Make up is pricey, look lovely for less

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - It is no secret, women can spend hundreds of dollars trying to look good.

Let's face it, picture perfect makeup is expensive.

From foundations, to eye shadows, mascara and blush, it pays to be beautiful.

So how can you look lovely for less?

Make up artist Krissy Ferro of Ferro Cosmetics in Clarence, says it starts with a good foundation.

Ferro said, "You want to make sure what you put on your face is really good because that is going to set the tone for everything else you put on."

Quality foundations cost between $20-$30 according Ferro.

If you buy your foundation from a drug store or supermarket that $20 to $30 bucks is cut in half. But Ferro says, the final outcome may reveal a less than flattering finish because of the ingredients.

Lesson here: splurge on the base.

Ferro suggests using a mineral foundation.

"They kind of do the job of liquid, a powder a concealer, if it's a good one of course," said Ferro.

And here is something you probably didn't know; if you mix 100% mineral make up with nail hardner, you have nail polish.

Ferro said, "Most of the time you don't have to do two more coats, you could follow up with a top coat or something."

When it comes to things like eye liner, a pencil or powder works well.

The finishing touch of mascara is a necessity around the eyes, but that can cost up to $50 at some malls.

Ferro advises trying a $5 mascara with virtually the same components as the more expensive brand.

Ferro said, "Like my personal favorite is made by Loreal and it's called Luminous."

So, if we stick with some of Ferro's tips: spend about $25 for foundation, $8 dollars on eye shadow and eye liner, $7 for blush, $5 bucks for mascara, and a few more dollars on a other items, you can stay within $60 dollars.