So many beauty products promise to remove your wrinkles, take 10 years off of your face, rejuvenate your complexion and more. But how do you know a product will deliver on its promises?
There are so many of these products on the market that it can be hard to identify which one will work best for you, and is worth your hard-earned money.
The reality is that what may be the right product for someone else, may not be right for you. Before investing in a beauty product — whether it be makeup, skincare or hair care — be sure to ask yourself some key questions to decide if it’s right for you.
1. What’s in This?
The cover of a product will always showcase the ingredients a brand wants to advertise. Other ingredients, on the other hand, are typically hidden in a long list online or in small print on the back of the packaging. Be sure to review the list of ingredients in a product before heading to the checkout counter.
The good news is that organic brands like Grown Alchemist have recently seen an increase in popularity. These brands boast products with natural ingredients that just go to show that you can get results without harsh chemicals and without risking your health.
Avoid the common harsh chemicals found in cosmetics like alcohols, parabens, and formaldehyde. If you see these things in a product’s ingredient list, you’re better off putting it down.
2. How Was This Made?
How was the item made — and are you comfortable with its production process? Consider if the item was tested on animals, made with chemicals, or if the brand is known for maintaining poor working conditions. Consider identifying brands with ethical practices that you can feel good supporting.
3. Is This Meant for my Skin Type?
A lot of the time, brands specifically design products for different types of skin. Packaging often indicates if an item is meant for a particular skin type.
Although there are also many products meant for all skin types, those geared towards specific skin types can give consumers peace of mind that they are purchasing something that’s been specially created with their needs in mind.
Identify what type of skin you have to help you find products that are particularly suited to you, whether you have oily or dry skin.
4. What are people saying online?
Online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt. After all, the people who review online tend to feel very strongly. When you read reviews, you can decide if a reviewer’s deal breakers are things you can live with or get confirmation that a product really is as great as it promises to be.
5. How Much is It?
Cost is an essential factor to consider when shopping for skincare or makeup. If a product is budget-friendly, consider if there have been sacrifices made for the low price (i.e. poor working conditions, cheap and unsafe materials). If it boasts a high price tag, on the other hand, take time to consider the elements (if there are any) that may provide reasoning for the steep cost.
Set a budget for yourself. Research the brands that align with what you’re willing to spend to find the best products within your price range.
