Depending on where you take your cues, it may seem like beauty is only attainable if it costs a fortune. High priced creams and potions that promise youth and beauty are advertised using models who inadvertently promote high priced procedures because most of us aren’t going to achieve that look on our own. And the more we see it the more want it and are convinced that we really need it. So do we? Can beauty only be bought and is it worth the price tag?

It’s always a smart move (for your checkbook and your stress levels, which affect your looks way more than any pricey cream) to stay within your budget. So the trick is to find out where to spend your money. It’s true that some high end creams can deliver and deliver so well that they are worth the price. It is also true that some less expensive creams can deliver and deliver so well that you wonder why you’d ever pay for the high priced version again. So you have to do the research and make the choice. Some smart tips to remember are:

1. Take the time to talk to a consultant who really knows their stuff. Let them help you identify what your root problem really is. For example, I have dark under eye circles, every woman and most of the men in my family have them. I’m weary of the concealer battle even though I’ve finally found a product that works well. I decided that I was going to start saving for an under-eye surgical treatment. Then a consultant from a fairly inexpensive cosmetic company looked at my eyes and diagnosed a problem I didn’t know I had – I have fatty deposits under my eyes. She recommended her company’s anti-aging day and night cream. I’m way too young for that! But low and behold, for $30 my problem was solved and my eyes looked great. So make an appointment with a knowledgeable consultant and let them make recommendations.

2. Only buy what can be returned. There are very few cosmetic companies that won’t allow returns, but if yours won’t shop elsewhere. It is a big waste of your budget to try a product based on its claims only to find it didn’t work and now you’re stuck with it.

3. Learn what the ingredients are. When you know what each of the vitamins, minerals, chemicals, roots, extracts and plants in that jar will do and how they react when combined, you’ve won more then half the battle.

4. Don’t be afraid to try expensive and inexpensive treatments. When you find what works well for you, buy it and work it into your budget. Know that in today’s technologically advanced cosmetics market, you should expect results. Don’t settle for less than what you want. It’s out there. You won’t need every product to come from the same line or cost the same. That’s how your budget can stretch all the way around your every beauty whim – shop wisely.

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