Our makeup and hairstyling options allow us to play up our best features, explore emerging aspects of ourselves or refresh a look with a few brushstrokes or a salon visit. That all comes with a cost. Whether you love a flawless beat or prefer the “no makeup” makeup look, we’re all looking for ways to save a few bucks at the beauty counter. One way to do that? Know which items are worth the splurge and which offer budget buys that get the job done. More smart ways to look fly on a dime:
Sign up for loyalty programs
Many beauty retailers offer members exclusives and perks, such as free shipping, birthday gifts, early access to product launches, complimentary beauty classes and points earned for every dollar spent. Check those receipts! Drugstore chains may offer rewards, points and discounts at the register. Some expire quickly but can actually be used on the same visit. If you’re shopping for a long list of items, consider splitting the list, checking out, then using any discounts you receive to purchase the remainder.
Try before you buy
You can ask for a sample of almost any product, from foundation and concealer to skin care and fragrances, at stores like Sephora, Ulta and M·A·C Cosmetics, as well as at Macy’s and Nordstrom’s beauty counters. Shopping online? Oftentimes, you can add free beauty samples to your cart, though you’re usually limited to whatever items the store has pre-curated that day. If samples aren’t available, consider purchasing the travel size.
Embrace multitasking items
For instance, many of Fenty Beauty’s Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter shades pull triple duty as illuminator on face and body, eye shadow and blush. Want defined lashes, tamed flyaways and brows that won’t budge? Maybelline New York Great Lash Clear Mascara checks all those boxes. Bonus: With multipurpose beauty items, you’ll save space on your vanity and in your makeup bag.
DIY whenever possible
Lip scrubs, cuticle oil, shaving cream and plenty of other everyday items can be replaced by ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen panty. It’s always wise to do a patch test on your skin first to check for irritation.
Give dupes a chance
The beauty aisle at the drugstore has come a long way, with many of its formulas giving prestige brands a run for their money. Got a signature lip color you can’t do without? Seek a comparable shade for a fraction of the cost. Good to know: Urban Decay, IT Cosmetics, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani and Lancôme fall under the L’Oréal Luxe Division, making many of L’Oréal’s formulas comparable to its high-end counterparts.