Beauty on a Budget

Woman wearing her auburn hair in a bob with bangs — Image: AI illustration

Not all of us are like Madonna or Jennifer Anniston. Our bodies and hair do not usually receive the daily attention they deserve. Those of us on a budget typically do not spend money on ourselves.

A typical woman on a budget usually goes to the nearest Walmart and chooses from the many affordable options, buys a bottle of a beauty product (usually the wrong color!), and then heads home to enlist the help of her household. If only the cat is available, she uses her own hands and contorts herself in ways that only a contortionist would be proud of.

For those of you on a budget who want to look beautiful, I have a couple of hints and different ways to use what we have available to us in our homes now. As most of us are aware, our hair is our signature. Short, long, curly, or straight, no matter how we wear our hair, it is a reflection of our personality, and we want it to look its best at all times. In a busy world, we are all looking for ways to shorten our routine, but anything worth having and looking good requires a little work.

First: If you can, try getting up a little earlier in the morning. I understand that rising earlier may mean sacrificing some sleep, but in the long run, you'll feel more relaxed. So, wake up a bit earlier, start the coffee pot, and hop in the shower. While in the shower, use a good shampoo and conditioner, and gently massage the scalp with warm water; avoid scrubbing! Here's a tip for those with fine hair (though anyone can benefit from it): Leave your conditioner in your hair at least two to three times a week without rinsing. It doesn't have to be a leave-in conditioner; it can be whatever you're currently using in your shower. Personally, I use Dove.

Secondly: After stepping out of the shower, pat yourself dry instead of rubbing. You should have already exfoliated in the shower. Leave some moisture on your skin and use any available lotion to begin massaging your feet, working your way up your entire body. This practice will keep your muscles pliable, eliminating the need for Pilates.

Beauty on a budget — Images: Iuriimaksymivphotos via Canva

Now, for the final and best-kept secret in hair care products... Remember that can of shaving cream, the foamy kind, tucked away in your bathroom cabinet because someone gave it to you for Christmas, and you prefer the hot gel that practically removes hair on its own? Well, it's time to bring it out! That 75-cent can of foamy shaving cream just became your new best friend for your hair. While your hair is still damp, use an appropriate amount depending on its length.

For short hair like mine, I use a dollop. If you want curly hair that day, simply leave it in and let it dry naturally. At the last minute, you can blow-dry it. If you prefer it to be straight and full, blow-dry while the hair is still damp. For a natural look, try the finger-drying technique. This not only dries your hair to a wispy look but also keeps it soft and luxurious for days; not to mention, it gives your upper arms a free workout...

So, for anyone on a budget out there, here are a few things to try right now in your own home, with little or no cost to you, except for some of your time, to make you feel like Madonna or Jennifer Aniston.

By Susan | Updated May 22, 2024 | ©Hairfinder.com