The Best Little Under-$20 Indulgences, According To Beauty Experts

Of course it’s great to enjoy big luxuries when you can afford them, but pint-sized indulgences can be just as enjoyable, boosting your mood and brightening your looks for a few bucks. We asked experts in makeup, skin, hair and fashion to share the cheaper-than-$20 beauty indulgences they rely on.

Scroll to the bottom of the story to find out where to buy all these recommendations.

When the economy sucks, lipstick rules.

The self-care treat most mentioned by the experts we spoke to was lipstick, a low-cost secret weapon that can add polish and shine to any look. Even if you’re dressed casually, a quick slap of lippie can elevate your mood and your appearance. “Whenever I think of self-indulgence, I think of the stories of the rise in lipstick sales during the Great Depression,” said Vanessa Coppola , a family nurse practitioner and owner of Bare Aesthetic Medical Spa .

“Sales skyrocketed because women needed to feel good about themselves so they could conquer the tough road ahead. These days, people are still looking for inexpensive treats that provide a sense of joy and confidence.”

“I like to splurge on lipsticks when I need a little beauty boost,” said makeup artist Emily Gray , who is fond of several colors in the Catrice line. “I think there’s something so powerful about a bold lip color. When I have a power lip on, I feel like I can do anything. And the best part is that you do not need to spend a lot to give yourself a little boost — a $7 lipstick can do for me.”

Stylist Nikki Steele is also a lipstick fan, specifically calling out Revlon’s Iced Amethyst shade ($6.48). “It’s inexpensive, but it looks and feels luxurious, she said. “In an empowering and royal color like this, I feel like I can conquer the