As a black woman I really appreciate the existence of dupes within the beauty community because that has many times been the only way I was able to experience certain types of products because the original shade range didn't cater to all skin tones or its a product duping something from a company that I can't see myself giving money to because of their lack of inclusivity. For example it took hourglass years to come out with a palette of ambient lighting powders for darker skin and because of that I won't be buying the one that they did eventually create and as much as their scattered lights eye products appeal to me I'm going to stick to the dupes of those over purchasing theirs and further funding their company.
And honestly I do think that what people aren't realizing too with the lack of range for black women in general is that it's a privileged take to turn their noses up at the idea of a "dupe". Just this year HG released their holiday blush palettes, but still wasn't deep enough to cater for darker skin tones. I also believe that as technology improves, it's becoming to justify the increasing prices.
I’ve decided that if I really want an expensive product, I should just save and buy it. By the time I’ve bought 2-3 cheaper products trying to “dupe” it, I may as well have bought the one I really wanted. And most of the time I end up buying the more expensive product after buying all the dupes anyway 😂
Exactly. I’ve fallen in love with lots of drugstore makeup, but never when I’m comparing it to something I really want. I’ve spent so much money trying to find something that works. And with an olive skin tone, color cosmetics without trying them at the drugstore leads to a lot of disappointment when shades don’t look right and I couldn’t try them before hand!
Kat: It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
Dupes haven’t really worked consistently well for me. I prefer to buy fewer products but truly good quality. I have especially been disappointed in the few eyeshadow palettes that duplicate a color story but for me don’t really wear as well. I also don’t buy into ethics violations and shaming in the rhetoric around dupes. My God, who needs more of that!
I think I am subconsciously a snob because I'm not even satisfied when I get a "dupe". I still end up looking at and sometimes buying the more expensive product. The better quality and packaging gets me, so I now end up skipping on "dupes".
I use make up very sparingly, I’m ain’t UA-camr or makeup artist. I like buying higher end products for the ease of working with them, they of course do not have 100% guarantee to work on you, but probability is higher than with “dupes” in my experience. I would rather have one pallet that is easy to work with on daily basis, rather than having even two of color pop palette and spend more time on blending shadows longer. I like how they save me time. I don’t mind paying a bit more, but have a higher guarantee that product will save me a lot of time on make up. Especially powders since they last forever. If drugstore becomes more full proof, I won’t mind buying more of it. But also take it with a grain of salt, that where I live drugstore make up choice is not as good as it is in USA. We don’t even have elf in stores to test. But skincare, Asian brands and drugstore are the best, I don’t wanna overpay for over-marketed glycerin like lamere or such
It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
@@violetviolet888 they are very useful, although their dupe base could be a bit misleading. It is more of alternatives than dupes in my experience, especially in shadows. I learned it a hard way 😅
I'm 51, and I've gone full circle now lol, let me explain. So back when I was a teen (80s) there was a no return policy on make-up, you buy it, for better or worse, it was yours. I could probably buy a house with the money I spent on lipstick and foundations alone, all in pursuit of the right fit. Back then, not only were there little to no shades for darker skinned folks, there weren't for us fair skinned ones either. The only way I could balance out the orange was to use Coty Airspun powder to counter it a bit. Fast-forward to mid 2000s. All of a sudden there were real, every day, average ladies trying the products for us! It was amazing! I saved a lot of money. Then the beauty guru, unbeknownst to us, was bought by morphe and other companies. I definitely lost some money by believing the wrong ones during that era lol. Then the drama community was born, and our eyes were opened to who was shilling, and who was more trustworthy, and we started saving money again. Then came the dupes. At first, it was amazing! Almost as cool as when the first ladies of UA-cam makeup came on the scene! And because capitalism, dupe videos slowly became more about making money than helping your fellow consumer save some dough. I really noticed it when a UA-camr I used to trust more than most, became dupe happy. If the colour/shade was remotely close, or the packaging looked very similar, it was in a dupe video. That brings us to the present, which is to say, kind of back to the start. I find myself wasting money on so many dupes, I could've just saved up and bought the real deal. I must say tho, your channel has been one of the most comprehensive, trustworthy "dupe" or "where we should probably save our coins, or where we'll probably be darn happy to spend the extra on a high-end product" channels on UA-cam! I really enjoyed this video! Also, I said "ladies" because that's mostly who was doing makeup videos back then. I very much enjoy many of the she, he, and they channels that are around today!
I own 2 minis and the full size Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter and liked it. I bought Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter because I heard it’s a Dupe. Guess what, I totally prefer The Elf product! It is my go to product now while CT sits on my shelf.
@@ElshiBumcfksz I don't have both, but in comparison videos the elf seems to have more coverage (though still light), maybe even a bit blurring (though maybe CT does the same). I think elf may be slightly less reflective, because it seems easier to wear alone than CT in comparison videos.
As a former shopping addict, there is something so alluring about hunting for dupes. Often, we are spending more money trying to find an alternative than getting the thing itself. I suspect the process of researching, buying , evaluating is the main reason why 'duping' became a trend. Saving money is secondary. That said, 'cheaper' dupes are great when trying a new trend or product that I know I won't use often.
Micave: It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
I have a complicated relationship with dupes because I’m a speculative fiction writer, feminist scholar, and was also a teacher-on one hand, even Shakespeare was a dupe for Ovid, you know? I have to keep that in mind to even be able to write anything or else I will be drowned in the ocean of artistic imposter syndrome-and that little bit of knowledge has helped my students in the past as well. On the other hand, as a creative person, my heart hurts for people/brands when their product is duped because I over empathize as someone who has had their work stolen or people copied my speculative fiction workshop business. TL;DR I LOVE THIS TOPIC. I love that you did it. And yeah, I never blame the consumer either. I wish the mentality was more collaboration than competition: what if ELF and Charlotte Tilbury collabed on an affordable version of the Hollywood Flawless Filter, you know? Unfortunately, operating from a mindset of abundance (there’s room for everyone! Let’s share ideas and success!) instead of a mindset of scarcity (stealing and duping and backstabbing-in my case) has not… actually… gotten me anywhere. And I started to wonder over the last couple years if there’s a healthy balance of the two mindsets. I don’t know the answer to that, though.
I like the way you discuss similar products or “dupes”. I have sensitive skin and multiple allergies so sometimes I’m looking for a similar product with a different ingredient list. Personally, I really appreciate when nuance is included in the discussion so I know how the shade or formula varies to judge if it’s still a product of interest even if it has a good ingredient list for me.
While yes, it maybe seems unethical to be “copying” a product, it is normal and accepted in business to copy a practice with the intent of improving said practice. So, a drugstore brand “copying” a high end brand, but making it more affordable to the consumer, is not unethical. They are improving the product by making it at a lower cost, or even selling it with a smaller margin. I love every part of this video-too many influencers I follow have been suggesting that the consumer is unethical if they buy a dupe… no (which you mention). One side effect of a free-enterprise economy is that the player with the most resources wins the market share. Whether you view that as a positive or negative thing depends on your economic/political beliefs! 😁
Not only that… I find what’s more unethical is them charging huge money for an eyeshadow that costs pennies to make. I understand that formulation and promotion cost, but these 58 dollar quads (looking at you Charlotte & Tom!) are fecking absurd.
I completely agree with everything you said!!! 👌 I also wanted to note how wasteful it is when a brand "dupes" something but it's such bad quality that you just don't even use it. We're happy to waste our money on something cheaper if we don't like it, but this mass consumerism just means that we're wasting the world's resources on something that will literally be rubbish. It's like fast fashion but for cosmetics. Having said that, obviously if it's a good product at a lower price I'm happy because it's accessible to me! Or if I find a dupe for something I can't get in Australia.
I know not a lot of people have tons of money to spend on makeup, especially high end makeup so I like that there are some drugstore alternatives that are similar enough. Maybe not as long wearing or not the exact shade, but good enough for most people. The few times I’ve tried the dupe to a popular high end makeup item, I’ve been disappointed. I try to use a mix of high end and drugstore products, but sometimes if I really want a high end item, I will save my money and buy it. Within reason of course. I’m sure a $100+ foundation is beautiful, but I can’t bring myself to spend that much, but hey that’s just me. Lately I’ve been more annoyed because I’ve bought a few products (high end) that were so hyped up by so many people and said to be amazing and when I tried them I was just meh about them. Thanks for this video, Amanda. Love from Florida 💕💕
Personally I look for dupes because I might not want to support a brand directly, and would prefer to buy a "dupe" that might scratch my itch for that product and help me stop obsessing over it. There's obviously also the aspect of makeup being generally overpriced, especially with high end brands. There are brands who have made it their specialty to dupe high end brands, and while they might not always hit the mark, they are genuinely good products that you can use without having the mindset of wanting to dupe something. Personally I'm all for sticking it to high end and luxury brands, because they often manufacture in China, and they end up having ridiculous margins. And in this economy, I don't think we can continue spending a huge chunck of money on things that aren't essential. Food, medication, etc are essentials. Makeup just isn't. It's also a finite resource, mica mining is one of the leading causes of pollution in the world, not to mention that slave child labour is also used to mine mica. I do think that buying dupes in excessive quantities isn't healthy, but neither is my collecting of indie eyeshadow singles for example. At the end of the day, it's wasteful.
It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
I second this. There have been a few times I search for something specific and it doesn't yield any hits but more often than not her swatch library leads me to something super similar. It's a great resource.
I don't consume a lot of dupes content. But I really appreciate product comparisons, especially if I can't swatch (all of) them in person. Ultimately, if I'm considering a specific shade or formula I want to go for the version that's best for my preferences and a nuanced comparison helps me to determine that.
Not only will L'Oreal dupe itself, but of course they own drugstore brands as well as their luxury brands. L'Oreal itself has a couple of things that are more or less the same within their range as some products from Lancome or YSL, for example liquid liner or mascara. I worked as a freelancer for their brands so I have seen some very interesting "coincidences"
My issue with some “dupes” videos is that the content creator generally only compares the product to the shade/color they use. There are many “dupe” complexion products that don’t cater for darker/deeper skin tones and vice versa.
Eta: I really appreciate you speaking out about not blaming/shaming consumers - like you said, we are all victims of capitalism and just doing our best! As someone who often has to look for a "dupe" due to financial limits, it is SO frustrating to see how many absolutely crappy products get called "dupes" just bc of the packaging or something dumb like that (I do look forward to the day I can invest in all high-end, well performing products, but right now that's not in my cards). The value of the word is just gone, similar to the word "minimalist". I have much better luck just looking for the more affordable products that YTers I trust recommend because they stand out on their own, not because they're similar to something more expensive.
I personally don't try to dupe anymore, I just buy the products I am interested in and what is accessible to me, and since I'm not a huge fan of high-end and luxury brands, I often just buy k-beauty or drugstore priced items (like elf, kiko, maybelline...). But I can't lie, I like when drugstore brands try to dupe things because they come up with amazing products like the halo glow from elf, I didn't buy it because it was a dupe from the CT but because a lot of people loved it and I wanted to try it for myself, and now it's a must have in my makeup routine! I just feel like now affordable brands have amazing formulas so I just don't see the reason why I should invest in more expensive products.
This video is so important! Comparison is the thief of joy. I try to consciously consume and enjoy my products because I enjoy them, not because the internet said it was just as good as something else
Thanks so much for addressing this. I have stopped watching dupe videos because they feel really artificial. I find they have been worse as of late. When I first watched them, content creators did research, tested for a good amount of time, compared ingredients, looked at wear time, etc. With all that information, I think it's more reliable when they come to a decision as to whether it is a dupe or not. Now when I watch the same creators and others, it seems like they just throw things on for the first time and are like omg, it's a dupe! Or they just use dupes they have seen on Tik Tok and don't really test it themselves. I get that creators, particularly in the beauty community, are struggling to increase views but I would rather watch someone like you really tell us a lot about the product, the pros and cons, and tell us the straight up truth about these supposed 'dupes'. I would rather buy quality products that support BIPOC owned companies that cost a bit more than the drugstore than continually buy 'dupe' products that continue to disappoint over and over. I have wasted too much money at the drugstore and I'm done. I will only buy something if you and some other trusted influencers all consistently advocate for a particular product and it's performance.
Right? There are some creators whose dupe videos are just the packaging and general outer appearance look alike. I've seen dupes featured and the creator has just looked at it and maybe swatched it. They haven't even done a wear test. There are definitely creators who are thorough and thoughtful, and give details about what they mean by dupe in each product; same shade? Formula? Do they wear the same? If not that's OK, but say so. In other words, basically what you just said. 😉
I ended up spending over $100 at shopmiss A on 100 questionable beauty products because they were $1 each. Although there were a few good finds, most of them sucked and I ended up decluttering all of it eventually. Could’ve just bought a few actual good quality high end products that would stand the test of time. Lesson learned the hard way
I appreciate content creators who do a thorough review of products and their potential dupes and specify how the formulas differ. I try dupes for various reasons. Sometimes I want a dupe for the formula and sometimes for the color. Dupes are especially important for discontinued products that I love and want to replace. If a brand has questionable business practices, I will look for dupes. I won't buy certain brands like Chanel because I hate the fragrance they put in their makeup and skincare, so I'll look for dupes.
Great video-thank you, Amanda! The only dupes I go out of my way to seek out are cruelty-free dupes, but otherwise I just buy the “best” version of what I want/need.
My issue is when creators make big claims about products being dupes. They are simply similar, but not dupes. Jessica Braun loves comparing the No. 7 powder to the trendy setting powder. It used to be duped with the Charlotte Tilbury setting powder. Now she dupes it to the Kosas powder. That No. 7 powder must be a magical product.
@@stephfoshoworld I agree with you. I bought the No. 7 powder and gave it away. I plan on trying the Kosas powder as soon as I finish my LYS setting powder.
Yes, the term "dupe" is thrown around a lot but if we're being honest with ourselves there aren't many REAL dupes out there with the exact same ingredients. Dupes have been around for years on UA-cam and on beauty blogs before that. I think by now, most people understand that when an influencer is talking about dupes, they're really talking about affordable alternatives and nothing more.
I think the only time i look for dupes are for lipsticks bc some colors get discontinued and it’s sooo hard trying to find the right shade/formulation. I’m also cruelty free now, but ughhh non-cruelty lipsticks are so good.
I loved this video! Anytime you have thoughts about topics in the beauty community and want to make a video like this…I am here for it! I have very complicated feelings about dupes, too. I loved your stance on but shaming the consumer. We are all just trying to do the best we can! ❤
On brand innovation: that's what I've been saying about elf! It'd be awesome to see them develop excellent unique products, instead of just duping those that are already successful. I still enjoy the brand as it's affordable. But there's sooo much potential there...
Great discussion! Love it! I agree about not judging others about purchasing items. We are all just trying our best in many aspects of our lives. I have yet to find an affordable product that is a dupe for an expensive one and tire of that search. I’m going to attempt the less is more approach and purchase only what I need. If what I need happens to be a really excellent but expensive product that will last a long time, so be it.
I’ve learned to buy what I like, based on recommendations from some, but I can’t afford to be that concerned about “the next big thing.” I’m old enough to have seen the improvement in drugstore makeup, and see no need to spend more than necessary, dupe or not.
Love what you're saying! I have wasted so much money trying to find cheaper products, but then I'm not happy with them so in the end I don't use them all. I am usually happy with drugstore foundation and blush, but lately I've been buying pricier lipsticks, and I might splurge on a better mascara in the hope that it won't smudge underneath my oily eyes. I do like honest reviews on which products I should consider trying so I don't wind up wasting my resources.
Haven't watched the whole video yet. But just from the brief description at the beginning, I'm going to love this! My main goal when it comes to skincare, make-up, & hair: to find the most effective & affordable products to create a financially sustainable routine that produces the best results. I've been duped so many times 😓 So much time & money wasted! Partially because I was too lazy at the time to do my own research & wanted creators & companies to do it 4 me 😅 I've gotten better 👍🏾
Hi Amanda, this is probably one of the most well thought out takes I’ve seen here on UA-cam about dupes. I particularly like economic theory lens of looking at dupes. Given that, I’m going to suggest the word Substitutions instead of dupes. As someone who sought out dupes when getting into makeup later in life (my fifties), I completely understand the argument of buying a cheaper version to test out a particular color story or product that you aren’t sure you’ll like. Sometimes you will move on to the better (not necessarily higher priced) product and sometimes you are fine at the drugstore level. I definitely have different price points for different products and you learn that through your own time and experience. Comparison videos like yours are useful to make less decisions I’ll regret so I really do appreciate them. As you state, it’s unfair to blame the consumer for which substitutions are worth it to them and which ones they aren’t willing or even need to make. Thanks for the food for thought. 👍
I appreciate when creators explain that there is a difference between the hi end and the alternative product. There have been many products that I have purchased that someone said was similar, but perhaps better in some way. I can't always afford the hi end product but would still like a similar affect. Some products just haven't been "duped" yet and I will splurge if I can because I want the claims the hi end product makes.
Those NYX microbrow pencils are so good! I have 2 shades - Taupe and Chocolate brown, and they are pretty much the only products i use in my brows. Occasionally when I'm feeling lazy i'll use the NYX brow mascara. There are certain products i'll go high end for every time (eyeshadow), because the quality is just so much better, but everything else i've pretty much figured out works just as well as high end. Lipsticks for one, and blush. Even highlighter when you find one that's not a glittery mess. Some of my favourite cream blushes are drugstore (flower beauty). Foundation I tend to go more high end because they've got a better shade range (usually). Otherwise, the quality of products is definitely improving from the ground up.
I’m not a big fan of dupes. I’m entering an era of being more selective so I can save money and get the item I want. I’ve tried dupes in the past and have been underwhelmed. In makeup I give up however I have been lucky with high end fragrance dupes.
With makeup I feel you! The perfect red lip for me was an imported lipstick (I'm brazilian) here it's easily 6× the price in the US. But I gotta be honest, the R$ 150,00 reais option might be the best shade and formula I've used in my life, low and high end. I never thought I'd be this person but expensive fragrances for perfume I've felt a huge difference from manufacturer to manufacturer, sometimes the same price and similar fragrance but the quality it's astronomically different
The only dupes to which I grant credence are the ones listed on Temptalia because it includes how close they are to any other given item (usually per color) and it also includes how they’re different (e.g. glossier, more muted, better quality, lighter, etc). Christine’s dupe database lends itself to digging deeper. That said, GREAT video, Amanda! The content was a joy to follow and the visuals prove you can multi-task better than most people. I admire this video (and you) so much. 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
Great discussion! This video made me like you even more. Im currently homeless and my friend is letting me stay in their office space (I know you can't tell from my videos because I'm doing the best I can to maintain my self image and literal cleanliness etc but I'm really struggling and don't know where I'm going to be in March, it's hard to figure things out in homelessness and no family support at all) anyway I just want to say thank you for mentioning the fact that people should not be shamed for buying and consuming affordable products that are accessible. It's a hard balance to keep because I prefer higher end products (they tend to perform better!!!) but if something works and it's cheap I will buy it!
The main struggle I have with dupes or other drugstore purchases is that if anything, but especially color cosmetics don’t work it’s so much harder to return, and you can’t try things on in store. If I’m looking for a lipstick that flatters me (& I’m picky) I’ll always want to start at the drugstore because of the price point & bc the formulas are getting much better over time. However, I might have to buy 2 or 3 drugstore lipsticks before or if I find one I like. At that point with all the waste, both physical and $$$ wise, I tend to start with higher end that I can try on and test before I buy.
As someone who doesnt have a lot of money I prefer to buy things because i am attracted to the product itself not because it looking to have something i cant afford. There are many things i cant afford that i want but thats how the cookie crumbles.
Gosh, I feel so similarly to you! I was introduced to 'dupe culture' about 13 years ago, when I first started watching beauty content on YT. Living in as a student in Aus, particularly back then, meant that most products were impossible for me to source and I would be hanging on the words of these girls when they mentioned a 'dupe'. I would say most of the time I was disappointed, as either the shade or formula just didn't live up to expectations. Later when I could directly compare products I would be equally frustrated and felt lied to. I feel that the word 'dupe' shouldn't be used anymore, but I also now adjust my expectations as you said. Also in the search for a cheaper option, you'll often end up spending so much more finding a product thatyou actually want to use, and perhaps that part of the trials and tribulations of a makeup wearer! For me now I'm interested more in being given options when looking for a particular vibe. E.g. the tint of Black Honey, or a more natural glossy highlighter look that CT Hollywood Flawless Filter gives. Cause maybe the original doesn't quite live up to the hype in my mind anyway and the alternative 'dupe' might just be what we're after all along!
I always buy affordable, I use ELF and NYX. The only prestige makeup I was ever into was KVD, but that's long over. If something is a dupe, I wouldn't know, because I don't follow big brands.
Something that irritates me in the small handmade indiebrand world is people making the bold claim that something is an "EXACT" dupe. When you're talking about products that are quite pricey (a single eyeshadow for $15-25 for instance) & saying that another equally priced item is a dupe so that people won't accidentally purchase it, fine. That's actually something I find extremely helpful as someone with a burgeoning single shadow collection. Exact dupes are rare & dupes in general can be subjective. Are we talking color? Formula? Pigmentation? Quality? For everything to line up perfectly would be exceptionally rare. That said, I do enjoy watching content surrounding "finding dupes at the drugstore" but I always, always take it with a large chunk of salt. I spent a year trying to dupe the colourpop brow pencils because they're incredible (the thin one in the white plastic tube) but fell short repeatedly. In the end I ended up spending so much money & it was ridiculous. All because I didn't want to support cp. I eventually broke down & decided I will make the brow pencil purchase once a year (I pick up 4-5 at a time) & avoid falling into the trap of buying anything else from them. 🙃 Wow I had a lot to say..
I'm also not a big fan of dupe culture. Sometimes I feel the culture of collecting multiple versions of a similar makeup product, known as "duping," can contribute to overconsumption. This is because people may feel the need to buy multiple versions of a product they already own in order to try out different formulations or packaging. This can lead to unnecessary waste and excess spending instead of saving money.
Love this. All very true. I used to waste so much money trying to dupe, when I should've just invested in the true product. I'm glad I've realized it now.
One of the biggest dupe scams out there (to me) is alter ego eyeshadow pallets. You can’t dupe the Natasha Denona or Pat McGrath formulas, no matter how much influencers claim it’s the “same.”
If I could, i would give this video 1000 thumbs up. Very well presented the subject and i totally agree with you. One of the reasons i follow you, regards the formula performance/experience you crave for. We need more content creators like you. Xx
At this economic juncture, especially in Canada, it is almost better to add 5 or 10 bucks and get the high end product. I'm not saying luxury, that's a category all on it's own. But, a lot of high end products are not much more expensive than drug store anymore. Unless you wait for the drug store product to be on sale, the savings are really not worth it for me. I am guilty of having bought "dupes" from brands that specialize in those, but I have learned. Even elf is no longer economical. What is the world coming to. Thank you for this. 😘💖😘💖😘💖😘💖😘💖
i enjoy watching dupes videos from my favorite creators, but this perspective helped me realize that i just love that excitement of finding a “hidden deal” rather than actually finding a cheaper duplicate of a popular product. sometimes the hype of a dupe will get me excited to try a product that didn’t even interest me in the first place 🤦🏻♀️ not the thoughtful shopping habits i’m trying to promote here. patron saint HLP would be disappointed 😔
I'm 21, a college student, and own a small handful of high end products. I in no way can typically afford high end products so the few I own are special. I personally love drugstore makeup and spend a lot of time following the beauty community so I can find the absolute gems I can afford! I have RARELY ever been let down by dupe products. I think alternative is a better term because I don't need an identical copy to get the same effect as quality/trending high end product s
This was a great video Amanda! You brought up a lot of important points. Personally, I prefer calling them alternatives, I feel that it's more honest. "Dupe" creates too much expectation, and I've been disappointed many times. Not because the more affordable product was bad, but just because my expectations were too high/not accurate. Also, even if a cheaper product is exactly the same in formula, the experience of using it may not be. If the experience of using a more expensive item is important to someone, more affordable "dupes" likely won't feel satisfying anyway.
Sooo many dupe recommendations only consider the colors, not the formulations. The indie brand discourse can be weird. Those brands are either sourcing from the same manufacturers as everyone else (which makes the branding difference irrelevant to the consumer) or they’re trying to press shadows at home in unsanitary environments, sometimes with pets in the room (even pet lovers probably don’t want that in an eye product). Plus the indie pre-order model is kinda gross for a lot of reasons.
Great video i use to blow money buying dupe after dupe bc i didn’t want to spend a fortune on the luxury version and didn’t like the dupes anyway …..now i just buy the luxury one if i REALLY want it bc i was spending so much more and throwing or giving stuff away. i still watch dupe videos to see if i already own a dupe of a new or viral product.
Agreed. I think dupes are highly subjective and not everyone holds a product to the same standard. Stopped buying dupes overall because dupe-hunting was often a lot more expensive more than the original product. I feel like after a dupe is released, it takes some time until the quality eventually goes up, IF it even sticks around. Watching this video while deciding over the fate of oooold makeup and cheap makeup. Got some Essence Catrice Disney princess palettes they use to dupe Huda with and they’re past their shelf life. Dull shimmers and dried up shades... I’m happy I stopped buying them after the two I own.
Very good points in this vid, Bug! I also like this scripted format. A lot of ppl seem to like the way your voice sounds based on comments I’ve read. I can’t get that from your vids from living with you so long, I’m just used to it. The delivery in this video was different and kind of calming. It’s 4am and I’m too tired to play elden ring but i can’t sleep. This vid has def had some sort of relaxing effect on me.
I think a lot of times other UA-camrs talk about dupes as if being a dupe automatically makes that product better. So many people will deemphasizes major performance issues because they're excited about the shades matching. It's just hard to find honest reviews about dupes because people are just excited that it's cheaper.
Thank you for this video, it made me think, and it made me want to share my view on the topic even do I more or less never leave comments - which you should take as a big compliment! I buy your arguments, and I wholeheartedly agree that makeup brands that deliberately tries to dupe or copy other makeup brands’ products are wrong and more often than not ends up being big flops and waste of money (and when a big brand steals a smaller or an indie brands ideas it’s very unethical)… whoever I personally see a point in recommending or searching for alternatives to specific makeup products, be it for a want to find a more inexpensive-, cruelty free-, more accessible to you or a product you may even already even have in your collection or for any other reason. But then I never look for exact or deliberate dupes, but more so generally great products that have similarities and that can give you a similar end result or maybe a similar application. I like the philosophy of “duping a vibe”, and being creative with the products you already have or products that are more accessible to you. I love when creators recommend products that are similar, “dupes” or just alternatively good products… whoever I hate when brands do it!!! Thank you again!❤️
I hate the concept of dupes for dupes sake ie Revolution everything. Killing creativity and underestimating the intelligence of the consumer. My 2023 makeup manifesto is to only buy indie brands (because I really have enough of everything, tbh) and only if it’s something entirely unique to my collection and beautiful.
Yup!! i have tried dupes, then ended up with the more expensive product anyway, and finding that they were close but definitely not dupes. It made me rather distrust the UA-camr who told me! I was so surprised she overlooked the completely different formulas that she claimed were exactly the same.
I just saw makeup revolution has a primer called "super base vitamin base primer" Looks like maybe it's trying to be an alternative for the Bobby Brown. I know you said several times you were looking for an alternative.
Thank you for this video, I have been thinking about this topic a lot. I am really turned off by "dupe" titles and content. It's so redundant and like you said, unoriginal. Of course I totally understand wanting to save money or find something similar if the original is not available for you, but it's getting tiring and I've quit watching videos with that focus.
True dupes (less expensive products that are nearly identical to more expensive counterparts) actually piss me off. It indicates how much certain high end and luxury brands are overcharging. I don't want to be able to find formulas and colors in the drugstore that are identical to high end. In my opinion, more often than not, high end should be special, something you can't get at a lower price point, and the cost should be clearly justified in the product itself (not just the fancy packaging). Maybe I'm expecting too much, but I have no patience for high end and luxury makeup that doesn't have extraordinary qualities and/or perform significantly better than something at a much lower price point. The quality of drugstore and drugstore priced makeup has gotten very good, that it becomes less and less justifiable to pay more for certain items. I'm entirely with you though: I just care about products being really good, and would much rather people be honest instead of acting like a drugstore product is a dupe for a higher end product when it isn't. Good point about the cheaper "dupe" sometimes being better.
Dupes rip off other brands hard work. It’s not their problem you’re broke and think it’s original is expensive. Too bad. You’re not meant to have everything
I really appreciate you having this discussion. I’m currently at a place in my life where I value a luxurious experience from start to finish, so something being touted as a “dupe” is not really what I am looking for. There was a time in my life when saving the money on an affordable alternative was a huge factor for me, but I’m very fortunate that I’m in a place where an expensive mistake won’t break my budget
I’d rather buy what I want than waste my money trying to dupe it, with consistently subpar results (for me, anyway, since I’m very detail oriented and little differences can make or break a product performance/appearance). If I truly want it but I cannot afford it, I won’t buy it, and I will just waste my money looking for a dupe because it won’t be the exact thing that I’m looking for. However, when it’s about trying something very trendy, where my main wish is to try something different that I probably won’t use much, I will look for cheaper alternatives. Also, I totally understand that when money is a factor in your decision making, and the accuracy of the product is not an issue, favoring an alternative is the way to go, especially since so many affordable brands have great products now (I love ELF, for example, because I’ve found great ELF products on their own merit).
I don't think shaming is the way to go, but putting more responsibility on consumers does make a difference. Not everyone of us is in circumstances where we truly have our hands tied. Sometimes it's a choice, and that choice could almost always be way more conscious!
Meh. Everything was revolutionary at some point-even what we know know as a simple powder compact. When things work well, other companies will follow suit. The good ones will stand the test of time and the rest will be phased out. It is not concerning to me.
Most times you get what you pay for. I try not to buy in the viral phases or buy something because of a name. To be honest I dont buy high end because I dont want to fall in love with a slurge item that I really cant replace frequently. So when I see a color or shade I love I will look for something "close" that I will be able to afford long term if I end up loving it. Eyeshadow maybe be the exception because palettes last longer than foundation and lippies. But havnt seen a Eyeshadow palette that calls out to me like the lipstick and foundation.
I prefer buying items which I will use and this goes for everything: make-up, garments, grocery...everything. sometimes (very rare) the "dupe" is as good or even better than the more expensive version but I think it is usually quite obvious. I watched some dupe videos back in the day and when you know the high-end version you know wether the presented item is a dupe or not. I think we tend to lie a bit to ourselves and I am very happy to see that this dupe cult seems to end. Personally I prefer the more high-end products as most of the brands I purchase produce in Europe. A cheap product produced in China is not cheap, it is overpriced and I do not wish to support China due to human rights problems. And I usually prefer the packaging of more expensive items. It seems minor but I wear make-up on a daily basis and so I interact with my make-up everyday. I have to like what I open/touch/see. Last but not least so called dupes are not cheap as well. I do not wish to waste product and money. My make-up collection is very very small, I use up what I have as I know my style, skintone and preferences. In my opinion this is even more important than the used products.
Dupes were ruined by people wanting to go viral/views. I've seen videos on UA-cam that are nothing but clips from TikTok saying this is a dupe, that is a dupe. Just a 10 minute long video of people saying all these things are the same as x, y, z high-end product. And I'm always like no, no, nope, not a dupe. Some are similar in shade or have the same purpose but are nowhere near the same thing. It drives me crazy thinking of all the people that will believe the video, go buy that product and either have wasted their money or think it really is a dupe without having tried the high end item. Then they go and start telling people. That's why I like people like you and Emily Noel who will actually describe the similarities and differences like it is the same color but the formula is___. Or it's not exactly the same shade but when blended on the skin it's gives the same effect, etc. Not just being like this product is exactly like this product. When they're not.
I don’t buy into the whole dupe thing. Most are alternatives in my opinion. I’ve tried some great alternatives though. I am mostly interested in products I can’t buy the high end version anymore. Or if there is a particular eyeshadow color story that I’m interested in, but know it’s a more colorful item which will be worn rarely then I might buy something like that. I’ve learned not to spend a lot of money on more colorful items because I just don’t wear them often enough.
I've never really been into the whole dupe thing. If I want a product and it is expensive, I'll save up for it. If I can't afford it, it's not the end of the world if it takes a while to save.
I wonder if big suppliers sell the same product that goes to sellers that put in different packaging. (If someone in the industry can speak to that, I would appreciate it. ) Yet I tend to make purchases with the belief that you get what you pay for, therefore, I am more likely to buy higher end products.
Like generic drugs, so called dupes may use the same ingredients but not the same quality or in the same proportion. Pre-shopping research means better decision making.
As a black woman I really appreciate the existence of dupes within the beauty community because that has many times been the only way I was able to experience certain types of products because the original shade range didn't cater to all skin tones or its a product duping something from a company that I can't see myself giving money to because of their lack of inclusivity. For example it took hourglass years to come out with a palette of ambient lighting powders for darker skin and because of that I won't be buying the one that they did eventually create and as much as their scattered lights eye products appeal to me I'm going to stick to the dupes of those over purchasing theirs and further funding their company.
And honestly I do think that what people aren't realizing too with the lack of range for black women in general is that it's a privileged take to turn their noses up at the idea of a "dupe". Just this year HG released their holiday blush palettes, but still wasn't deep enough to cater for darker skin tones. I also believe that as technology improves, it's becoming to justify the increasing prices.
Great insights
I’ve decided that if I really want an expensive product, I should just save and buy it. By the time I’ve bought 2-3 cheaper products trying to “dupe” it, I may as well have bought the one I really wanted. And most of the time I end up buying the more expensive product after buying all the dupes anyway 😂
kinda moving towards that mindset now😂
Lord, I needed this reality check😭
Exactly. I’ve fallen in love with lots of drugstore makeup, but never when I’m comparing it to something I really want. I’ve spent so much money trying to find something that works. And with an olive skin tone, color cosmetics without trying them at the drugstore leads to a lot of disappointment when shades don’t look right and I couldn’t try them before hand!
Kat: It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
@@violetviolet888 yes temptalia is great! I often look there to see if something I’m eyeing is similar to anything I already have 😊
Dupes haven’t really worked consistently well for me. I prefer to buy fewer products but truly good quality. I have especially been disappointed in the few eyeshadow palettes that duplicate a color story but for me don’t really wear as well. I also don’t buy into ethics violations and shaming in the rhetoric around dupes. My God, who needs more of that!
I think I am subconsciously a snob because I'm not even satisfied when I get a "dupe". I still end up looking at and sometimes buying the more expensive product. The better quality and packaging gets me, so I now end up skipping on "dupes".
I use make up very sparingly, I’m ain’t UA-camr or makeup artist. I like buying higher end products for the ease of working with them, they of course do not have 100% guarantee to work on you, but probability is higher than with “dupes” in my experience. I would rather have one pallet that is easy to work with on daily basis, rather than having even two of color pop palette and spend more time on blending shadows longer. I like how they save me time. I don’t mind paying a bit more, but have a higher guarantee that product will save me a lot of time on make up. Especially powders since they last forever. If drugstore becomes more full proof, I won’t mind buying more of it.
But also take it with a grain of salt, that where I live drugstore make up choice is not as good as it is in USA. We don’t even have elf in stores to test.
But skincare, Asian brands and drugstore are the best, I don’t wanna overpay for over-marketed glycerin like lamere or such
It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
@@violetviolet888 they are very useful, although their dupe base could be a bit misleading. It is more of alternatives than dupes in my experience, especially in shadows. I learned it a hard way 😅
I'm 51, and I've gone full circle now lol, let me explain. So back when I was a teen (80s) there was a no return policy on make-up, you buy it, for better or worse, it was yours. I could probably buy a house with the money I spent on lipstick and foundations alone, all in pursuit of the right fit. Back then, not only were there little to no shades for darker skinned folks, there weren't for us fair skinned ones either. The only way I could balance out the orange was to use Coty Airspun powder to counter it a bit. Fast-forward to mid 2000s. All of a sudden there were real, every day, average ladies trying the products for us! It was amazing! I saved a lot of money. Then the beauty guru, unbeknownst to us, was bought by morphe and other companies. I definitely lost some money by believing the wrong ones during that era lol. Then the drama community was born, and our eyes were opened to who was shilling, and who was more trustworthy, and we started saving money again. Then came the dupes. At first, it was amazing! Almost as cool as when the first ladies of UA-cam makeup came on the scene! And because capitalism, dupe videos slowly became more about making money than helping your fellow consumer save some dough. I really noticed it when a UA-camr I used to trust more than most, became dupe happy. If the colour/shade was remotely close, or the packaging looked very similar, it was in a dupe video. That brings us to the present, which is to say, kind of back to the start. I find myself wasting money on so many dupes, I could've just saved up and bought the real deal.
I must say tho, your channel has been one of the most comprehensive, trustworthy "dupe" or "where we should probably save our coins, or where we'll probably be darn happy to spend the extra on a high-end product" channels on UA-cam!
I really enjoyed this video!
Also, I said "ladies" because that's mostly who was doing makeup videos back then. I very much enjoy many of the she, he, and they channels that are around today!
I own 2 minis and the full size Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter and liked it. I bought Elf Halo Glow Liquid Filter because I heard it’s a Dupe. Guess what, I totally prefer The Elf product! It is my go to product now while CT sits on my shelf.
Hello, what's the difference between the formula? Is one more shimmery and one more oily glowy than the other?
@@ElshiBumcfksz I don't have both, but in comparison videos the elf seems to have more coverage (though still light), maybe even a bit blurring (though maybe CT does the same). I think elf may be slightly less reflective, because it seems easier to wear alone than CT in comparison videos.
@@ElshiBumcfksztilbury is more sheer elf has more coverage and more shimmery
I love dupes. Some brands charge ridiculous prices for things not that impressive 🤷🏻♀️
If it's not really impressive it's not worth buying at all.
@@emilijaukic7764 not as impressive for the price point
It’s not brands problem you’re broke
As a former shopping addict, there is something so alluring about hunting for dupes. Often, we are spending more money trying to find an alternative than getting the thing itself. I suspect the process of researching, buying , evaluating is the main reason why 'duping' became a trend. Saving money is secondary. That said, 'cheaper' dupes are great when trying a new trend or product that I know I won't use often.
Micave: It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
I'm so here for this one. It's been a huge pet peeve to see way too much called a dupe.
I have a complicated relationship with dupes because I’m a speculative fiction writer, feminist scholar, and was also a teacher-on one hand, even Shakespeare was a dupe for Ovid, you know? I have to keep that in mind to even be able to write anything or else I will be drowned in the ocean of artistic imposter syndrome-and that little bit of knowledge has helped my students in the past as well. On the other hand, as a creative person, my heart hurts for people/brands when their product is duped because I over empathize as someone who has had their work stolen or people copied my speculative fiction workshop business. TL;DR I LOVE THIS TOPIC. I love that you did it. And yeah, I never blame the consumer either. I wish the mentality was more collaboration than competition: what if ELF and Charlotte Tilbury collabed on an affordable version of the Hollywood Flawless Filter, you know? Unfortunately, operating from a mindset of abundance (there’s room for everyone! Let’s share ideas and success!) instead of a mindset of scarcity (stealing and duping and backstabbing-in my case) has not… actually… gotten me anywhere. And I started to wonder over the last couple years if there’s a healthy balance of the two mindsets. I don’t know the answer to that, though.
I like the way you discuss similar products or “dupes”. I have sensitive skin and multiple allergies so sometimes I’m looking for a similar product with a different ingredient list. Personally, I really appreciate when nuance is included in the discussion so I know how the shade or formula varies to judge if it’s still a product of interest even if it has a good ingredient list for me.
While yes, it maybe seems unethical to be “copying” a product, it is normal and accepted in business to copy a practice with the intent of improving said practice. So, a drugstore brand “copying” a high end brand, but making it more affordable to the consumer, is not unethical. They are improving the product by making it at a lower cost, or even selling it with a smaller margin. I love every part of this video-too many influencers I follow have been suggesting that the consumer is unethical if they buy a dupe… no (which you mention). One side effect of a free-enterprise economy is that the player with the most resources wins the market share. Whether you view that as a positive or negative thing depends on your economic/political beliefs! 😁
Not only that… I find what’s more unethical is them charging huge money for an eyeshadow that costs pennies to make. I understand that formulation and promotion cost, but these 58 dollar quads (looking at you Charlotte & Tom!) are fecking absurd.
I completely agree with everything you said!!! 👌 I also wanted to note how wasteful it is when a brand "dupes" something but it's such bad quality that you just don't even use it. We're happy to waste our money on something cheaper if we don't like it, but this mass consumerism just means that we're wasting the world's resources on something that will literally be rubbish. It's like fast fashion but for cosmetics. Having said that, obviously if it's a good product at a lower price I'm happy because it's accessible to me! Or if I find a dupe for something I can't get in Australia.
I know not a lot of people have tons of money to spend on makeup, especially high end makeup so I like that there are some drugstore alternatives that are similar enough. Maybe not as long wearing or not the exact shade, but good enough for most people. The few times I’ve tried the dupe to a popular high end makeup item, I’ve been disappointed. I try to use a mix of high end and drugstore products, but sometimes if I really want a high end item, I will save my money and buy it. Within reason of course. I’m sure a $100+ foundation is beautiful, but I can’t bring myself to spend that much, but hey that’s just me. Lately I’ve been more annoyed because I’ve bought a few products (high end) that were so hyped up by so many people and said to be amazing and when I tried them I was just meh about them. Thanks for this video, Amanda. Love from Florida 💕💕
Personally I look for dupes because I might not want to support a brand directly, and would prefer to buy a "dupe" that might scratch my itch for that product and help me stop obsessing over it. There's obviously also the aspect of makeup being generally overpriced, especially with high end brands. There are brands who have made it their specialty to dupe high end brands, and while they might not always hit the mark, they are genuinely good products that you can use without having the mindset of wanting to dupe something. Personally I'm all for sticking it to high end and luxury brands, because they often manufacture in China, and they end up having ridiculous margins. And in this economy, I don't think we can continue spending a huge chunck of money on things that aren't essential. Food, medication, etc are essentials. Makeup just isn't. It's also a finite resource, mica mining is one of the leading causes of pollution in the world, not to mention that slave child labour is also used to mine mica.
I do think that buying dupes in excessive quantities isn't healthy, but neither is my collecting of indie eyeshadow singles for example. At the end of the day, it's wasteful.
It's important to mention *Temptalia* which swatches, tests, and rates every dupe, with photos and a rating. If you're looking for a quality dupe, always check there first. If you have one to suggest to them to try, do that and they'll do their best to test and review it. It's the most comprehensive dupe database out there.
I second this. There have been a few times I search for something specific and it doesn't yield any hits but more often than not her swatch library leads me to something super similar. It's a great resource.
I don't consume a lot of dupes content. But I really appreciate product comparisons, especially if I can't swatch (all of) them in person. Ultimately, if I'm considering a specific shade or formula I want to go for the version that's best for my preferences and a nuanced comparison helps me to determine that.
Not only will L'Oreal dupe itself, but of course they own drugstore brands as well as their luxury brands. L'Oreal itself has a couple of things that are more or less the same within their range as some products from Lancome or YSL, for example liquid liner or mascara. I worked as a freelancer for their brands so I have seen some very interesting "coincidences"
My issue with some “dupes” videos is that the content creator generally only compares the product to the shade/color they use. There are many “dupe” complexion products that don’t cater for darker/deeper skin tones and vice versa.
Eta: I really appreciate you speaking out about not blaming/shaming consumers - like you said, we are all victims of capitalism and just doing our best!
As someone who often has to look for a "dupe" due to financial limits, it is SO frustrating to see how many absolutely crappy products get called "dupes" just bc of the packaging or something dumb like that (I do look forward to the day I can invest in all high-end, well performing products, but right now that's not in my cards). The value of the word is just gone, similar to the word "minimalist". I have much better luck just looking for the more affordable products that YTers I trust recommend because they stand out on their own, not because they're similar to something more expensive.
I personally don't try to dupe anymore, I just buy the products I am interested in and what is accessible to me, and since I'm not a huge fan of high-end and luxury brands, I often just buy k-beauty or drugstore priced items (like elf, kiko, maybelline...). But I can't lie, I like when drugstore brands try to dupe things because they come up with amazing products like the halo glow from elf, I didn't buy it because it was a dupe from the CT but because a lot of people loved it and I wanted to try it for myself, and now it's a must have in my makeup routine! I just feel like now affordable brands have amazing formulas so I just don't see the reason why I should invest in more expensive products.
This video is so important! Comparison is the thief of joy. I try to consciously consume and enjoy my products because I enjoy them, not because the internet said it was just as good as something else
Thanks so much for addressing this. I have stopped watching dupe videos because they feel really artificial. I find they have been worse as of late. When I first watched them, content creators did research, tested for a good amount of time, compared ingredients, looked at wear time, etc. With all that information, I think it's more reliable when they come to a decision as to whether it is a dupe or not. Now when I watch the same creators and others, it seems like they just throw things on for the first time and are like omg, it's a dupe! Or they just use dupes they have seen on Tik Tok and don't really test it themselves. I get that creators, particularly in the beauty community, are struggling to increase views but I would rather watch someone like you really tell us a lot about the product, the pros and cons, and tell us the straight up truth about these supposed 'dupes'. I would rather buy quality products that support BIPOC owned companies that cost a bit more than the drugstore than continually buy 'dupe' products that continue to disappoint over and over. I have wasted too much money at the drugstore and I'm done. I will only buy something if you and some other trusted influencers all consistently advocate for a particular product and it's performance.
Right? There are some creators whose dupe videos are just the packaging and general outer appearance look alike. I've seen dupes featured and the creator has just looked at it and maybe swatched it. They haven't even done a wear test. There are definitely creators who are thorough and thoughtful, and give details about what they mean by dupe in each product; same shade? Formula? Do they wear the same? If not that's OK, but say so.
In other words, basically what you just said. 😉
I ended up spending over $100 at shopmiss A on 100 questionable beauty products because they were $1 each. Although there were a few good finds, most of them sucked and I ended up decluttering all of it eventually. Could’ve just bought a few actual good quality high end products that would stand the test of time. Lesson learned the hard way
Honestly it's a privilege to say you don't buy dupes or you waste money trying to find the perfect dupe
I appreciate content creators who do a thorough review of products and their potential dupes and specify how the formulas differ. I try dupes for various reasons. Sometimes I want a dupe for the formula and sometimes for the color. Dupes are especially important for discontinued products that I love and want to replace. If a brand has questionable business practices, I will look for dupes. I won't buy certain brands like Chanel because I hate the fragrance they put in their makeup and skincare, so I'll look for dupes.
Great video-thank you, Amanda! The only dupes I go out of my way to seek out are cruelty-free dupes, but otherwise I just buy the “best” version of what I want/need.
I think it’s so funny how people will just see the packaging is the same without trying the product at all and say “OMG ITS A DUPE”
What’s wrong with “alternative product that you can use to achieve a similar look”? Well, not clickbaity.
My issue is when creators make big claims about products being dupes. They are simply similar, but not dupes. Jessica Braun loves comparing the No. 7 powder to the trendy setting powder. It used to be duped with the Charlotte Tilbury setting powder. Now she dupes it to the Kosas powder. That No. 7 powder must be a magical product.
its not. i returned it. the charlotte tilbury is much nicer and 20x more gratifying than that no.7 was. have not tried the kosas.
@@stephfoshoworld I agree with you. I bought the No. 7 powder and gave it away. I plan on trying the Kosas powder as soon as I finish my LYS setting powder.
Awe Thank you for recognising us outside the US that miss out on so so many good brands 🥰especially US based. Hugs from Australia 🇦🇺
Yes, the term "dupe" is thrown around a lot but if we're being honest with ourselves there aren't many REAL dupes out there with the exact same ingredients. Dupes have been around for years on UA-cam and on beauty blogs before that. I think by now, most people understand that when an influencer is talking about dupes, they're really talking about affordable alternatives and nothing more.
I think the only time i look for dupes are for lipsticks bc some colors get discontinued and it’s sooo hard trying to find the right shade/formulation. I’m also cruelty free now, but ughhh non-cruelty lipsticks are so good.
I loved this video! Anytime you have thoughts about topics in the beauty community and want to make a video like this…I am here for it!
I have very complicated feelings about dupes, too. I loved your stance on but shaming the consumer. We are all just trying to do the best we can! ❤
On brand innovation: that's what I've been saying about elf! It'd be awesome to see them develop excellent unique products, instead of just duping those that are already successful. I still enjoy the brand as it's affordable. But there's sooo much potential there...
Great discussion! Love it! I agree about not judging others about purchasing items. We are all just trying our best in many aspects of our lives. I have yet to find an affordable product that is a dupe for an expensive one and tire of that search. I’m going to attempt the less is more approach and purchase only what I need. If what I need happens to be a really excellent but expensive product that will last a long time, so be it.
I’ve learned to buy what I like, based on recommendations from some, but I can’t afford to be that concerned about “the next big thing.” I’m old enough to have seen the improvement in drugstore makeup, and see no need to spend more than necessary, dupe or not.
Love what you're saying! I have wasted so much money trying to find cheaper products, but then I'm not happy with them so in the end I don't use them all. I am usually happy with drugstore foundation and blush, but lately I've been buying pricier lipsticks, and I might splurge on a better mascara in the hope that it won't smudge underneath my oily eyes.
I do like honest reviews on which products I should consider trying so I don't wind up wasting my resources.
This is SUCH a good video. Love the point about dupe culture squashing innovation.
Haven't watched the whole video yet. But just from the brief description at the beginning, I'm going to love this!
My main goal when it comes to skincare, make-up, & hair: to find the most effective & affordable products to create a financially sustainable routine that produces the best results.
I've been duped so many times 😓
So much time & money wasted! Partially because I was too lazy at the time to do my own research & wanted creators & companies to do it 4 me 😅
I've gotten better 👍🏾
Hi Amanda, this is probably one of the most well thought out takes I’ve seen here on UA-cam about dupes. I particularly like economic theory lens of looking at dupes. Given that, I’m going to suggest the word Substitutions instead of dupes. As someone who sought out dupes when getting into makeup later in life (my fifties), I completely understand the argument of buying a cheaper version to test out a particular color story or product that you aren’t sure you’ll like. Sometimes you will move on to the better (not necessarily higher priced) product and sometimes you are fine at the drugstore level. I definitely have different price points for different products and you learn that through your own time and experience. Comparison videos like yours are useful to make less decisions I’ll regret so I really do appreciate them. As you state, it’s unfair to blame the consumer for which substitutions are worth it to them and which ones they aren’t willing or even need to make. Thanks for the food for thought. 👍
I appreciate when creators explain that there is a difference between the hi end and the alternative product. There have been many products that I have purchased that someone said was similar, but perhaps better in some way. I can't always afford the hi end product but would still like a similar affect. Some products just haven't been "duped" yet and I will splurge if I can because I want the claims the hi end product makes.
This video is a such a breath of fresh air. I cannot agree more!
You’re quite a little philosopher, love the video
Those NYX microbrow pencils are so good! I have 2 shades - Taupe and Chocolate brown, and they are pretty much the only products i use in my brows. Occasionally when I'm feeling lazy i'll use the NYX brow mascara. There are certain products i'll go high end for every time (eyeshadow), because the quality is just so much better, but everything else i've pretty much figured out works just as well as high end. Lipsticks for one, and blush. Even highlighter when you find one that's not a glittery mess. Some of my favourite cream blushes are drugstore (flower beauty). Foundation I tend to go more high end because they've got a better shade range (usually). Otherwise, the quality of products is definitely improving from the ground up.
I’m not a big fan of dupes. I’m entering an era of being more selective so I can save money and get the item I want. I’ve tried dupes in the past and have been underwhelmed. In makeup I give up however I have been lucky with high end fragrance dupes.
With makeup I feel you! The perfect red lip for me was an imported lipstick (I'm brazilian) here it's easily 6× the price in the US. But I gotta be honest, the R$ 150,00 reais option might be the best shade and formula I've used in my life, low and high end. I never thought I'd be this person but expensive fragrances for perfume I've felt a huge difference from manufacturer to manufacturer, sometimes the same price and similar fragrance but the quality it's astronomically different
The only dupes to which I grant credence are the ones listed on Temptalia because it includes how close they are to any other given item (usually per color) and it also includes how they’re different (e.g. glossier, more muted, better quality, lighter, etc). Christine’s dupe database lends itself to digging deeper.
That said, GREAT video, Amanda! The content was a joy to follow and the visuals prove you can multi-task better than most people. I admire this video (and you) so much. 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
LOVED this video! I always enjoy hearing your perspective on things🥰 I appreciate you ❤️
Great discussion! This video made me like you even more. Im currently homeless and my friend is letting me stay in their office space (I know you can't tell from my videos because I'm doing the best I can to maintain my self image and literal cleanliness etc but I'm really struggling and don't know where I'm going to be in March, it's hard to figure things out in homelessness and no family support at all) anyway I just want to say thank you for mentioning the fact that people should not be shamed for buying and consuming affordable products that are accessible. It's a hard balance to keep because I prefer higher end products (they tend to perform better!!!) but if something works and it's cheap I will buy it!
Hi Masha, did you find a new place to stay ? Lots of love ❤️
@@carinekubelec9531 thank you for your concern unfortunately I am homeless
@@eligefashion I'm sending you lot of love from France ❤️
@@carinekubelec9531 thank you for the love and support Carine, God bless you 💗💗💗💗💗
The main struggle I have with dupes or other drugstore purchases is that if anything, but especially color cosmetics don’t work it’s so much harder to return, and you can’t try things on in store. If I’m looking for a lipstick that flatters me (& I’m picky) I’ll always want to start at the drugstore because of the price point & bc the formulas are getting much better over time. However, I might have to buy 2 or 3 drugstore lipsticks before or if I find one I like. At that point with all the waste, both physical and $$$ wise, I tend to start with higher end that I can try on and test before I buy.
As someone who doesnt have a lot of money I prefer to buy things because i am attracted to the product itself not because it looking to have something i cant afford. There are many things i cant afford that i want but thats how the cookie crumbles.
Instead of dupes I would love if there were more testers and mini versions of products, especially high end ones. 😌
Gosh, I feel so similarly to you! I was introduced to 'dupe culture' about 13 years ago, when I first started watching beauty content on YT. Living in as a student in Aus, particularly back then, meant that most products were impossible for me to source and I would be hanging on the words of these girls when they mentioned a 'dupe'. I would say most of the time I was disappointed, as either the shade or formula just didn't live up to expectations. Later when I could directly compare products I would be equally frustrated and felt lied to. I feel that the word 'dupe' shouldn't be used anymore, but I also now adjust my expectations as you said.
Also in the search for a cheaper option, you'll often end up spending so much more finding a product thatyou actually want to use, and perhaps that part of the trials and tribulations of a makeup wearer!
For me now I'm interested more in being given options when looking for a particular vibe. E.g. the tint of Black Honey, or a more natural glossy highlighter look that CT Hollywood Flawless Filter gives. Cause maybe the original doesn't quite live up to the hype in my mind anyway and the alternative 'dupe' might just be what we're after all along!
I always buy affordable, I use ELF and NYX. The only prestige makeup I was ever into was KVD, but that's long over. If something is a dupe, I wouldn't know, because I don't follow big brands.
I absolutely love this style of video - this is one of my favourite videos I’ve seen in a while :)
Something that irritates me in the small handmade indiebrand world is people making the bold claim that something is an "EXACT" dupe. When you're talking about products that are quite pricey (a single eyeshadow for $15-25 for instance) & saying that another equally priced item is a dupe so that people won't accidentally purchase it, fine. That's actually something I find extremely helpful as someone with a burgeoning single shadow collection.
Exact dupes are rare & dupes in general can be subjective. Are we talking color? Formula? Pigmentation? Quality? For everything to line up perfectly would be exceptionally rare. That said, I do enjoy watching content surrounding "finding dupes at the drugstore" but I always, always take it with a large chunk of salt.
I spent a year trying to dupe the colourpop brow pencils because they're incredible (the thin one in the white plastic tube) but fell short repeatedly. In the end I ended up spending so much money & it was ridiculous. All because I didn't want to support cp. I eventually broke down & decided I will make the brow pencil purchase once a year (I pick up 4-5 at a time) & avoid falling into the trap of buying anything else from them. 🙃 Wow I had a lot to say..
I'm also not a big fan of dupe culture.
Sometimes I feel the culture of collecting multiple versions of a similar makeup product, known as "duping," can contribute to overconsumption. This is because people may feel the need to buy multiple versions of a product they already own in order to try out different formulations or packaging. This can lead to unnecessary waste and excess spending instead of saving money.
Love this. All very true. I used to waste so much money trying to dupe, when I should've just invested in the true product. I'm glad I've realized it now.
One of the biggest dupe scams out there (to me) is alter ego eyeshadow pallets. You can’t dupe the Natasha Denona or Pat McGrath formulas, no matter how much influencers claim it’s the “same.”
If I could, i would give this video 1000 thumbs up. Very well presented the subject and i totally agree with you. One of the reasons i follow you, regards the formula performance/experience you crave for. We need more content creators like you. Xx
At this economic juncture, especially in Canada, it is almost better to add 5 or 10 bucks and get the high end product. I'm not saying luxury, that's a category all on it's own. But, a lot of high end products are not much more expensive than drug store anymore. Unless you wait for the drug store product to be on sale, the savings are really not worth it for me. I am guilty of having bought "dupes" from brands that specialize in those, but I have learned. Even elf is no longer economical. What is the world coming to. Thank you for this. 😘💖😘💖😘💖😘💖😘💖
i enjoy watching dupes videos from my favorite creators, but this perspective helped me realize that i just love that excitement of finding a “hidden deal” rather than actually finding a cheaper duplicate of a popular product. sometimes the hype of a dupe will get me excited to try a product that didn’t even interest me in the first place 🤦🏻♀️ not the thoughtful shopping habits i’m trying to promote here. patron saint HLP would be disappointed 😔
pls do ur haircare favs/routine next i beg !! ur hair is gorg
I'm 21, a college student, and own a small handful of high end products. I in no way can typically afford high end products so the few I own are special. I personally love drugstore makeup and spend a lot of time following the beauty community so I can find the absolute gems I can afford! I have RARELY ever been let down by dupe products. I think alternative is a better term because I don't need an identical copy to get the same effect as quality/trending high end product s
This was a great video Amanda! You brought up a lot of important points. Personally, I prefer calling them alternatives, I feel that it's more honest. "Dupe" creates too much expectation, and I've been disappointed many times. Not because the more affordable product was bad, but just because my expectations were too high/not accurate. Also, even if a cheaper product is exactly the same in formula, the experience of using it may not be. If the experience of using a more expensive item is important to someone, more affordable "dupes" likely won't feel satisfying anyway.
Shot game: drink everytime Amanda says Dupes
I love your video quality 😍 what camera lens do you use?
Sooo many dupe recommendations only consider the colors, not the formulations.
The indie brand discourse can be weird. Those brands are either sourcing from the same manufacturers as everyone else (which makes the branding difference irrelevant to the consumer) or they’re trying to press shadows at home in unsanitary environments, sometimes with pets in the room (even pet lovers probably don’t want that in an eye product). Plus the indie pre-order model is kinda gross for a lot of reasons.
Great video i use to blow money buying dupe after dupe bc i didn’t want to spend a fortune on the luxury version and didn’t like the dupes anyway …..now i just buy the luxury one if i REALLY want it bc i was spending so much more and throwing or giving stuff away. i still watch dupe videos to see if i already own a dupe of a new or viral product.
Agreed. I think dupes are highly subjective and not everyone holds a product to the same standard. Stopped buying dupes overall because dupe-hunting was often a lot more expensive more than the original product. I feel like after a dupe is released, it takes some time until the quality eventually goes up, IF it even sticks around.
Watching this video while deciding over the fate of oooold makeup and cheap makeup. Got some Essence Catrice Disney princess palettes they use to dupe Huda with and they’re past their shelf life. Dull shimmers and dried up shades... I’m happy I stopped buying them after the two I own.
Very good points in this vid, Bug! I also like this scripted format.
A lot of ppl seem to like the way your voice sounds based on comments I’ve read. I can’t get that from your vids from living with you so long, I’m just used to it.
The delivery in this video was different and kind of calming. It’s 4am and I’m too tired to play elden ring but i can’t sleep. This vid has def had some sort of relaxing effect on me.
I think a lot of times other UA-camrs talk about dupes as if being a dupe automatically makes that product better. So many people will deemphasizes major performance issues because they're excited about the shades matching. It's just hard to find honest reviews about dupes because people are just excited that it's cheaper.
Thank you for this video, it made me think, and it made me want to share my view on the topic even do I more or less never leave comments - which you should take as a big compliment!
I buy your arguments, and I wholeheartedly agree that makeup brands that deliberately tries to dupe or copy other makeup brands’ products are wrong and more often than not ends up being big flops and waste of money (and when a big brand steals a smaller or an indie brands ideas it’s very unethical)… whoever I personally see a point in recommending or searching for alternatives to specific makeup products, be it for a want to find a more inexpensive-, cruelty free-, more accessible to you or a product you may even already even have in your collection or for any other reason. But then I never look for exact or deliberate dupes, but more so generally great products that have similarities and that can give you a similar end result or maybe a similar application. I like the philosophy of “duping a vibe”, and being creative with the products you already have or products that are more accessible to you. I love when creators recommend products that are similar, “dupes” or just alternatively good products… whoever I hate when brands do it!!!
Thank you again!❤️
I hate the concept of dupes for dupes sake ie Revolution everything. Killing creativity and underestimating the intelligence of the consumer. My 2023 makeup manifesto is to only buy indie brands (because I really have enough of everything, tbh) and only if it’s something entirely unique to my collection and beautiful.
Amanda, that's for this and your honest reviews!
Yup!! i have tried dupes, then ended up with the more expensive product anyway, and finding that they were close but definitely not dupes. It made me rather distrust the UA-camr who told me! I was so surprised she overlooked the completely different formulas that she claimed were exactly the same.
I just saw makeup revolution has a primer called "super base vitamin base primer" Looks like maybe it's trying to be an alternative for the Bobby Brown. I know you said several times you were looking for an alternative.
Thank you for this video, I have been thinking about this topic a lot. I am really turned off by "dupe" titles and content. It's so redundant and like you said, unoriginal. Of course I totally understand wanting to save money or find something similar if the original is not available for you, but it's getting tiring and I've quit watching videos with that focus.
True dupes (less expensive products that are nearly identical to more expensive counterparts) actually piss me off. It indicates how much certain high end and luxury brands are overcharging. I don't want to be able to find formulas and colors in the drugstore that are identical to high end. In my opinion, more often than not, high end should be special, something you can't get at a lower price point, and the cost should be clearly justified in the product itself (not just the fancy packaging). Maybe I'm expecting too much, but I have no patience for high end and luxury makeup that doesn't have extraordinary qualities and/or perform significantly better than something at a much lower price point. The quality of drugstore and drugstore priced makeup has gotten very good, that it becomes less and less justifiable to pay more for certain items.
I'm entirely with you though: I just care about products being really good, and would much rather people be honest instead of acting like a drugstore product is a dupe for a higher end product when it isn't. Good point about the cheaper "dupe" sometimes being better.
Dupes rip off other brands hard work. It’s not their problem you’re broke and think it’s original is expensive. Too bad. You’re not meant to have everything
I really appreciate you having this discussion. I’m currently at a place in my life where I value a luxurious experience from start to finish, so something being touted as a “dupe” is not really what I am looking for. There was a time in my life when saving the money on an affordable alternative was a huge factor for me, but I’m very fortunate that I’m in a place where an expensive mistake won’t break my budget
I’d rather buy what I want than waste my money trying to dupe it, with consistently subpar results (for me, anyway, since I’m very detail oriented and little differences can make or break a product performance/appearance). If I truly want it but I cannot afford it, I won’t buy it, and I will just waste my money looking for a dupe because it won’t be the exact thing that I’m looking for. However, when it’s about trying something very trendy, where my main wish is to try something different that I probably won’t use much, I will look for cheaper alternatives. Also, I totally understand that when money is a factor in your decision making, and the accuracy of the product is not an issue, favoring an alternative is the way to go, especially since so many affordable brands have great products now (I love ELF, for example, because I’ve found great ELF products on their own merit).
I completely agree with you. Great video, Amanda!
I don't think shaming is the way to go, but putting more responsibility on consumers does make a difference. Not everyone of us is in circumstances where we truly have our hands tied. Sometimes it's a choice, and that choice could almost always be way more conscious!
Meh. Everything was revolutionary at some point-even what we know know as a simple powder compact. When things work well, other companies will follow suit. The good ones will stand the test of time and the rest will be phased out. It is not concerning to me.
Most times you get what you pay for. I try not to buy in the viral phases or buy something because of a name. To be honest I dont buy high end because I dont want to fall in love with a slurge item that I really cant replace frequently. So when I see a color or shade I love I will look for something "close" that I will be able to afford long term if I end up loving it. Eyeshadow maybe be the exception because palettes last longer than foundation and lippies. But havnt seen a Eyeshadow palette that calls out to me like the lipstick and foundation.
I am always surprised when Lisa Eldridge uses so many drug store products.
what’s the sponge that you’re using? It looks so soft!
I prefer buying items which I will use and this goes for everything: make-up, garments, grocery...everything. sometimes (very rare) the "dupe" is as good or even better than the more expensive version but I think it is usually quite obvious. I watched some dupe videos back in the day and when you know the high-end version you know wether the presented item is a dupe or not. I think we tend to lie a bit to ourselves and I am very happy to see that this dupe cult seems to end.
Personally I prefer the more high-end products as most of the brands I purchase produce in Europe. A cheap product produced in China is not cheap, it is overpriced and I do not wish to support China due to human rights problems. And I usually prefer the packaging of more expensive items. It seems minor but I wear make-up on a daily basis and so I interact with my make-up everyday. I have to like what I open/touch/see.
Last but not least so called dupes are not cheap as well. I do not wish to waste product and money.
My make-up collection is very very small, I use up what I have as I know my style, skintone and preferences. In my opinion this is even more important than the used products.
Dupes aren’t real. You can apply something that is a dupe for 5 min but it doesn’t account for longevity.
And longevity is my main concern! Drugstore items don’t last as long with maybe a few exceptions
Dupes were ruined by people wanting to go viral/views. I've seen videos on UA-cam that are nothing but clips from TikTok saying this is a dupe, that is a dupe. Just a 10 minute long video of people saying all these things are the same as x, y, z high-end product. And I'm always like no, no, nope, not a dupe. Some are similar in shade or have the same purpose but are nowhere near the same thing. It drives me crazy thinking of all the people that will believe the video, go buy that product and either have wasted their money or think it really is a dupe without having tried the high end item. Then they go and start telling people. That's why I like people like you and Emily Noel who will actually describe the similarities and differences like it is the same color but the formula is___. Or it's not exactly the same shade but when blended on the skin it's gives the same effect, etc. Not just being like this product is exactly like this product. When they're not.
I don’t buy into the whole dupe thing. Most are alternatives in my opinion. I’ve tried some great alternatives though. I am mostly interested in products I can’t buy the high end version anymore. Or if there is a particular eyeshadow color story that I’m interested in, but know it’s a more colorful item which will be worn rarely then I might buy something like that. I’ve learned not to spend a lot of money on more colorful items because I just don’t wear them often enough.
I've never really been into the whole dupe thing. If I want a product and it is expensive, I'll save up for it. If I can't afford it, it's not the end of the world if it takes a while to save.
What shade of the No 7 serum are you wearing? It's gorgeous!
thank you so much! Calico :)
Also I may be dumb. But the Dior pH blush is a dupe?
People keep posting dupes but the concept doesn’t work.
I buy dupes to find cruelty-free alternatives and have almost never used the original product.
Great topic. I feel very similar
Lower your expectations with dupes , that way u wont be disappointed
Like this video a lot.Thank you.
I wonder if big suppliers sell the same product that goes to sellers that put in different packaging. (If someone in the industry can speak to that, I would appreciate it. ) Yet I tend to make purchases with the belief that you get what you pay for, therefore, I am more likely to buy higher end products.
We use the term “dupe” loosely
Like generic drugs, so called dupes may use the same ingredients but not the same quality or in the same proportion. Pre-shopping research means better decision making.
I love the deep thinking content