The Absolute Best Makeup You Can Buy for $12 (or Less!)

Don't believe anyone who says you have to spend big on beauty. We've hunted down a dozen good-as-it-gets products that blow their pricier rivals out of the water.

By Kristin Granero - August 28, 2013 hm.com

This perforated pouch is as cool as it is convenient. Toss it in your tote for midday touch-ups, and rock it solo in the evening.

To buy: H&M Makeup Bag, $4.95 at hm.com

target.com

Make it matte this fall with this innovative formula, which goes on like a liquid and transforms to a powder on contact, leaving a soft (and shine-free) finish.

To buy: L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation with SPF 18, $10.99 at target.com

ulta.com

Sexy meets sophistication in this shimmery shade. Save it for special occasions (read: wine night with the girls) or use it to spice up otherwise monotonous tasks.

To buy: OPI San Francisco Nail Lacquer in Muir Muir on the Wall, $9 at ulta.com

ulta.com

Talk about a perfect pairing. One side of this dual-ended liner delivers the pick-me-up, while the other packs the heat. Tip: Forgo the basic black for the Blue Nile or Emerald Empire shades for a fresh fall look.

To buy: Revlon PhotoReady Kajal Intense Eye Liner and Brightener in Blue Nile, $8.99 at ulta.com

maybelline.com

Not only is this loose powder pot jam-packed with pigment, but it has serious staying power. Apply sparingly for a more casual look, or combine several shades to create the perfect party palette.

To buy: Maybelline Color Tattoo Pure Pigments Up To 24HR Shadow in Wild Gold, $6.99 at maybelline.com

target.com

What imperfections? Whether you're looking to conceal blemishes or correct discoloration, this lightweight formula has you covered. Even better, it boasts an SPF of 35 to protect against sun damage.

To buy: Almay Smart Shade CC Cream, $8.49 at target.com

cvs.com

Giving new meaning to the term "maxed out", the curvy wand that accompanies this favored formula will help you attain voluminous, wing-like lashes that curve upward and outward.

To buy: CoverGirl Flamed Out Water Resistant Mascara, $7.49 at cvs.com

topshop.com

Nail some of fall's hottest beauty trends with this compact art sponge kit, featuring the tools to create various ombre and tie-dye designs.

To buy: Topshop Nail Art Sponge Kit, $4 at topshop.com

sephora.com

This magic wand is accompanied with a paraben-free potion that adapts to the pH of your lips for a truly personalized pink pout.

To buy: Sephora Collection Color Adapt Lip Gloss in Unique Pink, $12 at sephora.com

nyxcomestics.com

From fresh-faced to fierce, this six-shade set has the hues to pull off fall's prettiest palettes. Tip: Apply to the top (winged) or bottom lash line with a damp eyeliner brush for a more polished effect.

To buy: NYX Cosmetics The Smoky Shadow Palette, $7 at nyxcosmetics.com

target.com

Red-y or not, bold lips are taking this season by storm. Make sure you're set with this Marseilles-toned (and seriously moisturizing) stick.

To buy: NP Set Lipstick Brights in Marseilles, $12 at target.com

target.com

"Fall back" to the basics with this chic six-piece brush set, complete with a compact black case and mirror.

To buy: Sonia Kashuk Essential Eye Kit, $11.49 at target.com

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