In the United States there’s a concept that doesn’t exist, or at least it’s not big, in Portugal, the drugstore. A drugstore is where you can buyt beauty, health and pharmacy related products. It also works as a convenience store if you need some basic products. We have specific stores (like Sephora) or get them in the supermarket! The most common ones in the States are CVS and Walgreens. You can get an incredible amount of beauty products – from hair, to nails, make-up and skin care.
I often go there and end up buying products that could normally be more expensive from other brands, but are sold at a very reasonable price. Maybelline or L’Oréal lipsticks are great buys, for around $9. You can get any shade you’re looking for (also here). Eyebrow and eyeliner pencils are also a great find, especially the two for one packages.
The nail polish collections are to die for, you can’t always find all the colors but, most of the time, the rainbow is at your disposal. I recently got the Essie ‘Licorice’ and am totally in love!
I also tend to get illuminators, which tend to be of a good quality and affordable price. You can find body lotions and creams, from several brands, in smaller and big sizes, which is great for when you want a travel size – for example.