Cheap is chic at the drugstore

Cheap is the new chic. And these days, the path to budget-conscious beauty leads directly to the drugstore.

Shopping for cosmetics at big-box stores and national chains has lost its stigma. Fashionistas are proudly trading the buzz of brand elitism for the rush of scoring good products at lower prices.

Read the full story in Thursday's Style section. In the meantime, here are a few drugstore products recommended by professional makeup artists Heather A. Hawkins and Samantha Smith.

Cover Girl LashBlast Mascara: No clumping or flaking, and at $9, it's a steal, says Smith. "It truly builds volume and separates without making a mess. I keep one in my makeup kit at all times.”

Frizz-Ease Cream Serum Overnight Repair: “Your hair is like ‘Wow! I love you again!’ And it doesn’t leave goo over your pillow,” Hawkins says.

Murray’s Hair Dressing Pomade: "Use a tiny amount at a time, and you can tame any hair with it," Hawkins says. "Put it in the palm of your hand and warm it up."

St. Ives Blemish and Blackhead Control: is a great facial exfoliator, Hawkins says, especially during the summer.

What is your favorite drugstore product?

ENTER TO WIN a random drawing for one of five drugstore brands gift packs by sending an email to style@charlotteobserver.com with DRUGSTORE in the subject line. Please include your name and phone number in the text of the e-mail. Entries must be received by noon Friday. One entry per e-mail address. Only winners will be contacted.