I Love me some Dior DiorShow Mascara. But at $25 a tube... it's an indulgence for my makeup-loving self. With the amount I wear every day for my job, I constantly need to replenish my supply. And that adds up. So instead, I buy Maybelline Great Lash Mascara for $5 and under. The iconic pink and green favorite is just a great every day mascara. The wand grabs and separates hard-to-reach hairs, fattening up every lash without lightening my wallet.
Which got me thinking... about my favorite drugstore and do-it-yourself beauty finds over the course of my makeup-wearing adult life. There are plenty of products out there that get the job done just as well, if not better than their department store and salon counterparts.
1. Eyeliner: I have long used MAC's liquid eyeliner in boot black for $18.50. I love the firm, tapered tip of the applicator. But recently I found a much cheaper alternative that I LOVE! L'Oreal's Telescopic Precision Liquid Eyeliner ranging from $5-$9.50. It has the same kind of precision felt tip for less.
2. Primer: Smashbox's Photo Finish Primer is by far the best on the market, a makeup artist's dream. But it's $36. Ouch. My fellow TV News girlfriends introduced me to L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Pefecting Base, for $8-$13. It really improves skin texture and makeup just glides on. It's a silky, lightweight formula that leaves your face velvety soft to the touch.
3. Eyelashes: Ardell Duralash Naturals, $4.
Just a few of these well-placed natural fibers will make you appear genetically blessed in the lash department. Thanks to their knot-free base, these lashes fit right between your own.
Just a few of these well-placed natural fibers will make you appear genetically blessed in the lash department. Thanks to their knot-free base, these lashes fit right between your own.
4. Nails: Sally Hansen 5 Minute French Manicure Kit, $8.50-$12. The French manicure pen is simple to use and gives you an instant tip. Get this kit and you don't need to go to a salon any more to get your nails done. 
Also to try... my favorite nail color of all time is Revlon Vixen. Almost identical to Chanel's Vamp ($35) but a mere $5.I also love getting gel manicures. But I can't afford to spend an hour of my time and $30-$40 every time I want a new color. I invested $60 in an at-home kit made by Red Carpet Manicure. Use it twice, and I've already recouped my costs. There's a UV light so you can cure the nail color, and everything you need for a perfect-looking salon manicure that lasts weeks.
5. Skincare: The Oil of Olay Regenerist Line. Consumer Reports rated it higher than the fanciest, expensive brands for effectiveness.
6. Foundation: With HD television, my foundation is vital for a smooth, flawless look. Imagine my surprise when our makeup consultant recommended Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse, $8-$15. It's a cream-whipped foundation, great hydrating coverage for my dry skin, as well as a nice not too matte, not too shiny finish.
7. Lipstick: Maybelline has created a superstar lip color in its Color Sensational line. Long-lasting, crisp color and a creamy feel. Red revival is a top seller... a sexy, true red. $1-$13.
8. Makeup Wipes: Costco used to carry these Kirkland Facial Towelettes right next to the baby wipes and diapers. There's a reason for that. Moms with young babies are often too tired to wash their face and deal with makeup removers. These are a godsend. $20-$30 for 300 count.
9. Hairspray: Many of the girls in our newsroom use Tresemme Tres Two Extra Hold. $3.50-$5. It keeps things in place, but doesn't really flake when you brush it out. Anchor hair that can weather any storm!
10. Friction blocker: This is a little magic in a stick. Whether you're going dancing or chasing down interviews, Band Aid's Friction Blocker ($4-$8) prevents all those painful blisters and soreness from rubbing from those uncomfortable (yet cute) shoes.
10. Friction blocker: This is a little magic in a stick. Whether you're going dancing or chasing down interviews, Band Aid's Friction Blocker ($4-$8) prevents all those painful blisters and soreness from rubbing from those uncomfortable (yet cute) shoes.There are tons more... would love your feedback on any you've tried and loved/hated or want to add to this list!