For the very first post here at frugal and fabulous, I’ve decided to do a “steal and splurge”. This is where I’ll review at least two products, one that’s a definite bargain that allows you to “splurge” a little more somewhere else. Today’s Steal & Splurge is the beauty & cosmetics category. It’s something that is important to every woman’s beauty regimen, no matter if it takes her five minutes or forty five minutes (or more!) to get ready in the morning.
First up, the steal.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, $5 – $6 at most retail stores (Target, Wal-Mart, CVS, etc)
I’d heard about Cetaphil for a long time. It’s one of those old “stand-bys” that’s been around forever. But for so long I’d never been able to bring myself to using it. I mean, I admit, I am your classic “girly girl”. When it comes to cosmetics and beauty products, I want luxury. And the bottle of old fashioned Cetaphil doesn’t say that at all. But, I kept hearing about how wonderful it was and reading about it, too. In fact, Hollywood actress Kate Hudson is a fan.
I mean, look at her skin. Who wouldn’t want to try it? So, I bought a bottle. It was about $6 at Target for a HUGE bottle. I mean, this thing will last a LONG time. Defintely a bargain.
And the verdict? It works! It is a lot different than your typical cleanser. It’s kind of thin and runny, it doesn’t lather luxuriously and it’s not scented. It’s kind of strange to use at first if you’re not used to it. But did it make my skin smooth and soft! I also have not had a blemish since using it. And, when I started using it, the blemishes I did have went away promptly. So I guess tradition proved me wrong on this one. Cetaphil has me hooked – at least until this huge bottle is gone.
Next, the SPLURGE!
Olay Total Effects Moisturizer, $17, at most retaliers
Moisturizer is arguably the most important beauty tool for a woman. It keeps your skin looking great and shielded from the sun. So, I didn’t mind splurging a little on something that important. And in terms of moisturizers, Olay isn’t even that much of a splurge. Go to a department store, and you can expect to pay at least $30 or more. But for me, on a small budget, this still qualifies as a bit of a splurge. And, boy is it worth it! It has SPF, and fights the 7 signs of aging. It has a lovely, creamy formula that goes on smoothly and leaves my skin soft. I knew Olay was the way to go because my beautiful grandmother who is 80 years old defintely does not look her age, and she uses Olay. It was testament enough for me and I’ve been using it ever since.
Bonus Tip:
The biggest downside to using Cetaphil is it’s not the best at removing eye makeup, so I use Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes.
They come in a convenient case, and are super soft, very gentle, and great at removing pesky eye makeup. They run about $5 at any major retalier.
I like your site so far!
You’ve sold me on the Cetaphil though! Thanks!
Great Idea! I love reading blogs about being frugal. I have even thought about starting my own, but you beat me to it!
I have tried the Cetaphil bar soap, and it actually made my skin worse. I don’t know if the liquid cleanser is different, but I also think that I have the skin condition Rosacea, which might have had something to do with it. I now use Eucerin Redness Relief cleanser. But great tips!