The debate between high-end and budget beauty products has endured for generations of makeup users. The biggest struggle is deciding whether to splurge on high-end products, or skip the steep price tag and stick with drugstore products.

While some makeup users swear by designer beauty products, others claim there is no difference between a $40 moisturizer and one that costs $3. Neither claim is true, because it all depends on the product.

When it comes to high-end beauty products, there are some important characteristics that set them apart from the items at the drugstore. Of course, designer products boast their brand names and usually have higher quality packaging than budget products. Packaging shouldn’t be the only reason to splurge on products, but the quality of the product itself can vary by brand.

There are some significant differences in their chemical quality, though. The ingredients used in department store makeup are usually safer and contain less harsh chemicals such as talc, mica and parabens. This, however, depends on the product. Some department store products still contain their fair share of harsh chemicals. The other benefit of high-end products is they have lower water content and higher pigmentation, so the chemical saturation and color payoffs are higher.

Some products are best bought at budget prices. Makeup items such as mascara, eyeliner and nail polish have a shorter shelf life and similar ingredients, regardless of the brand. It is beneficial to buy them at budget prices, since you will need replacements often.

Foundation, eyeshadow and skincare products are worth the splurge. Face products such as foundation, bronzer and blush slowly settle into the skin during the day, so it is worth a few extra dollars to find products that do not contain harsh chemicals. Eyeshadow is another product high-end brands do well. The high pigmentation of designer eyeshadow leads to better color payoff that lasts longer. Skincare is an important part of maintaining beauty, so spending some extra money on quality products is recommended.

Over the years, drugstore brands have worked to improve their products to imitate the quality of their high-priced competitors. It is important to examine the product closely for harsh chemicals, regardless of whether you buy it from the drugstore or the department store.

While some people swear by their favorite drugstore products and others refuse to buy anything that doesn’t have a designer label, there is no better option. Rather than worrying about the price of the product, focus on the quality.

Alisa Smith is a sophomore communication and political science major from Arlington. She can be contacted at 335-1140 or by [email protected]. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the staff of The Daily Evergreen or those of The Office of Student Media.