Saving Money On Spa Treatments

A bowl of rose petals for soaking hands or feet.

Beauty services, such as manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, scrubs, body wraps and hair treatments, can cost a lot of money at a fancy salon or day spa. Here are ways to cut the costs down while still allowing yourself to be pampered. This is a guide about saving money on spa treatments.

Solutions: Saving Money On Spa Treatments

Read and rate the best solutions below by giving them a "thumbs up".

Discount Spa Services at Beauty School

Everyone needs a pick me up now and then. If you are in need of a little pampering, check to see if their is a beauty school nearby. You would be amazed at the services offered and how inexpensive they are.

I got a whole day of spa treatment complete with facial, cut, manicure, pedicure and deep conditioner for around $40, and the girls are so nice. They took their time which was nice, because it made me feel even more spoiled. In my town, a manicure alone would have cost more than I spent for the whole day.

By Miche T. from Lawrenceburg, KY

0SharePrintFollow1 Feedback

Frugal Kids Spa Day

I have two girls, five and nine. My nine year old Dacoda, was always asking me if we could go to the spa. So I decided to surprise her with a home spa day.

I made little sandwiches with the crust cut off and made their favourite chocolate chip cookies. I made freshie, and put in fancy glasses. I rolled up the wash clothes and towels tied with a ribbon. We lit a scented candle. I put on music we all love, Celine Dion.

Facials:

We started out with facials. I just use egg whites painted on with a small paint brush. We left it on for 10 minutes, washed it off, then put on moisturizer.

Pedicures:

Then I put warm water into plastic buckets added some food colouring to colour the water. I put 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and half cup of epsom-salts. We soaked our feet for fifteen minutes. It gave us a chance to talk and spend quality time together. Then I dried their feet and allowed them to pick their nail polish colour. Hope decided on rainbow colours, one colour for each toe.

Manicures:

We did the same for our hands in smaller bowls. I used a scrub brush to scrub their nails,and then gently filed them. Then we painted their finger nails.

After we were done, we had our lunch.

Hair and Makeup:

I curled their hair with the curling iron and I let them do their own make-up! They loved the whole thing and want to do it again soon. It was time well spent together!

By Coville123 from Brockville, Ontario

0SharePrintFollowPost Feedback

Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

The Frugal Holistic

A Day at Your Favorite Spa: Your Own!
(Part 1 of 4 - Homemade Facials)

Most of us really need a day at the spa pampering ourselves. The everyday stresses that everyone feels can really get us down. But who can afford to spend that kind of money in this economy? So in this article, I propose to offer some suggestions on reducing stress in your life without the heavy price tag.

Why does a day at the spa cost so much? Most of what you are paying for is the designer products that they use. Did you know you can make your own spa products at home? Also, you are paying for the atmosphere which you can recreate right at home. Candlelight is soothing to the nerves and a soothing tape can take you far away in your dreams.

Facials

Facials are another place that spas charge the big bucks but with a few of my "fresh recipes" and a good friend to help you to apply, you can have a spa facial at a fraction of the cost. The first step to a great facial is to clean the skin well. You don't need expensive cleansers for this just a short trip to your local grocery store and you have all the ingredients for a natural skin cleanser.

Skin Cleanser (For all skin types)

1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 Tbsp. sunflower oil
1 1/2 tsp. fresh lemon juice

Mix all ingredients together and place in a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator. Use 1 tsp. morning and night to cleanse face.

Facial Cleansing Gel (For all skin types)

Add 2 tsp. flax seeds to a saucepan containing 1 1/2 cups of distilled water or herbal infusion. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking. Remove from heat and cool. The mixture should thicken into a gel. Strain. To use, add enough finely ground oatmeal to the gel to make a smooth paste. Rub over the face and neck, leave a few minutes, then rinse with warm water (not hot!)

Steam Your Face

The next step is to steam the face. Pour hot boiling water into a bowl and tent your head over the bowl. Dry herbs like peppermint or lavender can be added to the bowl for the rejuvenating properties (peppermint) or calming effect (lavender). Your next step is a face mask. Again, no need for expensive products, just a trip to the local grocery.

Herbal Facial Mask (Cleans and tightens pores)

1 Tbsp. honey
1 egg
1 tsp crumbled dried chamomile flowers
1 tsp finely chopped fresh mint

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to your face and neck. Let dry (10-15 minutes) and rinse off with warm water.

Oatmeal Face Mask

1/2 cup of oatmeal
1 smashed avocado
1/3 cup of honey

In a bowl mix smashed avocado with the honey, then continuously add oatmeal. When all ingredients are mixed well apply to face and relax. After 10-15 minutes,wash off with warm water. Do this once a week or when you desire relaxation. You won't believe the difference!

Orange Yogurt Mask

1 tsp plain yogurt
the juice of 1/4 of an orange

Stir to mix and then dip fingers into mixture and smooth onto face. The sensation is both cool and relaxing. Leave on for a five minutes and then rinse. If you are feeling sluggish, this is the perfect mask for you.
*Yogurt will cleanse and nourish
*The orange is full of Vitamin C and AHA's

Peel-Off Mask Recipe

This mask will peel off your blackheads and tighten your skin. It is very strong, so those with sensitive skin may want to rinse this off instead of peeling it off. Do not use if you have acne.

1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin
1 1/2 tablespoons of cold milk
1 egg white
Vitamin E Oil (break open a capsule, or buy in a bottle)

In a small pan mix the unflavored gelatin and the cold milk. Stir until melted over a very low flame. Once melted, remove from heat and let the gelatin mixture cool slightly. Then add one egg white. Mix until smooth, and when cool enough to touch, apply evenly over face. Do not apply on, or directly under, your eyes or on your upper lip. Apply quickly before mixture hardens in pan. Apply enough to cover your skin but not too thickly. Lie on the couch and let it dry completely, about 30 minutes. Once dry, lift up a corner under your chin and peel off lightly in an upward motion. This will really tingle. Rinse face with lukewarm water and apply vitamin E.

Tip: The vitamin E is for moisture. If you prefer, you can use your favorite moisturizer on your face instead.

Prune Porridge

This mask sounds and looks disgusting but is very soothing and good for a face tormented by sore underground pimples.

Pour 1/2 cup boiling water over 2 dried prunes in a bowl and leave until soft. Mash prunes. Use any leftover prune water in cooking about 1/2 cup oatmeal. Mix oatmeal with mashed prunes and enough honey to make a sticky mash that will adhere to the face. Apply while still warm (but not hot), leave 20 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

Toner For Your Face

Your last step is to apply a toner to your face. Then you will have a clean palette to apply your special makeup. Here are some great recipes for them.

Astringent

3 tsp. lemon extract
Juice of one lime
1/2 cup rubbing alcohol

Combine ingredients in a small bowl. Transfer to a jar and shake well. Store in the refrigerator. Tightens your pores, refreshes your skin, and helps remove oils from skin.

Citrus Astringent

1/2 thinly sliced lemon
1/2 thinly sliced orange
3/4 cup ethanol alcohol

Combine lemon, orange, and alcohol in a blender and mix until fruits are pulverized. Strain liquid into a jar using a small strainer or cheesecloth. Tightens your pores, refreshes your skin, and helps remove oils from skin. Will keep 6 months refrigerated. Yield, 3/4 cup.

Basic Toner

3 cups distilled water
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

Mix water and vinegar. Pour into a clean decanter and store in bathroom. Use daily after washing face by putting on a clean cotton ball or gauze and wiping face. BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET INTO EYES!

Chamomile Astringent

1/2 cup chopped fresh mint (or 2 tbsp dried)
2 tbsp dried chamomile flowers, crushed
4 cups water

Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Boil for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Strain liquid into a jar, cover and refrigerate. Will keep 2 weeks refrigerated. Apply with cotton balls to skin. Especially good for very oily skin.

By Debra Frick from Colorado Springs, CO

Editors Note: This is a four part article. Check out the other sections here:

Homemade Manicures and Pedicures (Your Own Spa: Part 2 of 4)

Homemade Haircare (Your Own Spa: Part 3 of 4)

Homemade Body Scrubs and Wraps (Your Own Spa: Part 4 of 4)

0SharePrintFollowPost Feedback

Homemade Haircare (Your Own Spa: Part 3 of 4)

The Frugal Holistic

A Day at Your Favorite Spa: Your Own!
(Part 3 of 4 - Homemade Haircare)

Well, now if you have been paying attention and having fun, you have had a wonderful facial and you have had the best manicure and pedicure you have ever had. In this article, we are going to address your crowning glory . . . your hair. Did you know that you can make your own shampoos and conditioners? With some natural ingredients bought at your favorite grocery store or the natural health food store, you can have hair that people just oooh and aaah over.

The materials for this are pretty simple:

A good hair brush
saran wrap or a shower cap
mixing bowls
a brand new paint brush
a blender (for some recipes)

I am also going to include some recipes for hair coloring. Please read through these carefully and follow the directions. Even if you are using natural products, you can be allergic, so be careful. The first step to a spa shampoo is a gentle brushing to get circulation up and to start the removal process.

Shampoos

Chamomile Fields Shampoo

This shampoo smells similar to apples. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Either annual (Matricaria recutica) or perennial Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) species can be used.

4 bags of Chamomile tea (or 1 handful of fresh Chamomile flowers)
4 Tbsp. pure soap flakes
1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin

Let the tea bags steep in 1 1/2 cups of boiled water for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and with the remaining liquid add the soap flakes. Let stand until the soap softens. Stir in glycerin until mixture is well blended. Pour into a bottle. Keep in a dark, cool place.

Soapwart Shampoo

Suitable for all hair types

Soapwart: Saponaria officinalis contains saponins which is similar to soap. It lathers when agitated. Most health food stores carry this.
Lemon Verbena: for a citrus fragrance
Catnip: promotes healthy hair growth

2 cups water
1 1/2 Tbsp. dried soapwart root (chopped)
2 tsp. Lemon Verbena or 2 tsp. Catnip

Bring water to a boil add soapwart and simmer, cover for about 20 minutes. Remove from heat, add herb then allow mixture to cool. Strain the mixture keeping the liquid. Pour into a bottle. Makes enough for 6-7 shampoos. Must be used within 8-10 days. Store in a cool dark place.

Yucca Shampoo

Native American tribes in the Southwest have used Yucca to prevent hair loss and dandruff. The Yucca plant contains a substance called saponin which is a natural detergent. It is the saponin found in the Yucca Plant that creates foamy suds when agitated in water. Yucca are commonly found in the U.S. Southwest or Mexico. It's all in the root of the Yucca. To make your own version of Yucca Shampoo, look for fresh young Yucca plants. Cut off a piece of the root and peel the brown off of the root until you have exposed the white root inside. Once clean, take a hammer and smash the Yucca root until it breaks in pieces. Wet the Yucca root, while holding the root over a basin of warm water, rub the root like a bar of soap to get mounds of lather from it. Wash your hair with the lather for a few minutes, gently massaging the scalp. Rinse very well in warm water making sure that no Yucca pieces remain in your hair.

Natural Egg Shampoo

1 egg
1 tsp. olive oil
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. castile soap or mild unscented shampoo
1/2 cup water

Combine all ingredients in a blender and whip until smooth. Use shampoo immediately.

Herbal Secret Shampoo

Don't except mountains of soapy lather from this shampoo, it has gentle cleaning power. To customize this recipes for different hair colors, do the following: For blonde hair, double the chamomile and omit the sage; for dark hair, double the sage and omit the chamomile; for Red hair, add cranberry juice and omit chamomile and sage; for oily hair, add 1/2 cup of lemon peel; and for dry hair, increase the marigold to 1/2 cup. Try to use fresh leaves if possible (2 Tbsp. dry herb equals about 6-8 leaves fresh).

1 Tbsp. sage
1 Tbsp. rosemary
1 Tbsp. nettle
1 Tbsp. peppermint
2 Tbsp. red clover
2 Tbsp. chamomile
1/4 cup orange peel
1/4 cup marigold flowers
1/4 cup birch buds and leaves
1 Tbsp. orrisroot
5 cups water
3/4 cup castile soap
2 Tbsp. aloe gel
Few drops essential oil

In medium pan, stir the water and spices and herbs and simmer for 15 minutes. Cover and let seep for about 30 minutes. Strain the liquid. In a blender, add 1 cup of the herb liquid with the aloe gel and blend on low speed until smooth. In a glass bowl, blend the soap and the remaining liquid. Whip with a wire whisk until smooth and frothy, then add the liquid from the blender. Pour the mixture into containers of your choice and add the scent last, a few drops to each container. Shake to disperse the scent Shampoo will last for 1-2 months if kept in a cool dry place.

Clarifying Shampoo

An inexpensive way to clarify your hair is to use your usual shampoo. During the first lather, take a handful of baking soda and work it into the lather thoroughly. Let it set for a few minutes, depending on how much styling buildup you have on your hair. Rinse and shampoo again without baking soda, then condition. The baking soda makes an excellent chelating aid. It is also advisable to clarify at least every two weeks to remove product buildup. Always clarify before doing a deep conditioning treatment. Otherwise, you will be conditioning over product buildup which really won't be beneficial. Chelating also removes traces of prescription drugs that build up in your hair.

Rinses

The next step is to rinse your hair and there are many options to this. You can choose one to highlight your hair color or for your hair type, the choice is yours. A cold water rinse is also very good for the hair and leaves it bright and shiny.

For Light Hair

2 cups white vinegar
2 cups water
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup chamomile leaves

Combine the ingredients and let boil for 15 minutes, Strain and cool and store in a tightly capped bottle.

For Dark Hair

2 cups malt or red wine vinegar
2 cups water
1/4 cup sage

Combine ingredients in pan and boil for 15 minutes and store in tightly capped bottle.

For Red Hair

1 cup dark berry juice (any kind will do)
1/2 cup rose hips
1/2 cup cloves
1/4 cup strong black coffee

Mix all ingredients. Distribute evenly throughout your hair. There will definitely be some left over, but put in as much of the mixture as your hair can hold. Leave on for 10 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with warm water and let dry. This will keep red hair vibrant and never dull.

For Damaged Hair

1/4 cup sea kelp
1 cup either lemon or sage rinse

Combine the kelp and rinse in pint or quart size jar, Putting lid on lightly and shake. Apply generously to freshly shampooed hair, leave on twenty minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

For Normal Hair

1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 cup water 2 Tbsp. rosemary 2 Tbsp. red clover 2 Tbsp. nettle Combine all ingredients and boil to a rolling boil. Decrease heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Cover and let seep for thirty minutes. Strain and bottle into glass or plastic container.

Apple Cider Softness

1-2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
3 cups distilled water

Pour over your hair as the final rinse. It will leave your hair feeling soft. Good for all hair types.

Green Tea Rinse

2 bags green tea 2 cups boiling water Make green tea as if you were going to drink it. Steep for at least 30 minutes. Cool and then rinse hair for smooth and shiny hair.

Dandruff Control Rinse

1 cup cider vinegar
6 aspirins crushed
1/4 cup witch hazel

Mix all the ingredients in glass container and shake. After shampooing, apply rinse and let sit for 10 minutes while massaging then rinse with again with warm water.

Conditioners

For everyday conditioning try one of these wonderful conditioners.

Lavender-and-Rosemary Scalp Treatment

2 tsp. vodka
2 Tbsp. water
6 drops essential oil of rosemary
10 drops essential oil of lavender
4 drops essential oil of rose geranium

Mix ingredients together (makes enough for several treatments). Bottle and shake. Massage a small amount onto the scalp (hair may be dry or damp). Do not rinse. Towel dry. Alcohol and herbal oils invigorate and stimulate the scalp while adding fresh fragrance to the hair.

High Protein Scalp Conditioner

This high-protein, all-natural hair conditioner will help to dislodge any debris or pollution that may be clogging the tiny openings in your scalp. This conditioner will open the tiny openings for better passage of nutrients into your hair. This scalp conditioner also enriches the hair, helping to make it stronger and more lustrous.

Blend together, preferably in an electric blender:

1 cup fresh skimmed milk
1 egg yolk (separated from the egg white)
2 capsules of wheat germ oil contents (you may have to open up capsules and squeeze the contents out)
1 Tbsp. of fresh wheat germ
The contents of 1 Tbsp. of lecithin granules (you may need to open capsules)
1 Tbsp. natural wheat bran (available in bulk also)

Note: You may find all of the above ingredients at a health food store. It is unlikely that your local grocery store will carry most of the ingredients other than the milk and eggs.

Slowly and firmly massage the mixture into your scalp. Leave the mixture on for about 10 minutes. If you cover your head with a shower cap or you drape a towel around your head and lie on a slant board while the conditioner does its work, you will benefit even more because of the gravity effect. After 10 minutes, thoroughly rinse the conditioner from your hair with warm (not hot) water. Follow with your usual shampoo and conditioner.

Egg Conditioner

1 tsp. baby oil
1 egg yolk
1 cup water

Beat the egg yolk until it's frothy, add the oil then beat again. Add to the water. Massage into the scalp and throughout your hair. Rinse well.

Herbal Scalp Tonic

1/4 cup Distilled water
1/8 cup Witch hazel water
1 Tbsp. Burdock Tincture
1/4 tsp. Vitamin C (Powered Vitamin C can be bought a health food store)
1/4 tsp. Vitamin E acetate
5 drops Lemon essential oil

Mix all of the ingredients in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid and shake. Apply and leave on 15 minutes with head wrapped. Rinse with warm water.

Deep Conditioning

Now it's time for a deep conditioning and I bet you're wondering when the brand-new paint brush would come into play. Well, here it is. This is what you apply the deep conditioning pastes with.

Banana Hair Mask

1 organic ripened banana
2 Tbsp. plain organic yogurt
2 tsp. organic wheat germ oil
1/4 tsp. of lecithin
1/8 tsp. of organic honey
2 tsp. of sweetened condensed milk
2-4 drops of ylang ylang essential oil

The ylang ylang essential is used to give a special relaxing and soothing effect. Not only does this magnificent oil calm and soothe raw nerves and emotions, it is famous as a softening agent for skin and scalps. Mix all ingredients and apply with paint brush. Wrap hair in saran wrap or shower cap and then apply hot towel. This can be a wet towel that you have wet with hot water from the tap or a towel warmed in the dryer or microwave. Leave on for one hour or can be left on overnight if applied one hour before bedtime so it dries somewhat on hair. Rinse with warm water and apply hair rinse, if desired.

Tropical Conditioner

1 avocado (peeled and mashed)
coconut milk

Combine mashed avocado with some coconut milk. Mash together until its smooth and about as thick as shampoo. Comb it through the hair and let sit for 10 -15 minutes, wash out.

Dry and Breaking Hair Conditioner

Before washing or even wetting hair, put about 1/6 - 1/4 cup of olive oil (closer to 1/6 for shorter hair, and closer to 1/4 for longer, thicker hair) on it and work it through from the scalp to the ends. Leave it on for about 10 or 15 minutes. After that, you can shampoo and condition as usual. This works because its very oily, but not the nasty, dirty grease that builds up. It's not heavy at all, but in fact, very thin and loose. It works great for smoothing and moistening dry hair.

Kinky or Curly Conditioner

For people with really kinky, curly, dry ethnic hair, try this for a deep conditioner:

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup bland oil (either grapeseed/almond/sesame)

Put in a little pot, heat it until warm. Apply to hair, put a plastic bag over your hair and leave it for 30 minutes. Wash and condition as usual. The result; hair feels soft and moisturized. You can forgo the bland veggie oil if you want to, but I find that it helps the honey and oil to 'flow'. Or, you could try and investing in some jojoba oil and follow the same instructions for deep conditioning above. Jojoba oil contains the same sebellum as our skin, so it conditions without weighing hair down.

Superbody Hair Treat

2 Tbsp. Molasses
2 Tbsp. unflavored gelatin
1 Tbsp. sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbsp. stale beer

Combine ingredients in small bowl. Comb or brush into hair. Cover hair with a plastic shower cap and leave in for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse.

Avocado Scalp Pack

1 egg
1/2 avocado, peeled and mashed
2 Tbsp. wheat germ oil

Beat egg until frothy, either in a blender or by hand. Then add the avocado and the oil and beat until smooth. Use immediately. Apply with paint brush and then cover head and leave on for 30 minutes. Cover with warm towel. Rinse with warm water and a little shampoo.

Natural Hair Coloring

Wash your hair with one of the following rinses. Pour the selected rinse through your hair 15 times, re-rinsing with the same liquid. On the final rinse, wring hair, and leave for 15 minutes before rinsing with clear water.

Blonde: Mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice in 1 gallon warm water.
Brunette: Rinse hair with a strong black tea, or black coffee.
Red: Make a strong tea of rose hips or cloves, or use strong black coffee. A darker recipe for is any dark red wine and grapefruit juice.

Blonde Highlights

1 cup lemon juice
3 cups chamomile tea (brewed and cooled)

Mix ingredients, pour over damp hair then let sit for an hour while you sit in the sun. Wash out. Follow with a good conditioner. NOTE: This process must be repeated daily for a few weeks before you notice any changes.

How To Make Your Hair Blonde

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Take the lemon juice and rub it into your dry clean hair and sit in the sun for a few hours, rinse out and repeat until hair is blonder!

Enhance Red Hair Ingredients

1/2 cup beet juice
1/2 cup carrot juice

Mix ingredients together, pour over damp hair. Let it sit for 1 hour while you sit in the sun. Wash out.

Covering Gray

Simmer 1/2 cup dried sage in 2 cups water for 30 minutes, then steep for several hours. Apply to hair and leave on until dried. Then rinse and dry. Repeat weekly, until desired shade, then monthly to maintain color.

Sage And A Bit Of Rosemary Natural Hair Color

To make a strong rosemary and sage tea, use equal amounts of rosemary and sage to 1 cup of water. Combine ingredients and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and refrigerate it, use liquid for the colorant. Now before washing hair, spray it on the base of the grey patches of hair, massaging it in. Leave it for 5 - 10 minutes and then wash as usual and care for your hair as you normally do. After a few weeks of this (do this almost daily), you will find the grey is disappearing. After using the sage, the normal coloring returns to the hair. It is not a 'color-change' shocker, and it softens and allows you to control the curls, and the amount of grey. When you stop using it, the grey gradually returns and it is even prettier than the time before.

"Funky" Colored Hair

If you want more "funky" colored looking hair like green, for example. Then use Koolaid with a cup and a half of water - NO SUGAR ADDED! Leave hair in the koolaid mix for about 10 to 15 minutes. Let it dry and there you have it! Green (or what ever color of koolaid mix) hair! Caution, this is permanent until your hair grows out!

To Obtain Black Hair

Obtain a cup of dry rosemary seeds and boil in a gallon of water for ten minutes or until water changes to a dark color. After every shower, apply it to the hair. Dry excess rosemary water from hair with towel and style as usual.

Natural Hairspray

The finishing touches are two recipes for Natural Hairspray

Honey Hair Spray

Use honey-water instead of hair spray. I just rinse out a small plastic spray bottle, add about two tablespoons of honey to the bottom of the bottle, fill the bottle with hot water, and shake well. I store the mixture in the refrigerator, and I've found that it will keep for about two weeks. I would suggest that you use the mixture sparingly, and that you completely clean the bottle and spray mechanism every time you make a fresh batch. It works well on my long, straight hair and it seems to keep my dry hair moisturized too.

Lemon Hair Spray

This great for light hair but can be used on any color hair

2 lemons, sliced
2 cups hot water

Place lemon slices and water in pan and bring to a boil. Immediately reduce heat and simmer uncovered until the water is reduced by half about 30 minutes. Remove and cool. Strain through cheese cloth and squeeze out all the juice. Pour into pump type bottle. Will keep two months in refrigerator. By Debra from Colorado Springs, Colorado

Editors Note: This is a four part article. Check out the other sections here:

Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

Homemade Manicures and Pedicures (Your Own Spa: Part 2 of 4)

Homemade Body Scrubs and Wraps (Your Own Spa: Part 4 of 4)

0SharePrintFollow1 Feedback

Beauty Savings

Save Money By Doing Your Own Pedicures

On a routine trip to restock my medicine cabinet, I realized how much beauty products can cost. Just the basics like hair care, moisturizers, and cleaners can cost a small fortune. Instead, I experimented with some other alternatives to my usual products as well as alternative places to buy them.

Do It Yourself

Learning how to create beauty in your own home is better than paying for it at salons; it allows you to only pay the product cost rather than the services fee as well. Manicures and pedicures are nice, but money can be saved if you and a friend practice on one another. The end results may not look like professional nails the first few times, but with practice the two of you can improve, save money, and have fun all at once.

Some procedures are tricky and should be done at salons. Yet, even treatments such as highlights which were once only hairstylists' tasks can now be done easily at home. Consider even having the original procedure done at the stylist and then touching up yourself in the weeks afterwards.

Better Bargain Hunting

Shopping at beauty supply stores is a great way to save. While some products might be more expensive because they are professionally graded, other basic needs will be cheaper and available in bulk. Hair coloring treatments can be purchased for half price if not better due to the multiple uses in each box. (You'll need to buy the color and activator in one box and a bottle of developer separately - still equaling a better deal.)

Other items like face creams and hair removal products can also be found in bulk as well as the perks of salons such as skin soothing lotion and heavy duty conditioners. Check on-line chain stores like Sally Beauty Supply at http://www.sallybeauty.com/ for tips and product information to help you on your trip.

Grandma Knew Best

Face it, Grandma wasn't spending a fortune on beauty products so why should you. Try some old-fashioned and frugal beauty secrets:

Cold cream is a great way to remove makeup and firm the skin without costing a fortune like other products.

Cucumber slices remove puffiness around the eyes.

Some women swear that a jar of mayonnaise used as a deep hair conditioner is better than any high priced product out there.

For foot care and other drastically dry skin areas, try petroleum jelly before bed. Some generic moisturizers are labeled as Vitamin E enhanced which can be great to use on skin in need of deep refreshing. Brand name products such as Eucerin claim to do the same thing for sometimes four times the price!

One tip my doctor gave me when my son had cradle cap was to use kitchen grade vegetable oil. He said it was harmless and great for eczema and other problem skin dryness. It worked like a charm for $1 a bottle!

Editor's Note: Here is a series of ThriftyFun articles about "Your Own Spa" that provide tips and beauty recipes for a variety of spa treatments. There are also many other tips and recipes on ThriftyFun in our Beauty section.

Homemade Facials

Homemade Manicures and Pedicures

Homemade Haircare

Homemade Body Scrubs and Wraps

By Kelly Ann Butterbaugh

0SharePrintFollow1 Feedback

Share Your Feedback: Once you try any of the above solutions, be sure to come back and give a "thumbs up" to the solution that worked the best for you. Do you have a better solution? Click "Share a Solution" above!

Questions

Do you have a question related to this page?

Previous: Removing a Tight Ring

Next: Getting Rid of Garlic Breath

Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

A good toner/astringent is witch hazel whichis a very inexpensive alternative to the pricey products with cosmetic names. I use it with a mild inexpensive moisturizer such as Cetaphil daily, and I have a nice complexion because of it. (05/30/2001)

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Facial Masks: Just applying fresh fruit to your face is good. Your skin absorbs the vitamins and minerals. Leave on for 10 minutes or so, then wash off.

Honey Mint
1 T powdered mint
1 T Honey
1 T Olive Oil

Blend together well, apply to clean skin. Leave on for 10 minutes or so, then wash off.

Clay Mask
1 T potters clay
1 T lemon juice.

Mix the clay with the lemon juice in your hand and apply to your clean skin. It will absorb the oil and toxins.When dry, rinse off.

Healing Mask
1 T cucumber
1 T Yogurt
1 T parsley

Blend together well until mixture is fluffy. Apply to your clean skin. Rinse after 10 minutes or so.

For Moisturizers:Apply olive oil to your skin or vitamin E oil. You can make your own mayonnaise with olive oil, lemon and eggs and apply that to your face. Leave out salt or spices. (06/05/2001)

By ThriftyFun

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

I am also a big fan of facials and masks, so I went surfing. I came up with a whole list of masks and facials. Some of my favorites are:
For Normal-Oily skin - Cook 2-3 large carrots. Mash them, and mix with 4 1/2 Tbsp. honey.

Oily, acne-prone skin - Mix 1 medium sized apple (grated) with 5 Tbsp. honey. smooth over skin, let sit for about 10 minutes, and then wash off with cool water. Also, try logging on to pioneerthinking.com. (07/16/2002)

By idreamofjeannie_91210

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Here are some of my favorites:

Mix 1 1/2 teaspoons honey, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, and 3-tablespoon yoghurt. Stir in 1 whipped egg white. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

Make a paste from a little oatmeal and water. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

Mash half of an avocado and apply to entire face. Let set for about 20 minutes and then wash off.

Mash 1/2 banana and add 1-tablespoon honey and 2 tablespoons sour cream. Apply to face and let set for about 10 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

Two tablespoons of cornmeal mixed with enough water to make a thick paste makes a great inexpensive facial mask. Gently apply to face and wash off.

Soak 1 cup dried apricots in water until softened. Puree in blender or food processor with 2 tablespoons skim milk powder. Apply to face and let set about 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

In a food processor or blender, combine 1/2 cucumber, 1-tablespoon yoghurt, a few strawberries, and 1-teaspoon honey. Apply to face and let it dry. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

To loosen blackheads, combine equal parts baking soda and water in your hand and rub gently on your skin for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse with warm water. (08/09/2004)

By me

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

A little peanut butter, butter, and some honey. Don't over do it though. All you have to do is get enough of it all to use on your face! (11/20/2004)

By Tiffany and Cara

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of grapefruit juice and 2 tablespoons of uncooked oatmeal, apply to face in a gentle, circular motion, then rinse well and add your favourite moisturizer.

2. Add 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar to your regular facial cleanser, use as usual, then rinse well and add your moisturizer.

3.Combine 2 tablespoons of ground almonds with two tablespoons of olive oil, apply to face in a gentle, circular motion, rinse well, pat dry and add moisturizer. (12/24/2004)

By Kate

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Separate the white from an egg and whip it with a fork- apply to face and wait until it is dray and cracked, wash off with warm water. This will close your pores - great before a date! (05/18/2005)

By Melanie L.

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Day Moisturizer (makes 90g)
15ml Base Oil (eg mixture of any: apricot kernal, sweet almond, macadamia, safflower, advocado, wheatgerm, evening primose, rosehip, jojoba. Make sure cold pressed)
15ml Vege Emulsifying wax
70ml distilled water
5g/ml vege glycerine
(optional: essential oil drops approx 20 - 40 eg: lavender)

Heat oil (oil and wax)to 65 degree C, to melt solid ingredients. Heat water (water and glycerin) to 65 degree C. Gradually add water to oil, and constantly stir one minute. Use hand blender for 30 seconds (max) to form cream then add essential oil and hand stir for 2 minutes. Pour in jar while warm and allow to cool before capping. Has life of approx 3-6 months. Brilliant for most skin types.

Night Cream (90g)
60ml Base oil (as above)
4g
Beeswax
4g Lanolin
40 ml distilled water
1/4 teaspoon Borax
(optional: essential oils 20-40 drops check OK for skin)

Heat oil (oil, beeswax, lanolin) 65 degrees Celsius, heat water (water, borax until dissolved) at 65 degree Celsius, gradually add water to oil, stirring constantly for approximately 5 minutes until smooth cream obtained. Add essential oil drops, continue to stir for 2 minutes, pour while warm, allow to cool before capping. Store in fridge if no preservative used.

Night cream bit greasy but brilliant for older skins or very dry skins. Some use for a cleanser - put on before shower, splash water, light pat with clean towel.

Preservative for both is natural grape seed extract approx 20 drops)

Comment. I have extremely sensitive skin and cannot use most products. I can use these with no problems. (07/26/2005)

By Dee

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

1. Rub lemon juice on your face, it gets rid of scars after a few weeks

2. If you rub cucumbers on your face it can lighten your complexion. But nowadays the tan look it really in!

3. Squeeze the juice out of an orange and put it into a bowl. Use a piece of cotton and put it on your face. It helps in firming skin and gives it a smooth look.

4. You can put ice cubs on newly forming pimples. It will stop them from getting any bigger. Plus this also helps circulate your blood. (12/01/2005)

By Kate

Good Stuff

Okay here are a few that really worked for me.

Avocado Creamed Carrot Mask
1 avocado, mashed
1 carrot, cooked and mashed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons honey

It cleans skin and smooths it over, and also locks out oil but makes your skin silky. (12/10/2005)

By Amy

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

For better skin spread some honey over your face and leave overnight. (12/29/2005)

By Dr. Nash

Facial and hair stuff

These are great facials! I have some of my own.

Hair: Mayonnaise is a great moisturizer and helps with shine. Egg Yolk is a great shiner, it really helps strengthen and shine up your hair.

Face: Honey works as a good moisturizer. Steaming your face is a good pore cleanser and opener. Let a pot with water boil and stand above it for about 5-15 min. Egg white is a good smoother. Put an egg white on your face till it is dry. then wash off with warm water.

These I have all tried and the work amazing! Have fun with them! (01/10/2006)

By ~Becka~

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

I have made some really good lip balms a home all you need is some cherry kool aid and some hot Crisco and heat it in the microwave, and then let harden over night and there you go. (01/17/2006)

By Sarah

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Mash 1/2 of a banana add 1 tbs of honey and 2 tbs of sour cream. Rinse with warm water. (02/12/2006)

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

I know that this sounds weird but washing your hair with beer actually helps it get out grease but make sure you wash out the smell. (03/02/2006)

By me

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Oat meal and warm water mixed together makes a great facial mask! It really works good. (03/07/2006)

By Sara

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

One banana and a little honey works wonders! (03/11/2006)

By Kayla

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Hi here is a facial recipe that I have tried and its awesome!

1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup of regular oats
2 tablespoons of honey

Mix and Gently apply and wash off with warm water. (04/20/2006)

By Madi

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Get ground cinnamon and add honey until it forms into a paste. Then put it on your face and gently scrub it. This works really well as a scrub. Rinse your face after and pat dry. (04/21/2006)

By Shideh

Awesome as face mask that left my face absolutely beautiful

Believe this, it actually works!
1 Tbsp. vegimite
1 Tbsp. honey
4 Tbsp. condensed milk
1 cup oatmeal
3 tsp. salt

Add 1 cup of warm water to mix the facial mask then apply and wait overnight and in the morning! Voila! (04/22/2006)

By Bernang and Milkang

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

I saw a post that I really feel should be addressed. See quote below:

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Bela (Guest Post) 2006-04-18

or those who have acne it seems to be caused by a very tiny worm who lives inside muscles and one gets them from dogs and cats. These worms feed from skin natural oil. Look for better responses at www.HuldaClark.com or in her book The cure for all diseases.

This is entirely wrong. please don't take this advise. acne is not caused by a worm at all and has nothing to do at all with muscles. see quote below from Milady's Standard Fundamentals for esthetics. Pgs. 196-198 Acne, a disorder of the sebaceous glands, is characterized by comedones (blackheads) and blemishes, and is a hereditary trait which is also triggered by hormonal changes. It usually begins to glare up when a person reaches puberty, but adult acne is also on the rise.

Causes of Acne
Causes of acne include the following:
-Clogged pores
-bacteria
-Cosmetics and products
-Triggers including hormones, stress and foods.

Clogged Pores

Clogged pores are caused by a number of factors. Retention hyperkeratosis is a hereditary factor in which dead shin cells do not shed from the follicles as they do on normal skin. Excessive sebum (oil) production over taxes the follicles and causes additional cell buildup.

Bacteria Bacteria in the follicles are acaerobic. This means they cannot live in the presence of oxygen. When follicles are blocked with sebum and dead skin build-up, oxygen cannot treat the bottom of the follicle, resulting in bacterial. As bacteria and inflammation grow, pressure is exerted on the follicle wall. if the wall ruptures, it becomes infected and debris spill out into the dermis (a lower level of the layers of skin).

Redness and inflammation occur when a foreign object is detected in the skin and white blood cells move in to fight the infection. Papules are red, inflamed lesions caused by this process. Papules then become infected and pus develops, causing pustules (white heads) which are filled with fluid from the dead white blood cells that fought the infection.

Cosmetics and Products

Certain ingredients in product can aggravate acne. Fatty ingredients such as waxes and oils can clog pores or irritate follicles. Acnegenic products also cause inflammation. Products rich in emollients and occlusive products are too heavy for problem skin types. Makeup products are comedogenic, especially foundations and powders that are solids made with fatty ingredients. Some products for hair and skin can also trigger acne.

Other Acne Triggers
Hormonal changes, Stress, and certain foods

Hormones
Male hormones (androgen) stimulate sebaceous glands. High levels of the male hormone testosterone cause an increase in oil production. These hormones increase during puberty, when teen acne is first evident. In females, acne is not as sever because there is less testosterone production. Adult acne is more common in females. Hormonal fluctuations from birth control pills, premenstrual changes, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to acne inflammations in woman. Hormonal acne is often seen on the chin.

Stress
Stress causes hormonal fluctuations and increased sebum production.

Foods
Excessive iodides in salt, MSG, kelp, cheese, processed and packaged foods, especially fast foods and minerals obtained from an ocean source in vitamins, can irritate acne

Irritations
Pressure or friction from rubbing or touching the face, phone use, or wearing hats can contribute to acne breakouts. Dirty pillows or makeup brushes can also transfer bacteria to the face. Keeping hands and items that touch the face clean can help keep the skin from breaking out more.

This information came right out of my Esthetics text book that every esthetician mush read to become an esthetician. We are all tested over the information in this book (as well as many other things) by the state government in which we wish to practice. This is no easy test to pass.

For those of you who don't know what and esthetician is we are all so called skin care professionals. you will find us in salons, medi spas, plastic surgeons offices and any place where your skin is a priority. We are not dermatologists and do not portend to be, but when it comes to aging, acne and just being beautiful we know what we are talking about. I myself am licensed in 3 states, and have taken extra classes to keep myself up to date in the field. I know my stuff.

Furthermore I looked at the web site state in the post and it has no such quote although I may not have looked hard enough, but the one thing I did find that further proves my point is I quote :"all information is for educational purposes. Dr. Clark's books have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Not intended to replace medical care, diagnose, treat, prevent, mitigate or cure disease. We believe in the individual's informed right to choose their own health care methods. As always, consult with a health professional before attempting any self health program."

If you go to the web site you will find this disclaimer at the top of the page. In fact the entire page seems to be one giant disclaimer. Well all I have to say is I would never use a product or a machine that has approved by the FDA on a client or myself. (05/02/2006)

By Christina, licensed esthetician

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

I found a great exfoliant recipe:
1 tsp. baking soda
2 heaped tsp. fine oatmeal [i found just using plain oatmeal works just as well]
Add water until its a paste. Presto you have an exfoliant for your face. (08/16/2006)

By xnay_on_the_name_k

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Here's a unique one I like.

Get 1 teabag green tea and put it in a container. Add 1 tsp. cinnamon powder and 1 tsp. sage (ground). Bring 1 cup water to a rapid boil and pour over the ingredients. Let brew for 5-10 minutes.

To apply: Tear sections of paper towel into pieces that will fit and align with your face. Soak one piece of paper towel at a time in your green tea/cinnamon/sage tea and stick it on your face (the wetness should keep it from falling off). Add pieces till you have covered the desired areas of your face. leave on until paper towels dry out. :) (08/18/2006)

By Cy

RE: Homemade Facials and Moisturizers

Avocado clay mask:

2-3 avocado pits (Allow to dry 48-36 hours, making sure they aren't too hard to grind. Then grind into fine powder in a coffee grinder, allow to dry for another 24 hrs.
3 Tbsp. White clay (clay can vary depending on skin type as certain clays contain higher percentages of certain essential minerals- EPK, also known as kaolin, can also be used)
1 Tbsp. honey

Mix all ingredients and add water until a nice paste is formed. Apply to face and let sit 10 min. rinse well scrubbing it off in circular motions. this is a great recipe because it doesnt have to be stored in the refrigerator and it isnt a one time use recipe! hope you enjoy! (09/07/2006)

By Mari

RE: Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

Here's a good one using strawberries and lemon and honey mix together you can have your very own pore reducer! Just pat it on your face and 8-10 minutess rinse it off! Your pores look like they go away! (02/25/2007)

RE: Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

Here a great one! use Strawberries lemons and honey you can make your own pore remover and it would also Brighten your SKIN tune! Mash the strawberry, lemon, and honey together then pat it on your face! Then after wait for about 8-10 minutes. Rinse it off and there you go! Your skin tone is way brighter than before, and your pores are slowly going away! (02/25/2007)

By LIL WOMEN

RE: Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

i got a acid burn from lemons from a facial recipe. Never do a recipe that includes lemon or cucumber because you are risking your beautiful face. (06/11/2007)

By Jessie

RE: Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

I am definitely going to schedule a spa for myself soon.

Here's what has been working for me, I have really bad skin- but it is improving.
1. Once or twice a day I make a hot apple cider drink. (1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar/1 1/2 tbsp. honey then add hot water and stir)
2. Wash face as soon as I get up with simple glycerin soap (VERY CHEAP) and anytime I sweat, and 3X wash/rinse in a row before I go to bed.
3. Egg whites smoothed on and left until dry once a day(major pore tightener)
4. Moisturize before bed, sunscreen after morning wash (spf 30 at least- specially made for sensitive face- was like $9)
5. Water!

Try these things out, I think you'll be impressed. (09/16/2007)

By Acne Sufferer

RE: Homemade Facials (Your Own Spa: Part 1 of 4)

Try using this to moisten/soften your face:

Boil water, put 6 bay leaves in it
Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Put on a face cloth
Let sit on your face for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with luke warm water only! (07/15/2008)

By Miley