Always at the butt of, “If you stop buying coffee, maybe you can invest in real estate,” Generation Z is infamously the generation with the least amount of money and the most choices to spend it on.
My question is when it comes to the millions of products and treatments in the beauty industry, where do you draw the line between investment vs. indulgence? This is why today I want to talk (read: vent) about a few very specific trends in the beauty industry that we’re all spending on, and if they’re worth it.
The Hullabaloo About Hemp
One thing I’ve been seeing everywhere – online and offline, is the rise of hemp-based products. Now the stuff used in these products is CBD (does not have psychoactive effects) which is different from THC (has psychoactive effects & commonly used in pain relief). In this sense, these hemp products don’t get you high.
Hemp is known to moisturise the skin without clogging the pores, soothes eczema and has anti-inflammatory properties. But then, so many other skincare ingredients offer the same, so really, what’s the hullabaloo about?
Multi-Step Shower Routines
Remember when showering was all about one Dettol soap and a cold, crisp bucket of water fresh from the tap? I don’t. It’s been a while since I’ve even used a bar of soap and I’m pretty sure you can say the same. This is one of the things I’ve noticed about my friends also, especially if we’re sharing the same bathroom for a few days – everyone has extravagant shower routines and almost none of our products are the same.
Honestly, seems a little futile to spend so much money on a sea-scented shower gel and a three-step curly girl shower routine. But then again, the joy of opening a fresh new bath salt is unmatched.
Kitschy Packaging But Average Products
I’ll be honest, I don’t love that newest 3-in-1 multifunctional primer with a keychain that opens up to become an eyeshadow palette. But these products sell because this generation (my generation) loves buying products that are well…different.
Beauty Tech As Opposed To Skincare Tech
Here’s the thing, I get the hype when it comes to skincare tech. Laser masks, oxygen chambers, etc. all of these work to improve your overall health and wellness. But tech like a lipstick maker, or the 24k gold laser therapy bar seem to be trend-based purchases that are more of an indulgence definitely, than an investment.
While digital aisles continue with their offerings, it might be time to switch to conscious consumption. Every purchase ought to echo a thoughtful choice, not a fleeting trend or timepass aesthetic.
Ultimately, the balance between mindful consumption and occasional indulgence is, of course, your personal choice.
Featured Images: Instagram & Pexels
