Drugstore Makeup Tips From a Small-Town Influencer

Dr. Anya Sharma · 2026-05-24

Growing up in a very rural town meant limited access to high-end beauty products. For influencer Shelby Ann, that reality became the foundation of her makeup expertise. She learned to work with what she had, and those lessons are gold for anyone who wants a gorgeous look without breaking the bank. ### The Rural Beauty Advantage Shelby Ann recently shared with People.com how her upbringing shaped her approach to cosmetics. In a small town, you don't have a Sephora on every corner. You learn to make drugstore brands work for you. And honestly, that's a skill that pays off no matter where you live now. She points out that drugstore makeup has come a long way. The formulas are better than ever, and the prices are still friendly. For example, a quality foundation from the drugstore might cost around $12, compared to $40 or more at a department store. That's a huge savings. ### Key Lessons From Shelby Ann Here are some of the smartest takeaways from her experience: - **Focus on skin prep.** Good makeup starts with good skin. A simple moisturizer and primer can make even the most affordable foundation look flawless. - **Learn your undertones.** Drugstore brands often have fewer shades, but if you know your skin's undertone (warm, cool, or neutral), you can find a match that works. - **Blend, blend, blend.** A good sponge or brush can elevate any product. Shelby Ann swears by a damp beauty sponge for a natural finish. - **Don't sleep on mascara.** Drugstore mascaras are consistently excellent. Look for formulas with volumizing or lengthening claims. - **Set it and forget it.** A translucent setting powder, often under $10, can keep your makeup in place all day. ### Why Drugstore Makeup Works for Everyone The beauty industry has changed. Many drugstore brands now offer products that rival luxury lines. The key is knowing what to look for. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C are no longer exclusive to high-end brands. You can find them in affordable options at your local CVS or Walmart. Shelby Ann's story is a reminder that great makeup isn't about the price tag. It's about technique, creativity, and confidence. Whether you're a makeup artist or just someone who wants to look good for a night out, these tips can save you money and frustration. ### A Simple Drugstore Routine If you're ready to try a budget-friendly routine, here's a quick setup: 1. Start with a hydrating primer (around $8). 2. Apply a medium-coverage foundation (around $12). 3. Use a concealer for any spots (around $6). 4. Set with a translucent powder (around $9). 5. Add a cream blush for a natural flush (around $7). 6. Finish with a volumizing mascara (around $10). Total cost? Under $60 for a complete face. That's less than what you'd spend on a single high-end foundation. ### The Bottom Line Shelby Ann's journey proves that where you start doesn't limit where you can go. With a little know-how and the right products, anyone can create a stunning look. And the best part? You don't have to spend a fortune to do it. So next time you're at the drugstore, take a closer look. You might just find your new holy grail product.