Insta Made Me Buy It: 5 Buys We’re Blaming On The Algorithm

We like to think of ourselves as discerning shoppers. We consider, we compare, we absolutely do not buy something simply because Instagram has served it to us 37 times in the space of a week. Except, of course, sometimes we do. Here, the GWG team confesses to the products that finally made it out of the feed and into our shopping baskets – and whether they lived up to the hype.

Becky, Features Editor

When my beloved, six-year-old Blundstone boots gave out, I finally gave in to the lure of these alternatives from Tretorn. They are as comfortable, waterproof and stylish as Instagram said they would be.

Nancy, Editor

I’ve been seduced by Rehab’s Sunshine Spritz Beach Wave Spray, which I can attest delivers sexy-but-undone, tousled beach hair in a bottle. I like how lightweight the styling mist is; it feels as though it simply enhances natural texture and definition. All of which chimes perfectly with my reluctance to leave the sun-kissed beach look behind, even as I look forward to autumn cosiness. Not content with hair alone, I’ve also bagged the Sunshine Spritz Golden Tan Drops, a self-tan serum that delivers a healthy-looking golden glow without risk of looking like you’ve been Tango’d.

Lydia Mansi, Lifestyle Editor

I was totally won over by Laura Jackson’s new skincare brand on socials – both by her enthusiasm and the feel-good bright packaging. Happy to report the product lives up to the fanfare, especially the Skin Dew which imbues skin with a golden, yet super subtle boost of life. Perfect for tired skin on those no-make-up days.

Annabel Jack, Contributing Editor

Consider me influenced. Just buckled and bought a Brick, the matchbox-sized, magnetic gadget that blocks your most distracting apps with a simple tap. Doom-scrolling be gone.

Lucy, Shopping Editor

I have been hounded on Insta by this sock company and I eventually succumbed. I can’t report on the comfort value as I’m yet to receive them, but I like the fact they have a raw hem so don’t constrict the ankle. I’m excited for pyjamas, sock and slipper weather… and a roaring fire!

FAQ

What products are worth buying from Instagram?

The GWG team’s recent Instagram-inspired purchases span beauty, fashion and tech, including Rehab beauty products, Tretorn shoes, Laura Jackson skincare, Qomfort socks and the Brick screen-time device.

Is it worth buying products you see on Instagram?

Sometimes. Social media is brilliant for discovering smaller brands and clever new products, but it is always worth checking independent reviews, ingredients or specifications and returns policies before buying.

What is the Brick phone device?

Brick is a small physical device designed to help reduce screen time. Tapping your phone against it can block distracting apps you have selected, with the idea of making mindless scrolling slightly harder.

What beauty products has the GWG team discovered on Instagram?

Our recent finds include Laura Jackson’s skincare line and Rehab’s Sunshine Spritz range, including its Beach Wave Spray and Golden Tan Drops.

How do I stop impulse buying from Instagram?

Try saving rather than immediately buying a product, then return to it a day or two later. Searching for independent reviews and comparing prices elsewhere can also help distinguish something genuinely useful from something that simply has an excellent social-media campaign.