We all love a good bargain, but sometimes it can be hard to tell if you're actually getting good value for that budget-priced item.

Clumpy mascara, fading lipstick… there's no point in paying less if you'll use it once and throw it away. With that in mind, we've rounded up five beauty essentials under a tenner that are actually worth spending your last few quid on.

So skip that morning latte and pick yourself up one of these star buys. You won't regret it…

1. The contouring kit
Two-in-one kits are great for holiday and festival packing, and we love SEVENTEEN's budget offering. Define your cheekbones and jawline with the darker powder, and highlight with the lighter one. Sorted. 

SEVENTEEN Define & Conquer, €6.99

 

2. The lip stain
Low-priced lipsticks can be very hit-or-miss, so if you're looking to pay less for a lip colour we'd recommend a stain like Wet N Wild's Megaslick Balm Stains, as they're easy to apply but have the staying power of a lipstick. And at this price, you may as well buy two…

Wet N Wild Megaslicks Balm, €3.99

 

3. The mascara
Nothing's worse than applying mascara only to find it flaked under your eyes an hour later, so choose wisely when picking a low-priced mascara. This Essence one offers maximum volume and will stay put too with no clumping.

Essence Princess Volume Mascara, €4.09

 

4. The brow definer
L'Oréal's Brow Artiste pencil is probably the best multi-purpose brow product on the market for under a tenner. With a coloured pencil at one end, a pigmented wax on the other and a bristled brush on the cap, you'll have perfectly shaped brows in seconds.

L'Oréal Paris Brow Artiste Eyebrow Pencil, €8.49

 

5. The gel liner
Catrice's gel liner pot is already something of a cult product, and we can see why. The heavily pigmented gel offers total precision. The only downfall? A brush is not included, but you can pick one up for a couple of euro and still consider this purchase a bargain.

Catrice Gel Eyeliner, €4.49