By Funmi Azike

The recession appears not to be letting up at all! Regular beauty essentials are gradually becoming luxury. Not only are we in search of quality products at budget price, we are also hoping they last even longer. Whether you are adding a few drops of remover to your favourite nail polish or cutting the container of that pricey foundation to get every last bit, be careful to ensure some of these money-saving measures do not pose any threat to your health. That said, there’s no harm in saving some naira and here are a few safe ways to that.

Smart Buy

• Take advantage of promotional offers on some of your favourite products like ‘buy 2, get 1 free’.
  Also take advantage of free trials or make-overs at cosmetics outlets to try colours that best suit you. What is the point of buying a 48-colour eyeshadow palette when you will ever only use four?
• You can save money by buying the larger size of a constantly used product if available. However some brands might make smaller sizes more affordable to encourage people to try their products. Either way, do not hesitate to get a calculator and do some maths.
• Double duty products are a great way to save money. From hair shampoos with built-in conditioner to 2-in-1 conceal foundations; these products do not only help you save cash but save space and valuable time as well.
• Do not restrict yourself to buying from only high end beauty shops; you might get a good price on the same product from a local supermarket around you.

Resourceful Use

• Extend the life span of make-up and fragrance by storing in a cool dry place. Also seal properly after each use to keep them fresh and prevent contamination.
• Get every last bit of an almost-finished product by keeping it upside down overnight. You can cut eventually but ensure you use up within 24 hours. Do not add water or saliva to any product as this can encourage proliferation of bacteria.
• You can revive dried-up mascara and eyeliner by standing them in a glass of warm water. Your regular mascara can become a lash lengthening one by lightly dusting on some loose powder between two coats.
• Dab on some baby oil/lotion to dissolve make-up before cleansing. Let it sit for a few minutes, wipe with a face towel and cleanse as normal. You won’t need to use so much cleanser (making it last longer) and no need to buy make-up remover.
• Use pencil eyeliner as a brow and lip liner as well. Pencils in shades of brown are good for this purpose. Your blush or bronzer can also double as a subtle eyeshadow. Similarly, your olive oil can double as a hair mask and body oil.
• To reduce the chances of breaking, put your pencils in the fridge before sharpening them.