Hair products worth the splurge (and the ones that aren’t)

We show you where to save, and when it's okay to spend big

Marie Claire Contributor / October 22 2018

When it comes to investing in beauty products, sometimes it’s hard to know whether you should spend a little extra than your budget allows, or to pick up the best bargain you can find. 

Occasionally, it pays in the long run to invest in those dearer products, and other times it’s totally okay to pick up that steal, but it’s not always clear which is which.

So here’s our helpful guide to help you sort the splurges from the big savings.

Save on… Hair accessories

With the number of bobby pins and hair ties that go missing on a daily basis, this is definitely one you don’t have to splash out on.

“These can be found for very little cost and something as simple as a ponytail cuff can sharpen your look,” asserts Keith Archer, owner of Strobic Hair+Makeup in Sydney.

Try Lady Jayne Metal Ponytail Semi Cuff

Splurge on … A professional hairdryer

When it comes to your hair’s health, you want to do all you can to maintain it, so investing in a hairdryer that features technologies that can help reduce damage can go a long way in achieving that.

We like Parlux 385 Power Light Ceramic & Ionic Dryer

Save on … Your hairbrush

Real talk: hair brushes should be replaced quite regularly – both for hygiene reasons, but also because an old brush that’s housing product build-up and old hair can cause damage to your locks.

“There are many options available that are cost-effective, which means you can replace them more regularly to limit hair breakage,” explains Archer.

Try The Wet Brush Detangling Hair Brush

Splurge on … A high-quality straightening iron

Just like with your hairdryer, you want your straightener to cause as little damage as possible when using it, so picking a tool with ceramic plates and ionic technology is the way to go.

“Opt for a tool where the temperature is regulated evenly through the plates – this prevents going over the same section of hair more than once, minimising damage,” points out Archer.

Try ghd platinum styler

Save on … A finishing product

Whether it’s a hairspray, texturiser or smoothing serum, you can find plenty of options that work brilliantly without breaking the bank.

“All hairsprays help control and hold the shape you have created, and an inexpensive product will still set your style,” remarks Archer.

Try L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Normal Strength Hairspray

Aimée is an established writer and editor with over ten years of experience working for some of the world’s leading print and digital titles. These include Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, New York Magazine and WWD.