When to splurge and when to save on make-up
Some mornings when I'm doing my make-up I start adding up the dollar value of the products I'm using. I never get that far, because I have an English degree and can't do much mental arithmetic, but also because it quickly becomes depressing.
Make-up and skincare are shockingly expensive when you consider them all at once. With that in mind, it's worth considering the products that are worth spending money on, and the ones you can pick up on the cheap.
1. Foundation
If your base make-up doesn't look any good, you're going to be hard pressed to fix things with colour cosmetics, and for that reason, I'd argue it's worth spending a little on your foundation. Look for a buildable formula. You want one that you can either layer up for a polished look, or thin out with moisturiser when you want less coverage.
2. Cleanser
When you're just trying to get make-up off your face, though, there's less of a need to get fancy. Wash your face with a soap-free cleanser and a clean flannel. Job done. Along the same lines, there's no point spending heaps on make-up wipes.
3. Eyeshadow
I've tried a lot of affordable eyeshadows over the years, and as a rule, they don't stand up to their higher-priced counterparts. That's not to say there aren't expensive duds, but usually, a high-end brand is unlikely to let you down.
4. Lipstick
The main drawback with cheaper lipsticks tends to be a smaller shade range. If you can find a colour you like, though, you won't be disappointed. They have the pigmentation, texture and staying power of a much more expensive brand.
Written by Harriet Pudney. Republished with permission of Stuff.co.nz.