e.l.f. Studio Line Cosmetics

As a teen, my makeup collection consisted mostly of the dollar-store variety. Quality wasn’t a consideration: In my adolescent mind, makeup was all the same—colorful and tricky to apply. My eyes used to tear up uncontrollably as I dragged a sharp, dried-up, cheapo eye pencil across my lids. Beauty means suffering, I would tell myself. While I’m still clueless when it comes to most things beauty related, I do know that using eyeliner shouldn’t induce the fear of ripping your eyelid open. And as a recent convert to e.l.f.’s low-price (most items are $1), high-quality beauty products, I also know that you don’t have to blow a wad of cash at Sephora to get gorgeous results.

The company’s newly launched Studio Line collection offers maquillage for your eyes, lips and face (which is what “e.l.f.” stands for), each priced at a mere $3. Not only does the stuff look expensive—thanks to the chic, minimalist packaging—but it also works just as well as its higher-priced counterparts. The eyeliner stick glides on fluidly and without resistance, while the under-eye highlighter contains chamomile, caffeine and green tea extract to mask discoloration and tame puffiness. A personal favorite is the creamy-smooth concealer pencil, which features a sturdy little brush on the other end for perfect blending. And, since many of the line’s products are two-in-one, you get even more beauty for your buck. $1–$3, Available at Strawberry (various locations throughout the city; go to strawberrystores.com for info) and at eyeslipsface.com

Note: We’re giving away ten copies of e.l.f.’s The Beauty Encyclopedia, featuring three volumes of makeup with professional instructions on how to create the perfect look. For a chance to win, send a photo of your worst makeup moment to shopping@timeoutny.com by January 8.