Low-Cost Looks – Advice for Beauty on a Budget

As the nation battles against the ongoing cost of living crisis, many people are cutting back on the luxury of cosmetic enhancements. Indeed, although it is always wise to avoid overspending on a budget, many of us do not realise the plethora of tips and tricks we can use to save money whilst also treating ourselves to a little TLC.

In this article, we will be giving you beauty hacks on a budget so you can enjoy cost-effective self-care in all its glory.

1.  Drugstore dupes vs. high-end luxuries

If you are looking to repurchase your favourite eyeliner or concealer, search for more affordable alternatives that do the same job. Many bloggers and YouTubers alike have built their platform on researching affordable beauty products that work just as well as their pricier counterparts. Some brands have even gained notoriety on the basis of closely copying luxury product lines, known as ‘dupes.’

Although it may take some trying and testing to find similar products to your go-to’s, it can save some serious money in the long term.

2.  Repurpose products (when needed)

When buying beauty products, many consumers do so with the intention of using them for the intended use alone. Using products in this manner can mean that they are quick to discard it, should it no longer serve that particular purpose. However, with a dash of creativity, many products have a multitude of functions and can still be used without the need for waste.

Bought a new lipstick that just is not working for you? Try using it as a cream blusher, or you could also mix it with another lip product to create a more flattering shade. Do you find that you struggle to hit pan on powdered blushes, bronzers, and highlights before they expire? Most face products are safe to use as eyeshadow, which can help to reduce the number of products binned while still half full. 

3.  Embrace minimalism

Simplifying your skincare routine can provide much relief for your wallet. So-called ‘skinimalism’ is taking the world by storm and encourages consumers to embrace a 3-step routine: cleanse,  treat (targeted serum) and moisturise (with SPF). Dedicated followers of this fresh-faced trend swear by the benefits of removing harsher products like retinols and more potent acids in favour of the bare basics, allowing the skin to regulate itself accordingly.

You can also apply similar principles to your make-up routine, where you can find all-in-one products like BB or CC creams, lip/cheek tints, and brow/lip balms. Not only can this save money, but it also means less time faffing around to get ready and more time doing what you love.

4.  Do your research

One of the best ways to save money is to not spend it in the first place. In fact, one thing we can all be guilty of is splurging on a whim without a second look into what we are actually buying. Once we test the product, it is only then that we realise our mistake and that it is too late to return. Instead, if we planned our purchases more wisely and did our due diligence by ensuring what we planned to buy was suitable, our bank balance would thank us for it.

There are several questions to ask yourself when making a purchase:

• Can you really afford it (after monthly bills, essentials, etc.)?
• How long will the item last? Remember, some deals may be too good to be true!
• Will you actually use the item?
• Do you love the item or just the price?

5.  Look at the reviews

If you are considering a purchase but still cannot decide whether it is right for you, it is always worth checking out the reviews from other consumers. In particular, you should consider reviews from others most similar to yourself.

For example, if you are looking for a new moisturiser, check out the reviews from people who have a similar skin type (dry, oily, normal, or combination) as you. Many products may not be designed with your needs in mind, a fact many people often forget.

6.  Permanent results vs. temporary quick-fixes

If you find yourself using the same product regularly to achieve the desired finish, you may wish to explore a more permanent solution to the issue at hand. Cosmetic surgeries are a cost-effective way to improve your aesthetic in the long term, without you needing to undergo less impactful treatments regularly. Overall, this can help you to save money from frequent visits to the salon for temporary fixes.

For example, fat transfer is an increasingly popular, permanent treatment that involves the movement of fat from one area of the body to another. This procedure helps to sculpt the area from where bodily fat is in excess and increases the volume of the region injected, such as the breasts or buttocks. Overall, doctors can use the transfered fat in various body parts to achieve highly desirable curves.

With summer at our doorstep, many of us are looking to snag a deal quick and fast, but it is always worth taking a moment to question our purchases and spend as mindfully as possible. In fact, investing in aesthetics with the future in mind can provide peace of mind in times of economic uncertainty. Keep note of our tips and use them as a guide to get the most out of your bank-friendly beauty routine!

About the Author

Roni Davis is a writer, blogger, and legal assistant operating out of the greater Philadelphia area.