One of the most common questions I am asked is: what is your favorite makeup line?
The truth is that every company has good and bad products. I hope to help you differentiate between them.
When buying cosmetics, you get what you pay for. And especially considering the current economic climate, value is what’s important. There are excellent products to be had at bargain prices, and by no means is that two hundred fifty dollar night cream guaranteed to perform miracles. A common mistake I see people make is buying an inferior product thinking that it will save them money. For instance, they will buy a cheap moisturizer which is not particularly effective instead of investing a little more in a high quality product that one needs use less of. The reality is that the more expensive product can come out to cost the same or little more per day as the cheaper one because the product lasts longer and works better. Often, these are the same people who won’t blink an eye about paying five dollars for a latte at Starbucks twice a day. Ultimately, it is up to you to define your own priorities.
In the past several years, online shopping has become a retail phenomenon, but unless you’re shopping for a replacement for your favorite tried and true product, it doesn’t work for cosmetics. Finding what works for you requires going out and getting your hands dirty.
Understandably, some people find the experience of shopping in a department store a little unnerving. I am one of those people. I can’t help feeling a little panicky when I am asked if I need help every ten seconds. However, if you like traditional service, the department store option may be for you. Also consider that some cosmetic companies sell their wares exclusively through department stores, so if you’re looking for that beautiful Estee Lauder golden lip gloss elsewhere, you’re out of luck. Although Sephora can at times be mind-numbingly chaotic (the Times Square location at high tourist season immediately comes to mind), I appreciate being able to browse and sample products at leisure without any pressure from salespeople. And if you are curious about that brand new boutique cosmetic line, chances are Sephora will be among the first to offer it. They also happen to have an excellent return policy – just don’t try to make a return after using half the product. They will check how much is left in the jar. Other options, especially for skin care, are stores like Whole Foods and The Cure Shop in New York City. Both carry an outstanding variety of excellent holistic products and hard to find domestic and imported brands.
One thing I wish all cosmetics sellers would do is pressure their vendors to reduce packaging excesses. Once the consumer gets home, all that pretty packaging is thrown directly into the waste stream at great cost to our environment. You can help by purchasing products that are packaged with the environment in mind. And in lieu of accepting the store’s carrying bag, it only makes sense to stash your purchases in your handbag or use a recyclable bag instead. It takes a moment to commit to breaking bad habits, and the results have a positive impact on everyone.
Wherever you shop for cosmetics, try to form a relationship with a salesperson who is enthusiastic and informed. I have run into some wonderful people who are really up on trends and incredibly knowledgeable about what works and what doesn’t.
Above all, chose intelligently. Keep in mind that that forty-dollar loose powder that makes your skin look heavenly will likely last you nine months. Its a small price to pay for looking great.