Beauty shopping can be an overwhelming experience. The bright lights, hordes of women covered in orange makeup, never ending aisles of makeup, where do you begin? For many, perusing around a beauty hall to swatch and discover isn’t actually a moment of calm and solitude, instead you are being spritzed in all directions whilst multiple people throw the latest products in your way. I don’t know about you but that makes me want to run in the opposite direction and instead seek refuge in the safe pages of online shopping.
Don’t get me wrong – not all counters or beauty halls are like this. Times have changed and companies are getting wise to the fact ‘a hard sell’ doesn’t work in these environments. Customers are also becoming more savvy and clued up before heading into the beauty pit meaning the general marketing chat doesn’t work. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newbie to the counters, here are some tips and tricks to ensure you get the most from the experience and aren’t left feel in a daze from those snazzy sale assistants.
- Know what you are looking for. Come with a list or have a look online of what you are aiming to buy or what you would like to try out
- Don’t be afraid of saying no. Although it can be uncomfortable it’s the golden word to get people to stop
- Be honest – whether you like something or not make sure you are honest with the assistant otherwise they won’t be able to help out
- Look at colours in daylight, those bright fluorescent lights will make shades appear distorted
- Have a budget in mind
- Ask for help if you need it, although counters can be busy it’s always worth asking
- If you feel pressured to buy something, say you want to walk around and think about it
- Go with a friend. They can also help when it comes to making a decision about a new lippy or blush colour
- Go where you feel comfortable, Central London is always bigger and busier
- Take your time, don’t rush into a decision or purchase
- Pickup a rewards card for your favourite shops. It makes those beauty splurges a little bit easier to handle!
- Look around at different stores and online for the best deals
My favourite places to go beauty shopping are John Lewis on Oxford Street or the Beauty Workshop at Selfridges. Both of those places I don’t feel pressured by sales assistants and I love the space and layout of the counters. Popular brands can be easier to buy online thanks to the hordes of people but on a quite Sunday there is nothing better than pursuing around your favourite brands.
