Sophie Tilley’s Budget Beauty Picks
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Sophie Tilley’s Budget Beauty Picks

Having worked with countless beauty products and brands, pro make-up artist Sophie Tilley has next-level insight into what’s good and what’s not. So, who better to tell us about the affordable options she rates?

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

Body Butter, From £7 | The Body Shop

An oldie but a goodie, this has extracts of shea butter, coconut oil and babassu oil. A thick, sheen-giving cream, it’ll moisturise your skin like nothing else. Plus, The Body Shop is such a trusted brand that only uses Fairtrade farmers. This one’s available in an array of scents, but coconut is the clear winner for me. 

Available at TheBodyShop.com


Skin Food, £14.95 | Weleda

I’ve lost count how many times I’ve recommended this to clients and industry friends – it’s such a classic and has been in my kit forever. The original formula is the best in my opinion, as it is rich enough to be used as is or mixed with serums and foundations. Natural and organic, it smells incredible and is suitable for all skin types. It’s also great for spot treating or dry patches. Or just slather it on as a night cream, use it as a treatment mask or dab it on your cheekbones for an instant glow. Try it once and you’ll be hooked.

Available at Weleda.co.uk

Classic Slant Tweezer, £23 | Tweezerman

These are always my choice for ultimate precision when removing eyebrow hairs (and more). I favour the slanted ones as the angle against the contours of your face/body aids technique. Plus, the stainless steel is so fine and beautifully crafted – there’s just no contest when it comes to quality and performance.  They even offer a free sharpening service – ideal. 

Available at TweezerMan.co.uk


360 Oil-Free Gel, £25.80 | Heliocare

This is the only brand I trust with my sunscreen – not only for its full-spectrum protection but also its formula and finish on my skin. Available in a variety of finishes (the oil-free gel is my fave), it will shield your skin from the elements (365 days a year please, everyone!) while being comfortable and sitting well if you’re wearing make-up. A no-brainer.

Available at Amazon.co.uk


Lip Balm, £4.49 | Burt’s Bees

This is one of the few lip balms that I swear by. Upon application – and particularly overnight – my lips are always instantly healed. Intense hydration with responsibly sourced beeswax, vitamin E and zero stickiness (men love this too, my fussy brother approves!).  They come in an array of flavours and even tinted options if you fancy a subtle hue to enhance your pout.

Available at Boots.com

Eyebrow Tint, £8 | Eylure

I tint my own brows because it’s easy and effective with this little tube of wonder. Mix the solution together, carefully apply and ten minutes later your brows are uniformly one, glossy shade. It covers those pesky white or grey hairs too. I opt for mid-brown and probably use it once a month. Once freshly tinted, I tend to wear less or no brow make-up as it tints the skin a little bit too. Win win.

Available at Boots.com


Elvive Hydra Hyaluronic Moisture Boosting Shampoo, £6 | L’Oréal

This has been a newbie in my collection since my hairdresser – who I intensely trust – said it was great. I’m a bit of a haircare snob, but this is a brilliant product for damaged and dehydrated hair (guilty). The hyaluronic acid – a buzzy ingredient we see in most skincare – has migrated into haircare and promises to intensely hydrate your strands for 72 hours. This one’s great if you’re in a pinch as it’s often on offer.

Available at LOOKFANTASTIC.com


Gel Eyeliner, £9.99 | Maybelline

Even after trying all the expensive gel liners, this is the longest-lasting, easiest-to-manipulate product. It has amazing pigment payoff and comes with its own brush. It’s in a pot, so my tip is to take some out with the brush, apply it to the back of your hand and work it to a nice, flat point. You have some play time so you can smudge it, thicken it or even use it as an eyeshadow or base for other dark shades. Once set, it won’t budge. I’ve used it on set for long shoot days and on my bridal clients who can get emotional – not a smudged eye in sight!

Available at Boots.com

Spoolie Brushes, £1.99 | Salon Services

I go through these like nobody’s business. The humble spoolie or ‘Disposable Mascara Brush’ is one of the most useful tools in my kit. It comes in a pack of 25 and provides multi-tasking magic. Use one to groom your brows – and apply product like gel or wax – comb through your mascara to get rid of any clumps, lift off any mistakes like dried mascara from around the eyes, whisk away glittery eye make-up from the face, tidy those baby wispies around your hairline… the list goes on.

Available at Salon-Services.com


Signature Bath Oil, £16 | Sanctuary Spa

This two-phase oil is rich and indulgent despite its affordable price tag. It'll leave your skin feeling like velvet while bath water will swish around in a foamy lather. Promising three-day skin hydration, its lush scent of jasmine, grapefruit and vanilla is intensely relaxing for the senses.

Available at Boots.com

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