Beauty is ever-changing, but if there’s one constant, it’s that we want our routines to be as straightforward and time-saving as possible. There’s no room for fuss or faff. We’ve got 10 tips and tricks to help you save money and stretch your products in some areas. A DIY face mask recipe? Hacks on using your bronzer on the lids? And the secret to making your foundation last longer? Check, check, and check.
1. Ask for samples
There are so many products available that people love and rave about. However, not every product works for your skin type.
Do yourself (and your wallet) a favour by trying out samples first before purchasing a full-sized product. Most stores give out samples if you ask, and brands like Kiehl’s are forward with sharing samples so that you get to try out if a product suits your skin before you make your purchase.
No samples? Opt for a travel-sized version. Usually, there’ll be sufficient to last for a week, so it will allow you to test out the product for a few days. And if you love trying out different new products frequently, this is an excellent way to prevent product wastage — and money.
2. Simplify, simplify, simplify
K-beauty has created multi-stepped beauty rituals which many of us don’t have the time, or need, for. Sure, when you have a peaceful weekend, sans kids, you may want to indulge. But for busy weekdays, an 11-step beauty regime is an unrealistic target for most.
What’s important is to understand your skin and its needs, and to make sure you have the necessary bases covered. Ideally, you should be cleansing, toning, and moisturising on a daily basis. If you have needs like spot targeting or hydrating, then add on serums or overnight masks to boost your skincare routine.
So, instead of gunning for the more-is-best approach, spend more time discovering your needs and concerns, and target these with specific skincare, instead of aimless layering.
3. Make your own face masks
Save the more expensive face masks for when you need that boost of radiance or moisture for a special event or occasion.
In the meantime, you could find affordable alternatives from your grocery store. In fact, by using ingredients such as bananas, egg whites, oatmeal or milk, you can quickly whip up your own moisturising and exfoliating face mask.
An easy one to make to help refresh skin is to combine 1/2 cup hot water with 1/3 cup oatmeal. Oatmeal is known to have skin-calming and soothing properties, so it’s great if your face is feeling sensitive. Add the water (not boiling) to the oatmeal and leave for about three minutes. Add in a couple of tablespoons of plain natural yoghurt, 2 tbsps of honey for its antibacterial benefits, and skin-tightening egg white from one egg. Mix well and place the paste on face for 10 to 15 mins, before rinsing off with warm water.
4. Keep them fresh in the fridge
As more beauty companies are starting to emphasise the importance of reducing the number of preservatives and chemicals in skincare, products will also have a shorter shelf life.
A simple trick to help maintain product freshness is to store it in the fridge. This is especially useful for face masks and water-based products. By doing this, you reduce the exposure to humidity and heat, which tend to encourage bacterial growth in products with less or no preservatives.
5. Use reusable cotton pads
Cotton pads cost money – and they are also non-environmentally friendly. These single-use products pile up in our landfills and take years to disintegrate.
To save money and the environment, consider switching to reusable pads such as bamboo rounds or reusable makeup removers such as the Face Halo or Makeup Eraser. These reusable pads can be used and reused. You just need to throw them in the wash when you are done.
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