finding makeup

Okay, so you've seen the amazing deals at Five Below, right? But let me tell you, their beauty section often goes beyond what you'd expect from a store where everything is $5 or less! I used to think it was just for novelty items, but after countless visits, I've discovered it's a treasure trove for budget-friendly makeup. One of my absolute favorite finds has been their plumping lip glosses. Seriously, I snagged shades like 'pink sugar' and 'coconut' for just $1 each. They're surprisingly hydrating and give a nice subtle plump without any sticky feeling. I even picked up one of those 'Hydrating Lip Vault' sets for $5 – perfect for trying a bunch of colors or gifting to a friend. And don't even get me started on the 'Multi-Oil Infused Lip Oil' sets; my lips have never felt so moisturized on a budget! Then there are the eyes! You know how expensive a good eyeshadow palette can be? Well, I found a 'Smoke & Mirrors' palette called 'Girl You're A Natural!' with 28 shades – both neutral and colorful – for only $5. The pigmentation is surprisingly decent for the price, making it ideal for experimenting with new looks without committing to a high-end palette. Beyond the actual makeup, their tools are fantastic. I grabbed a pack of those super soft blending sponges (the ones labeled 'Glow', 'Refresh', and 'Smooth') and they work just as well as some of my pricier sponges. And for brushes, the 'Be Fierce Makeup Brush Kit' by Gina, with its five pink and white brushes, was a steal at $4. I also picked up a heart-shaped silicone makeup brush cleaning mat – it's a game-changer for keeping brushes spotless. Don't forget to check out their 'Sculpt' contour palette too – six shades for brightening and sculpting, all for $5. It really helps define my features without breaking the bank. My Top Tips for Shopping Five Below Makeup: Go Often: New stock comes in all the time, especially seasonal items. What's there today might be gone tomorrow, so if you see something you like, grab it! Check for Seals: Always make sure the packaging is sealed and hasn't been tampered with. This is crucial for hygiene, especially with lip and eye products. Read Reviews (if possible): Sometimes, if I'm unsure, I'll quickly google a product from my phone right there in the store. You'd be surprised how many hidden gems have cult followings! Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: That's the beauty of Five Below! If a $5 eyeshadow palette or a $1 lip gloss doesn't work out, you haven't lost much, and you've learned what to avoid next time. It's a low-risk way to try out trends. Look for Duplicates: Often, brands will create very similar products to higher-end items. Keep an eye out for colors, textures, or even packaging that reminds you of something more expensive. Shopping for makeup at Five Below isn't just about saving money; it's about the thrill of the hunt and finding those unexpected quality products that truly go beyond what you'd expect. So next time you're there, make sure to take a good look at their beauty aisle – you might just find your next holy grail product for a fraction of the cost!