Despite developing an interest in natural beauty products several years ago, I’ve really only been exploring different brands within the past year. It’s not that I didn’t want to experiment with moisturizers and lipsticks and face masks–there’s no better way to end a long day than trying out a new vegan serum, am I right?–but I just didn’t have the disposable income to do so. Compared to the generic moisturizer I used to pick up at the drugstore, I was shocked by how expensive vegan and non-toxic beauty products could be.
Like any good blogger, I decided that I would figure out a way to get my hands on some of these products without spending my entire paycheck. After trying out different approaches, I’ve compiled a list of the best hacks for purchasing cruelty-free, natural beauty products on a budget. You can thank me later 🙂
Subscribe To A Beauty Box
Product boxes can be sort of gimmicky, but there’s a reason they’re so popular! I’ve been subscribing to a vegan skincare and beauty box for some time now, and I love discovering new and innovative brands this way. For $20 or even $15, you’ll receive a sampling of different items on a monthly or bimonthly basis. My personal favorite is Petit Vour because they send both sample and full-sized goods, and everything I receive is high quality and curated to my preferences. Box subscriptions start at $15. Also check out Love Goodly (29.95 bimonthly), Vegan Cuts ($18.50 per month), and Nourish (29.95 per month).
Love Goodly
Buy Samples
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to skincare, samples will be your best friends. The variety and size of samples will depend on the online store, but I have found that most places are pretty generous. Also, keep in mind that many beauty products (like serums and perfume vials) are very concentrated, so even samples will last quite a while if used judiciously. My favorite place to shop for samples is Detox Market, which offers samples for nearly all of their products. For only $7.99, you can select 4 natural beauty products to sample, which is a steal if you want to try some of their more expensive products.
Join A Loyalty Program
My life philosophy can be summed up thusly: if you’re going to be spending money, you might as well accrue some loyalty points. Many stores, both online and offline, offer some type of rewards program when customers make purchases, whether that’s accumulating “points” by reviewing natural beauty products or receiving a free product with your next purchase. Sure, it’s a marketing tactic to encourage spending, but if I’m already planning to buy something, I’ll happily receive some freebies while I’m at it.
Discover New Brands
There are so many new and emerging vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics and skincare companies these days. In an effort to support up-and-coming brands, I’ve bought their products during their first few months in business. I’ve learned that these small, independent companies will offer all kinds of discounts in order t0 generate interest and gain a following. By taking advantage of these deals, you’re supporting a small business without breaking the bank. I use Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to discover new companies.
How much do you budget for natural beauty products? And what’s your fav way to save $?
Also by Molly: Eco-Glam Icon Livia Firth’s #30Wears Challenge Will Make You Queen Of Chic Style
Wake Up With The Best Skin Of Your Life: 10 Vegan Serums For Every Need
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Photo: Mary Hood Luttrell; Peaceful Dumpling
