Walking into a Sephora store can be overwhelming, to say the least. The impulse to buy everything and anything can be strong, but FYI certain items are NOT worth your hard earned dollar. If you’re wondering which items you should avoid, I went straight to the source and asked a past employee for the low down. Take a look at 5 things you shouldn’t buy at Sephora according to an ex-employee below and save those dollars for something else instead.
Anything Travel Size
While at first glance those adorbs little travel sized bottles may seem tempting, don’t ever spend your money on them. Sephora strategically places these guys by the checkouts to try and lure you into an impulse buy, but again, not worth it! Almost all travel sized items are overpriced and instead, you can ask for free samples of almost anything in store that work just as well when you’re travelling.
Shampoo and Conditioner
Most of the shampoo and conditioner available at Sephora are made up of higher-end brands, logically making them pricier. Unless you’re set on buying a specific brand that you love, or don’t mind spending the cash, skip hair washing products and grab them at your local drugstore instead. If you’re set on getting a designer brand for your bougie-ass locks, try Winners/Marshalls for discounted bulk sizes of shampoo and conditioner.
Makeup Tools
Some makeup tools like certain brushes seem more affordable at Sephora, especially their house brand, but you can actually find a better quality tool and brush alternatives for lower prices. Generally, if you buy these items at Sephora, once again, you’re paying a premium for the brand name. Some cheaper, but well-made alternatives available elsewhere like Rexall and Walmart are Real Techniques, E.L.F. or Morphe brushes.
Most Mascara
When it comes to mascara it’s the same deal as makeup tools; basically, all the mascara Sephora carries is name brand and therefore hella expensive. Aside from Diorshow or YSL Faux Cils mascara (which my source said are amazing/ worth the splurge), drugstore mascara is just as good, for a fraction of the price – it’s a no-brainer.
Sunscreen and Moisturizer
The last thing you should never buy at Sephora according to an ex-employee is sunscreen/moisturizer. Again, you’re looking at exclusively brand name skin care products with the accompanying hefty price tags. Just like mascara, the drugstore has many more affordable alternatives that will get the job done. Case point: Cetaphil, a dermatologist recommended cleanser that is only $10 at Walmart.
Are there any other products that you should never get at Sephora? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @sephora
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