Beauty Diary: 5 amazing Chemist Warehouse products
A popular Australian retailer has a “seriously top tier” version of an expensive skincare product on its shelves for just $12 that is “fantastic”.
Skincare experts will always tell you, the one place to invest is in products containing active ingredients.
But in this economy, most of us can’t afford to pay our rent, let alone splurge on an expensive face mask.
Amid the cost of living crisis, the beauty industry is now taking a hit, as Australians who usually spend around $431 each month on treatments and haircare cut back on purchases.
This means those fancy serums and moisturisers with hefty price tags are no longer feasible for the majority.
Luckily for us beauty junkies, there’s no better place to snag affordable skincare and make-up than at Chemist Warehouse, which stocks hundreds of products on its iconic blue and yellow shelves – including popular “dupes”.
Sure, they might not come in swanky glass bottles, but there are some real diamonds out there that work just as well as the expensive versions – so I’ve rounded up some of the best budget beauty buys on the market.
The products mentioned below are seriously top tier, in fact, they’re so fantastic you won’t be able to tell the results apart from the bougie brands.
Swisse Skincare Glycolic Acid 8% Brightening Gel Cleanser
Price: $11.99
Nothing screams expensive more than a potent chemical exfoliant, but this baby packs a punch without making a dent in your wallet.
Honestly, I’m not sure how the Aussie retailer can sell such a powerful product for less than twelve bucks, as other brands with a similar percentage of Glycolic Acid formulas are going for as high as $150. But somehow Chemist Warehouse can manage it, and boy are we grateful.
This will remove your pesky dead skill cells with ease and leave your freshly buffed skin looking instantly brighter. It’s honestly amazing.
The first time I used it, my face actually tingled because it’s so strong, so if you have sensitive skin go easy on it. Definitely not a product you should be using every day when first introducing to your routine.
But trust me, you’re going to love it
Revlon Colorstay Flex Wear Full Cover Concealer
Price: $15.99
I’ve raved about the ColorStay products in this column before – and now there’s a new addition to the popular Revlon line.
I’ve only had this a few weeks and I’m already obsessed with it. The coverage is buildable while the formula is creamy and easy to blend, it even applies easily with your fingers.
This also covered my redness and blemishes well – so is a great all rounder for a banger of a price.
Sunsense Lip Balm spf 50+
Price: $5.49
As we move into summer, a lip balm that contains SPF 50+ is an essential in my opinion. I love this one because it contains vitamin E and cocoa butter which are proven to moisturise skin – it’s also fragrance free and isn’t sticky which is always a win.
Always use as directed and reapply regularly when in the sun.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Water
Price: $22.99
Bioderma were the brand that created micellar water, so it should come as no surprise that it is the best – but did you know you could pick up a bottle at CW? You do now.
The iconic product removes eye makeup and sunscreen, dirt, oil effortlessly and without irritation. It doesn’t strip skin, it just leaves it fresh and clean. In fact, it was actually created for sensitive skin, so even those with the fussiest of faces often find this gentle enough for them.
Some reviews online state it “struggles with waterproof makeup” but I’ve honestly had no issues. Mine has just glided off with a doused reusable cotton pad. It’s the GOAT.
Bondi Sands Self Tan Drops
Price: $8.79
The warmer weather is upon us, but on those days when you don’t have time for a full fake tanning session, this is what you need.
You simply and three or four drops to my moisturiser and apply before bed and wake up with a gorgeous glow.
More Coverage
There are two different shades available, but I prefer the lighter ones, as it gives a more natural finish on my complexion. However there is also a darker variation for those with deeper hues.
It’s the perfect product for those who are time (and financially) poor which is just about everyone these days.
If you have a question about a beauty product or an item you’d like to see road-tested in The Beauty Diary, jump into our official Facebook group where you can join like-minded beauty junkies. You can also catch me on Instagram.