We have all been there, especially when we are just stepping on the skincare scene. So many brands, so many new releases, so little time… and only one face! It can be so very tempting to do a little skincare shopping every week, or whenever a raving review or an advertisement for a new product comes up on our social media timeline. But here are some things to keep in mind before checking out that toner in your cart.
1. Check the list of ingredients
This is very important especially if you have more sensitive skin! The list of ingredients for skincare products are generally available online so take the time to look out for ingredients that are not compatible with your skin.
2. Read up on reviews
Take the time to Google reviews on this product, especially if it has been in the market for a while. You can even search for videos on YouTube. There are plenty of skincare enthusiasts who do in-depth reviews on products over extended periods of time. These reviews generally come with photographs of the product itself so you can see for yourself the texture, consistency and packaging before deciding if it is something your skin would like.
3. Does it treat your skin concerns?
When reading up on the product, take note of its claims. Does it claim to be brightening? Hydrating? Deep cleansing? Cross-reference that with products that you already have and determine if it will add something different to your collection. For all you know, you might already have something similar on your vanity table.
Also, if a products’ claims are too good to be true, it probably is. It takes time for skincare to work, and even then, there are some things, such as pitted scars, that aren’t reversible solely using skincare.
4. Do you need it?
After taking everything into consideration, the decision should come down to you and only you. You must decide for yourself if it’s something worth getting, instead of joining the hype and buying what everyone else is buying to keep up with trends.
Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. It could be weeks before you see results and in the meantime, it is so very tempting to shop for something new. But don’t just implement these tips when shopping for skincare; use them before buying anything, especially online. It’s time to normalize researching before purchasing. Let’s all be better consumers and prevent wastage by making smarter decisions.
