Looking Great on a Budget

The previous post looked at going shampoo free.  I’m now about 1 month into the shampoo-less experiment, and really enjoying it.  My primary motivation for the switch is to avoid harsh chemicals and allergens, however, one side benefit is that baking soda and apple cider vinegar is quite cheap compared to fancy shampoos and conditioners. Being shampoo free may not be for you (although I would certainly encourage you to try it), but there are lots of ways to reduce spending on health and beauty aids. And yes, many of the suggestions are better for the environment as well:

–Look for natural alternatives to fancy shampoos, cleansers, conditioners, and cosmetics – in addition to baking soda and apple cider vinegar, many people swear by coconut oil or olive oil as a moisturizer, some people like natural facials with ingredients like honey, and facial masks made of avocado.  If you’ve never tried these before, have a spa party with a group of friends and try these out.

–Keep in mind feeling great is a good part of looking great — after a bout of rosacea, I have been reading about the connection between nutrition and heatlhy skin, hair and nails.  I’m currently taking zinc supplements which have gone a long way to taming my formerly inflamed skin.  Eating well, exercising, and sleeping well are all key components to looking (and feeling) great.

–Go minimalist — My day-to-day makeup routine (for going out) is relatively minimalist with only lipstick, eyeliner and sometimes eye shadow.  I haven’t worn foundation for years when I stopped due to skin irritation.  I’ve found my face prefers this.  While this isn’t for everyone, most people could simplify their makeup routine with fewer products.

–Ask for recommendations for other beauty products — like fine wine, the range from a high cost and a low cost product is quite wide, and often the ingredients are the same.  Ask around for recommendations as sometimes you’re paying too much for a brand.

–Have a haircut that doesn’t require excessive maintenance — I remember when I was much younger spending hours with hot rollers and a curling iron.  Fortunately, styles today aren’t as stilted (have you seen your high school yearbook photo?), but don’t get talked into a haircut that requires a lot of fuss, especially every morning.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on affordable ways to look great.

shared at this week’s Frugal Friday