Makeup is an essential part of the everyday outfit.

With the crazy prices on foundation bottles and Kylies’ lipsticks… etcetera. It’s easy to see why you may feel the need to forego a few of the basics if you’re running low on cash.

But you don’t have to.

Here’s how:

1. Carry free samples

To heavens with what the sales lady thinks. Free samples are the saviors of beauty hacks. Collect all the ones you get and keep them for use when you run out of yours. This also allows you to try out a product before investing money on it.

2. Expensive is very cheap

Instead of continuously having to redo your makeup and spend a larger amount than normally required, invest in quality makeup that lasts for longer hours before reapplying. Most quality brands are expensive but spending Ksh 1,200 on a Black Opal foundation is a wiser financial decision than the four bottles of basic stuff costing Ksh 600 that you will use for the same period of time

3. Buy in bulk or family size

Most often than not. There’s usually a sale offer for buying the largest size available of a product. Expiry date considered, applying this to all your cosmetic purchases will ultimately increase your savings.

4. One bottle for the whole house.

Unless it’s impossible to share, buying one bottle of a cleanser  to be shared amongst everyone in the house, reduces costs double time. Most often than not, we waste a lot of products just so we can finish and buy something else. Now, instead of misusing your make up, share it out cost wise and usage so that you can do a whole lot of other important things with your money.

5. Plan for sales and offer.

Especially on holiday seasons, take time and see if any shop has a sale for your product before refilling. It’s the fastest way of increasing savings by spending way less on costs.

6. Speaking of sales, be open to downgrades

This is where the free samples come in. You might not have the money to buy the products you’re used to and having an alternative is the safer way to shop. Be flexible and open minded to try out new things when you can’t afford the usual.

7. Buy what’s important

Smart girls know how to compromise. Instead of buying both, buy an eyeshadow that can work as blush, gel eyeliner that works for your eyebrows as well. In the long run, you’ll notice your bank is looking a bit healthier and happy.