Save or Splurge: Which Beauty Products Are Worth Your Money?
The beauty industry can seem oversaturated to us consumers. One walk through the Macy's cosmetics floor or any Sephora and you'll know what we're talking about. How do you know which products are worth your money, and which are better to be bought at the drugstore? Our experts weigh in on the products to save on (and which to splurge on).
Save On: Products with SPF
"Make sure your products have SPF in them," says acclaimed dermatological surgeon Patricia Wexler. "Women tend to not be vigilant about sunscreen during times in which they are indirectly exposed to the sun. I demand that all my patients wear SPF 30 all year, bur it is especially important to be vigilant when you're young by using an SPF of 30 even on cloudy days."
Save On: Eye Makeup Remover
"The ones at the drugstore far exceed any expensive ones out there," says Giannotti, "especially Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($5.79). It takes off everything and is very gentle without leaving an oily residue."
Save On: Mascara
"Never spend tons of money on mascara," says Carmindy. "You can always find a great brush-size and formula at the drugstore."
Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic agrees. "Many mascaras contain the same ingredients, just with different packaging," he says, "and there are great, less expensive mascaras out there, like L'Oréal Voluminous Full Definition Mascara ($7.49)."
"I always love all the drugstore brands," says Marni Giannotti. "You'll really be saving, too, since women need to change their mascaras at least once every two to three months. Also, you can buy multiple mascaras for the same price as one pricier mascara."
Need further testimony to the benefits of buying drugstore mascara? "Mascara is one beauty product the drugstore brands are knocking off with the most success," says celeb makeup artist Brett Freedman. "At half the price, drugstore mascaras are definitely a beauty bargain, and for gals who like to have a fresh tube more often, that's a real savings!"
Splurge On: Hair Dryers and Flatirons
"Although these products may seem simple to use, they can finish off a great style or cut, especially when used correctly," says David. "I highly recommend the Elchim Uragano Ionic Dryer ($118); it's fast, lightweight, and has settings to cool or heat your hair.
"The GHD Classic Styler Ceramic Hair Straightener ($185) is something I use, and I've always had great results," he continues. "Flatirons today are, generally, safe and gentle on your hair. They can be used not only to straighten but also to make quick curls and flips. Like any tool, the key is knowing how to use it." Tried it out and still need some pointers? Ask your stylist!
Splurge On: Foundation
"This is the number-one product I recommend splurging on," says Dedivanovic. "Any beauty product that is going to be applied to the entire face is definitely a product worth spending money on. Just be sure you choose the right formula, color, and texture to match your skin. When your skin looks and feels great, all the other products and colors are just 'extras.'"
"Everyone's skin type, texture, color, and undertones are very different," says Giannotti. "Because of this, there are a ton of different varieties of foundation. Usually at drugstores, you can't test out foundations first, so department stores are usually your best bet. (Watch out for poorly lit stores, though, or you may still end up with the wrong color for your skin tone.) Always ask a product specialist /makeup artist for his or her help with picking out the right foundation for you, and make sure to describe your skin type. My Favorites are Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation ($59); Face Atelier Ultra Foundation ($45); and Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($42)."
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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
