Luxe for less You don't have to spend a fortune to look good. Some bargain beauty products can be as effective as their upmarket versions. We compare some of the best products from pharmacies and supermarkets with their department store equivalents.
SAVE Bio-Oil, Dh70 (Boots). Life-changing. Bio-Oil has gained cult status for its abilities to improve skin elasticity, prevent stretch marks and reduce the formation of scar tissue. Also use on cuticles to strengthen nails.
SPLURGE Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil Blend, Dh225 (Bloomingdale's and Debenhams). Made famous by Victoria Beckham, who said she used this "miracle" oil throughout her four pregnancies. It sinks in quickly and nourishes all skin conditions and helps prevent stretch marks.
SAVE La Roche-Posay Nutritic Lips, Dh49 (available in all leading pharmacies). One of the best lip balms we've found. Lasts for hours, cures even severely peeling lips and gives them a soft shine.
SPLURGE Jo Malone Vitamin E lip conditioner SPF 15 Dh150 (available at Jo Malone stores). A real indulgence. Drench your lips in this buttery vitamin E lip conditioner to help guard against the damaging effects of the environment.
SAVE No.7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum, Dh135 (Boots). This beauty serum is still a hot favourite. A lightweight, silky gel that helps reduce the appearance of open pores and wrinkles.
SPLURGE Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells, Dh670 (available across all Lancôme counters across the UAE). Fans claim it works on fine lines practically overnight. Active ingredients keep the skin supple and glowing.
SAVE Nivea Q10 Firming Lotion, Dh29 (available in all leading supermarkets and pharmacies). A top-quality product that is affordably priced, leaving skin glossy and lightly scented. Converts say that smoother results can be seen in less than a month.
SPLURGE Clarins Extra Firming Body Lotion, Dh275 (available across all Clarins counters across the UAE). A refreshing lotion with a blend of lemon, thyme and bocoa extracts. Regular use helps improve skin's natural elasticity for a sleeker, firmer silhouette.
SAVE L'Oreal Elnett Hairspray, Dh28.50 (available in all leading supermarkets and pharmacies). For the past 51 years, this has been loved by the fashion and beauty industry and all who try it. Weightless and unsticky with great staying power.
SPLURGE label.m Hairspray, Dh72 (Toni&Guy). Contains pro-vitamin B5 to protect, hold and gloss. It guards against harmful UV light and is excellent for reapplication without causing build-up.