Best High-End Beauty Investments

We can't all just take a trip to Sephora or Ulta and spend tons of money on all the high-end products we'd like. I have a list of items I want to purchase, repurchase, or try and I do lots of research on the products before I shell out the money. I also wait a while to purchase high-end items instead of just impulse-buying.. which is why I see them as investments. I've had some hits and misses, but these 5 products are my absolute must-haves if you're looking to invest in some higher quality and higher priced makeup. So here's my list.

1. Erase Paste by Benefit - $26
A brightening "camouflage" for the eyes and face. I use it for my undereye area only. I love the creamy texture and the fact that it hides my super-obvious dark circles. It doesn't crease or look cakey, and stays put all day. I started out with the sample size (only available for purchase at certain times, I got mine in a sample pack from Sephora) and fell in love and had to purchase the full size. Find it here.  

2. Porefessional by Benefit - $30
I struggle with large pores, so hiding them is really important to me. Porefessional is a clear balm/primer that minimizes the appearance of pores. The texture took me a while to get used to, but now its a must. I rub a bit between my fingers and apply it to my t-zone before applying foundation. Its expensive, but I consider it gold in a bottle! Find it here.

3. They're Real Mascara by Benefit - $23
Is it obvious? I really like Benefit products! This is one of those products with a "cult following". In my experience sometimes those products aren't always worth the hype. But this mascara definitely is. I have mostly good luck with drugstore mascaras so I never thought I'd purchase a high-end mascara. But, like the Erase Paste, I purchased the $10 sample size (found at Sephora) and fell in love. My lashes look best when I use this mascara, but I save it for special occasions because I want it to last! They claim it "lengthens, curls, voluminizes, lifts, and separates lashes" and I totally agree. Find it here.

4. Naked 2 Palette by Urban Decay - $52
First of all, I only own the Naked 2 palette, not the original Naked palette, which is the only reason I listed this specific one. I actually think both palettes seem equally amazing and both could make the list. They're the perfect balance of neutral "naked" shades that compliment all skin tones. There are 12 shades which range between rich taupes, grays, coppers, and a gorgeous highlight shade. They're all equally pigmented and go on super-smooth. Like I said, I own the Naked 2 palette and LOVE it, but I think the original Naked palette is worth the investment as well. I also love the brush that comes with the palette. Its my favorite eyeshadow brush and it almost made the list independently! Find it here.

5. Nars Laguna Bronzer/Blush Duo - $41
I had been wanting Nars Laguna for bronzing and contouring, and I always wanted to try Nars Orgasm blush because of the hype surrounding it, and I had no idea I could get the two in a duo set. Laguna is the absolute perfect contouring shade for me, and it would work on almost anyone. It looks shimmery in some lights, but its actually not shimmery at all and doesn't look muddy on the skin. Laguna by itself is a great beauty investment and cost $36 for just the bronzer; however, I think pairing it with one of Nars' famous blushes, for only $5 more, is a great way to get more bang for your buck. You can pair Laguna with Deep Throat, Orgasm, Desire, or Oasis. I use mine almost every day and it has lasted at least 9 months so far! Find it here.

So if you're like me, and you don't want to spend the money on high-end products unless its worth it, take my recommendation and try these out. Save up a little bit every week, and invest in one item at a time! Hope this helped with your research!