Let’s face it. Cosplay is an expensive hobby. The costume alone can be $50 to $200 (if not more depending on complexity) and then one has to factor in make-up, wigs and props.

But it doesn’t have to eat a hole in your wallet! You can save lots of money and whether you’re experienced at cosplaying or not isn’t a factor.

In this post, I’ll be talking about getting good deals on make-up.

There are so many ways to get cheap but good quality makeup. If you’re based in America, you should be aware of the site www.elf.com. Although I personally have never bought from there (due to expensive shipping costs), I have heard many good reviews from fellow cosplayers, raving about the great quality of their products.

Most of you should be familiar with the Japanese bargain store Daiso. If you are not allergic to any of the ingredients or have sensitive skin, you should try out their products. They have many brands of mascara, eyeliner, BB cream, concealer, mineral powder and lip-gloss for only $2.80 each. The other day I bought two sets of false lashes from them and nose illuminator powder and the results were great! You can save a lot of money by buying their falsies. It’s so much cheaper than those from Priceline or Dollywink, however their quality is still of a high standard. Apart from the glitter lashes, Daiso’s falsies look very natural. They also have three different sub-brands and the various types of lashes (such as natural and cross).

If you’re still reluctant to go to Daiso, you can search for cheaper brand makeup at your local Priceline store or Discount Chemist. Two brands you should be aware of are Models Prefer and Designer Brands. I’ve bought lipstick and concealer from Models Prefer and eyeliner from Designer Brands and have had excellent results.

The main cost for make-up though is foundation, or BB cream depending on your choice. (Generally though, I would go with matte foundation because it looks better in photos).

When it comes to foundation, I personally wait for sales. These can be really good, especially during the economic downturn! You can save 20 to 40 per cent at times…

For some people, this isn’t an option. However if you are well organised and keep up to date with when sales are on (hello catalogues!!) then you should be fine.

Tip: Do your research. Some shops sell cosmetics at over-inflated prices. I know one store sells false lashes for $10… the exact same product AND brand sells in Daiso for $2.80. Rip off, much?

Mid-range products

Australis is a brand that is cheaper than the big names (such as Revlon, etc.). I’ve tested their liquid liner, which is cheap but glides on smoothly.

Your local Morning Glory or E-Cosway store has some great, affordable products too ^_^ Morning Glory sells Tony Moly eyeliner and it is fantastic! My choice, the waterproof automatic eyeliner is easy to control and comes with a sharpener on one end.

Market leaders

Brands such as Maybelline and Covergirl can be constantly bought at lower prices from Discount Chemists. When it comes to buying at supermarkets, generally the market leaders will have rotational sales on different products. Check your catalogues regularly and visit the make-up aisle for a quick glance during your weekly shopping routine!

Don’t forget to check the samples section in your local Discount Chemists, they’re the big name brands at an affordable range!

When it comes to high end cosmetics, you’ll have to pay attention to catalogues for the department stores… good luck!

Remember

If you feel that you may be allergic to some of the cheaper products (such as from Daiso) don’t be afraid to ‘go one level up’. At the end of the day, your skin is more important than your cosplay.

Good luck finding those bargains!

Author About Tsubame
Tsubame is an avidfan of many things including manga, reading, writing, cosplaying, sewing, street fashion and make-up. She has an eye for quality and specialises in reviews and budgeting posts. See more of her blogs at dailydoseofgenius.blogspot.com.au.