---
title: "Makeup Product Guides & Affordable Beauty Dupes by Sonia Kalra"
description: "Stop wasting money on the wrong makeup. Get expert product guides, learn how to find your perfect foundation shade, and discover budget-friendly dupes that actually work for Indian skin."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/product-guides-budget-dupes
last_updated: 2025-12-29
---

# Makeup Product Guides and Affordable Beauty Dupes

Tribe Verified · Helping students build honest makeup kits.

By [Sonia Kalra](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow) · Available online & at academy in Gurugram · ₹199 per workshop (estimate)

Part of [Personal Makeup Classes & Workshops](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/gallery)

Stop buying makeup you don't need. Learn how to pick the right shades for your skin tone and find budget-friendly alternatives that actually work.

## Photos and videos

- [Video: Forever 52 is a favorite brand for many makeup artists. In this video, I break down the three different variants of their foundation, explaining which skin type each one is best for and what kind of finish they provide.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/35164ad2-2d62-4263-b2b0-012389bc5f6c)
- [Video: In my foundation series, I'm comparing PAC HD liquid foundation and Forever52 cover-up foundation. I share the best shades for fair, medium, and deep skin tones to have in your professional kit.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8d277726-3471-4501-ba8a-3ed435a992ed)
- [Video: Part 3 of my foundation series focuses on the Huda Beauty Faux Filter foundation. I recommend the key shades like Cashew, Baklava, and Gingerbread that you'll need to cater to different skin tones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/307b44e7-8c01-4511-ac4c-ba4e15c51eaf)
- [Video: For those who want to invest in high-end products, here are the three essential shades of MAC Studio Fix Fluid foundation for your vanity: NC15, NC30, and NC42.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e06f0fd7-bb8d-4b04-86a0-85818421214f)
- [Video: In Part 5 of the series, I cover the much-requested Maybelline Fit Me foundation. I list out the best shades for fair, medium, and deep skin tones from this affordable and widely available range.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f00be754-60bf-4cce-9e7a-9cb3ccf7f7e3)
- [Video: You don't need to buy dozens of foundations. I show you how to create multiple custom shades using just one fair and one deep foundation shade, saving you money and space in your kit.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7159edba-a83e-45d4-9bad-63a4d18c0ece)
- [Video: Here's a hack for when you only have a single foundation shade. I demonstrate how you can mix it with a light and a dark concealer to create your perfect match.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e4a014b4-3e4e-4bf5-aad4-bed5fd5e3aa0)
- [Video: Selecting your foundation shade online can be tricky. I share a hack using Instagram's color picker tool to find your skin tone and compare it with the brand's shade chart online.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1c9fbdec-5ac4-4d1b-bda5-e69bc2e75494)
- [Video: How do you know if a foundation is for oily or dry skin just by looking at the bottle? I explain the keywords to look for, like 'dewy' and 'luminous' for dry skin, and 'matte' or 'oil-control' for oily skin.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fb63ff26-366d-438a-a742-5123c68fd377)
- [Video: I often get questions about foundations for normal and combination skin. The key is in the skin prep, but here I list several foundations like MAC, NARS, and Huda Beauty that work well for these skin types.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e149e2d9-ad7a-4319-a9da-8b2d848460b8)
- [Video: Looking for the best and most affordable concealers? In Part 1 of this series, I recommend shades from budget-friendly brands like Swiss Beauty, LA Girl, Maybelline, and Insight.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/581f877f-2a3d-488c-8896-e4f70f2287ca)
- [Video: In Part 2 of my affordable concealer series, I cover more brands like Forever 52, Tarte, Mars, and PAC, suggesting the top shades for different skin tones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8937b322-07f3-4609-9678-22989a21cf29)
- [Video: Finding the right primer for oily skin can be a challenge. Here, I list several affordable primers from brands like Insight, Swiss Beauty, and Recode that give a matte finish and control oil.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3bebda1e-7675-4bc5-b6e5-6050193418bf)
- [Video: This video is a guide to understanding different types of primers for different skin concerns. I explain which primer to use for oily, dry, or pore-minimizing needs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/41f46b48-834d-4743-a2d1-abf78cda2549)
- [Video: Did you know you can sometimes use a good moisturizer instead of a primer? I recommend some excellent moisturizers like Embryolisse and its affordable dupe from Suroskie that create a perfect base for makeup.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8c8b354c-0e48-4a95-9088-c4655a7f42a2)
- [Video: Here are my recommendations for affordable moisturizers for every skin type. I cover options for dry, oily, and sensitive skin from easily available brands like Emolene, Neutrogena, and Dot & Key.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b0760ca1-5441-421a-9dd8-87c56acc28fa)
- [Video: Sunscreen is a must, especially in summer. This video lists my top sunscreen recommendations specifically for oily skin, from brands like Cetaphil and Re'equil.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6a6c813e-e6a8-4d95-ab08-8567490627d9)
- [Video: Say goodbye to dark circles. Here are some of the best under-eye creams I recommend for keeping the delicate under-eye area bright and hydrated, which also helps concealer apply more smoothly.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ffc63edb-0d6b-44e3-bec0-b62610496732)
- [Video: Dealing with skin problems like acne, dark spots, or dehydration? I explain which active ingredients like Retinol, Salicylic Acid, or Hyaluronic Acid to add to your skincare routine to target these specific issues.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c0776162-3d55-4665-8dbe-81111221298f)
- [Video: This is my miracle face mask recipe using flax seeds. It's a simple home remedy that helps tighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and gives you a refreshing glow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ec38424-d337-47ba-83a2-d9fe519479e2)
- [Video: Before you can choose the right products, you need to know your skin type. I explain the characteristics of oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin so you can identify yours correctly.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/da8a3d3c-6875-4e32-b446-37753e62beb4)
- [Video: Let's talk about Kryolan Derma vs. Supra. I explain the difference between the matte, wax-based Derma (for oily skin/summers) and the dewy, oil-based Supra (for dry skin/winters).](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/24d6eb5b-2012-4e42-b006-738c5674c30d)
- [Video: Here are my recommendations for affordable makeup products for oily skin. From a gel primer by Insight to a matte foundation by Maybelline, you can build a full kit on a budget.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c47a9b3c-c2a9-4474-94ad-fc274c2f15c6)
- [Video: Let's talk about color theory. I explain the difference between warm colors (like red, orange, yellow) and cool colors (like blue, green, purple) using the color wheel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3f985828-6600-4b1d-8930-c86b5d403a0f)
- [Video: In this video, I explain the three main types of color combinations: complementary, analogous, and monochromatic. Understanding this is key to creating harmonious makeup looks.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a0148570-1052-484b-99d6-7414756b03f7)
- [Video: A basic lesson on the color wheel. I explain primary, secondary, and tertiary colors and how they are created by mixing each other in equal ratios.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1c198250-527a-4d43-a215-c5be06f932e7)
- [Video: Why do we use complementary colors for color correction? I explain the science behind it: when you mix two complementary colors, they neutralize each other to create a brown shade, which cancels out discoloration.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bab0448b-da86-417f-84c8-c6d8b328f8e2)
- [Video: When should you use complementary colors in eye makeup? I explain that you should place them next to each other, like a red eyeshadow with a green liner, but never blend them together.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9a0a0a73-8eb8-44e8-bfee-d57f39bd5524)
- [Video: You don't need a hundred brushes for eye makeup. I show you the 5 essential eye makeup brushes, including a large fluffy brush and a flat brush, and explain what each one is used for.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/73042902-beb5-455f-9ec7-47c74538aedd)
- [Video: Another look at the 5 must-have eye makeup brushes. I demonstrate how to use each one, from the blending brush for the crease to the angled brush for your brows and liner.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c1143113-f443-437b-8b1b-904437da239b)
- [Video: A good beauty blender is essential for a flawless base. I share my top 5 affordable beauty blenders under ₹500 from brands like Mars, PAC, and Proarte.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/89021371-b670-4c45-a46e-1609c21895d7)
- [Video: Here’s my tutorial on how to properly clean your beauty blenders. I show two methods, one with just shampoo and one with shampoo and oil, to get all the product out and keep them hygienic.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/12a98035-d4a8-4269-9dad-2492d66e376f)
- [Video: What's the difference between loose powder and pressed powder? I explain that loose powder is great for baking on oily skin, while pressed powder is better for touch-ups and for dry or mature skin.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3da15753-0fc9-468c-a033-f1d2c2c6e462)
- [Video: Many people confuse translucent powder with banana powder. I clarify that translucent powder is white and best for fair skin, while banana powder has a yellow tint and is ideal for medium to dusky skin tones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a38f0936-22ff-4dcb-94e3-5c26f01d4dce)
- [Video: If you're looking for an affordable dupe for the famous Laura Mercier translucent powder, I highly recommend the one from Recode. It gives a very similar flawless finish without the high price tag.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4ac6f73e-e7ac-4e71-aaf5-0d2aecbda0a2)
- [Video: Lit glitters are beautiful but expensive. For a budget-friendly dupe, I suggest the glitters from It's Me. They have amazing pigment and can be applied even without glue.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0cae3151-5513-440e-9bc1-533957345fb6)
- [Video: Let's talk about makeup fixers. I explain the two types: "with mist" for hydrating dry skin and "without mist" for a matte finish on oily skin, and when to use each one.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b0cdb26b-e7f9-49e9-9a68-4481210636e7)
- [Video: Here are my recommendations for the best makeup fixers, from medium-range options like Swiss Beauty and Recode to high-end ones like MAC and Urban Decay.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f7544575-4eec-44c0-87e9-6facdaaaea49)
- [Video: This video shows the right way to use a setting spray. Remember to shake the bottle, hold it at a distance, and choose one that is right for your skin type for a flawless, long-lasting makeup.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/093be165-fe6a-4ab0-92ed-d77455d21428)
- [Video: For a glowing base on oily skin without emphasizing pores, I recommend the Perenne Glow Booster makeup setting spray. It can be used before, during, and after makeup for hydration and a dewy finish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1a42384b-dbd0-4377-b6b8-3f49655b8881)
- [Video: To master sweat-free makeup in the summers, I recommend two key products: the Sheglam primer for sweat-proofing and the Flerza magic drop for water-resistance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/279bc989-cdb0-445e-993f-d98c23186946)
- [Video: What's the difference between Magic Drop and Duraline? I explain that Magic Drop is silicone-based and best for controlling oil on oily skin, while Duraline is for all skin types and great for reviving dry products.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9cf555f0-0d18-4d6b-bdce-cd18ead0160e)
- [Video: Don't throw away your dried-up gel liners or lipsticks. I show you how to use Inglot's Duraline to bring them back to life and make them usable again.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9d998edf-6723-42a8-8628-5c5433e9f5d9)
- [Video: You can use a mixing medium like Duraline to create any color of liquid eyeliner you want. Just scrape some eyeshadow and mix it with a drop to get a custom liner that matches your outfit.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a469082b-3c14-463a-ba94-781b4093cc5a)
- [Video: Here's a tutorial on creating the ultimate lip combo. I show how to combine a lip liner and lipstick to get the perfect, long-lasting shade.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/38da7756-322a-406b-bef5-0b6a9ce7852b)
- [Video: How do you match your lipstick with your outfit? I give tips on pairing warm-toned outfits with warm lipsticks and cool-toned outfits with cool lipsticks to create a harmonious look.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a16b227a-f8f1-4784-a695-c71116b36ee3)
- [Video: Have you tried this viral mascara? I review this affordable mascara that is waterproof, long-lasting, and gives so much volume that you don't even need false lashes.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1abe1810-d801-4aac-a468-07e914e4ea7c)
- [Video: Here's a guide to different types of eyebrow definers. I cover powder, gel, pencil, and pen forms from various brands like PAC, LA Girl, and Swiss Beauty to help you choose the best one for you.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/177247da-acb4-4f22-a006-300d5a445702)
- [Video: Choosing the right contact lenses can be confusing. I recommend my favorite comfortable, silicone-based lens brands like Dahab and O-Lens and suggest the best shades for bridal and party makeup.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2ff89707-c2d2-4ea9-aec7-0245b4785612)
- [Video: Did you know there are two main types of eye lenses? I explain the difference between transparent lenses, which show your natural eye color, and opaque lenses, which provide full color coverage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e95988fd-805c-4bfe-89c1-d7b332513ba1)
- [Video: Don't waste your broken highlighter. I show you a hack to turn it into a beautiful body highlighter by mixing it with some baby oil.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/65430681-1096-472b-b719-ec330598e78d)
- [Video: Here's how to fix a broken powder product like an eyeshadow or blush. I demonstrate how to use rubbing alcohol to press the powder back into the pan, so you don't have to throw it away.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/45b63ab8-1665-4551-b6c7-8d64852e78cc)
- [Video: If your highlighter isn't showing up enough, try this trick. Spray your brush with a setting spray before picking up the product. This will make the pigment much more intense and shimmery.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a3496e5d-3b14-47ad-b3a9-686cc2ff1322)

## About Product Guides & Budget Dupes

Ever wonder why your foundation looks grey or cakey? It is usually not the brand, it is the shade matching. I teach you how to use just two shades, one light and one dark, to mix and create your perfect match. This simple hack saves you from buying multiple expensive bottles that end up sitting in your drawer unused.

Finding the right makeup products shouldn't feel like rocket science. In my classes, we focus on building a smart vanity, not a crowded one. You don't need high-end luxury products to achieve a flawless look. Often, a well-placed drugstore dupe from brands like Swiss Beauty, Maybelline, or Mars performs just as well as premium options, provided you know how to prep your skin.

### Why Product Knowledge Matters
Many students come to me with expensive kits but zero clue how to use them. We cover the basics:
* **Foundation Matching:** Learn how to read your undertone and stop picking shades that oxidize (turn dark) on your skin.
* **Skin Type Analysis:** If you have oily skin, you need matte, oil-control products. If you are dry, you need dewy, luminous finishes. I explain exactly what to look for on the label.
* **The Moisturizer Hack:** Did you know you can often skip the primer if your skincare routine (CTM) is on point? I show you which moisturizers double as a perfect base.

### How to Choose Like a Pro
Don't just buy what's trending on social media. I teach you how to analyze your own needs. Whether you are dealing with open pores, hyperpigmentation, or just want a clean office look, I help you filter your existing bag—throwing out what doesn't work and keeping the essentials. If you are ready to stop the guesswork and start building a kit that actually works for your face, let's connect.

## About Sonia Kalra

I am Sonia, a makeup artist based in Gurgaon who believes your vanity shouldn't cost a fortune. I help students stop the guesswork and start using products that actually suit their skin type and budget.

[See all of Sonia Kalra's services](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow)

## More from Personal Makeup Classes & Workshops by Sonia Kalra

- [Featured](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/featured)
- [Makeup Transformations](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/makeup-transformations)
- [Bridal & Glamour Makeup](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/bridal-glamour-makeup)
- [Festive & Everyday Looks](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/festive-everyday-looks)
- [Makeup Basics & Pro Tips](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/makeup-basics-pro-tips)
- [Detailed Eye Makeup Tutorials](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/detailed-eye-makeup-tutorials)
- [Easy Hairstyling Tutorials](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/easy-hairstyling-tutorials)
- [Inside My Makeup Academy](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/personal-makeup-classes-workshops/inside-my-makeup-academy)

## More services by Sonia Kalra

- [Special Occasion Makeup & Hairstyling](https://mytribe.in/ttheinnerglow/special-occasion-makeup-hairstyling)

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## Book

To book Sonia Kalra, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%20Sonia%2C%20I%20saw%20your%20product%20guides.%20I%20am%20struggling%20to%20find%20the%20right%20makeup%20for%20my%20skin%20type%20and%20would%20love%20some%20advice.)