How to save money on beauty products so you look and feel fabulous

1. Use multi-purpose products

Rather than spend more than you need to, choose products that serve more than one purpose. For example, a good tinted moisturiser functions as both a foundation and a moisturiser, preventing the need for you to buy both.

In a similar way, cleansing oils can work as a moisturiser and makeup remover, which also helps your skin to look fresh.

Rebecca Elsdon, an advanced skin specialist, leading skincare expert and owner of skin health clinic Re/Skin, says, ‘Certain multi-tasking ingredients are affordable yet highly effective. Niacinamide is a standout—it regulates oil production, improves texture, reduces redness, and supports the skin barrier. Vitamin C, particularly L-ascorbic acid, is another valuable ingredient as it brightens the skin, reduces pigmentation, and offers antioxidant protection. Retinoids, whether in the form of over-the-counter retinol or prescription options, are great for tackling acne, fine lines, and overall skin renewal. While retinoids can seem expensive upfront, they address multiple concerns in one go.’

2. Buy own brand alternatives

Many brands like Dior, Chanel and Armani are known for their prestige and high quality, but they come at a price. Instead of picking up products from these luxury brands, consider stores’ own brand alternatives, such as those offered at Boots and Superdrug.

They’re still great products that will, for the most part, look just as good as pricier products. Next time you need to replace something, shop around and we bet you can find something just as good for less.

Rebecca Elsdon at Re/Skin is a big believer in not defaulting to the thought that expensive brands are the best. She says, ‘One misconception is that expensive products are always better. Many affordable brands contain clinically proven ingredients and perform just as well, if not better, than pricier options. The idea that natural or organic products are always superior is also misleading. While some natural products can be beneficial, others lack the stability or efficacy of scientifically formulated alternatives.’

3. Use homemade solutions

Did you know that you likely have things sitting in your food cupboard or fridge that you can repurpose into homemade cosmetics? It’s true – take a look at the ingredients in some of the stuff you use and you’ll see exactly what goes into them.

Things like honey, yoghurt and oats can make an effective facemask. A combination of olive oil and sugar is useful for exfoliation. Or coconut oil and avocado have nutrients that hair absolutely loves. You won't want to switch the beauty aisle for the produce aisle all the time, but when you’re in a pinch it can save you a few quid.

4. Stock up during the sales

If you can hold out and squeeze a few extra drops out of your dwindling supplies, try to hold off buying things until sale season.

Times such as January, Black Friday and Cyber Monday come with big discounts, so stock up when prices are lower. Many of the big-name brands also offer their own sales at different times throughout the year.

5. Repurpose your leftovers

Instead of throwing away those leftovers or colours that no longer fit your style, see if you can repurpose them into something else. Mix eyeshadow with clear nail polish to create a fabulous new colour without spending a penny.

Soak almost-empty lip gloss in warm water to give it a new lease of life. A dab of pressed powder in moisturiser instantly makes it tinted. There are loads of ways to reuse old products you might otherwise throw away. Take a look in the bathroom cupboard to see what you can find.

6. Adopt the mindset that less is more

Many of us have a habit of using a little more than we might need to. Admit it, you’ve probably been a little generous with how much you use yourself, especially on a bad skin day.

But, there really isn’t a need to do that. More often than not, it’s actually possible to get away with using a little bit less and still get the coverage you’re looking for. Give it a try and see what you think – it’ll make sure your products last way longer!

7. Buy in bulk

If you have the budget to, bulk buy some of your things so you pay less per individual item. Things like cotton pads, makeup wipes and shampoos can cost a lot less overall if you buy a larger quantity from places like Costco or Amazon.

Yes, the initial cost will be higher than it would be if you bought them individually, but it means you won’t have to buy them again for ages, saving money in the long run.

8. Look after your skin

If you invest time (and a little bit of money, we admit) into perfecting your skincare routine, you’ll likely find that you won’t need to use as much makeup to make you feel your most confident self.

When you don’t have to cover up spots or hide blemishes, you’ll use fewer products. It takes a little effort and some trial and error, but it’s definitely worth it. Spending a little bit on skincare products and a consistent skincare routine can prevent the need to spend money on more cosmetics.

Rebecca Elsdon at Re/Skin highlights the importance of caring for your skin. She says, ‘Sunscreen is the most obvious example. Regular use prevents sun damage, pigmentation, fine lines and skin cancer, saving you from needing costly corrective treatments later on. Retinoids are another investment that pays off over time, as they reduce the need for treatments to address acne scars, pigmentation, and premature aging. Antioxidant serums, particularly those containing vitamin C, are also worth the investment—they protect the skin from free radical damage, helping to delay visible signs of aging and the need for more invasive treatments down the line.’

9. Take advantage of testers and travel products

There are several ways to get hold of makeup testers and freebies, but often you have to do a little work or spend a little money in return. Many makeup subscription boxes throw in free samples. Subscription boxes are also a great way to spend less on makeup but come with a few risks, such as you’re sent something that just doesn’t work for you. But if you find one that suits you, then you should definitely go for it.

There are also companies out there looking for people to test out their makeup products. Again, this comes with risks, but it means you get to try some cool new stuff and get a head start on upcoming trends. Lastly, when you want to give something new a go, see if there’s a travel version first. That gives you the opportunity to try it out while not having to spend a small fortune on something that might not potentially work for you. .

10. Shop at your favourite retailers using discount codes

Sometimes it’s not possible to buy in bulk, wait for sales or experiment with more affordable brands – you need your cosmetics and you need them now.

There are more ways to save on beauty products. Here at Savoo, we offer up-to-date discount codes that can be used with loads of your favourite Health and Beauty, Boots, Superdrug, Ren, Clarins and plenty more. So before you place your next order, make sure you double-check and see if you can save some cash.