I love going on YouTube and Pinterest and searching up the latest trends in beauty and skincare. Before I had to spend all my money on rent, bills and college expenses, I used to spend my paychecks on the newest beauty products and salon visits. However, I have had to become a lot more frugal and find cheaper alternatives to my expensive habits overtime. Here are my favorite beauty hacks that won’t hurt your bank account.
- DIY Waxing
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As someone with dark hair, it is super obvious if I go too long without waxing. I used to go to my hair salon once a month to get my eyebrows and upper lip waxed until I realized I could save a ton of money by doing it myself. For my face, I like to use Nad’s Facial Wax Strips. If you’re tired of shaving your legs and are up for the challenge, you can also wax your legs using Nad’s Body Wax Strips. You can watch tutorials on how to wax your eyebrows and legs here and here.
- Cosmetology School
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Getting your hair done at a cosmetology school can save you so much money! Last year, my friend was studying cosmetology at Warrensburg Cosmetology School and she was able to dye my hair ombre for $25. By getting your hair done here instead of a salon you’re not only getting a great deal but you’re helping someone get the hours and the practice they need to become a hairstylist. There are several cosmetology schools in the Kansas City area with great reviews, such as Z Hair Academy, Ea La Mar’s Cosmetology & Barber College and Transformed Barber & Cosmetology Academy.
- Discounted Makeup
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Hi, my name is Kara and I’m self proclaimed Maxxinista. When I worked at TJ Maxx, I became obsessed with all of their products, especially their cheap makeup. Before I go to Target or Ulta, I always check TJ Maxx or Marshalls to see if they have the same product I want for less. You can find your favorite brands for half of the original price. They have everything from Anastasia Beverly Hills palettes to Maybelline mascara. Here’s a list of their current makeup items, but it changes frequently. When you’re shopping, make sure everything is properly sealed! Don’t buy broken makeup on clearance just to save a few dollars.
- DIY Anything on Pinterest
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DIY face masks, lip scrubs, foot peels and more can be found in the magical land of Pinterest. Most of these recipes only require two or three common household ingredients, which makes them super cheap and easy to try out. Most beauty products have inexpensive substitutes. You can swap shaving cream for aloe vera gel. Instead of buying makeup brush cleaners, you can use baby shampoo to clean your makeup brushes (although I originally learned this tip from Blaire Fowler). Don’t be fooled by mass marketing. Most of the products stores try to sell you can be easily made at home or substituted with a cheaper product.
Beauty routines are a great way to take care of yourself, especially when you feel stressed or overwhelmed. As a collegiate, you already have enough to worry about. You don’t have to compromise your budget in order to treat yourself. Enjoy these money saving beauty hacks!