cosmetics Archives | Page 2 of 3

Your Makeup Obsession Can Earn You Cash

How many ways can you earn money from your addiction or enthusiasm for makeup? Well, let me count the ways.

#1: BY KEEPING A GROOMING REGIMEN

Bodies of literature have proven that good-looking individuals have an advantage in the workplace. It was found that “attractive individuals earn roughly 20% more than people of average attractiveness.” Aside from attractiveness, grooming affect the rewards. Women’s earnings, in particular, benefit from good grooming.

#2: BY OFFERING REASONABLY-PRICED MAKEOVERS

If your friends or co-workers have been highlighting how well you apply your own makeup then, you can put your artistic talent into good use! Offer makeovers as a regular side gig. You may either set up a small station at your home or set up a station at your client’s home. Offer a reasonable rate as you are starting a new business.

#3: BY BECOMING A BRAND AMBASSADOR

A brand ambassador directly interacts with the consumers as she or he sells household, beauty, or health products. You may join Avon’s or Mary Kay’s legion of independent ambassadors. Becoming a brand ambassador or a sales representative allows you to have the freedom to design a schedule that works for you without thinking of building a business from ground up.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#4: BY WRITING ABOUT BEAUTY

Turn your cosmetics hobby into a sserious business by establishing a beauty blog. Put time and effort into cultivating your followers and boosting your views. Use your unique interest for makeup to build a fan base. Once all is set, brands will reach out to you for sponsorship deals and other advertisements. You may market your blog too.

#5: BY SELLING YOUR UNOPENED ITEMS

Much like my sister, many makeup obsessed individuals buy certain products that they may never use. She is tempted to visit Sephora every pay day. Moreover, she does not want to let a huge discount pass. She cannot be the only one!

You probably bought a product on a whime and you realized that it does not suit you. Instead of letting it gather dust along with a pile of underused items, you may sell these products online. Post a high-resolution photo along with a convincing caption at Carousell or Gumtree. Interested parties will message you soon.

#6: BY PERSONALLY SHOPPING FOR SOMEONE

Let us face it! Navigating the beauty aisles is second nature to you. With an utter fondness for cosmetics, you may use your skills as a personal shopper. Offer professional services to your relatives, friends, and co-workers. You can either charge per trip or per hour.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Please put the volume of items as well as the shop’s location into consideration.

Sources:1 &2

5 Everyday Items That You Must Splurge On

EARPHONES

I have learned my lesson. I will no longer waste my money on seemingly fashionable yet cheap earphones. I got tired of replacing the ones that I recently bought at an artsy bazaar or a festive market. So, I focused on browsing some premium earphones. It made a huge difference! In fact, my current earphones has been with me for about two years.

Consider making the switch! Look for an earphones that possess amazing sound quality, decent microphone sensitivity, and well-made wires. I know that some people prefer flat wires to prevent the hassle of tangled wires. Note that there are certain brands with lifetime warranty such as JLab Audio. Before making a purchase, educate yourself about these things by reading online reviews.

PRESCRIPTION SPECTACLES

Half of my life was spent on constant trips to the nearby optical shops. Changing my look became a subtle hobby of mine. I either steer away or hop aboard the bandwagon when it comes to the style of my frames. I cannot be the only one!

The prevalence of shortsightedness or Myopia among Singaporean children was considered as one of the highest in the world. For a trait embedded in our genes, many of us are in need of prescription eye-wear. A lifetime eye-wear supply may poke a hole in your pocket, but it does not have to!

Purchasing your specs online may be cheaper and more convenient. However, it may not withstand the test of time. You will have to constantly replace your frames or lenses to compensate for its lack of quality. It is a good idea to invest on quality prescription spectacles that your specialist recommends.

COSMETICS

The beauty industry generates billions each year. I cannot deny how crazy consumers can get when Sephora Singapore announced their Christmas Sale that offer up to 50% off. Brands such as Too Faced, Urban Decay, Fresh, Nyx, and Tarte can be easily spotted in the sale racks. For a makeup enthusiast such as myself, I quickly grabbed the shopping basket!

Why is it important for you to purchase high-quality cosmetics? For starters, it is something that you apply to your face on a daily basis. It is hard to hide an irritated or a wounded face due to cheap makeup. Invest on high-end products every once in a while. Pretty soon, you will see your collection growing and your skin glowing. Consider foundations or tinted moisturizers from Laura Mercier, Bare Minerals, and Bobbi Brown.

KITCHEN KNIVES

Rather than frequenting the restaurants or hawker centres, cooking for your family can stretch your dollars. Knives are among the essential tools in the kitchen. The basic collection includes a chef’s knife, a serrated knife, and a paring knife. A dull knife takes you back to the caveman era. While, a sharp knife can last you for a lifetime. Remember that all blades can be sharpened. However, some blades dull faster than others.

Look for reliable knives that may last you for a lifetime. Consider notable brands such as Victorinox and Cangshan.

SOCKS

Socks are prevalent in the workplace and school environments. Students and employees regularly change their socks to accompany their trusty shoes. I remember using antimicrobial socks to prevent foot odor during my Physical Education class. You read that right! Socks are essential to protect your feet from odor, blisters, and unwanted microorganisms. This is why you spare no expense in finding a durable pair.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

With an article of clothing that you must wear everyday, ensure that you are comfortable throughout the day. Opt for thin socks to provide you cushion and style. While thick wool socks shall provide you the warmth and longevity.

Sources: 1, 2 & 3

Makeup Addict’s Guide To Saving More Money

From all walks of life, makeup addicts are not afraid to widen their collection of beauty products. Fortunately, you do not have to spend too much to feel like a million bucks! Save money by employing these simple hacks below.

#1: EXPERIMENT WITH COLORS AND SHADES

Play the role of a beauty scientist without having to wear a lab gown by mixing your cosmetics. A YouTuber named Safiya Nyagaard explored the possibilities of fusing her nude lipsticks and her eye shadow palettes. It resulted to her favorite product – the Franken lipstick.

Without spending a cent on additional colors, you can achieve your dream products! Mix or melt a couple of your lipstick, eye shadow, and foundation together to create a new look. This will come in handy when you buy a product that you regret. For instance, I bought a “hot pink” lipstick recently. I bought it mainly due to its organic formulation. To make it more wearable, I layer it with a pinkish nude shade.

#2: USE YOUR BRUSH, NOT YOUR FINGERS

There is a reason why makeup artists have distinct brushes for specific purposes! For starters, using a brush allows you to precisely apply the product where you intend it to be. Furthermore, using fingers primarily may result to wastage of the product.

I have to admit that I am one of those people who find it easier to apply foundation using my fingers. I seem to control the blending better using this technique. However, I frequently have to wipe off a pea-sized amount with tissue. The seemingly small amounts add up!

#3: GIVE DRUGSTORE BRANDS A CHANCE

It is tempting to purchase the latest products available at Sephora, especially if you have a loyalty card. Constantly searching for high-end products can lead to overlooking the drugstore counterparts and its potential savings. Give drugstore products a fair chance!

A true makeup addict knows that the drugstore brands are stepping up their game as they launch quality collections with competitive formulas. You may notice that some drugstore brands collaborate with famous celebrities. Take a look at the neutral capsule created by Gigi Hadid for Maybelline.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Maybelline along with Wet n Wild, Essence, and L’oreal are some of the best drugstore brands out there. Do not be afraid to explore cheaper dupes of your favorite high-end products!

Sources: 1 & 2

Online Shops For Affordable And Quality Cosmetics In Singapore

The rise of social media made it possible for large-scale and independent retailers to showcase their products. Fueled by the inspirations from the makeup gurus and beauty bloggers, Singaporeans have been seeking the latest trends in cosmetics. Spotlight is focused on Glossier products now. However, I am a dedicated MAC enthusiast.

I am drawn to the quality and formula of MAC lipsticks. My fondness for lipsticks, in general, has led me to the discovery of the possible areas to shop in Singapore. Said areas include online shops.

On that note, here are three websites that feature some affordable and quality cosmetics.

#1: THE ALL-AROUND AGENT

Numero uno on this list is the one-stop shop called Zalora Singapore. From luxurious beauty items to affordable classics, Zalora will keep your eyes busy as you scroll down the options. People hunting for the hottest Korean labels can spot the likes of Dr. Young and Acwell as well as the cult favorites such as Maybelline and Inglot. Without a doubt, you will be overwhelmed with the number of brands that you can stumble upon here.

Spotlight Product: Dr. Young Travel Kit (S$18.90)
Shop at: zalora.sg

#2: THE REGIONAL STAR

The second spot belongs to Sasa, which focuses on the prowess of regional beauty products. By regional, I am referring to the proximity of the countries in which these products are made from (e.g., from Korea and Taiwan). This HK-based chain is the go-to drugstore of many Singaporeans on beauty hunt. Expect character lashes, Japanese mascara, as well as inexpensive eyelid glues here. One thing is for sure…these beauty products are tailored to the Asian’s skin.

Spotlight Product: Kose Deep Cleansing Oil (US$6.80 or about S$9.30)
Shop at: sg.sasa.com

#3: THE WESTERN FAVORITES

An avid fanatic of Western drugstore brands such as RIMMEL London and Revlon would find a safe haven in the makeup aisles of Watson’s. Personally, I prefer the latter as it provides lasting coverage for a variety of skin-tones. A beautiful face can only be complemented by a crowning glory. Combat the humidity by stocking up on the amazingly cheap Batiste dry shampoos.

Spotlight Product: RIMMEL Soft Colour Blush (S$9.90)
Shop at: watsons.com.sg

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Ladies, get your stash on! 🙂

Surefire Ways To Save Money On Beauty Products

Most consumers believe that beauty expenses are “needs” rather than “wants”. This is why they do not look for ways to save money. However, you can still pamper yourself and save money at the same time.

Consider these four tricks:

SPOT THE DUPES

If you have been accustomed to using high-end cosmetics and salon-quality hair products, your beauty expenses may take a toll on your budget. Stop ignoring the inexpensive products at the drugstore! Challenge yourself to downgrade at least two products and see if the cheaper option is an acceptable alternative.

Let as take a look at the makeup products to put things into perspective. In the beauty world, dupes refer to the affordable options similar to the expensive products. Dupes carry similar shade, texture, and results with the “original”. For instance, you may amp up your lashes for less by purchasing the Rimmel Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara at Watsons. This is way cheaper than its competitor – the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Sephora. Get more dupes by following @Dupethat on Instagram.

WIDEN YOUR SEARCH

As I mentioned above, the drugstore holds several gems waiting to be discovered. Widen your search for inexpensive alternatives by considering unconventional locations such as the “dollar store”. Purchase general items at Value Dollar or Daiso Singapore. General items include facial cotton pads, hair clips, manicure kits, and beauty sponges. People who do not have sensitive skin may try some of the cosmetics available at these stores.

FACE YOUR STASH

Using the available beauty products is probably the easiest money-saving trick in the book! Begin by creating a realistic inventory of your cosmetics before moving on to your skin care and hair care items. Narrow your collection by removing any unnecessary duplicates. Do you really need six identical red lipsticks or a dozen of face masks?

Aside from avoiding duplicates, you must avoid the harmful effects of unusable products. I am referring to the beauty products that are already expired or tarnished. Check for the products’ dates, the formula consistency, and the packaging condition. You do not want your hair oil leaking all over your purse.

BEAT THE GIMMICKS

Do not be tempted by flashy gimmicks and clever infomercials.

Are you looking forward to grab the new stainless steel mascara by Hourglass Cosmetics? Well, the 78-dollar instrument (about S$109) aims to catch you attention and to make you perceive that it improves the mascara. However, “innovative” products like this are almost always wasteful. Do you really want to waste your money on a tool that resembles a screw?

Master hairstylist Pasquale Caselle once said: “It (infomercial) is a specifically written script portrayed by models and actors so, you think you must have that product. Remember, no product is good for everybody all the time, as they would have you believe.” Please research on the beauty product first before buying it.

Sources: 1 & 2

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