There are so many beauty products on the market, it can get extremely overwhelming. I’ve tested many before finding my go-to favourites, and it’s taken me time to curate a list of products I always restock (I am still building this list). I am picky on the beauty products I use because my skin is extremely sensitive so that means I have to read ingredients and be extra cautious about what I feed my skin.
What to look out for when purchasing beauty products:
Ingredients
- Read the Label: Always check the ingredients list. Steer clear of nasty chemicals like parabens, sulphates, phthalates, and formaldehyde.
- Allergies: Make sure to avoid anything you’re allergic to.
- Active Ingredients: Look for ingredients that target your specific needs, like salicylic acid for acne or hyaluronic acid for hydration.
Skin Type
- Skin Type Suitability: Pick products made for your skin type, whether it’s oily, dry, combination, or sensitive.
- Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, go for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options.
Safety and Testing
- Dermatologically Tested: Choose products that are tested and approved by dermatologists.
- Cruelty-Free: Check if the product is cruelty-free and not tested on animals.
- Certification: Look for certifications that show the product meets certain standards.
Expiry Date
- Check Expiry Date: Always make sure the product is still fresh and effective.
- PAO Symbol: Pay attention to the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol, which tells you how long the product lasts once opened.
Claims and Efficacy
- Claims Verification: Be skeptical of over-the-top claims and look for clinical evidence that backs up the product’s effectiveness.
- Realistic Expectations: Remember that results can vary, and no product works miracles overnight.
Cost and Value
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compare prices and think about the cost per use.
- Quality vs. Price: Higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. Do your research and read reviews to find the best value.
Packaging
- Hygienic Packaging: Go for packaging that minimizes contamination, like pumps or tubes.
- Sustainable Packaging: Consider eco-friendly packaging that’s recyclable or made from sustainable materials.
Product Reviews
- Customer Feedback: Read reviews from other users to get a sense of satisfaction and potential issues.
- Professional Reviews: Check out reviews from beauty experts and dermatologists for more informed opinions.
Personal Preferences
- Texture and Scent: Make sure you like the texture and scent, which can influence how often you use it.
- Routine Compatibility: Consider how the product will fit into your skincare or beauty routine.
It is extremely difficult to check every box mentioned above so choose what is important for you – please the above as a guideline.
Now that is out of the way, here’s some of the products I am always restocking:
- Standard beauty – Calming Colada Pre-Shave Scrub with Coconut, Allantoin and Vanilla.
- Maybelline – Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser.
- Eau Thermale Avene – SPF50+.
- Eau Thermale Avene – Cleanance Women Smoothing Night Cream.
- Lelive – African butter hydrate + firm body cream.
- Essence – lip care sugar scrub.
You can find them on Superbalist.com
