I have four drugstore items that I love, and that have become essential makeup products for me:
1. NYX Studio Perfect Primer in Clear (available at
http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-38-studio-perfect-primer.aspx, many Target stores and drugstores in the US) Except for the "vanity ingredients" (ingredients that sound really good in their advertising but which aren't in the formula in enough quantity to have any effect whatsoever on the product or your skin), the formula for the NYX Studio Perfect Primer is almost identical to the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer formula. I haven't experienced any difference in the performance of the NYX Primer vs the Smashbox Primer.
2. Milani Smooth Finish Cream-to-Powder Makeup (available at
http://www.milanicosmetics.com/p-43-smooth-finish.aspx and drugstores in the US). This is almost an exact dupe of the Benefit Cosmetics Some-Kind-Of-Gorgeous, but sells for less than 1/3 of the price AND comes in 13 shades (Some-Kind-Of-Gorgeous is offered in three shades). This is my go-to foundation for cooler weather. It is NOT transfer-proof, but that doesn't bother me. (If you try this, use a brush, such as Real Techniques Expert Face Brush, to apply - NOT the sponge included with the compact).
3. Cover Girl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation (available at
http://www.covergirl.com/beauty-products/face-makeup/foundation-makeup/outlast-stay-fabulous-foundation, Walmart, Ulta, Target, and drugstores in the US). LOVE this stuff! Provides just the right amount of coverage, a natural finish, AND lasts all day. My preferred warm weather foundation.
4. Revlon Colorburst Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains (available at
http://www.revlon.com/Revlon-Home/Products/Lips/Lipcolor/Just-Bitten-Kissable-Balm-Stain.aspx, Walmart, Ulta, Target, & drugstores in the US). These, along with their "companion" Balm Stains (Matte Balms and Lacquer Balms), are my favorite lip products right now. Offered in a vast array of colors, and inexpensive enough that average people can afford to collect them in many different shades. Wear time is excellent, and they don't make lips feel dry.