Save $ or Splurge$$$: Drunk Elephant Polypeptide Cream

Back at it again with another Drunk Elephant dupe. There is a dupe for everything these days.  Have you been looking to purchase a peptide moisturizer? Check out the comparison first. 

Save: The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer $15

A nurturing yet fast-absorbing daily moisturizer with a peptide duo that helps support natural collagen and hydrate skin.This moisturizer is formulated with peptides, which are small but mighty amino acid chains that support the firming, hydrating proteins for your skin. With continued use, these peptides help support natural collagen, leaving skin looking youthful and feeling comfortable.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water/Eau), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Acetyl Hexapeptide-37, Maltodextrin, Pentapeptide-48.

Splurge: Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer $68

A protein moisturizer that combines signal peptides, growth factors, amino acids, and pygmy waterlily to improve the look of skin’s tone, texture, and firmness. Protini restores younger, revived-looking skin. Lines, wrinkles, and sun damage appear reduced and skin feels strengthened and moisturized. Think of Protini like adding protein to your smoothie. Abundant with proteins and nutrients, it replenishes and restores skin to a strong, healthy state. Formulated at an ideal pH level of 4.0.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Bacillus/Soybean/ Folic Acid Ferment Extract, Nymphaea Alba Root Extract, sh-Oligopeptide-1, sh-Oligopeptide-2, sh-Polypeptide-1, sh-Polypeptide-9, sh-Polypeptide-11, Copper Palmitoyl Heptapeptide-14, Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Alanine, Arginine, Glycine, Histidine, Isoleucine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Serine, Threonine, Valine, Acetyl Glutamine, Coconut Alkanes, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aspartic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Lecithin, Butylene Glycol, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, PCA, Sorbitan Isostearate, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Isomalt, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate, Phenylpropanol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Symphytum Officinale Callus Culture Extract.

Are you saving or splurging? Drunk Elephant products seem overpriced. So it's The Inkey List for me. 

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

I swear every time I go to buy a high-end product I end up unintentionally find its dupe. In the search for a new setting powder, I ran to my friend google to see what was the best option. Laura Mercier's powder (which had been on my wishlist) was the highest rated and a cult classic. Before I went to purchase, I saw a comparison to Milani's setting powder and decided to try it out. The 2 products are very similar and both have a light and deep formula. Check out the comparison and my thoughts below. 

Save: Milani Make It Last Setting Powder $10.99

Make It Last Setting Powder is a high performance, ultra-fine translucent loose powder designed to seamlessly set and extend makeup wear. Features a weightless, oil-free formula infused with light-reflecting pigments to diffuse fine lines and imperfections for a luminous, shimmer finish. Available in Translucent  Light to Medium and Translucent Medium to Deep.

Splurge: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder $39

A lightweight, easy-to-apply, loose powder that blends effortlessly to set makeup for up to 12 hours. This award-winning powder locks in makeup for long-lasting wear without adding weight or texture. It absorbs oil and reduces shine all day, creating a flawless, matte finish with no flashback in photos. These truly-translucent shades work on all skin tones= and create a soft-focus effect to subtly blur fine lines and imperfections. Available in Translucent and Translucent Medium Deep.

Have you tried either of these powders? I've tried them and they are both nice powders. However, when you do the price break down the save isn't really a save at all. Milani is actually double the price per gram. So the smart thing to do would be to purchase the Laura Mercier. I'm currently using the Milani right now because I found them at Walgreens for under $3 and I purchased the last few they had. 

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Morphe Brushes

Makeup brushes make or break your makeup application. You most definitely need quality tools to get that flawless beat. Finding super inexpensive high-quality brushes are hard to come by. Outside of E.L.F., I don't know many brands that have good quality brushes at a cheap price. Well not until I came across Beili. I found out about the brand through a twitter thread and they were being compared to Morphe's brushes. And because I love a good beauty dupe I had to see for my self. So, I ordered a few brushes that I have the Morphe comparable, along with a couple others. Long story short, I probably won't be purchasing Morphe brushes any longer. Both brands have synthetic hair bristles and similar shapes throughout the range, and they both provide a flawless application. The only difference is Beili's brushes have a shorter handle, but I actually prefer that. Oh and the price, how could I forget. Beili is about a fourth cheaper than Morphe which makes it a winner in my book. 

Below are the Beili brushes that I ordered that have Morphe dupes. I also ordered 804 (my new favorite foundation brush) and 805 (great for bronzer). If you love Morphe's brushes then you'll definitely love these. 

Save: Beili Brushes

815, 817, 810, 813, 803

Splurge: Morphe Brushes

E48, E4, E7, E63, E41

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Laura Mercier Glow Brush

I've been watching a lot of YouTube videos lately; catching up on old videos, searching for new channels to subscribe to, and watching product reviews.  Recently, I was looking at a product review by MakeupShayla on the Laura Mercier Loose Setting Translucent Glow Powder and she used their brush to apply the highlighter and I just loved how it looked. I went to  Sephora to get all the details and closed the tab because I didn't really want to pay $40 for a brush, $20 is my limit lol. I'm pretty sure you know what's next....yep, you guessed it. I began searching for a dupe with that curved shape. I found a few good alternatives from Fenty, E.L.F and Shop Miss A but good ole E.L.F ended up being the best option to me. See the details and tell me what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE?!

Save: E.L.F. Sculpting Face Brush $6 ($3 at Walmart in-store)

The contoured and curved shape of this brush hugs the face to help expertly sculpt and blend product, contour cheekbones, define the nose, and minimize the look of jawline definition for precision application. This brush is ideal with foundation but also works perfectly with a variety of formulas including powders, liquids, and creams.

Splurge: Laura Mercier Glow Brush $38

A powder brush designed to allow for even, luminous application all over the face. This brush’s unique, curved shape is designed to fit the contours of the face. It applies powder evenly and smoothly all over, leaving behind a consistent, uniform veil of luminosity.

Have you tried either of these brush? Are you saving or splurging? Right now, I'm going to save. But when I get some extra money, I'll be splurging again.

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

I always thought my skin type was dry skin until I visited the esthetician and learned it was, in fact, combination/oily. The reason why I thought it was dry is that it lacked hydration and was just dehydrated. Dry skin lacks natural skin oil but dehydrated skin lacks hydration. Once I learned that I made sure to add hydrating products to my skincare routine. Every now and then my skin needs a little extra hydration, so I use an overnight mask. I've been alternating between Lumene and Laneige gel masks. Both products are similar so I've used them both, but I can't seem to pick between the two. See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE.

Save: Lumene LAHDE Hydration Recovery Aerating Gel Mask $15

Lumene Hydra-technology combines oxygen-rich Pure Arctic Spring Water with Nordic Birch Sap that’s bursting with minerals, on application the innovative light-weight aerating complex indulges your skin's surface with moisture to provide intense hydration. Working in harmony these thirst-quenching elements rescue skin to leave it smooth and even for an instantly fresh and radiant glow.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Betula Alba (Birch) Juice, Glycerin, Methyl Gluceth-20, Phenoxyethanol, Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Seed Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxide, Trehalose, Urea, Eriophorum Spissum Flower/Stem Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Copper Gluconate, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Pentylene Glycol, Serine, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Algin, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Pullulan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbic Acid, Potassium Phosphate, Linalool, Benzyl Salicylate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Limonene, Citronellol, Parfum (Fragrance), (Ci 42090) Blue 1, (Ci 60730) Ext. Violet 2

Splurge: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask $25

Recharge your dehydrated skin while you sleep with this innovative mask. It’s formulated with highly concentrated Hydro Ionized Mineral Water to deliver high doses of moisture to stressed, parched skin. Calming Sleepscent™, infused with orange flower, rose, and sandalwood, and it relaxes and comforts while apricot and evening primrose extracts to brighten and purify fatigued skin. The result: skin looks and feels radiant, refreshed, and soft so you wake up with soft, glowing skin.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Root Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Beta-Glucan, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Chloride, Potassium Alginate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate / VP Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone / Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Stearyl Behenate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, Blue 1 (Ci 42090)

Have you tried these two products? Which do you prefer? I actually like them both but Laneige leaves my skin a little more supple. The Lumene doubles as an instant and overnight mask, sometimes I need an instant hydration boost. The one thing that I don't like about the Lumene is the fragrance. I have super sensitive skin and it can irritate my skin.  So for that reason I will stick to the Laneige.  

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Drunk Elephant Babyfacial

Yes, I am talking about skincare again. If you read my last post you saw my detailed regimen. One of the things I do weekly in routine is giving my self a peel. The peel helps to exfoliate, fight acne and restore an even, radiant tone. It also smooths the skin’s texture. I use The Ordinary Peeling Solution which a lot of people say is a dupe for Drunk Elephant's peel. That's one of the main reasons why I love The Ordinary because you can get super high-quality products for pennies. Let me be honest I never tried Drunk Elephant and I don't plan on it (too many people have said that their products are overpriced and mediocre.) unless they are sending it to me for FREE. So I cant give my opinion on which works better. What I do know is that I've been using The Ordinary for a few months and its perfect for me.

I'll let you be the judge. See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE.

Save: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution $7.20

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) exfoliate the skin's topmost surface for a brighter and more even appearance. Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) also exfoliate the skin with an extended function to help clear pore congestion. This combined 29% AHA/BHA solution offers deeper exfoliation to help fight visible blemishes and for improved skin radiance. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines with continued use. This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. This derivative is of plant origin and varies in color seasonally and this color variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time. This formula is further supported with a crosspolymer form of hyaluronic acid for comfort, Vitamin B5 to assist healing and black carrot as an antioxidant

Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa Extract, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Potassium Citrate, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan gum, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.

Splurge: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial $80

This innovative at-home "facial" contains 25% AHA and 2% BHA, plus Drunk Elephant’s dream team blend of glycolic, tartaric, lactic, citric, and salicylic acids. It gently but efficiently resurfaces the skin as it exfoliates, getting rid of built-up dead skin cells by breaking down the substance that holds them to the surface. Babyfacial™ combines potent antioxidants like matcha, apple fruit, and milk thistle to calm and sooth with ultra-hydrating sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer and non-fragrant plant oils to replenish moisture and nourish. Chick pea flour brightens and balances the skin without over-drying, and pumpkin ferment delivers amazing enzymatic action. Niacinamide, a "cell-communicating" ingredient, effectively revives skin’s healthy look and feel as it brightens and tones. Appropriate for all skin types, Babyfacial will dramatically smooth texture, minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, and boost overall clarity—revealing fresh, radiant, baby-soft skin.

Ingredients: Water, Glycolic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus/Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Silybum Marianum Seed Extract, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Cicer Arietinum Seed Powder, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium PCA, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Dextrin, Polydextrose, Sorbitan Isostearate, Amylopectin, Niacinamide, Phytosphingosine, Lactic Acid, Propanediol, Citric Acid, Titanium Dioxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polysorbate 60, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol.

Have you tried these two products? Which do you prefer?  I've only tried The Ordinary's peel but from the reviews, I read they give the same results. However, some say The Ordinary can be slightly irritating. I use The Ordinary weekly and that hasn't been my experience. The price point alone is worth giving it a try. For me..I'll SAVE!

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Cover FX Liquid Highlighter

 

I don't know about you but I want you to be able to see my highlight from across the room. Before highlighting was extremely popular, I would add MAC's lustre drops into my foundation to give me that glow. I didn't know of many liquid highlighting drops back then but now every company from drugstore to high-end make them. My current fave liquid highlighter is from Makeup Revolution in rose gold. 

Makeup Revolution is known for there quality dupes of high-end and luxury beauty products(stay tuned to our IG story for a full list). I can do a Save or Splurge post every month for the rest of the year with dupes from them. MR's liquid highlighter is a spot on dupe for the Cover FX Enhancer Drops. Both brands have an array of colors and similar ingredients. Cover FX is a little more pigmented but for $42 I can buy like 5 from Makeup Revolution. 

You be the judge. See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE.

Save: Makeup Revolution Liquid Highlighter $9

The liquid highlighter drops have a variety of uses! The highly concentrated pigmented highlighter is a must have for all lovers of glow! Can be used alone as a liquid highlighter, simply apply to the high points of the face and blend with a synthetic brush or sponge for dimension and glow. Mix into your favorite foundation for a more dewy and luminous finish. Mix into your body lotion and creams for a gorgeous all-over glow, or use alone with your everyday skincare for a natural glow from within on even bare skin days. Available in 12 shades with 0.61 fl oz each. 

Splurge: Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops $42

These customizable drops can be used to create a buildable highlight or sunkissed tint. Use them alone for a light reflective strobing or bronzing effect even on top of powder, or add them to your favorite liquid foundation or skincare product for an all-over glow. Formulated with a high concentration of ultra-refined pearls, the bronzing drops offer a natural matte finish and the illuminating drops produce a liquid metal finish. The more drops you use, the more luminosity or bronze you’ll get, allowing you to customize your glow. Available in nine universal shades with 0.5 fl oz each.

Have you tried these two products? Which do you prefer? For the price point alone, I'm going to SAVE! Here are swatches of a few shades. 

P.S. Ulta has buy 2  get 1 free on all Makeup Revolution products. Click here to sign up for Ebates or Dosh and get cash back and coupons when you shop!

Save $ or Splurge $$$ MAC Prep + Prime Highlighter

I love trying out beauty dupes. Every opportunity I get to possibly replace a higher end product with a something a little cheaper I do. Sometimes they are good, sometimes not. I suffer from hyper-pigmentation so when I'm doing my makeup color correcting is a must for me. I've done alot of trial and error to find what works the best for me. Orange concealers have me looking like an oompa loompa and yellow concealers make me look ashy. When I discovered MAC Prep + Prime Highlighter in Peach Lustre it was perfect the perfect shade. It's not too orange but just enough to cover my dark spots so I'm not giving oompa loompa vibes. It doubles as a highlighter and color corrector for medium to dark skin tones which is a plus. Recently E.L.F dropped a new color correcting product that is somewhat similar to MAC's. It claims to conceal dark circles and hide imperfections on deeper complexions with the orange corrector. I tested it out and it was cool but a little too sheer for me. The color was good however it is very light.  I don't have dark circle so I cant test out that claim, but from my trial, I think this product is better suited for dark circles and light imperfections. If that is it what you have, give the E.L.F. Flawless Color Correcting Pen a try. For only $6 what could hurt. 

See the following specs and details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE?!

Save: E.L.F. Flawless Color Correcting Pen

Perfect for on the go, this Flawless Color Correcting Pen neutralizes imperfections leaving you with a flawless complexion. Enjoy a brighter and even skin tone with the convenient and easy to use correcting formula.

Splurge: MAC Prep + Prime Highlighter

A pen-style highlighter that efficiently brings a soft, sheer wash of color to the skin. With its precision application, it adds radiance just where you want it. Goes on smoothly for cushion-soft wear. Use over makeup for highlights, touch-ups, or under makeup to brighten, prime and correct. Benefits: Provides instant radiance, lightweight, long-wearing, and non-drying, 

Have you tried these? If so, which do you prefer? I've tried both and MAC wins hands down for me. E.L.F isn't terrible but it doesn't provide the coverage I need.  So on this item, I'll take the SPLURGE!

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

I love a good dupe, especially when it's spot on. So when I heard that the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer was an exact dupe for the Tarte Shape Tape and it was only $4, I had to see what all the hype was about. I tried out both concealers and loved them both. I tend to use Wet n Wild for everyday looks and Tarte occasionally. Tarte has a better applicator and a larger shade range, but if you are able to find a Wet n Wild shade that works for you.....GET IT! 

See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE.

Save: Wet n Wild Photo Focus Concealer

Let your natural beauty shine with our selfie-tested creamy and luminous concealer. Tested to be white cast-free under seven different photo lighting conditions, this high coverage concealer allows only your best features to get noticed.  It instantly brightens and perfects appearance of skin; conceals imperfections, dark spot, and blemishes; delivers lightweight, buildable coverage and conceals and minimizes imperfections to achieve a flawless look good bye photo flashback

Splurge: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Sculpt and highlight as you mask imperfections with this 2-in-1 full coverage concealer. The hydrating, long wearing formula delivers natural, radiant coverage across all skin types so you can instantly brighten and cover acne, dark circles, and redness while softening the look of pores and fine lines. Wear it 1-2 shades lighter or darker, and it works as a creamy highlighter or contouring stick with a lightweight, blendable formula and tapered wand applicator ideal for precise strobing and sculpting. Powered by Amazonian clay and conditioning mango seed and shea butter, the nutrient-rich concealer helps promote skin elasticity and illumination with each crease-free application. 

Have you tried these concealers? Which do you prefer?  I like both equally. You can't go wrong with either. 

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Josie Maran Argan Oil

I am a product junkie, which isn't always a good thing cause you can't really find out what works if you are always switching up products. Well, I've been on a skincare journey for a while now, and I've been trying to settle on a regimen. One thing I've learned is that oils work great on my face, more specifically argan oil. As someone with combination-acne prone skin, I've always steered clear of using oils on my face, but it works for me. Being the product junkie that I am, I've tried several brands of argan oil. Josie Maran and Radha Beauty were two brands that I tried and both worked well. However, one major difference is the price point.

See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE. 

Save: Radha Beauty Moroccan Argan Oil

100% pure Argan Oil is first cold pressed to ensure the best quality, highest-grade oil. Unscented, lightweight & pure for the ultimate healthy glow. No preservatives, chemicals, water or other oils added. Radha Argan oil is made organically in small batches and imported directly from Morocco to ensure premium quality. Radha 100% Argan Oil is your best choice for moisturize and condition. It naturally freshens, hydrates and softens dry skin better than any other moisturizer on the market. Repairs and beautifies hair, from roots to split-ends

Splurge: Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil

This legendary, 100 % pure Argan Oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids to deeply hydrate and nourish skin. Grown organically in Morocco, the multitasking formula contains astonishing healing, conditioning, and anti-aging properties to create a nourished, youthful-looking complexion. It easily absorbs into skin, delivering a fresh, dewy glow, and keeps you looking beautiful from head to toe. Especially great for sensitive and acne-prone skin, it may also be used to treat split ends and soften cuticles.

Have you tried these oils? If so, which oil would you prefer? I've tried both and there isn't much of a difference, other than the price. So on this item, I'll take the SAVE!

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Save $ or Splurge $$$ Beautyblender

There are hundreds, maybe even thousands off makeup sponges on the market. However, the originator is the beautyblender®. The beautyblender is a staple in many makeup kits, but for $20 some are hesitant to purchase. I was one of those people. I bought the Real Techniques Sponge and many other dupes over the years (probably more than $20 worth). The Real Techniques sponge works well and I love the flat side of the sponge. If you want to spend less, this is for you. My only problem with the dupe is that it absorbs too much product. I have also recently purchased a Beautyblender on Groupon for $12 (we shared this deal on Twitter), and after my first use I apologized for all the slander I had once shared. Now, I see what all the hype is about. 

See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE. 

Save: Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

It's a 3-in-1 multi-functional makeup sponge by Real Techniques. The rounded side blends larger areas of the face. The precision tip covers blemishes/imperfections and the flat edge contours around the eyes and the nose, leaving you with a complexion that's smooth, enhanced and gorgeous!

Splurge: The Original Beautyblender® (Pink/Black)

The unique shape and exclusive material available only with beautyblender® ensures impeccable, streak-free application with minimum product waste. Use it with primers, foundations, powders, cream blushes, and any other complexion product. It features an open cell structure that fills with small amounts of water when wet. This allows the sponge to be “full” so that the makeup product sits on top of the sponge rather than being absorbed, allowing you to use less product every time. When wet, beautyblender doubles in size and becomes even softer, returning to its original size when it air dries. 

Have you tried these sponges? Which do you prefer? On this item, I’ll go with the SPLURGE!

Get the Original Beautyblender® (Pro) on Groupon for $12. Sign up for ebates and get 6% cashback!

- Christen

Save $ or Splurge $$$ Tom Ford Shimmering Body Oil

We are back comparing popular beauty products to their comparable dupes. Last week I was watching a video on youtube by  Jackie Aina and I was so distracted by her glowing skin that I can't even remember what the video was about. She was wearing the Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil and it gave her the best glow. This oil is perfect for those who love glowy bronzey skin. But here is the dilemma....1) The oil is so popular that it usually out of stock and 2) It's $98, that's about 80 more dollars than I would like to pay. 

See the details and tell us what you think, SAVE or SPLURGE. 

Save: The Body Shop Honey Bronze Shimmering Oil

If you don't want to purchase the splurge The Body Shop version is 1/4 of the price, it's organic, certified fair trade and comes in 2 different shades. Get a sun-kissed glow from head-to-toe with the Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil. Give your skin an even, bronzed look with a hint of shimmer with this lightweight body oil subtly scented with honey and monoi. For a golden glow, use the Honey Gold shade for lustrous radiance. For darker color, use the Honey Kissed shade which can be intensified by layering.

Splurge: Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil

A shimmering body that oil captures the sultry effect of sun-kissed summer skin and tempts the senses with a fragrance of scorching sensuality. This silky and lightweight oil illuminates the skin with shimmers of gold and platinum leaf. The captivating fragrance wraps a bouquet of white florals in a golden, amber-sandalwood embrace—as tempting as a white-sand beach, as irresistible as the perfect tan.

So which oil would you buy the Tom Ford or  The Body Shop? On this item, I'll take the SAVE!

Sign up for ebates and get cashback coupons, deals and savings at your favorite stores! See the Deals of the Week page for additional sales!

- Christen

Save $ or Splurge $$$ Clarasonic

This year we have decided to bring back the Save or Splurge posts, but this time they will be centered around beauty products. Have you ever been interested in splurging on a product but decided to save because the alternative is just as good? Our first item is the Clarisonic. Many people swear by it but personally, I'm not willing to spend $100+ on a face brush that may tear my face up ( I have SUPER sensitive skin). I have purchased the Ultimate Skin Spa and it works great for me. It comes with 3 different heads and perfect for any skin type. Check out some non name brand facial brushes that are said to be just as good as the Clarisonic!

Clarisonic Mia 1 Facial Sonic Cleansing $99

MediSonic Sonic Facial and Body Cleansing Brush $24.99

Ultimate Skin Spa System $19.99

Olay Advanced Facial Cleansing System $25.99

AcneFree® Advanced Cleansing Brush $19.99

On this item, I'll take the SAVE!

More Clarisonic Alternatives:

Sign up for ebates and get cashback coupons, deals and savings at your favorite stores! See the Deals of the Week page for additional sales!

- Christen

Save $ or Splurge $$$ Make Up Forever Aqua Brow

Eyebrow make your face. So for people like me who have very sparse brows, we need a little help. I almost never leave the house without my brows on. There are many different brow products out there, I use Make Up Forever Aqua Brow and Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade both products are about $20 but they are worth it! Recently on YouTube I came across a review of NYX's new eyebrow gel in comparison to Make Up Forever's (MUFE). The NYX product is bigger and people have even said it is better! I love a good dupe so I'm definitely going to try it! 

Splurge: Make Up Forever Aqua Brow $20
Save: NYX Eyebrow Gel $7 (Available at NYX. Use Promo Code: WELCOME25 for 25% off)

- Christen

Splurge or Save?

I'm from Maryland and one of my friends has a gold chain of the state of Maryland. Ever since I saw his I wanted a similar one, more feminine of course. I went to my good friend Google and found out Baublebar sales custom state and country pendants in silver, gold and rose gold starting at $130. The price can go higher if you decide to get the 10 or 14 karat option. I also found some very cheap ones ranging from $8 - 35 on Etsy and Aliexpress. Since I'll be moving out of the country in a little over a month this will help me remember home. Should I splurge or save?

Splurge: Baublebar Metal State Pendant $130

Save: Custom State Necklace $8

 

- Christen

Save $ or Splurge $$$ MAC Studio Finish Concealer

Splurge: MAC Studio Finish Concealer

Save: Milani Secret Cover Concealer

I love finding a good dupe for beauty products. But I'll admit when I first started wearing makeup I had to have MAC everything. I wear makeup a lot and spending $20+ per product doesn't fit in my current budget. Especially when I run through certain products fast, like my concealer. My frugal alternative to the Studio Finish Concealer by MAC is Milani's Secret Cover Concealer. It's a maximum coverage concealer cream that completely covers and perfects all types of skin. If you cant find Milani try NYX Concealer in a Jar (sold at Target). 

What do you think? Splurge or Save?

- Christen
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Splurge or Save?

Left: Steve Madden Marlenee
Right: Target Mossimo Shari

Single sole heels have become super popular in stores for almost 2 years now. I purchased a black and nude pair last summer from Lola Shoetique last year and they HURT! So I've been searching for a new pair and I came across some at Target a few weeks ago and thought to myself these are identical to the ones on Steve Madden's website. It is said that the same maker of SM shoes makes the some of the shoes at Target , hence why they always have similar shoes.  Is it worth the "splurge"? Me, myself personally, I'll go for the save! No need in paying and extra $70 for the same shoe.

What do you think? Splurge or Save?

- Christen

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