Ahhh…it’s that time of year again: the Sephora sale (10/30-11/9)! Is it just me, or am I the only one who always feels ambushed every time the sale comes around? I mean, by now I should know when these sales occur throughout the year but I honestly don’t pay attention. So now that there is a sale upon us, how the heck do we take advantage of it? Here are my top three things to consider when it comes to the Sephora sale.

1. Staple Products

If you get some of your go-to items in your beauty and skincare routine from Sephora, well, this is the perfect time to stock up! It might seem so boring to only purchase items you know you love during the sale, but why the heck not? We’ll talk about using the sale to test out new products that might become future go-to’s in the next tip, but getting products you already know and love is such a great strategy.

For me, I plan on buying my favorite lip balm and my signature body spray. I already know I love these products, so I won’t be disappointed or feel like I wasted my money on products that will collect dust in the back of a bathroom drawer. You know the one.

So again, if you want the most bang for your buck, I’d highly suggest you use these sales as a time to stock up on your favs. Not an avid Sephora shopper like me? That’s okay! More than okay actually. Your wallet probably likes you more than mine likes me. Anyway, even if you don’t have any Sephora go-to’s you can always consider using my second strategy for the sale.

2. Specialty/Novelty Products

Another approach to the sale that I sometimes take—depending on the types of products that launch around that time—is to purchase specialty or novelty products. These are products that you have been curious to try and aren’t sure about. These can also be coveted items that you’ve had your eye on and they just happen to be part of the sale. Sometimes brands will be generous and launch products right before or during the sale. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does it just feels like the biggest blessing from the beauty gods.

What’s especially great about the holiday sale is: HOLIDAY SETS! I’ll write a whole blog about this soon, but many brands right now have curated sets of their best-selling products or even new products for the holidays. This is obviously great for gift-giving purposes, but it’s also a great way to test a lot of product out especially from a particular brand. You’ll really get the essence of the brand through these sets that’s for sure.

For me, I currently have a couple of holiday sets in my Sephora cart from Rare Beauty, Selena Gomez’s beauty brand. She has one set that features two matte cream lipsticks and another that features a liquid blush and a lip balm. These are the products from her line that I’m very curious about, so these sets would be the perfect way to get acquainted with her brand.

If my first two strategies haven’t convinced you to partake in the Sephora sale, then the next one is for you. And honestly, I could afford to take my own advice.

3. Financial Situation

Yes, it’s exciting that Sephora is having a sale because it doesn’t happen often. But, you really have to consider if it’s really worth it.

Unless you’re a Rouge status, you’ll only get either 10% or 15% off. Don’t get me wrong, any little bit helps, but you’re still spending money. If you have other financial priorities that you need to focus your attention on, you should try to avoid getting enticed by these types of sales.

The Sephora sale will always come around. I promise you that you won’t miss out on anything if you don’t buy something now. Don’t spend frivolously out of boredom. You’ve got bigger goals to achieve, my dear, and that eyeshadow palette isn’t going to bring you lasting happiness. Trust me.

I hope these tips helped you hone in on your priorities for this round of the Sephora sale! Comment below with how you approach these sales, what you plan to buy or if you’re going to skip it altogether.

-LM