1. DON'T SPEND ANY MONEY.
It seems very simple, but you would be surprised how often I ignore my number one rule. I am always window-shopping and this leads actual shopping.. Whenever I go to Target or anywhere that sells cosmetics, I automatically go to check out what is on sale. Then I feel obligated to buy something. However, when it's a designated "No Buy" month (I'll talk about that later) I steer clear from cosmetics aisles or stores in general to avoid spending unnecessarily.
2. ONLY BUY WHEN THINGS ARE ON SALE.
This is very hard to do if you buy exclusively high-end or department store make up. However, Clinique, Estée Lauder and other department store brands offer bags that are filled with cosmetics, if you spend a certain amount. Additionally, Sephora has a 20% VIB coupon at times throughout the year and Ulta sometimes offers 10-20% off high end for their rewards program members as well. Always be on the lookout for those deals!
3. SIGN UP FOR REWARDS PROGRAMS.
I know it's extremely annoying to give out your information, but in the long run it can save you lots of money. CVS, Walgreens, Sephora, Ulta, etc. Sign up for any store that you buy cosmetics from because you will be given coupons exclusive to members and you will also be able to collect points that can be redeemed for future purchases.
4. ALWAYS RESEARCH.
This doesn't always have to be done for products that might not cost that much, but when you plan on spending a pretty penny on a high end foundation or maybe an eyeshadow palette, ALWAYS look at online reviews. Ask your friends opinion of the product. See if it will work well with your skin, etc etc. And always get a sample if it's available! Don't waste your money- it's one of the worst feelings.
5. STAY WITHIN YOUR MEANS
Currently, I do not have a job, so I don't have a steady income. The money I receive usually comes in bursts (birthday, Christmas, etc). This means that it would be extremely easy for me to splurge on a high end product. BUT, I've thought about so many times before and I just can't bring myself to do it. I want to try so many products from MAC, MUFE, etc. But what if I fall in love with a product but can't afford to repurchase it in the future? I feel like that would be much worse than never having it at all!
6. IF YOU BUY ONLINE, GO THROUGH EBATES
Ebates is a website that gives you a percentage of your purchases back (percentages vary by store). I ALWAYS forget to do this and it's annoying because of course as soon as I place my order, I remember that I should've! I calculated all of my online purchases this year and I would have gotten about $45 back. Thats 45 free dollars that I just missed out on. Here is my referral link if you want to sign up! Ebates Sign Up
7. GIFT SETS ARE AN AMAZING VALUE
This time of year is perfect to get your hands on some good stuff. High end brands are always putting gift sets together and you can save some serious money! The one I'm most excited about is the Lorac Rockin' Red Hot PRO Set. http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod5920336
8. HAVE A "NO BUY" MONTH
This is a month where I just don't buy any cosmetics and I try to use up what I already have. It's very useful if you find that you have been spending way too much on make up and need to give your wallet a break. It doesn't necessarily have to be one full month, just any length of time that you feel will suit your needs. I always feel great after I complete a month. It serves as a great reminder that I don't need new make up because I have plenty in my collection!
9. ALWAYS LOOK FOR COUPONS FIRST
Whatever store you're shopping at, look online for coupons. Say I'm shopping at Ulta, I would go online and type in "ulta coupon". (I usually click on retailmenot.com) Several coupons will come up and you can just pick on that suits your needs! You will be surprised on how much saving you might be missing out on!
I hope you found at least a couple of these tips helpful. Of course, if you can afford to spend freely you can continue to do so. But saving money is always more fun :)
Some of these tips don't have to apply to just make up and can be instituted in other areas of your life!
Do you have any other money-saving tips?
These are some great tips!
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Thank you, Elayna!
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