We’ve all been there: investing in a full-size makeup product based on rave reviews or slick advertising, only to discover it’s not quite the right shade or finish for us. If you’re tired of wasting money and adding to your collection of barely-used cosmetics, you’re not alone.
The ‘try before you buy‘ model is making waves in the beauty industry, especially on Instagram. So I took the liberty to make a list of four stores that will let you sample mini versions of hot products before you splurge on the full-sized version.
Beauty Store India
Beauty Store India is an Instagram page based in Mumbai that offers a variety of luxury products in miniature sizes so you can get a look and feel of the makeup/skincare before you decide to invest in it. They’ve been around for quite a few years now and source all their products from Sephora, and even go so far as to ship a bill with each order.
Smytten
Swagata Sarangi and Siddhartha Nangia started Smytten in November 2015 with the idea of solving all the problems that existed in the area of product trials in India. Currently, they offer 500+ Indian and international brands that you can choose from for product trials!
Limese Connect
This is a good place to start if you’re looking for minis of Korean/Japenese skincare products as well as luxury products. With a whole page dedicated to minis and travel kits, each of their products comes from a handpicked collection curated by their founder—Dale Han.
Beauty Nation
Keeping up with contemporary beauty trends, Beauty Nation now showcases mini versions of makeup on their IG stories, offering followers a taste of luxury before making a full commitment. Pick from luxurious brands like Laura Mercier to Victoria’s Secret at 1/4th the price and 100% of the quality.
Additionally, while it isn’t an Instagram store, even MyGlamm now offers a ‘Try Before You Buy’ offer where you can pick products ranging from lipsticks to serums and even blushes, for just Rs. 1. This way you won’t be wasting your hard earned bucks and get to try a whole new range of makeup and skincare! Check it out here.
Whether it’s a lipstick shade you’re on the fence about, or a serum you’ve been eyeing for months, the ‘try before you buy’ model ensures you’re investing both your heart and money wisely. So next time you’re contemplating a beauty purchase, remember to take the mini-route. Happy sampling!
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