Soweto-based beauty blogger Zanele shares her favourite affordable makeup items for day and night.

Hi, I’m Zanele, a girl from Soweto who loves affordable beauty products. I believe that you don’t have to spend money to look and feel good. I want to share with you some of my favourite products that I use every day.
ESSENCE GYM-PROOF PRIMER
I haven’t stopped using this item since I bought it. Do you like full-cover, long-wearing makeup? Does your current foundation not last through the day? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then this is the primer for you! It also claims to be gym-proof – but I haven’t put that to the test yet!
GET IT: R79.95, Foschini
RIMMEL LASTING FINISH
Not only is this foundation affordable, it also gives full coverage. I have been absolutely in love with it since they extended their shade range for darker skin tones – they now have everything from the lightest (almond) to darkest (toast).
GET IT: R169.95, Clicks
WET N WILD MEGALINER
After seeing it used in a makeup tutorial on YouTube, I had to give this liner a try – and I wasn’t disappointed at all. It applies so finely, and the tip gives a smooth, clean and thin wing. I just wish it was waterproof – but don't worry, it does last the whole day, so you’re OK as long as you don’t cry.
GET IT: R49.99, Clicks
REVLON HD GEL LIPCOLOR
This lippie in the shade ‘sand’ has to be one of the most-used items in my makeup bag. Not only does it apply nicely, it smells wonderful too. I really like that it is moisturising, and it's a breath of fresh air in a world of matte lippies.
GET IT: R195, Edgars
YARDLEY INTENSE MATTE LIPSTICK
If I’m in the mood for a matte lip, I prefer using a red lipstick like the Yardley Intense Matte in the shade ‘Iconic’. It's affordable, light on the lips, and is longwearing. Please don't forget the matte lipstick rule – always make sure that you scrub your lips and exfoliate the dead skin, or your matte lipstick will not apply as nicely.
GET IT: R109, Clicks
To read more from Zanele, visit her blog here.
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*Prices were correct at time of publication, but are subject to change.