Whether you're off on a shopping extravaganza to stock up on skincare, or dashing in for a quick lipstick fix, beauty shopping is an investment of your hard earned cash and your time. To make the most of both its best to have an unambiguous idea of what you want, and that means having a approach that will make sure you arrive home with the products that suit you and your pocket.



The first thing to keep in mind is that the customer is queen - so walk like a goddess, never put up with awful service and never be pressured into buying something you're not 100 per cent certain of. If in doubt ?I'll think about it' is a good line to use.

Secondly, be organised. Make sure you know what type of skin, hair and nails you have before setting out. A hair stylist or manicurist can help give you the facts. List any known sensitivities and, if you know them, the ingredients that cause them - that way, you can check labels and eliminate any likely troublemakers. Target your good points so that you can take advantage of them. So if you've got sensual, full lips, for instance, you'll probably want a host of lipsticks and glosses, to emphasise your natural beauty.

Know what you want and make a list. You may be shopping for a change of image, a new perfume or just essential supplies. It's important to write down the items you need and the ones you want. Set a budget and resist the appeal to make impulse buys, unless you have money to burn and masses of shelf space. You may find it easier to focus on shopping for one specific area at a time. Sometimes it's enough to look for just skincare products, hair care items or make-up - otherwise it can all become overwhelming.

Have a clear plan where you intend to shop. Big department stores will typically give you the widest choice, and you can always put your name down for a free makeover with a company you like the look of. Then again, you might have an excellent small pharmacy/beauty/hair salon or day spa near you.

Once you have found a well-informed, well-trained consultant who doesn't oversell, keep in touch with them. As with a hairdresser, tell them about your lifestyle, budget, beauty routine and the fashions you like so they can help you to look the best you can.

Remember to always be truthful if you don't like something. And if you can't get out and about to shop, remember you can now get more or less everything shipped to your door via catalogues, online and TV shopping. If shopping online you will find a wide range of products at the big names like Boots and Amazon but don't neglect the smaller online shops such as www. cosmeticdiva. co. uk which will have many brand name cosmetics and perfumes at markdown prices.

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