Every since become natural I have been overwhelmed by the plethora of hair products. It seems as though every month a new product line comes out. Products to make your curls pop, shine, shake, and bounce. Then, there are the products that promise to repair and rejuvenate. With so many products to choose from what's a wide eyed natural to do?
If you are just transitioning or a long term natural, the lure to purchase the latest (and supposed) greatest is tempting. Whether you buy online or in the store, glitzy, styled advertising is waiting to get your hard earned buck. The worst part is when you're on a natural hair forum, YouTube, or hair site and someone does a product review praising how awesome the product is.
The downside of all this overhyped product persuasion is that often times people are spending money that could best be suited to do something else with. Now, before all the product junkies start rolling their necks and waving their Denman brushes in solidarity, please here me out. There is absolutely nothing wrong with treating yourself to a nice product or replenishing your product stash. But, when your savings account is low and you're bathroom cabinets are full, there is definitely something wrong.
How do you keep your sanity, dollars, and level head in a commercial society? There are several ways to be a diva on a budget and have fabulous hair, skin, and nails without breaking the bank.
#1. Shop ONLY when there are SIGNIFICANT discounts or sales. A measely 10% is not enough to get out your credit card to spend. Look for sales that give you the most "bang" for your buck. Bogos such as buy one get one free are awesome because they allow you to stock up at a deep discount.
#2. Shop only when you NEED to replenish a STAPLE product. So, your favorite conditioner has run out and it's time to restock. Now that's a need versus a want. Conditioner and stylers are really important to curlies. You don't want to be caught without it.
#3. Use special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, and even Valentine's Day to let loved ones know what you REALLY want. You know you'd rather have that hair product set over some cheesy gift you don't want. So, tactfully tell your significant other, family member, and friends or drop big hints about your product preferences.
#4. Hold product swap meet ups or get togethers. This allows you to meet, greet, socialize and obtain those cool products that you've been meaning to try. This is a cost effective and won't have your piggy bank emptied.
Curlies, what are some ways you fight product junkyism and save money?
There are product junkies and then, there are people who buy with a purpose. I don't condone hoarding products. I believe that is wasteful because those products are taking up space and money for no reason. I think you are buying with a purpose which means you're not just senselessly spending everytime you blink. Lol.. And with all the rave reviews on the BASK, I'm really tempted to try it.
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