
As much as we wish summer could stick around forever….reality check! It's back to school time. But who says the fun has to end? It's the perfect excuse for some post-holiday shopping.
While cute stationery and Stanley cups may be topping everyone's wishlist, don't overlook pocket-friendly beauty goodies. From a go-to concealer for those long nights to trusty scrunchies for a bad hair day, there’s a lot you could stock up on. Below, we've rounded up our top picks for affordable beauty buys that won't break the bank.

Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen
Shielding your skin from the sun is an absolute must for any skincare routine. Whether you're hitting the field, attending events or simply soaking up the great outdoors as a student, slathering on SPF is key to keeping your skin happy and healthy.
Choose a sunscreen that's got your back with broad-spectrum protection, is gentle on your pores, plays nice with your skin's pH and packs a punch with active ingredients. And remember, no one wants to rock that dreaded white cast—so find a sunscreen that blends in seamlessly.
Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm
Make sure you always have a hydrating lip balm handy in your bag—it's an everyday essential you NEED. The skin on your lips is particularly thin, making it essential to invest in a little extra TLC. The right lip balm will instantly nourish, lock in moisture and prevent chapping.
And if you're going for that trendy matte lip, don't forget to prep with a thick layer of lip balm first for a smoother finish.
Tint Cosmetics 4-in-1 Makeup Pen
A versatile find—the Tint Cosmetics 4-in-1 makeup pen is one of the most student-friendly essentials. This handy product packs in eyeliner, lip liner, highlighter and brow pencil all in one, perfect for those quick fixes and spontaneous touch-ups. Plus, its sleek design makes it a breeze to stash in your sling bag or jacket pocket for easy access wherever you go.
And talk about a steal—getting four must-have products in one slick package. What’s better?
Garnier Skin Micellar Water
One of the cardinal rules of skincare is to always remove your makeup—no excuses! And being a student means late-night outings and never-ending after-parties.
Use micellar water to melt away any waterproof or water-resistant products such as mascara and sunscreen, as well as give your skin a good cleanse after a long day. Get rid of makeup, sweat and grime in one swipe? We’re sold.
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer
To hide the tell-tale signs of a night-out or unprecedented acne, one can always turn to an effective concealer. With the right shade match and effective formula, you'll effortlessly set a base that conceals anything unwanted.
Plus, a concealer is extremely multi-purpose. Use it as a primer, colour corrector, foundation and contour to make the most out of your purchase.
Ikonic Professional Hair Straightener
To combat the general frizz, flyaways and unruliness that can come with stressful situations coupled with humid weather, an effective straightener is a must-buy. Whether you're rushing through your morning routine or need a quick touch-up before a spontaneous outing, a quality flat iron is your go-to styling sidekick.
Remember to apply a healthy dose of heat protectant before you go for it. Your hair will thank you for it!
United Colors Of Benetton Colors Deodorant
Hot days spent running from one class to another, or lectures spent on the playground can leave you smelling a little funky. A good deodorant will ensure you are odour-free and fresh between showers. Look for something that is compact, budget-friendly and accessible so that it’s always handy when you need it most.