Beauty Care on a Budget

     It seems like not only gas prices are rising but everything in the beauty industry is, too. I remember when a haircut was fifteen dollars, and now it’s anywhere from thirty to sixty. Getting my nails done and threading my face has also become more expensive. These are services we usually get every two or three weeks, and over time, the costs really add up, especially when life is happening and other bills take priority.

Over the past two years, I’ve been trying to save wherever I can by investing in at-home alternatives. I stopped threading my face, cut back on getting my nails done, and limited my beauty products to the essentials. I also let go of habits like constantly coloring my hair or buying every shade of lipstick. Small changes truly add up in the long run, and being consistent with these habits really shows from month to month.

I started by cutting back on trips to my nail tech. Instead, I bought a gel nail polish kit and a UV LED nail lamp, along with nail bond, cuticle remover, and all the accessories I needed to create a long-lasting manicure at home. I spent no more than a hundred dollars, and it has already paid for itself many times over. There are countless videos online now that show how to do salon-quality nails at home.

Here are the products I purchased:

UV LED Nail Lamp

Cuticle Oil

Cuticle Remover Kit

Gel Polish Kit

Nail Bond

Nail Filer

    As for no longer threading my face, that was definitely one of my favorite beauty routines to let go of. To fill that gap, I invested in products that helped me enjoy a new skincare routine and actually feel a difference in my skin. A few steps I do now that save me money in the long run include using a good face exfoliator, a facial razor, and sticking to a solid skincare routine. Investing in really good tweezers has also saved me countless trips to get my brows waxed.

The most important part is taking the time. Whether it’s a few minutes each day or a longer session once a week, to truly pamper yourself. It makes a bigger difference than we realize.

Here is a link on ways to exfoliate. How to Exfoliate Face 

Facial Sponge

Tatcha - Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

Facial Razor

Tweezers

    I’ve reached a point in my life where I realized that dyeing my hair was more about vanity than embracing my true beauty. I’ll admit, my natural dark hair is a beautiful shade and it gets far more compliments than the awkward sight of roots growing out of faded color. My last hair color was blonde, and honestly, watching my natural hair shine next to the dull blonde made me appreciate it even more. Breaking the habit of constantly coloring my hair wasn’t easy, but there’s something incredibly empowering and money-saving, about embracing your true roots.

Another habit I had to let go of was constantly buying beauty products. I already owned every shade of lipstick imaginable, and yet I kept wanting the newest releases. I still have makeup that’s practically brand new, untouched, and sitting in drawers. So I made it my mission to donate what I don’t use and actually work through the products I already own. My new mantra when I walk into Target is: “I already have one at home,” or “Use up what you have, then you can buy more.” And honestly...who am I kidding? Some products take me more than two years to finish, and most beauty items don’t even last eight months because they expire.

Well, my lovely hues, these are just a few of the changes I’ve made to save myself trips, time, and money. I’m not telling anyone to follow these exact steps, but I am encouraging you to find what works for you. Take the time to pamper yourself, embrace your natural beauty, and create routines that make you feel good...while cutting back where you can.

Wishing you well! -K