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Does Safeway Sell Makeup? Your Beauty Aisle Deep Dive

Yes, Safeway absolutely sells makeup. However, the extent and variety of makeup available at your local Safeway can be a bit of a treasure hunt. Let’s unpack what you can expect to find, brands you might encounter, and how to navigate the beauty aisles of this grocery giant like a seasoned pro.

Unveiling the Makeup Selection at Safeway

Think of Safeway as your one-stop shop for grabbing groceries, prescriptions, and… a last-minute mascara? While not a dedicated beauty superstore, Safeway does offer a selection of makeup items. The offerings generally include drugstore staples, catering to everyday needs and convenience. You won’t find high-end luxury brands here, but for affordable and accessible options, Safeway is a viable choice.

Brands You Might Discover

The specific brands available can vary depending on the size and location of the Safeway store. However, you’ll typically find familiar names such as:

Maybelline: A cornerstone of drugstore makeup, offering a wide range of foundations, mascaras, lipsticks, and eye shadows.
L’Oréal Paris: Another ubiquitous brand, known for its innovative formulas and comprehensive product lines.
Revlon: A classic brand with a focus on quality and affordability, particularly well-known for its lipsticks and foundations.
Covergirl: A budget-friendly option with a strong presence in the mascara and foundation categories.
Rimmel London: A UK-based brand offering trendy and affordable makeup products.
e.l.f. Cosmetics: Known for its extremely affordable and cruelty-free products, spanning across face, eyes, and lips.

Beyond these core brands, you might occasionally stumble upon limited-edition collections or seasonal items. Keep an eye out for end-cap displays or promotional areas, as these often feature special deals and newly released products.

What to Expect in the Aisles

Don’t expect a Sephora-esque experience. The makeup section at Safeway is typically integrated within the health and beauty aisle, alongside skincare, hair care, and personal hygiene products. The selection is usually presented on shelves and possibly some display stands, arranged by brand or product type.

You’ll generally find:

Face Makeup: Foundations, concealers, powders, blushes, bronzers, and highlighters. The range of shades might be limited, so finding an exact match can sometimes be challenging.
Eye Makeup: Mascaras, eyeliners, eyeshadow palettes, and eyebrow pencils/gels. This is often the most well-stocked category.
Lip Makeup: Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip liners, and lip balms. You’ll find a good variety of colors and finishes.
Makeup Tools: Brushes, sponges, and makeup removers. The selection is usually basic, but sufficient for everyday use.
Nail Polish: A decent range of colors and finishes from brands like Sally Hansen.

Pros and Cons of Buying Makeup at Safeway

Pros:

Convenience: You can grab makeup while doing your grocery shopping, saving you a separate trip to a dedicated beauty store.
Affordability: Drugstore makeup is generally more budget-friendly than high-end brands.
Accessibility: Safeway stores are widely available, making it easy to find a location near you.
Sales and Promotions: Safeway often runs sales and offers discounts on makeup products, allowing you to save money. Look out for loyalty program perks!

Cons:

Limited Selection: The range of brands and products is smaller than what you’d find at a beauty retailer.
Shade Range Limitations: Finding a perfect shade match for your skin tone can be difficult due to limited options.
Lack of Expert Advice: You won’t have access to makeup artists or beauty consultants for personalized recommendations.
Tester Availability: Testers are often unavailable or limited, making it difficult to try products before you buy.
Potential for Mess: Sometimes the makeup section at Safeway can look messy.

Pro-Tips for Makeup Shopping at Safeway

Check Online First: Some Safeway stores have online inventory listings, allowing you to see if a specific product is in stock before you visit.
Read Reviews: Since testers are often unavailable, rely on online reviews to get an idea of product quality and performance.
Compare Prices: Use your smartphone to compare prices with other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Take Advantage of Sales: Keep an eye out for sales and promotions to maximize your savings.
Sign Up for Safeway’s Rewards Program: Accumulate points and redeem them for discounts on your purchases, including makeup.
Be Aware of Lighting: The lighting in Safeway stores can sometimes be unflattering. Try to examine products in natural light if possible before making a purchase.
Look for Clearance Items: Check the clearance section for discontinued or seasonal products at discounted prices.
Know Your Skin Tone: Accurately knowing your skin tone will prevent you from purchasing the wrong makeup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Safeway carry high-end makeup brands?

No, Safeway primarily carries drugstore makeup brands such as Maybelline, L’Oréal, Revlon, and Covergirl. You won’t find luxury or prestige brands at Safeway.

2. Can I return makeup to Safeway if I don’t like it?

Safeway’s return policy generally allows for returns of unused and unopened makeup products with a receipt. However, it’s always best to check with your local store for specific details on their return policy, as it can vary.

3. Does Safeway offer makeup samples?

Generally, no. Due to hygiene reasons and the nature of a grocery store environment, Safeway does not typically offer makeup samples.

4. Does Safeway have makeup testers?

The availability of makeup testers can vary. Some Safeway stores may have limited testers, but it’s not a guarantee. This is often a drawback of purchasing makeup at a grocery store.

5. Can I use Safeway coupons on makeup?

Yes, you can often use Safeway coupons on makeup products. Check your Safeway app or weekly ad for available coupons. Also, keep an eye out for manufacturer coupons that can be used at Safeway.

6. Does Safeway offer makeup consultations or assistance?

No, Safeway does not typically offer makeup consultations or assistance. Unlike dedicated beauty stores, there are usually no beauty experts on staff to provide personalized advice.

7. Can I buy makeup online from Safeway?

Yes, Safeway offers online grocery shopping and delivery or pickup in many areas, and this often includes their selection of makeup products. Check the Safeway website or app to see if online ordering is available in your location and to browse their online makeup selection.

8. Does Safeway sell organic or natural makeup?

Safeway may carry some organic or natural makeup products, but the selection is typically limited. Look for brands that specifically advertise their products as organic, natural, or cruelty-free. Check the ingredient lists carefully before purchasing.

9. Are the makeup prices at Safeway competitive?

Yes, the makeup prices at Safeway are generally competitive with other drugstores and mass-market retailers. However, it’s always a good idea to compare prices with other stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal, especially considering ongoing sales and promotions.

10. Does Safeway sell makeup brushes and tools?

Yes, Safeway sells a selection of makeup brushes and tools, typically from drugstore brands. You’ll find basic brushes for applying foundation, eyeshadow, and blush, as well as sponges and makeup remover wipes.

11. How often does Safeway update its makeup selection?

Safeway’s makeup selection is typically updated periodically, with new products being added seasonally or when brands release new collections. Keep an eye out for end-cap displays and promotional areas for the latest additions.

12. Does Safeway sell gift cards that can be used for makeup purchases?

Yes, Safeway sells gift cards that can be used for any purchases in the store, including makeup. A Safeway gift card can be a convenient gift for someone who regularly shops there.