I often get asked if expensive skincare products are worth buying, and my answer is always the same. It depends.
It depends on your skin concern, the brand you are being drawn to and the results you are hoping to achieve. Of course, it also depends on your budget.
There are some products that are definitely not worth their price tag - in my opinion.
Because I am a beauty addict, I've tried most.
Why some skincare products are expensive
In the case of some products, a hefty price tag can be a reflection of how much a brand has spent on marketing. In reality, its performance may not differ much from something you can pick up in a supermarket or low-cost beauty store.
As well as the marketing, you have to factor in packaging and whether or not a product contains expensive, non-active ingredients that just make it feel better on the skin - like silicones.
Trademarked active ingredients with nonsensical names may not mean a product will out-perform a cheaper one - but it could indicate that a brand has invested in research and product development.
It's always worth reading reviews written by verified purchasers before you splash out. Don't just read the 5-star reviews, read the 4 and 3-star ones as well. That way, you will get an overall 'feel' for a product.
How to try an expensive skincare product without spending much
If you are torn over a product, why not hunt around for a sample?
While you may not find these readily available for free, you'd be surprised what you can find in one-off beauty boxes or trial sets.
A good product will usually deliver results in around two weeks.
If it doesn't work for you, at least you won't have spent much.
What to keep in mind
Branded anti-ageing creams and serums are among the most expensive skincare products on the market. Before you spend more than you can comfortably afford, remember that, while they do deliver results, they can be very small. They can't, for example, offer the same results as invasive procedures.
Also bear in mind that spa brands are typically more expensive than drug store ones.
Always purchase by skin concern. Choose a cleanser, toner and serum designed to meet your specific needs. Also always use a day cream with SPF and a night cream that will lock a serum into your skin.
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