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Money Saving Beauty Routines

pa_photos_jupiter_images.jpgHow to pocket big savings on your beauty routines

By Lisa Haynes

But these days it's not about snapping up sackfuls of product bargains, but being a beauty frugalist instead.

Savvy consumers are looking for spending short cuts which don't compromise their beauty regimes. Almost nine out of 10 women would drop luxury make-up brands like Dior and Chanel for own brand make-up that does the same job, a recent survey by Impulse revealed.

"Cheap and chic is where it's at," says former 10 Years Younger TV presenter Nicky Hambleton-Jones.

"When it comes to riding out a recession, women in the UK get back to basics and make the most of what they've got. In tougher times we need to look for affordable ways to make ourselves look and feel good."

So whether you're a spa junkie or bathroom addict, think frugal this winter.

Bathroom bonuses

If you have a make-up bag stuffed to the brim and a bathroom cabinet overflowing with beauty potions, you need to rein in your product buying.

"Look out for items that have more than one purpose, especially in skin-care as a comprehensive skin-care routine can involve multiple products which really adds up," says Jenna Rose, beautician and ambassador for Johnson's.

Many products are multi-functional, saving both time and cash. It's also possible to mix your existing products to increase their longevity.

"If you use foundation, let your skin breath in the summer months by diluting it with your favourite face cream to create a tinted moisturiser - your look will be lighter and your foundation will last longer," says Jenna.

You can also make your fragrance stick around longer by applying a little baby oil to the areas you're going to spray. According to Jenna: "Perfume lasts longer on your skin if it's oily."

Salon savers

There's nothing like kicking back on the treatment bed for a leisurely hour in the hands of a professional therapist. But there are ways to bag luxury salon treatments at reduced prices to satisfy your pampering habit.

"The forward-thinking skin centre is offering supercharged micro-treatments," explains Sally Penford, education manager at the International Dermal Institute.

"They give you all the same great skin results but without the fluff - just 20 minutes could give you exactly what your skin needs at half the price. Think 'flash exfoliation', 'intense moisture', or 'rapid spot relief' all achieved over your lunch hour."

Many organisations also offer free or reduced price add-ons to treatments so you might get a brow shape or hand exfoliation, for example, included in your facial session.

"Look out for loyalty schemes and promotions run by your skin centre too that entitle you to something free (product or treatment) after spending a given amount," says Sally.

DIY deals

A true frugalist will have shunned the pricey spas and designer products long ago and begun to dabble in "make do" beauty. Think nights in with indulgent bubble baths and DIY manicures and pedicures.

"You're going out less, you're drinking less - it may feel like life has taken a boring turn, but why not make the most of your quieter lifestyle to get some extra sleep and ensure you come out of this recession looking years younger," says Nicky Hambleton-Jones, beauty expert for Impulse.

Forget turning into a domestic goddess and transform into DIY beauty queen. You can whip up your own indulgent yet cheap and cheerful treatments in the kitchen.

Nicky suggests: "Make your own avocado face pack, full of omega oils, vitamin E and totally chemical-free. Simply mash the flesh and apply to the face, let it work for 15 minutes, then rinse off.

"Use your nights in to exfoliate the skin a couple of times a week, followed by a face pack, and watch your skin transform from lacklustre back to lustrous."

Shop savvy tips

Give your beauty routines a frugal makeover with our top shopping tips:

1. Look for GWPs - that's Gift With Purchase - offers. You'll find handbags, scarves and bonus matching products are up for grabs when you spend a certain amount with a brand. The Perfume Shop, Boots and Superdrug regularly run GWPs.

2. Save your designer fragrance for special occasions and evenings out and switch to a perfumed body spray for everyday use.

3. Always purchase the largest sizes available in a range. They always work out cheaper and carrying them home will give your arms a toning workout!

4. Nervy about trying a new product? Don't be afraid to ask for samples to experiment with before you splash the cash.

5. Seek advice from a skin therapist and discuss what multi-functional products you can add into your current regime.

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