- Cleansers and toners – SAVE
We tend to think that the more expensive the skincare product, the better it will work, but this is not always the case. The purpose of a cleanser and a toner is purely to rid the skin of impurities. They don’t stay on the skin; they’re usually washed off immediately. If the product is not drying or too heavily fragranced, you could get away with a more affordable product.
- Moisturisers and serums – SPLURGE
Skincare products such as moisturisers and serums work a little harder, they stay on the skin longer and they are designed to nourish and protect the skin. Find the best product you can afford within your budget.
- Foundations – SAVE
It is a common misconception that foundations from luxury brands do a better job. This is not necessarily true. The formulas of less expensive foundations are often just as good. If you find a cheaper brand that provides durability and coverage, buy it.
- Mascaras and eye pencils – SAVE
Liquid eye-makeup products have a short shelf life, as we tend to use them daily. More affordable brands do the same job as pricier ones
- Eye shadows – SPLURGE
Eye shadows have a longer shelf life because of their powder formula. While there are amazing, affordable options out there, the more costly eye shadows offer beautiful pigments and softer textures, which can be applied and blended more easily – which means we use them more sparingly. Instead of shelling out lots of money for colours you won’t wear (be honest now: will you wear that striking purple shade to the office every day?), invest in one or two shades that you will wear regularly.
- Lipsticks – SAVE
Yes, we know the thrill of whipping a luxury lipstick tube out of your handbag, but you can get the same great formula and a wide variety of colours in affordable brands. Be more savvy and stop spending money on that amazing new pink that you simply HAVE to have – stick to a gorgeous go-to nude-pink lipstick to complement your skin tone, or wear a striking colour when you want a more dramatic look.
- Blush and bronzers – SPLURGE
Yes, you will be able to find beautiful blush products from affordable brands, but the powder formulation of an expensive brand will have a longer shelf life and the pigmentation is likely to be better.
- Makeup brushes – SPLURGE
If you choose to apply your foundation with fingers or a sponge, that’s fine. But a good brush is a game-changer in makeup application and can last for years. However, this is no excuse to run to the most expensive makeup counter and hand over your credit card. There are more affordable brands that manufacture good brushes. Choose soft bristles made from natural fibres if you tend to use powder products, and synthetic bristles for cream products.
