recession beauty!

I've given in. To the recession that is. But mostly when it comes to my beauty needs! And during these times it is when you realize just how much money one throws out the door on the personal up-keeps. I may do more than most. I get manicures every week and pedicures every 2-3 weeks. I purchase name brand shampoos, conditioners, makeup, lotions, facial cleansers, you know name it! So, I've definitely changed my ways this summer (because I don't get another paycheck till Sept), but especially during these times of saving.

So, what have I done differently? First things first, I haven't gotten a manicure in over 3 weeks! I've just gotten polish changes, which is a savings of $12 a week. That's a lot. (Mani/pedis cost double here vs. in Miami) Or I've just done them myself. My nails are clean and polished and I am not sacrificing my wallet.

Secondly, I've gone to the drug stores and Costco to get my beauty product needs vs. the mall or beauty supplies. I just want to share these GREAT products because I've just been blown away at how well they work....and they might just be as good or even better than the high end stuff.

(This post definitely feels like a savings segment on the View or Today! I crack myself up!)

St.Ives Apricot Scrub and Makeup Remover/Facial Cleanser

WOW! WOW! WOW! This stuff is just plain awesome! My skin is left really soft after using the cleanser and I feel like it is working while I rub it. Amazing! I must use a scrub after I wash my face because of the type of skin and I have, and thats why I went ahead and bought the Apricot scrub. I can't tell you how clean my face is after I use these together. My skin even looks brighter. I haven't used the scrub since I was a teenager, and I don't know why I ever stopped. Pure and simple...great stuff! Go and buy! They are just $3 a pop at wal-mart! Go, like now!

Suave Naturals Body Washes

These are spanking new and smell so yummy! For just $2 at Wal-Mart, you get the $10 body washes kind from Bath and Body Works. No joke! My favorite is Cherry Blossoms. But there are 5 others to choose from. Excellent stuff!

Costco brand Kirkland Signature Hyrdating Shampoo/Conditioner

This one is so great because for just $6.99 you get double of it. Both the conditioner and shampoo come in pairs and the best part...the hubby uses it, as well! Usually, I buy special shampoo for myself (for curls, etc.), and the hubby has his own for his type. But I thought to purchase in bulk for the summer and I absolutely LOVE the smell and how well this combo works. (I am usually very, very picky about the shampoos/conditioners I buy especially since I like to change every time.) This shampoo reminds me of the high end Biolage, which I love and I usually always turn to. So, if you have a Costco card, buy this next time. Your hair and your wallet will thank you!

That's it for now. I hope these products will make you as happy and make you feel as good as they do for me. And in the long run, your bank account will be happy too!