Makeup Tips That Will Save You Money

Makeup can be an extremely fun and enjoyable part of life, whether you wear it every day or just on special occasions — but finding hacks to save money on makeup is not necessarily something that fits into most of our routines, right? The problem is, makeup can be expensive. According to Mint, the average woman spends $43 per makeup shopping trip, and $15,000 in her lifetime on cosmetic products. That's a pretty significant chunk of change — especially when you think of all the many things that money could be going towards in the long term.

However, you don't have to be a slave to the prices of the beauty industry — there are a ton of simple and practical money-saving tips when it comes to cosmetics that will enable you to keep enjoying products you love, even when on a budget. It often just comes down to knowing which products to spend your hard earned money on and what products have less expensive alternatives that are totally as effective as the "fancier" options.

So if you're a makeup junkie, or just someone looking for some practical tips to save money on the few products you enjoy, here are nine tips for saving money on your next makeup shopping excursion.

1. Don't Underestimate Drug Store Brands

Some people may tell you they only use high-end brands when it comes to their makeup, claiming the quality is above and beyond the less expensive drug store options. However, according to doctor and beauty blogger Christine Mikesell in an interview with U.S. News and World Report, there are a ton of great options to be found at your local drugstore. "The quality of items at the drugstore is much higher now than it was just a few years ago," Mikesell said.

2. Don't Worry About Fancy Cleansers And Moisturizers

Again, some people may swear by their super expensive, super high-end cleansers and moisturizers, but according to Rebecca Kazin, medical director at Johns Hopkins Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in an article for About.com's beauty section, "There have been no studies to support that expensive face creams do better than a good mid-level brand."

Esthetician and YouTube skincare expert Veronica Gorgeois also noted that purchasing expensive skin cleansers with claims of antioxidants and acne control aren't even on your face long enough to work as advertised, and so when purchasing cleansers you just want something that will effectively remove dirt and grease.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, $10.43, walmart.com

3. Learn To Do Your Own Nails Like A Pro

OK, this one can seem tough, especially because you may feel like you'll never get your nails as perfect as they do at a salon. But if you get your nails done regularly it can really add up as an annual expense, and investing in the basics at home is incredibly cost-efficient in the long run. If you're interested in learning how to give yourself a salon-level manicure at home, there are a ton of videos on youtube with a lot of great tips. I can personally vouch for the fact that great DIY manicures are totally possible and way more affordable once you invest in the initial basics.

4. Buy Versatile Products

Beauty vlogger and YouTuber Lauren Curtis recommends buying versatile products when shopping, and not getting caught up on whether the product is technically intended for eyes or cheeks. For example, the right bronzer can not only bronze, but be used for contouring on a lot of skin tones, as well as an eye shadow. She also recommends using your illuminator for eye shadow instead of buying a product specifically designed for eyes in a similar shade. You don't need a million different products to create a lot of different looks.

5. Check How Much Product You're Actually Getting

Curtis also recommends taking note of how many ounces of makeup are in specific containers. A container can appear to contain a lot of makeup or cream and be good value for your money, but when you take it home you may realize the packaging or the container itself takes up the bulk of the space. You'll want to take note of how much product you are actually getting when deciding between two similarly priced products.

6. Try Before You Buy

Curtis also recommends trying a product before you buy it, and not only that, wearing the product outside for a few hours and taking note of how it appears in many different lightings. Often times the artificial light at makeup counters or stores make it difficult to tell how the product will really look day-to-day, potentially leaving you unsatisfied with your purchase.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

In an article on beauty tips for Cosmopolitan, celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess says there is no need to invest in an expensive clarifying shampoo when your hair is feeling dull, and saying that instead, "An apple-cider vinegar rinse works like clarifying shampoo and leaves your hair with great shine."

8. Baby Oil Makeup Remover

Beauty writer Wendy Rose Gould recommends simply using baby oil to remove your more stubborn products, like eyeliner and mascara, in an article for xoVain. Not only is it super affordable compared to the majority of makeup removers on the market, but it's incredibly effective and is something handy to have on hand in your cupboard regardless.

Johnson's Baby Oil, $3.92, walmart.com

9. Buy Shampoo and Conditioner In Bulk

Ess also said to, "Always purchase shampoo and conditioner in the biggest size that you can find; they are more cost efficient." While it may seem like a lot of money to put down in the short term, you're actually saving money — not to mention the time it would take you to go back and buy another small bottle when yours run out.

It may seem like a lot of work to add one more step into your makeup application or shopping process, but in the long-run, you'll save yourself a lot of money, leaving even more room to experiment with different shades and products.

Images: Julie Magro/Merri/Liz MC/Flickr; YouTube (2); Giphy (2); Pexels