Poundland has launched a six-piece skincare range, aiming to capture a share of the UK's £26.7 billion beauty market. The retailer claims the products will 'inject some everyday luxury' into regular beauty routines, with prices starting at just £1.
Testing revealed that Poundland's Matte: Hush Now lipstick (£2.30) is 'almost identical' to Charlotte Tilbury's Matte Revolution lipstick (£24), both in feel and appearance. However, the budget micellar cleansing water was less effective at removing waterproof mascara compared to Garnier's £4.99 version.
Aldi's Luxury scented range, inspired by Jo Malone, offers candles at £3.99 versus £45 for the high-end brand. While the Aldi candle burned for 20 hours and was pleasant, testers noted it lacked the long-lasting scent of the original. Meanwhile, Aldi's Lacura Caviar cream (£298 for La Prairie's version) was found to sink into skin more easily than the pricey alternative, which was described as greasy and strong-smelling.
Fitness trackers were also compared: the cheapest device only recorded actual walking, while the Fitbit Flex 2 (£49.99) added false steps from typing and washing up. Lidl's craft beer range, including Bitter Iron India Pale Ale at 99p, was deemed an 'absolute winner' for the price, though it lacked the complexity of more established breweries like Brewdog.
