The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Skincare

Whether it’s a moisturiser that makes you breakout or a scent you just can’t get on with – almost half of us have wasted money on products we simply can’t use.

So, how do you avoid wasting money on skincare?

DO: Check the Ingredients List

Have a look at ingredients lists and start familiarising yourself with ingredients that your skin doesn’t like.

Learning your triggers and identifying them pre-purchase will be a saving grace to both your skin and your wallet.

DO: Read the returns policy

Every company is likely to have different returns policies, some much more strict than others.

Make note of whether you can return opened products, so you’re not out of pocket if things take a turn for the worse.

DO: Look for reviews

When buying skincare online, take a glance at customer reviews. Where possible, these should be independently verified as genuine purchases by third parties, such as Yotpo or Trustpilot. 

Keep an eye out for reviews by people with a similar skin type and see how they got on before you dive in credit card first.

DO: Ask for samples

Get into the habit of trying new products for at least a week before committing to a purchase. Ask for samples or, if necessary, take a small travel pot in-store and ask if you can decant a pump or two of a tester. 

If everything works out well with during your trial, you can upgrade to a full sized product later with much more confidence.

DON’T: Be shy

Don’t be afraid to get in touch with Customer Service teams if you need specific advice.

A good brand won’t just be looking to sell you a product; they may also be able to offer wider advice on nutrition and lifestyle to help get your skin back on track.

DON’T: Buy variations of the same product

It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of buying different products that essentially do the same thing. Not only does it hurt your wallet, it’s not great news for your skin either!

No one needs a different cleanser for each day of the week, so edit your skincare stash down to one or two products per stage of your routine. 

DO: Look out for multipurpose products

If you want to go one step further, invest in products that can serve more than one purpose.

Opt for a Body Wash that doubles as a shaving gel, a Day Cream that makes a great base for makeup or an Oil you can use from top to toe.

DON’T: Impulse buy

Spend some extra time on the research stage and avoid those ‘new in’ pages – especially if you have sensitive skin.

Your skin and your bank balance will thank you!



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