Best drugstore finds that may surprise you

When you think of drugstores, you likely think of picking up prescriptions or making a quick stop to get first aid supplies. However, if you spend a little more time exploring your local pharmacy, you'll find a much larger range of items than you may have expected. These things include groceries, beauty products, toiletries and more. But did you know you can score some of your favorite everyday items at times for less? Some of the best drugstore finds just take a little patience and keeping an eye out for deals and more.

Why shop at a drugstore?

There are some advantages to shopping at a drugstore over bigger department stores. One of them is convenience. If you've had a long day at work and just need to grab some toothpaste, it's often much quicker and easier to stop at a drugstore. The parking lot and store will likely be much smaller and hopefully less busy, making your trip more efficient for a quick stop.

Another advantage is the rewards programs many drugstores offer. Some drugstores offer a reward program that gets you cashback on purchases, as well as discounts and special sale prices on certain items. Others offer points for every dollar you spend. Collected points can then be converted into dollars off purchases.

Drugstores generally have robust coupon programs as well. You can usually access these online to plan your shopping ahead of time. Some drugstores may even offer additional coupons on top of sale prices for an even better deal and many drugstores also accept manufacturer's coupons for even more savings.

There is also a wide variety of items available at the drugstore. Below, check out some of the best drugstore finds.

Best drugstore finds

There are items available for most everyday needs at drugstores, including makeup, skincare, oral care and groceries.

Makeup

Drugstores have long been a place for more budget-friendly makeup, but in more recent years the selection has expanded dramatically. While you'll still find that most beauty products are on the more affordable side, many drugstores are starting to offer some higher-end options. Drugstores usually carry many different brands and offer products in all categories — foundation, concealer, powder, blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, eyeliner, eyebrow makeup, mascara and lip products. In some cases, there's very little difference between buying mascara at a drugstore, for example, or getting a pricier option at a cosmetics store. So, you may want to see if that higher priced item has dupes to snag them on your next drugstore run.

Some of the best drugstore beauty finds may be the wide array of tools available. Did you know some makeup brushes found in drugstores are touted to be the best among makeup artists and influencers alike? You can usually find anything from makeup sponges to powder puffs, eye brushes, face brushes and more.

Many drugstores have expanded to carry a wide range of nail polish as well. You can usually find any color you want from a variety of brands. You'll also likely be able to buy any tools you need for an at-home manicure or pedicure, such as cuticle pushers, nail clippers, files and nail polish remover.

Skincare

Drugstores often have a robust skincare section, which makes sense when you consider that taking care of your skin is part of your health (fun fact: your skin is your body's largest organ!) If you're looking for the basics, you should have no problem finding them. You'll be able to choose from many different lotions, body wash, face wash and facial moisturizers. Some of the most coveted and trusted moisturizers are ones that you can find at a local drugstore — just ask your mom, grandmother, or any other relatives about their favorite products that have stood the test of time.

If you're looking for a bit more in-depth skincare routine, you will also find serums, facial oils, eye creams, essences and toners. And if you really want to pamper yourself, there are plenty of drugstore finds in the face mask category too. You can likely find anything from a detoxifying mud mask to a moisturizing mask to give your face a glow.

Additionally, you'll likely also find skincare tools. This could include jade rollers, facial steamers, electric face washing tools, ice rollers and more.

Hair care

Whether you're looking for tools, specialty products or just a simple shampoo, drugstores will have you covered. Drugstores often have a large hair care section to meet all your needs. You'll find many shampoo and conditioner options, including ones targeted specifically for things like dandruff, to brands that focus more on hydration, shine or curls.

In addition to shampoo and conditioners, drugstores usually also have more specialty products. This might include curl creams, mousse, hairspray, styling gel, heat protectant and more. You'll likely also be able to round out your styling with hair tools, such as flat irons, curling irons, blow dryers, hairbrushes, hair ties and other hair accessories.

Groceries

A drugstore likely isn't the first place that comes to mind for groceries, but it often has a limited selection of items that can save you in a pinch. If you're midway through a cookie recipe and realize you're out of eggs, a drugstore can make for a quick stop to find what you need. While you may not find your favorite international chili pepper at a drugstore, you will likely find the essentials and snack items.

Many grocery stores have a refrigerated section for things like water and other beverages, milk, butter and eggs. Some drugstores might carry a wider selection, but you can usually count on those must-haves.

There are also usually a few dedicated aisles of pantry items, as well. This might include things like syrup, crackers, rice, pasta, flour, sugar, cereal, spices and seasonings, canned and prepared foods and condiments. You'll also likely find snacks like granola bars and protein bars, cookies, chips, candy and gum.

What's more

Next time you need to make a stop but don't feel like searching a large department store for your items, consider trying a drugstore. You may just be surprised that some of the best drugstore finds will outshine even your box store favorites.