranging from peach to Mulberry to compliment most skin tones, for a blush and lipstick combined. It has buildable coverage, so you can go for a healthy glow or full-on rouge.

For those of you who fancy a taste of the finer things in life, but have a dwindling bank account, why not go for something travel sized? Big isn’t always best anyway. A lot of people overlook travel-size products in the thinking that they’re for just that – travel. But they are great for so much more! If you’re not one to religiously wear a full face of makeup every day, then travel products are an affordable way to fill up your beauty collection.

MAC cosmetics also have a wide range of mini MAC products starting at £10.00 each, from lipsticks to setting sprays. Selfridges has a fantastic high-end travel section, with makeup such as Benefit, Pat McGrath, and Huda Beauty being just some of the wide selection you can choose from. If you don’t want to go big, it’s okay to go home with something little.

So, whatever your makeup routine, there’s always something out there to suit your style, and most importantly, your budget. Go on, treat yourself, I won’t tell anyone…

Prices and where to buy:

Primark palettes (from £4.00) – only available in store.

NYX PROOF IT! waterproof primer (£6.00) – available wherever NYX products are sold.

e.l.f Length and Volume Mascara (£4.50) – Boots, Superdrug, online.

e.l.f Monochromatic multi-stick lip and cheek tint (£4.50) – Boots, Superdrug, online.

Mini MAC (from £10.00) – instore or online, ASOS.

Selfridges travel section – see in store for prices.