While online shopping is super convenient, the ease of getting any product you want with just a click can make your savings take a hit. This is especially true when it comes to buying makeup products online. Rave reviews, heavy discounts and cute packaging are some factors that trigger us to splurge all our money on products we might rarely or never use.
But it’s about time we stop wasting our hard-earned money and start getting smart with our online shopping habits. Here are 5 money-saving tips to keep in mind while shopping online for makeup.
- Join loyalty programs
- Try the mini versions first
- Clear your browser cookies
- Set up sale alerts
- Look for recycling programs
Join loyalty programs

Loyalty and rewards programs are hugely beneficial for someone who tends to shop from one particular e-tailer very often. They offer cashback points, free samples or even free shipping. From flash sales to promotional events, you can take advantage of receiving first-hand information about anything happening on the website.
Try the mini versions first

Most products have a mini, or travel-size version of themselves. When trying new products, buy the minis first. This way, if the product doesn’t suit you, your money won’t be wasted on a pricey new buy. This also gives you a taste of what to expect with the new product. Plus, they look super cute!
Clear your browser cookies

Some companies that track your browser cookies can use your information to increase the price of online purchases. This is especially true for flight bookings. When it comes to makeup, the products are often marked as ‘only 1 left’ to create a sense of urgency to make you panic buy. Clear cookies and cache from your browser for a more seamless online shopping experience.
Set up sale alerts

This is a no brainer. Set up sale alerts from your trusted websites to save up on a makeup haul. You can also plan your high value buys around the end of season sale, where these star products can sell out quicker than hotcakes. You can prepare by adding your favourites in your ‘wishlist’ and buying them as soon as the prices drop.
Look for recycling programs

In the quest to minimize the beauty industry's impact on waste generation, many companies have started to offer recycling programs. You turn in empty containers of their products and you’ll be rewarded with points or markdowns on your next purchase. So make sure you’re saving those empties ‘cause they can help you score a great deal on your next buy!
Written by Sumona Bose on May 23, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!