Also not much of a secret, I'm a makeup snob. I do prefer higher end products over some drugstore. And I have wasted a hell of a lot of money on things that I don't really use or I can't use them because I am allergic to the ingredients.
It has taken me several years to come up with these tips; and I sometimes have trouble following them, but they have prevented me spending a fortune.
So if you do fancy treating yourself to a few high end products, here's some handy tips before you go on that splurge.
Before you even go to the shops tips....
- Do your research: If there is something that you have had your eye on, read up on what other people think about it, and have a look at the ingredients (that is if you know a specific thing that you are allergic to). I fancied trying the Clinique cleansing brush, but have seen a fair few people saying it either irritates their skin or just as good as grabbing a wash cloth. One to give a miss then.
- Check your bank account: Definitely check to make sure you can afford this item. I have started listing all my outgoings for the month and working out how much I have left for myself until payday. It takes about two minutes to do and definitely better than going into your overdraft.
- Is it necessary?: Is it something that has the same effect as a drugstore alternative. This is where your research will come in handy. Most Youtube Makeup Artists will name drugstore alternatives to something they are using, so do check this out if it could save a fortune. One good example of this are the Nars Dual Intensity Eyeshadows. An almost identical product to this is the L'Oreal Riche Monos. Both are very creamy and have that wet glossy finish. You could buy three of the L'Oreal eyeshadows for the price of one Nars eyeshadow.
- Check the returns policy: Does the company have one. Do check, just if for any reason you do need to return the products.
In the Shop...
- Swatchy swatchy swatchy: Don't just buy something because it looks nice in the pictures. Test the products on the back on your hand. Do they look as you expected them to look? Do they feel nice? Could you pull off this colour? Your hands will get messy but worth it before you spend that mini fortune.
- Ask the beauty representatives their opinion: One thing I've noticed about most brands is that they hire advocates for their products. If I am deciding between two different eyeshadow palettes I will always ask which they think would suit me better. They are trained on everything from skin tones to eyeshades. They will know if something will look not so great on you. Also, if it's just a general treat you're after, ask them which products they like. They will appreciate it.
- Ask if you can have a makeover: With the exception of MAC where you have to book and pay for makeovers, most high end brands will offer to try the products on you before you spend your money. This is a necessity when it comes to foundation. Do you really want to buy a new foundation without knowing if it's the correct colour for you, or if it sits right on your skin?
- Test foundations on skin/ take sample away: I have had too many bad experiences in the past where I have tested a foundation on my skin, bought a foundation and then walked away only to find a huge rash forming on my skin. Oops! And yes, it takes a long time for skin irritation to clear up. I used to get really rough, bumpy skin after using one particular foundation. Since then I have asked for a sample to take away or if I am confident asked if I can just have an hour walk about to make sure if sits ok, but do say you will go back there if you do decide to buy it. Most are ok with this unless they are really pushing for a sale. And on that note...
- Don't buy from bitches: Do you really want to give some snobby bitch your money? Like a lot of sales companies, most high end beauty counters do get paid commission. Do you really want someone who has given poor service your money? Really? This happened to me recently. I wanted to replace a few worn out brushes and wanted to get some decent ones. I know Marks and Spencers have started stocking Stila, which are a little bit more pricey than their Autograph range (I was going tot est them all out). A sales assitant did approach me and asked if she could help. I said I was after brushes and what could she recommend. She looked me up and down, did a little hmmm, then said something along the lines of, "The cheapest ones we do are over their; they're £2 each. Or will that be too much?" She did show me the other brands but was just so shocked by her first remark, when she asked which ones I would like to buy I said, "It's okay, I'll get the MAC ones I saw earlier."
After the Splurge....
- Keep the receipts: I'll be honest, I don't follow my own advise on this one. I hate returning things, which is why I'm so strict on testing before I buy these days (on some things). Maybe you change your mind, or you do start to notice some worrying skin reactions, most companies do have a returns policy.
- Enjoy playing!: Seriously, what is the point of having something so special if you are not going to use it? Have fun using it as much as possible.
If you do have any other tips for High End buying, please leave them in the comments.
Bye for now!
xxx