Article: RUBY RECOMMENDS | AFFORDABLE BEAUTY

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RUBY RECOMMENDS | AFFORDABLE BEAUTY

In the world of beauty, the price tag isn't always indicative of quality. While it's tempting to splurge on every new product that promises flawless skin or luscious locks, savvy shoppers know that you can look fabulous without breaking the bank. Here's your guide to navigating the beauty aisle, pinpointing where to save and where to splurge for maximum impact and value.

Save: Skincare Basics

CLEANSERS:
- Why Save: Cleansers don't stay on your skin for long; their primary job is to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Affordable Options: Brands like CeraVe, and Neutrogena offer effective and gentle cleansers that get the job done without costing a fortune. A personal favourite is CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
MOISTURISERS:
- Why Save: Many drugstore moisturisers contain the same hydrating ingredients found in high-end brands.
- Affordable Options: Look for moisturisers with key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. Brands like Olay, Eucerin, and Aveeno offer excellent options. Weleda Skin Food is has been in my kit for years, and it is now available in a light formulation for your face.
SUNSCREENS:
- Why Save: Affordable sunscreens can provide broad-spectrum protection just as effectively as their pricier counterparts.
- Affordable Options: Check out sunscreens from Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, and Banana Boat. Ensure they have an SPF of at least 30 and are broad-spectrum. My personal favourite is LaRoche-Posay Anthelios for a non-stinging, sunscreen that doesn't leave a white cast.

Splurge: Targeted Skincare Treatments

SERUMS:
- Why Splurge: Serums are concentrated treatments designed to deliver potent ingredients deep into your skin. Investing in a high-quality serum can make a significant difference.
- Worth the Investment: Look for serums with ingredients like vitamin C, retinoids, and peptides. Brands like Skinceuticals, Drunk Elephant, and Sunday Riley and Tatcha are known for their research and development with effective clinically proven formulations.
EYE CREAMS:
- Why Splurge: The skin around your eyes is delicate and prone to showing signs of aging. High-quality eye creams can address specific concerns like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.
- Worth the Investment: Kiehl’s, La Mer, and Estée Lauder all offer targeted solutions for the eye area.
FACE MASKS:
- Why Splurge: For a pampering experience and noticeable results, high-end face masks can offer a concentrated dose of beneficial ingredients.
- Worth the Investment: Look for masks from brands like Sisley, their Black Rose Face Mask is beautiful, Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask or Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask.

Save: Makeup Staples

MASCARA:
- Why Save: Mass market mascaras can rival high-end versions in terms of lengthening and volumising lashes.
- Affordable Options: Since launch I've loved Max Factor Masterpiece Mascara, both the original and Max perform just as well as many high end mascaras.
CONCEALER:

Why Save: Celebrating 20 years since launch this year ELF's Hydrating Camo Concealer is a great dupe for Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer). Hydrating, full coverage and in a great variety of shades it is fast gaining cult status.

3. EYEBROW PRODUCTS:

Affordable Options: No 7 Brow Powder Duo is a reliable and budget-friendly choice, similar to my favourite Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyebrow Powder Duo.

4. LIPSTICKS:

Why Save: With a plethora of shades and finishes available, affordable lipsticks can be just as pigmented and long-lasting as their pricier counterparts.
Affordable Options: Check out Glossier Ultralip (slightly over at £22, but worth it!) or my favourite (though I am biassed) Lip Serum Balms

5. EYE COLOUR:

Why Save: There are thousands of eye palettes available on the market and Kiko Milano holds it's own with luxe competitors with superior pigmentation, blendability and staying power.

Worth the Investment: For easy precise application Ruby Hammer Precision Liquid Eyeliner is my all time favourite liquid eyeliner. The precision of a fine liner pen with a pitch black formula that stays put.

Splurge: Long-Lasting Makeup

FOUNDATION:
- Why Splurge: A high-quality foundation can provide better coverage, a more natural finish, and longer wear. Additionally, higher-end brands often offer a broader range of shades and undertones.
- Worth the Investment: Brands like Giorgio Armani and NARS offer foundations that are worth the splurge for their performance and shade range. For the most affordable base L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation has skin matching technology with hyaluronic acid and SPF.
BLUSH AND HIGHLIGHTER:

Why Splurge: Investing in a high-quality blush and highlighter can provide a natural, radiant finish that lasts throughout the day.
Worth the Investment: Consider products from brands like NARS, Hourglass, and Ruby Hammer for a luminous and long-lasting glow.

When it comes to beauty, strategic spending can make all the difference. By saving on basics and staples, you free up your budget to invest in targeted treatments and makeup essentials that elevate your routine. Remember, the key to beauty isn't about spending more, but about spending wisely. With these tips, you can look and feel your best without compromising your budget.