Spend Versus Save: Makeup

The same theories apply for make as with fashion.  If you love makeup like I do, it can be an expensive habit.  But there are ways to cut the costs without sacrificing the fun.

Spend – I tend to spend a little more on the products that need to match my skin tone flawlessly.

• If you are going to splurge on one thing, a foundation is it. While drugstores have expanded their shade selection, there are still more options in the high-end brands.  And when it comes to the one makeup product that will touch your entire face, you want to make sure that it’s a perfect match as well as a good formula with sun protection.
• Same goes for other complexion-evening products such as concealer. Again, you want to make sure you have the best color match possible.
• The only other item that I tend to splurge on is eye makeup primer. I prefer ones that match my skin tone, so finding a good match that actually works usually requires a few extra dollars.  Plus, using a good quality primer means that my eye shadow can be less expensive and still last the day.

Save – Items that you will use infrequent or trendy items are still the best place to stretch your dollar.

• If you are trying out a red lipstick or liquid eyeliner for the first time, you may not want to spend $30 off the bat. Personally, I would stick to under $5.  That way, if you do not like it, you can toss it without too many regrets.
• I find it difficult to spend too much money on mascara. I religiously toss mine after three months, so why throw away $20 when I can just as easily use something that cost me less than $10.