I'm trying to ease into the complicated world of makeup slowly and I don't want to spend a lot of money on expensive brand names just yet. What is the best drugstore concealer available for someone who needs to cover up undereye circles and the occasional pimple? I bought a Maybelline coverup stick the other day but it is cakey and doesn't cover up the circles well enough. If there aren't any really good drugstore ones, are there any department store brands that are worth investing in?

Also, I am going to a formal event in May and would like to have standout lashes. Unfortunately, my eyelashes in their natural state are short, stubby, and somewhat sparse. My eyes are also deeply set, making it difficult to apply mascara with a traditional big, fluffy brush. What type of mascara (curling, lengthening, volumizing, multiplying, etc.) should I buy, and what are some good drugstore brands? This is one item I probably cannot afford to buy from a department store. Thanks!
I should mention that I am only 17, so I do not need to cover up wrinkles or other signs of aging. I am also a makeup-o-phobe (the scientific term), and would like to keep things as light and natural-looking as possible.

Physicians Formula Concealer is really good and inexpensive:
http://www.physiciansformula.com/en-us/product/face/concealers.html

You can get this product at any CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Walmart, Target, etc.

If you have an occasional pimple - use the Green Concealer from Physicians Formula - the green neutralizes the red color of the pimple - hiding it well.

Best of luck to you darling!

I've tried most drug store brands and maybeline is the best. I no longer use it. I pay aroung $12-$15 ( I forget exactly) for Origins Quick Hide concealer. Just apply some under eye then dab in. Don't rub or it won't cover as well. Use a powder on top to set. I use Origins Silkscreen powder. As for mascara, don't worry so much about brand. Make sure to remove old mascara before applying (with water-based eye make-up remover). Apply 2 or 3 coats with a little liner on top line. For deep set eyes, extend slightly past outside eye corner. Use light-colored, shimmer shadow for lids. Put some concealer first before applying shadow. This will help eyes not to look so deeply set.

On a budget...... maybelline do good mascara. If u want to treat urself yves saint laurent do good mascara. As for cover up... im not sure on a budget but laura mercier and mac are brilliant.