7 Items for Retirees To Splurge On, Settle For or Skip at CVS

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Everyone loves a lazy browse through CVS — especially when you’re retired. You have time to linger in the aisles and consider every last purchase.

Whether you’re out on an errand to grab some midnight ice cream or picking up a prescription, the drugstore has a little bit of something for everything. But what’s worth the money?

Here are seven items for retirees to splurge on, settle for or skip on their next CVS run.

Splurge: It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment

• Price: $39.99

It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment is a cult favorite and admittedly a bit of a splurge, but there’s good reason it’s beloved by hairstylists everywhere. As hair becomes more brittle and fragile with age, investing in quality products becomes more important.

This 10-in-1 treatment protects, strengthens and smooths — perfect for retirees dealing with changing hair texture. It’s the kind of splurge that actually makes a noticeable difference in how your hair looks and feels.

Splurge: CVS Health Combo COVID-19 Flu A/B Antigen Test

• Price: $22.99

No, at $23 for two tests, these aren’t cheap. But for retirees who want peace of mind before visiting grandchildren or attending social gatherings, having these on hand is priceless.

The convenience of testing at home, especially during flu season, makes the higher cost worth it for many retirees who prioritize health and safety. Think of it as insurance for your social calendar.

Settle: CVS Health Classic White Whitening Strips

• Price: $30.99

CVS’s own brand of whitening strips delivers professional-level results without the dentist office price tag. At $30.99 with a buy-one-get-one 50% off deal, you’re essentially getting a year’s worth of treatments for less than one professional session.

You could probably find cheaper options elsewhere, but the convenience of grabbing them during your regular CVS run makes these a settle.

Settle: Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Squares With Caramel Filling

• Price: $10.49

Life’s too short for bad chocolate, especially in retirement! These premium Ghirardelli squares are already reasonably priced at $8.99, but the buy-one-get-one 50% off deal makes them an even better value.

While you might find slightly cheaper chocolate elsewhere, the quality — and current promotion! — make these worth adding to your cart. At least one box. Maybe two. OK, three!

Settle: CVS Hair, Skin and Nails Supplements

• Price: $14.79

These targeted supplements address the specific concerns that come with aging. The comprehensive formula supports not just hair health, but skin and nails too — areas that particularly benefit from extra attention as you age.

While pricier than generic vitamins, the convenience factor and current discount make them a settle rather than a skip. You could find similar supplements cheaper online, but having them readily available at CVS has its perks.

Skip: Over-the-Counter Medications

• Price: varies

CVS’s convenience comes at a premium when it comes to OTC drugs.

For retirees on fixed incomes who likely use these products regularly, the cost adds up quickly. Make the trip to warehouse stores for your medicine cabinet staples.

Skip: Photo Services

• Price: varies

While CVS’s photo center is convenient for quick prints, retirees who want quality prints of family memories should look elsewhere. Costco offers superior print quality, larger sizing options and significantly better prices.

This is especially true for photo books and canvas prints that are perfect for displaying retirement memories and grandkid photos. The quality difference is noticeable, and the cost savings are substantial.

Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.

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