It’s hard to go natural without wanting to try EVERYTHING on the market. From SheaMoisture, to Curls to Cantu…the choices seem endless and it can be maddening to a newbie. The term Product Junkie (we love Natural Hair Shopaholic better) is more than a fun way to describe your quest for the perfect product. It is a full-fledged entity all on its own and if not reigned in, it can break your natural hair bank!
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I was never a true product junkie but my sister is and for those of you who do not know what it is, a product junkie (PJ) is a natural who compulsively buys hair care products always in search of the newest and the best. They cannot pass up a new item from any line and surely go ‘all in’ on sales.
Being a natural hair PJ can be fun but also expensive and while you are on the quest for your Holy Grail, it can become too much. Most of us just stop when we find what works but a true PJ is always on the hunt. They can end up with countless bottles and jars of product just littering their bathroom and the money wasted can become a problem. Before this turns into a really bad or even ugly problem check out some ways you can become a smarter PJ.
Product Junkie Sign up for hair care beauty boxes
There are several out here now like ONYX, curlBOX and CurlKit just to name a few. This monthly subscription affords you new and exciting brands that arrive on your doorstep so you don’t even have to shop for them. They have samples but also offer full sizes in some items and with only low monthly price you don’t break the bank while you get your PJ fix on. Companies like Sephora and Ipsy have them too so don’t think you must limit yourself on who to buy. Also know that many offer full sizes of products so enjoy that as well!
Give yourself a budget and stick to it!
You know how you are so instead of trying to stifle your desire to being a PJ just reign it in a little. Assign a weekly or monthly budget that you are comfortable with go ham on new items without the guilt. This only works if you stick to you budgeted amount so stay firm about it and enjoy without breaking your bank. A beauty budget for a product junkie allows you to splurge while staying within the confines of your allotted amount. Makes sure to add in all your haircare bills including buying hair for weaves or braids and if you see the stylist.
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Swap out at Natural Hair Events
Many NH events have product swaps because there are thousands of PJ’s out here and have a stash they need to get rid of. Gently used products get swapped out and you get rid of what you don’t want and get to try something else for free. NH event are also great for having discounted or free products to to try and know they are a heaven for a real PJ to score. I know that this may be non-existent for a minute with the pandemic but they will be back before you know it.
Order samples
Many brands offer samples for free or a very low price. While the amount may be small this allows you to really keep the price down low while you try (at least once) some new items. I know that some brands may not mention they do this so hit them up personally and ask about it. If you have ordered from them before, they may be interested in working with you.
Take advantage of sales
Sales can be your saving grace as many brands offer them throughout the year. Retails stores do it too so if you can wait until the sales come around you at least will save a lot more and keep the price down. I follow sales often and also hit up several stores to see when they have sales and figure out the cycles. It takes a little bit of work but online is the easiest way to follow and find when and who is having BOGOs, clearance or promotional sales.
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Being a PJ is almost expected when first going natural. It comes with the territory as you must deal with trial and error to find what products work with your hair. Just be smart about it and it will stay good and far from being ugly.
Are you a HNH?
Sabrina
Good ideas