Makeup: how to buy the right shade at a good price
Shade and undertone: the key in makeup
A foundation or powder with the right number but the wrong undertone will look like a mask. Cool, warm and neutral undertones are marked with letters or words, and at different brands the same number means different things. So name not just the brand but the exact number, for example “102 Ivory”.
A lipstick, eyeshadow palette or blush is easier to choose by the number and name of the shade in the range. If you aren't sure, ask the seller for swatch photos on skin in daylight.
What to put in your request
- Product — mascara, lipstick, foundation, powder, eyeshadow palette, brow pencil, blush.
- Brand — for example, MAC.
- Shade — number, name or undertone: fair, warm, nude.
- Skin type — dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
- Finish — matte, satin, radiant, waterproof, long-wear.
- Quantity — especially if you buy several or for a salon.
- Expiry date — a sealed new product and valid until when.
- Budget and delivery city.
Example: “I need a foundation for combination skin, matte finish, shade 102 Ivory, sealed, expiry not before 2027. Cape Town, send by courier. Budget up to R 350.”
Originals, expiry and storage
Cosmetics spoil with heat and light, so ask how the goods were stored in the warehouse. The pack should show a manufacturing date or the open-jar symbol (PAO), and the ingredients. A suspiciously low price on a well-known brand often means a fake or a product close to expiry.
Testers and sets without full packaging can be cheaper, but it must be clear to you from the description. Be extra careful with products that touch the eyes.
Finish and skin type
A matte finish works well on oily skin but emphasises dryness, so for dry skin satin or radiant is better. Waterproof mascara is useful if you have a long day or an event ahead, but for everyday makeup it is harder to remove. For sensitive skin and eyes, look for hypoallergenic marks, but rely mostly on the ingredients list.
How to compare offers
- The exact shade and finish are the same in every offer.
- Sealed packaging, expiry date and where the goods come from.
- Volume or weight, so you compare fairly.
- Exchange terms if the shade doesn't suit, although opened cosmetics are usually not taken back.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
You describe in the request what you are looking for, and sellers send offers in the chat with price, photos and delivery. They see where they stand among the others and compete on terms. The best one, judged on what it offers, is shown first, seller reviews are next to it, and your phone is hidden. More on the page “How it works”.
For skin care, see facial care and beauty tools and accessories.
