Cosmatic Buying Tips

Whether you're off on a shopping extravaganza to stock up on skincare, or dashing in for a quick lipstick fix, beauty shopping is an outlay of your money and your time. To make the most of both its best to have a clear plan of what you want, and that means having a tactic that will make sure you arrive home with the products that suit you and your pocket.

The first thing to keep in mind is that the customer is queen - so walk like a goddess, never put up with poor service and never be pressured into buying something you're not 100 per cent certain of. If in doubt ‘I’ll think about it' is a good line to use.

Secondly, be organised. Make sure you know what type of skin, hair and nails you have before you set out. A hair stylist or manicurist can help give you the facts. List any known sensitivities and, if you know them, the ingredients that can cause them - that way, you can check labels and eliminate any likely troublemakers. Target your good points so that you can capitalize on them. So if you've got sensual, full lips, for instance, you'll probably want a wardrobe of lipsticks and glosses, to highlight your natural beauty.

Know what you want and make a list. You may be shopping for a change of image, a new perfume or just essential supplies. It’s important to write down the items you need and the ones you want. Set a budget and resist the inducement to make impulse buys, unless you have money to burn and unlimited shelf space. You may find it simpler to focus on shopping for one specific area at a time. Sometimes it’s best to look for just skincare products, hair care items or make-up - otherwise it can all become overwhelming.

Have a clear idea where you want to shop. Big department stores will generally give you the widest variety, and you can always book in for a free makeover with a company you like the look of. Alternatively, you might have a first-rate small beauty/hair salon or day spa near you.

Once you have found a informed, well-trained consultant who doesn't oversell, keep in touch with them. As with a hairdresser, tell them about your lifestyle, resources, beauty habits and the clothes you like so they can help you to look the best you can.

Remember to always be honest if you don't like something. And if you can't get out and about to shop, remember you can now get almost everything shipped to your door via catalogues, online and TV shopping. If shopping online you will find a wide assortment of products at the big names like Boots and Amazon but don’t overlook the smaller online shops such as www. cosmeticdiva. co. uk which will have a lot of brand name cosmetics and perfumes at keen prices.