Each person is a unique combination of features such as eye color, skin tone, and hair type, and while we can’t control certain genetic factors, we can achieve and maintain optimal skin and hair thanks to various beauty products and treatments. While products such as foundation and fragrance are proven to give solid results (more natural looking skin color, longer wearing fragrance), some people wonder if it’s better to shell out extra money for a certain beauty products. While there are no rules about using which product for hair and skin, here is a quick guideline of several talked about beauty products and treatments and if they are worth the extra splurge.

Tourmaline hairdryers and flatirons – tourmaline hair products are big news due to its higher conductivity of heat at a gentle rate, resulting in less drying time and therefore less heat exposure for hair. Many people debate if they’re worth the splurge but this can depend on several factors, such as how often the user has been using a higher end hairdryer, or if the person is a professional hairstylist. Advice: for those who are new to using tourmaline dryers and flatirons, purchasing a less expensive one is a good start before investing in ones that cost over $100. For those who have previously used higher end dryers or are professional hairdressers, the investment is worth it.

Oxygen facials – a popular and often talked about skin procedure that has been popular not only in spas but in over-the-counter treatments. While oxygen facials can produce the look and feel of firmer, brighter skin, regular spa treatments may be too costly. OTC products can mimic what is done in a spa and are easy to use. Advice: treat yourself once to spa oxygen facial, but for continuing weekly treatments, an OTC product can produce effective results.

Lipstick – the debate of drugstore vs. department store lipstick is a never ending and always-evolving issue. But what’s the difference between a $3 lipstick vs. its $23 cousin when the colors look the same? Higher priced brands tend to use hydrating ingredients such as Vitamin E and shea butter and have stronger pigmentation, resulting in longer wear and less tendency to bleed or feather. While some lower priced lipsticks do use hydrating ingredients such as Vitamin E, the pigmentation is less dramatic. Advice: if you’re looking for a dramatic classic color such as red, invest in a higher priced lipstick. For everyday neutrals, lower priced versions can do the trick.

Hairbrush – boar bristle is a hands down favorite and often recommended brush for all hair types since it’s less likely to break strands, massages the scalp evenly distributes the hairs natural oils. Even a mixed boar and nylon bristle is less likely to break hair strands, even when damp. Advice: before investing in a boar bristle, try a mixed boar/nylon bristle brush.

Facial Serum – a true skin investment since serums do the work of firming, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, evening out skin tone and in some formulas, lightening or brightening age spots, freckles and discoloration. Advice: before investing in brand, ask for a sample to check for any skin reactions or irritation.

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