Cosmetics

Posted by sparr921 (493 days ago)

Hi, Can anyone please tell me if make up is cheaper in the US than in Beijing?

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Posted by ukexpat (491 days ago)

If you buy the well known brand it is much more expensive here. In fact even London is cheaper than here. Plus the sales assistants drive you mad, they wont leave you alone and if you ask a question they dont, or even try to,understand a word you say. Plus some of them are very rude. I always use Sephora in China World at least they let you look.

Posted by sparr921 (491 days ago)

Ukexpat, thanks for your input. Sounds like I need to stock up on a few things before we move.

Posted by lovemy2children2000 (485 days ago)

Cosmetics are very expensive here compared to U.S., so stock up as much as you need. Our simple Mabelline or Olay is a luxury here. I just purchased a bar of Clinique soap in Beijing and paid more than double for what I would have in North America. Plus their bonus gift packs which we used to get on promo are not free here - they cost an arm and a leg!!

Posted by sparr921 (485 days ago)

Do you think it's expensive bc it's an American product? I use Sheseido...do you think it will be the same price over there?

Posted by Jace (484 days ago)

Sheseido is expensive than US as well. China gov. charge 3 times' duty for inbound cosmetics.

Posted by ukexpat (481 days ago)

I dont think it is quite as bad as that. Yes cosmetics are more expensive and you should buy some before you leave but you dont have to buy a whole assignment supply. In fact I have just bought some that was the same price as the US. But it is true about bonus gift packs they are a no no here

Posted by helinski (476 days ago)

I also find that the stuff you buy in China (and Bangkok) is different to what you'd get back home (I'm from Australia)... eg I bought a Clinique moisturiser here and it's much thinner than the ones I used to buy in Melbourne.