Cosmetics: Where to Find the Best Products at the Best Prices

Hint: Dump the Drug Store

1. Try it before you buy it.

All make up artists will agree that cosmetics work differently for different people. What may look absolutely ravishing on one person may look hideous on another. This is because everyone has unique skin textures and tones, eye color, hair color, etc. Therefore, it is always best to buy cosmetic products from a department store where you are able to "try on" the product before paying for it - as most cosmetics are non-refundable.

2. You really do get what you pay for, and sometimes less.

Some people hesitate to pay the higher cost for cosmetics at a department store versus the local drug store. This is a mistake. With the exception of a few items, most cosmetics found in drug stores are so cheaply made that they will hardly last and the quality will not give you the results you seek. For example, you may find it tempting to buy an $8 mascara at the local drug store versus a $21 mascara at Bloomies. Not only will your $8 mascara clump and flake - leaving black smudges under your eyes and on your face - but it will be more difficult to remove thus ultimately thinning your natural lashes. To add insult to injury, the cheap mascara will dry up quicker and you'd have to replace it much sooner then the other mascara. So ultimately you are not even saving money.

3. Be savvy, not cheap.

The great thing about shopping at the department stores for your cosmetics is that you are able to try stuff out. I always recommend doing the gift-with-purchase deals to try out new skin care products, getting make overs when purchasing (to also learn about new products and looks), and participating in any events they may have. In addition to learning how to look your best, it is a fun way to kill a Saturday afternoon and meet new people. Of course, it is easy to spend way too much money so be smart and prioritize your needs and desires. But always remember, when it comes to your looks - be savvy, not cheap!

4. Diversify.

Another factor to consider when purchasing cosmetics is variety. While most brands offer a huge assortment of skin care, cosmetics, brushes and other beauty products - they clearly specialize in only one or two areas. For example, one brand may have fabulous trendy and high quality eye shadows and lip glosses, but terrible skin care or vice versa. Be hip to some sales people who will try to convince you that something you don't feel great about is fabulous. If you don't really like it, don't buy it. Try to find a regular sales person/make up artist in the store who is honest and whom you can build a relationship with.