High-End vs Affordable Makeup in India: Is Expensive Better?

Let’s cut to the chase—who hasn’t been tempted by that one lipstick that costs more than dinner for two? Whether you’re strolling through Sephora or scrolling Nykaa at midnight, the battle between high-end and affordable makeup is real.

As someone who has tested both sides of the beauty battlefield (yes, my wallet has seen things), let’s settle this once and for all.

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Foundation Face-Off: MAC vs. Maybelline

MAC Studio Fix? Smooth, buildable, selfie-ready. But it costs around ₹4,000. Is it worth it? Yes—if you’re going for that flawless, airbrushed finish on camera or special occasions.

Now enter Maybelline Fit Me. Under ₹700. A cult classic for a reason. Decent coverage, great shade range, blends like a dream—without giving your card a heart attack.

Verdict: MAC slays the glam game, but Maybelline’s your daily ride-or-die.

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Lipstick Drama: Huda Beauty vs. Lakme

Huda’s liquid lipsticks? Bold, matte, and luxurious. The pigment is intense, the staying power is legendary—but at ₹1,900 a pop, you’ll want to use it sparingly.

On the flip side, Lakmé 9to5 lipsticks give surprisingly rich color at a fraction of the price (₹500-ish). Less dramatic staying power, but reapplying isn’t a crime.

Verdict: Huda for statement days, Lakmé for daily slay.

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Highlighter Hype: Benefit vs. Swiss Beauty

Benefit’s High Beam highlighter is glow-in-a-bottle, but your wallet might shed a tear at ₹2,450.

Swiss Beauty? ₹368. Subtle shimmer, decent glow, and surprisingly blendable. Is it unicorn-level radiance? Not quite. But it does the job.

Verdict: Benefit feels posh, Swiss Beauty feels smart.

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Eyeliner Showdown: Bobbi Brown vs. Colorbar

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner? Smooth, jet black, and stays put even if your entire day falls apart. But at ₹2,000+, it’s definitely a commitment. Great for weddings, photoshoots, or when you need that perfect wing to hold your confidence together.

Now, meet Colorbar Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. Under ₹500. It’s dark, precise, dries quickly, and won’t smudge if you accidentally rub your eyes while watching a dramatic movie (tested and confirmed). The applicator is easy even for shaky hands, and it lasts surprisingly long.

Verdict: Bobbi Brown is elegance in a jar, but Colorbar delivers solid performance for daily wear without the guilt.

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So… Is Expensive Always Better? Not Quite.

Sure, luxury makeup often feels and looks better—but not always by a landslide. Affordable brands like Maybelline, Lakmé, and Swiss Beauty have seriously stepped up, offering quality without the guilt trip.

Here’s my hot take: mix it up. Splurge on that one iconic lipstick if it sparks joy. But don’t sleep on budget gems—they’re the real unsung heroes of Indian vanity kits.

Don’t forget to follow Dazzlerr for more brutally honest beauty breakdowns. Drama, sparkle, and reviews, coming right at you!

Beauty