Women love to look good. It’s important to us and helps us feel better prepared to face life with a smile. Yet, when money gets tight, we often feel as though we can’t afford to get the products we need and we cut it out of the budget. It’s not necessary! With careful planning and watchful spending, you can get the items you need at a discount.
10 Ways to Save Money on Cosmetics & Beauty
-
Finish using what you already have.
Many of us have extra makeup in our cosmetic bags that we’ve stopped using because it’s almost gone. You might even have sample size items that you haven’t considered adding to your stash since they’re small. Pull out everything and use it up. There are expiration dates on all cosmetics so use them up before its too late.
-
Try less expensive brands.
During the years before I had children, I loved going to the cosmetics counters at the department store and buying whatever I thought I needed. Then once the babies came I found that I couldn’t afford that financial splurge. I decided to try some of the less expensive brands at the drug store. Many of the items proved to be as good as the department store brands. I love getting my mascara on sale 2 for $8 and when I add in a few coupons, it’s really a bargain! Just try it – you might be pleasantly surprised.
-
Use a better quality foundation and primer to make your cosmetics long wearing.
I have sensitive skin, so, I have to spend a little more on my foundation. The truth is that it really does cover better and wear longer. I’ve also started wearing eyelid primer. I’ve found that inexpensive blush and eye shadow last much longer when applied on top of these bases.
-
Apply simple makeup when you are staying home for the day.
If you are planning on cleaning your garage or working in the garden, do you really need to apply a lot of make up? I usually put on mascara and lip-gloss on days when I’m just working around the house and it saves a day of more expensive cosmetics.
-
Shop for cosmetics and beauty products using coupons and taking advantage of bonus gifts.
I love coupons for everything. It’s especially nice when the items I’m purchasing are also on sale. My makeup remover wipes and face cleanser often are buy one get one free. When I take catch this type of sale and apply coupons for each item, I actually get two for less than the price of one. Since my foundation is a name brand, I wait until they are offering a gift with purchase so I can make it worth even more. They usually include a beauty treatment, mascara, eye shadow, brushes and a makeup bag. I really love it when they include a small fragrance sample. They’re great for travel. Remember, free is always good!
-
Return what doesn’t work for you.
Many manufacturers and retail outlets will allow you to return a product, even if used, if there is a problem or it doesn’t work for you. Don’t be embarrasses to return an item you’re not going to use. The return policies are there so you will be happy with your purchase and not waste your money. Just remember to keep your receipt and original packaging in case you will need to return your purchase.
-
Check out the dollar & closeout stores.
Don’t assume that all cosmetics, beauty products and toiletries at these types of discount stores are off-brand or generic. Companies often change over packaging or discontinue products that are not expired or damaged. Closeout and dollar stores will purchase these items and sell them for a fraction of their retail price. For example, there is a brand of long-lasting lipstick that I love. The manufacturer changed the tube style and took it off the shelves. I was so upset, but then a few months later, I was at the local Dollar Tree and found multiple tubes of my favorite color for a dollar instead of ten dollars a piece. I stocked up and am still using it! Check out what they have, maybe you’ll find a treasure.
-
Invest in quality makeup brushes and applicators.
You can have name brand cosmetics, but if you apply them with cheap applicators and brushes it can look streaky and cheap. You don’t have to buy professional makeup artist brushes, but spend a few dollars and get a nice personal set. Your face will look blended and smooth which in turn makes you beautifully natural.
-
Choose quality over quantify when it counts.
If you have skin allergies or sensitivities and have to use more expensive brands, choose carefully so you don’t waste your money. It’s better to have a few eye shadow colors that you can wear without a reaction than to have a large palate of inexpensive colors that make your eyes tear all day when you wear them.
-
Don’t be wasteful.
There are so many makeup fads that come and go. Spend your money on good basic cosmetics that can be worn with everything and at all occasions. Several colors of eyeliner that you only wear a few times are a financial waste. Make your purchases count and use them.
As the old saying goes, “when the barn needs painting – paint it!” Just remember you can do so without breaking the budget when you follow these money-saving tips!