She Strengthens

The Allure of Trends: A Beauty Enthusiast’s Confession

As a self-proclaimed trend aficionado, I’ve always been drawn to the latest and greatest in beauty. There’s something undeniably exciting about trying out a new product or technique that everyone’s talking about. But, as I look back on my spending habits over the past five years, I’m forced to confront the harsh reality: I’ve dropped a whopping $780 on trendy makeup products that no longer bring me joy.

The Psychology of Trend-Chasing

For me, participating in the latest beauty trends is about more than just looking good – it’s about feeling connected to a community and experiencing a sense of nostalgia for a time that hasn’t yet passed. I crave the thrill of discovery, the rush of excitement when I stumble upon a new product or technique that promises to revolutionize my beauty routine.

Defining “Trendy”

So, what constitutes a “trendy” product, exactly? For the purposes of this experiment, I’ve defined it as any product that generates significant hype upon its release or changes the way I do my makeup in a substantial way. Think Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow, not your run-of-the-mill eyebrow pencil.

A Breakdown of My Trendy Purchases

Liquid Lipsticks – $320
I own 26 liquid lipsticks, and I can’t honestly remember the last time I wore one. It’s clear that I got swept up in the liquid lipstick craze, and my bank account is still feeling the pain.

Highlighting and Contour Palettes – $170
Remember when a simple bronzer sufficed? The amount I spent on these face palettes makes me yearn for those simpler times. While I do still reach for them from time to time, I regret not being more discerning in my purchases.

Foundation Primers – $100
The beauty community has been abuzz about foundation primers, but I’ve come to realize that a good moisturizer paired with the right foundation can achieve similar results. I don’t regret trying out various primers, but I do regret not being more strategic in my search for The One.

Eyeshadow Pigments – $60
These little pots of magic have revolutionized my eyeshadow game. I still wear them all the time and plan on adding more to my collection soon.

Expensive Sheet Masks – $50
Let’s be real: sheet masks are not skincare. They’re fun, but they can’t deliver the same results as a dedicated skincare routine. I regret splurging on expensive sheet masks when I could’ve opted for more affordable alternatives.

Duochrome/Holographic Eyeshadows – $40
I fell prey to the “unique” and “fun” trap, rationalizing that these eyeshadows doubled as highlighters. In reality, I barely used them and never used them as highlighters. Who’s the fool now?

Face Gloss – $20
Face gloss is just lip gloss, and I knew it from the start. I returned it almost immediately and vowed to be more honest with myself in the future.

Glitter Eyeliner – $18
Urban Decay’s Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner seemed like a must-have in 2015 and 2016, but it’s since become a regretful purchase. The product is thin and finicky, and it even gave me a reaction.

Lessons Learned

As I reflect on my trendy purchases, I’m struck by the realization that even someone as obsessed with beauty as I am can fall for the hype and impulsively buy something that doesn’t bring me joy. While I’ve spent $780 over the years, I’ve come to understand the importance of being more discerning in my purchases and holding onto receipts – just in case.

In the end, it’s not about the money; it’s about being honest with myself about what I truly need and want. As I look to the future, I’m determined to approach trends with a clearer head and a more critical eye. But, let’s be real – I’ll probably still fall for the next big thing.