With the barrage of el cheapo makeup products in the market these days, one can’t help but wonder if it’s necessary anymore to stick to old favourites that cost a bit more than what we can get on online marketplaces these days. However, on the other hand, your tried-and-true products are dependable and you know there are no issues with quality, allergies, ingredient poisoning or any other problems that might crop up with low-cost, mass-produced brands that seem to have come out of nowhere. Fortunately, there are a few makeup brands that fill that gap. One of our current faves is essence Cosmetics – Europe’s number #1 cosmetics brand that’s easily found at your local Watson’s, and available at prices that will make you rethink your life decisions when it comes to makeup. It’s also one of the foremost vegan makeup brands out there, now certified 100% vegan, and never tested on animals, so it fits the requirements for those who are discerning about the products while also being ethical.

From their current Spring Summer 2025 collections, here are some of our faves that are perfect for work (and play) and are so budget-friendly, you might want to get all of them one shot.

Juicy Bomb, RM9.70

Look natural yet lively with these lipglosses that are easy to apply at anytime – including right before a meeting where you don’t want to look pale and deathly. Choose from the light pink Witty Watermelon or the darker Poppin’ Pomegranate for a pop of colour, or apply the sheer Lovely Litchi for some gloss over hour fave lipstick colour.

Extreme Shine Volume Lipgloss, RM18

A thicker gloss that gives off that “put-together professional” look in a neutral colour, this gloss is ultra-shiny yet non-sticky, with high shine all around to create that fuller lips effect.

Glossy Glaze High Shine Lipstick, RM22.70

It goes on smooth like butter, won’t dry out in our lovely Malaysian weather, and delivers intense colour with a glossy high shine finish that you can’t not love!

Brow Powder Duo Set, RM22.70

Love: The two tones-in-one concept that allows for perfect mixing to match your brow colour. Love: That it comes in two variations: Medium and Dark. Love: The slanted brush that is easy to hold and control. Love: How compact it is that it’s easy to pack up and toss in the bag!

Soft Touch Mousse Blush, RM22.70

For a natural-looking blush with colours that are easy to layer on with a light and feathery finish on skin, look no further than these mousse blushes. Play it up or down to suite the office or the after-party.

Call Me Queen Dramatic False Lash Effect Mascara Waterproof, RM28

The dramatic name certainly comes with dramatic lashes. We love that the waterproof formula means it won’t streak down your cheeks when you’re truly being a tearful drama queen – should the need arise! This also means that it can literally take you from Lady Boss during the day to Disco Queen at night.

Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara, RM28

For the girlies who love falsies but don’t have time to put ’em on every. Single. Day. This is the perfect mascara for you for that false lash effect without the effort.

Fix & Last 18H Long Lasting Fixing Spray, RM26.50

Lastly, make sure all that makeup stays put with a fixing spray that will make sure you (and your face) lasts through the day.

Find essence products at Watson’s, on Shopee and on Tiktok.