With endless options offered by drugstores and high-end retailers, consumers are left to ascertain whether a higher price tag entails higher quality. We are often drawn to buying high-end products instead of their drugstore counterparts because of their brand names. But which products are really worth the splurge?

Moisturizers
Skincare is an essential part of self-care, and moisturizing should be a crucial part of your daily routine. This is definitely an item worth the splurge, as many moisturizers do more than just hydrate your skin. Those with oilier skin require a moisturizer with a  lighter, gel-like consistency, while people with dry skin need the thickest cream they can find. Definitely don’t skimp on moisturizer — it primes your skin before applying foundation and adds a healthy glow to the bare-faced look.

Cleansers and Makeup Removers
Most of the time, we only use cleansers to remove a day’s worth of dirt and makeup. The active ingredients are washed off, unlike the ingredients in topical creams and treatments. For cleansers and makeup removers, consider lower cost options because you’ll run out of the product faster if you use it several times a day. You should also remember to use makeup removers that are biodegradable and don’t pollute the water like makeup wipes do; liquid makeup removers save money and minimize waste and pollution.

Face Masks
Face masks are all the rage now, with people making their own masks or going to spas for facials. If you don’t have the time for the spa, some Asian beauty brands offer cheap products, but they are often difficult to find in stores. Another option is to sample high-end face masks before going three digits deep for that silver-gilded mask. Since face masks don’t have to be part of your daily skincare regimen, they’re definitely worth the investment if you find one that suits your fancy.

Shampoo & Conditioner
Many drugstore shampoos used to list sodium sulfate — which damages your locks — as their first ingredient. But now there are options that exclude the chemical and save your hair. Unless you swear by a top-rate shampoo and conditioner combo from a high-end retailer, cheaper options should suffice as most drugstore brands offer different varieties to cater to a wide range of hair needs

Special Hair Products (i.e. Leave-in Creme, Shine Serum, Hair spray)
Some hairdressers guilt you into buying that one hair product that they claim is like liquid gold. Although these items may be more expensive, they’re trusted by posh salons and renowned hairdressers, while many cheaper specialized hair products fail to do what they promise. If you can’t find the perfect drugstore option for your hair’s needs, try spending a little more to find the one that won’t let you down.

Email Pamela Jew at [email protected].