If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re interested in beauty products. You’d probably like to fill your online basket with a plethora of cosmetics, luxury body products, advanced haircare, and beautiful new fragrances on a monthly basis – but let’s face it, most of us are on a budget. So how do we know when to invest in beauty products and when to buy them cheaply in the chemist?

This week, I’ve done the hard work for you to identify the items that it really pays to save up for and those that you can use your spare change to stock up on without breaking the bank.

SAVE…

EYELINER
When looking for eyeliner, you need something soft, blendable and long-lasting – and that doesn’t need to cost big bucks. Some of the best I’ve tried are from budget brands, which tend to be softer and easier to apply.
Spend – Up to £7.50

SHOWER GEL
Unless you want an organic brand or a specific perfume, shower gels are all much of a muchness – they lather up, cleanse your skin, and then you climb out the shower. It’s also something we all get through quickly and in bulk, so spending a lot is (in my humble opinion) akin to flushing your money down the plughole.
Spend – Up to £5

LIP GLOSS
Whatever the brand, I find that lip-gloss lasts roughly the same amount of time. You can spend a little or a lot, but it will still need to be reapplied regularly and will give lips pretty much the same glossy look. Keep it cheap and cheerful – and you have a great excuse to buy in a plethora of beautiful colours!
Spend – Up to £7.50

PRESSED POWDER
The point of pressed powder is to keep the complexion matte and even – and it doesn’t take an expensive brand to effectively blot away shine. Pressed powder is the icing on the cake, so to speak – so save your money for the foundation underneath, which is the real performer.
Spend – Up to £7.50.

SPLURGE…

FACIAL MOISTURISER WITH SPF
We should all wear SPF on our skin on a daily basis, as UV rays are the biggest cause of premature skin ageing. The easiest way to incorporate sun protection into our beauty regime is by using a daily moisturiser. Buy a brand that promises to smooth, soften, and protect your skin.
I love: Trilogy Age Proof  Daily Defence with SPF15, £24.85.

EYE CREAM
The skin around our eyes is the thinnest on our entire body, which means creams and lotions are far more likely to be absorbed into our system. It’s one area I’d never compromise on. Buy a dedicated eye cream from a good skincare brand, which promises to firm, lift, and protect this delicate area.
I love: Caudalie Premier Cru The Eye Cream, £41.65

BRUSHES
Any makeup artist will tell you that buying cheap makeup brushes is a false investment, as you will need to replace them far more regularly than premium brands. Good brushes make applying makeup easier and more enjoyable – you really do get what you pay for.
I love: Dior Backstage Brush Set, £71.95

FOUNDATION
Finally, a good foundation will apply better, give fuller coverage, and last far longer than budget brands. They are also likely to offer skin-perfecting qualities too, such as anti-ageing, spot-fighting, or energising properties – so you get a lot for your money.
I love: Guerlain Parure de Lumiere Light Diffusing Cream Foundation, £34.65.