Makeup lovers, 2024 was a year of beauty discoveries, viral products, and a growing debate: Is luxury makeup really worth it, or are drugstore brands leveling up? Let’s break down the hits and misses of 2024 from both sides of the aisle and find out where your money was best spent.

Writer’s Note: These recommendations are based on my personal experiences. While some might work perfectly for you, others may not—it’s all about finding what suits you best! There are undoubtedly many other amazing brands out there that I haven’t had the chance to try yet, so feel free to share your favorites. We’d love to hear your feedback and recommendations in the comments to help us explore and share even more options.

1. Foundations: Does Price Equal Perfection?

Luxury:

• Standout Product: Dior Forever Matte Foundation
• Loved for its flawless finish and long-lasting coverage, this high-end product became a staple for formal events.
• Downside: Priced at over EGP 2,500, it’s not exactly budget-friendly for everyday use.

Drugstore:

• Standout Product: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
• A crowd favorite for its lightweight formula and buildable coverage.
• Why It Wins: At a fraction of the price (around EGP 350), it offers comparable results for daily wear.

Verdict: Drugstore takes the crown for everyday use, while luxury wins for special occasions.

2. Mascaras: Length vs. Volume Showdown

Luxury:

• Standout Product: Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara
• Praised for its ability to separate lashes and create a fanned-out effect.
• Downside: The formula dries out quickly, making it a pricey investment for short-term use.

Drugstore:

• Standout Product: L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise
• Known for its intense volume and dramatic effect, this mascara holds its own against its luxury counterparts.
• Why It Wins: Affordable and reliable, with no major sacrifices in quality.

Verdict: L’Oréal Lash Paradise delivers luxury-like results without the splurge.

It’s worth noting, however, that it’s not particularly cheap either. Priced at EGP 600+, while not cheap, its still more than half the price of Lancôme’s EGP 1550+ mascara.

3. Lipsticks: Matte, Gloss, and Everything in Between

Luxury:

• Standout Product: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick
• Famous for its creamy texture and iconic shades like “Pillow Talk.”
• Downside: At EGP 2000+ per tube, it’s a luxury indulgence.

Drugstore:

• Standout Product: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
• Beloved for its vibrant colors and lightweight feel.
• Why It Wins: Budget-friendly with shades to rival high-end brands.

Verdict: Drugstore options like NYX prove you don’t need to break the bank for a gorgeous pout.

4. Eyeshadow Palettes: Pigment Power

Luxury:

• Standout Product: Natasha Denona Glam Palette
• Stunning pigmentation and buttery textures make this a favorite for pros.
• Downside: Priced at EGP 5,000+, it’s an investment few can justify.

Drugstore:

• Standout Product: Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette
• Expansive shade range with rich pigmentation
• Why It Wins: Delivers excellent blendability and impressive longevity, with matte, glitter, and satin finishes for versatile looks.

Verdict: Unless you’re a professional, Anastasia Beverly Hills’ affordable palettes are more than enough for everyday glam.

5. Skincare-Infused Makeup: Gimmick or Game-Changer?

Luxury:

• Standout Product: YSL Nu Glow in Balm
• A hybrid product that primes and hydrates for a dewy finish.
• Downside: With a price tag over EGP 3,000, it’s a splurge, assuming you’re able to find it.

Drugstore:

• Standout Product: Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter
• Known as a dupe for Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter, this product delivers hydration and glow for EGP 1500.

Verdict: Drugstore wins for giving you the same glow at a fraction of the cost. With that said, neither are an essential for your day-to-day makeup.

The Tea?

2024 proved that while luxury makeup often delivers on quality, drugstore brands are closing the gap. For daily use, drugstore products offer unbeatable value. Save the splurges for special occasions or when you’re seeking that one perfect product.