Let’s face it girls, we all love to shop for makeup. When faced with a beauty counter filled with the latest palettes, we behave like a kid at a candy factory and our well-intentioned thoughts of saving fly out the window. We go to Sephora for a nude lipstick, and we check out thirty minutes later with a bagful of goodies. The regret comes later, when you realize you’ve blown your next week’s grocery money on five different shades of lip gloss. It does not have to be like this.
Here are some helpful tips to help you keep your expenses to a minimum when shopping:
- Mix and Match. You don’t have to buy all shades of lipstick that the store is selling. You can layer different lipstick colors to match the rest of your makeup.
- Browse and look at the lower shelves. Most stores place their most expensive products at eye level. You can find products that are just as good but costs less on the lower shelves.
- Ask the salesperson. They are usually well trained when it comes to their products so they can give recommend what’s best to use for your skin’s texture and color.
- Before you step into the store, research on the makeup that you are planning to buy. Check the prices and the online review.
- Keep an eye out for samples. Most companies give out samples either at the store, or online. Don’t turn them down. It gives you a chance to try out a product to see if you like it, before actually purchasing it.
- Shop with a friend. Not only is it fun to shop with a friend, but a friend will honestly tell you if the color does not good on you, or if you are already exceeding your budget if you buy the new mascara.
- Do an inventory before shopping. Make sure that you really need that shade of lipstick. You might be surprised to find several stashed away that looks similar to the shade you are planning on buying.
- Do the math. Not all products are cheaper when bought in bulk. Compare different sizes and buy the size that is cheaper per ounce.
- Check the ingredients. It may be long and boring but it pays to check the ingredients to make sure the product will not harm your skin. For those with acne, products containing benzoyl peroxide will help with the breakouts, but it is catastrophic when used by someone with dry skin.
- Set a budget. Before you even set foot into a store, set how much you are going to spend on purchases and the amount is not negotiable.