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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Penn chapter.

The makeup industry is constantly releasing new products, and trends quickly come and go. It’s not sustainable for the average consumer to purchase every new release or partake in every trend, but for those who are interested in the latest and greatest makeup and skincare, investing in dupes is a convenient option that won’t break the bank. 

Elf Poreless Putty Primer

This pore–filling primer is a great, affordable alternative for Tatcha’s Silk Canvas Primer. Tatcha is a skincare brand based on traditional Japanese beauty secrets and ingredients. It’s a relatively new brand known for its luxury skincare products. 

The Silk Canvas was one of the brand’s first makeup products, and it became very popular. However, the hefty price tag can be a bit imposing, so the Elf Putty Primer is a great alternative. It’s equally as pore–filling, and creates a smooth base for your makeup just like the Silk Canvas—for a fraction of the price!

Elf Hydrating Camo Concealer

Tarte Shape Tape was a concealer that took the beauty industry by storm, as its formula made it a very high coverage concealer for the under eyes. It’s a product mostly used for full–glam looks. 

Elf’s Hydrating Camo Concealer is a very close dupe for Tarte’s famous concealer. It has two available formulas—one is hydrating and the other is a “normal” version. The hydrating formula better prevents creasing and leaves an airbrushed finish.

NYX Shine Loud Vegan High–Shine Long–Lasting Liquid Lipstick

Chanel’s Le Rouge Duo Ultrawear Liquid Lip Color is a dual ended lipstick that claims to stay on all day. There are two steps for this product: first, you apply the liquid lip pigment as usual. After it dries, apply the clear gloss on top. This formula is supposed to last all day and be transfer–proof. However, as with most luxury brand makeup, the price for this lipstick is marked up. 

The NYX Shine Loud Liquid Lipstick is a perfect dupe, if not better. It’s also a 100% transfer–proof, dual–ended product (Tip: make sure to wait at least 90 seconds before applying the clear gloss to ensure that the pigment is fully dry!) 

Purito Centella Green Level Buffet Serum

Dr. Jart’s Cicapair Tiger Grass Repair Serum is a cult favorite skin care product that soothes redness and calms inflammation. The main ingredient in the Tiger Grass Serum is Centella Asiatica, which helps calm redness and irritation. This is a perfect serum for sensitive skin or for anyone with a damaged skin barrier. 

Purito is an affordable alternative option interchangeable with the Dr. Jart formula. Purito’s Centella Green Level Buffet Serum is essentially the same formula, but it has a simpler ingredient list and is, of course, a more accessible product. You can also use this serum in conjunction with any facial tool, like a jade roller, for have a DIY at–home facial.

Missha’s Time Revolution: The First Intensive Moist Treatment Essence

The SK–II Facial Treatment Essence is a skincare product more popular with mature audiences, as it’s a greater anti–aging starter product. SK–II’s essence is award–winning, and there’s no doubt that this formula is jam–packed with ingredients to soak into the skin. 

However, like all the other products of this caliber, the price tag is very imposing. This is where Missha steps in with a similar product—the Time Revolution: The First Intensive Moist Treatment Essence. These two products offer similar benefits to the skin. Missha’s is a nice budget–friendly option, especially for younger users who are looking to start early preventative measures for their skin.

At the end of the day, makeup and skincare is a highly individualized journey for everyone. For some, it’s a way to prepare for or unwind from their busy daily lives. For others, it’s the foundation for self–confidence. These feelings shouldn’t be accompanied by ridiculous prices. 

These five products are only a few of the many dupes that exist on the market. Trends and new releases can be overwhelming, but with some research, you can find a similar option at any price point. Everyone deserves access to what makes them feel beautiful.

Minjee Cho

U Penn '23

Minjee is a junior at the University of Pennsylvania studying biology. She is from Malvern, Pennsylvania and loves golfing, cooking, and makeup. She is also very passionate about journalism and women's empowerment.