Times are tough, companies are going out of business, the country is in a recession, hours are being cut, and gas and food prices are soaring.  So, how do us girls try to look glam with little or no extra money'  Our monthly budgets need to be cut somewhere and unfortunately sometimes it has to be the beauty budget.  There is no need to worry, read on for some tips tried and true from yours truly to help you get started. 



It seems easy enough just to neglect your usual beauty maintenance routine, but one thing you do not want to let go by the wayside is your hair color.  Instead of going to the salon, you can buy hair dye at a drug store for a fraction of the price.  Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure correct coloring and avoid dark patches.  A good color can brighten your complexion, make you look younger, and give your hair a healthy look and feel. 

There are many ways you can cut back on beauty expenses.  Shaving is the least expensive way to remove unattractive body hair.  Buy men's razors and shaving cream which are usually priced lower than women's.  You can find microwavable wax kits for about $10, decent tweezers are not expensive.  False eyelashes can be found for less than $5.  Splurge on conditioner, not shampoo but is you're a swimmer use a clarifying shampoo or wash it twice. 

People also don't want to see sorry looking nails so do yourself and everyone else a favor by investing in a do-it-yourself home manicure kit.  They can be found nationwide at stores for $5 which is very reasonable compared to going to a nail salon.  You might even find that you can do a more thorough job on your nails than a professional technician would.  I know a few people who have actually gotten nail infections and funguses from nail salons due to unsanitary practices. Also, there is no difference between a $9 bottle of nail polish than a $.99 bottle except the packaging itself. 

Daily exercise leaves your skin glowing.  You might think that you have to throw away your gym membership, which might be true if it's too expensive.  Find cheap group exercise classes in your area by looking online.  Most yoga studios offer the first class free or discounted class packages.  Health clubs and gyms also offer one week free trial periods, but most will pressure you into becoming a member.  If you do like the gym and the price is right try to negotiate terms and avoid initiation fees.  The YMCA is usually less expensive and it may be what you're looking for.  Lastly, walking and push ups are free so there is no need to neglect your physical well being. 

You don't have to pay top price for clothes to look good on you.  Check out thrift stores to find stuff that flatters your figure.  I bought a $5 pair of jeans at a second hand store once and received compliments every time I wore them.  It doesn't matter where you shop, even discount marts might unexpectedly make clothes that fit you like a glove. So, always keep your eye out, say no to trends and personalize your style.