So, you've seen my attempt at the infamous $60 Ulta full face makeup challenge – let me tell you, it was a wild ride! If you're thinking of trying this yourself, or just curious about how to stretch your beauty budget, I've got some extra tips and insights from my own panic-inducing shopping trip. First things first, planning is key, even if you end up ditching half of it like I did! Before you even step foot into Ulta, try to make a list of your absolute non-negotiables. For me, a good foundation and concealer were top priority. I knew I'd have to sacrifice something, and for this challenge, primer was the first to go. Sometimes, a well-hydrated skin (thanks to a good skincare routine) can make your foundation sit beautifully without it. When it comes to product picks, don't underestimate drugstore brands. As you saw, I leaned heavily on brands like e.l.f. and Essence. Their foundation and concealer options are truly impressive for the price. I was amazed to find a decent foundation for nine bucks! Essence is a true gem for budget beauty; their products are often under five dollars, and I've heard great things about their silky blur hydrating concealer. It's all about finding those hidden treasures. Another pro tip: keep an eye out for sales and coupons! That $10 off $50 coupon I had was an absolute lifesaver. Without it, I honestly don't know how I would have finished the challenge. Always check the Ulta app or website for any available discounts before you shop. Every dollar counts when you're on a tight budget! Thinking about what to skip or where to save? I decided to go for a powdered bronzer from Revolution instead of a cream one to save some cash. It's often cheaper, and you can get a lot of mileage out of it. For setting makeup, the Essence Brighten Up Banana Powder is a fantastic affordable option for under your eyes, and it even doubles as a subtle brightener. Don't forget the power of multi-purpose products! For the finishing touches, it gets tricky. I was panicking about not having blush, mascara, or lip gloss. Thankfully, Revolution came through with a gorgina bubblegum pink blush. And Essence truly saved the day for my final items: their choco bomb lip gloss, brow me queen mascara, and jelly grip spray were all incredibly affordable and helped me complete the full face. It really shows that you can achieve a versatile look without breaking the bank. This challenge really taught me to be resourceful and to appreciate the amazing quality available in the drugstore aisles. It's not just about finding the cheapest items, but finding the best cheap items that genuinely work for you. So, if you're ready to dive into your own Ulta challenge, remember these tips, embrace the hunt for deals, and have fun seeing what incredible makeup looks you can create on a budget!