Skincare and makeup can get pricey fast. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need to spend big to get the best results, but the truth is, you don’t have to empty your wallet to have great skin or a flawless makeup look. Here are some tips on how to stop wasting money on expensive skincare and makeup, and still get results you love.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Before splurging on high-end products, figure out what exactly your skin type is. Is it dry, oily, combination, or sensitive? Knowing this will help you avoid spending a ton of money on products that might not even work for you.
2. Don’t Fall for Every Trend
It feels like there’s a new skincare or makeup trend every day, but chasing trends is a fast way to blow your budget. Stick to the basics and what works for you. Sure, a viral product might seem tempting, but do you really need it? Focus on the tried-and-true essentials in your makeup bag that you know work for you.
3. Look for Drugstore Dupes
For almost every luxury product out there, there’s a drugstore dupe that works just as well—sometimes even better. From foundations to moisturizers, you can find budget-friendly options that give you similar results without the high price tag. Do a little research, and you’ll be surprised at how much money you can save.
4. Simplify Your Routine
A 12-step skincare routine might sound luxurious, but it’s often overkill that you simply don’t need. Simplifying your routine can save you a ton of money. Stick to the basics: a good cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Sure, you can add in a few targeted treatments (like a serum or retinol) if you feel like you need it, but you don’t need a drawer full of products to see results.
5. Check the Ingredients, Not the Brand
The price tag doesn’t always reflect the quality of the ingredients. Learn to read labels and look for key ingredients that actually benefit your skin, like hyaluronic acid for hydration or niacinamide for reducing redness. Just because an expensive brand has fancy packaging doesn’t mean it has a stellar formula.
6. Use What You Have First
Before treating yourself to a new foundation or serum, take a look at what’s already in your drawer. Half the time, we forget about products we already own because we’re distracted by something shiny and new. Use up what you have before you buy something new—this can save you a lot of money in the long run.
7. Don’t Believe the Hype
Skincare and makeup marketing can be pretty convincing, but just because a product has glowing reviews or a celebrity endorsement doesn’t mean it’s worth the price. Try to separate the marketing from the actual benefits. Look for honest reviews from people with similar skin concerns to yours, and don’t let the hype cloud your judgment.
8. Sample Before You Splurge
If you’re eyeing a pricey product, ask for samples before you commit. Many stores will happily give you samples to try at home, so you can see how a product works for you before spending big. This is especially important for skincare, where results aren’t always immediate, and you want to make sure it won’t irritate your skin.
9. Buy Multi-Use Products
Look for products that do double duty. A moisturizer with SPF, a tinted moisturizer that acts as foundation, or a cheek and lip tint can save you money by cutting down on the number of products you need. Multi-use products are great for simplifying your routine and your spending.
10. Avoid Buying the Latest Eyeshadow Palette
Let’s be honest…how many eyeshadow palettes do you actually need? Makeup brands come out with new palettes constantly, but the reality is that you won’t actually finish most of your palettes. Instead of buying every new release, stick with the colors you actually wear, and invest in a versatile palette that covers your needs.
11. DIY Face Masks and Scrubs
You don’t need to buy expensive face masks or scrubs when you can make your own at home. Simple ingredients like honey, oatmeal, sugar, and yogurt can make a great facemask, and they don’t break the bank. A quick DIY mask or scrub can give you glowing skin for a fraction of the cost.
12. Stick to Your Budget
It’s easy to get carried away in a beauty store, but set a budget for yourself and stick to it. Whether it’s a monthly or yearly beauty budget, keeping track of what you’re spending helps you avoid impulse buys and unnecessary splurges. It also makes you think twice before purchasing a new product.
13. Watch for Sales and Discounts
If there’s a product you love but it’s a little on the pricey side, keep an eye out for sales, promotions, or discounts. Many brands have seasonal sales, and beauty stores have discount days or loyalty programs that can help you save money. Patience can pay off when it comes to waiting for a deal.
14. Don’t Overbuy on Skincare
Skincare products have a shelf life, so buying too much at once can lead to products expiring before you even open them. Stick to what you need and what you’ll realistically use. Not only will this keep your routine focused, but it will also prevent wasted money on products that go bad.
15. Know When to Invest
There are some products that are worth splurging on—like a good retinol or a well-formulated sunscreen. But not everything in your routine needs to be expensive. Save your money for high-quality, active ingredients that deliver real results, and go budget-friendly on the rest.