We are all on a budget, and as someone who really enjoys trying new beauty trends and products, I have to pick and choose what to spend my money on and where I can cut corners. We all do this I'm sure!
What I Spend On:
1. Gel Manicures. Cost, $25 per month
I can't believe how much I enjoy gel nail polish. I first decided to get a gel mani last Summer during my sister-in-law's wedding activities. I've always loved doing my own nails, and I have quite an extensive collection of Essie, O.P.I. and the like. But I didn't want to worry about chipping, so I went to a salon that I had heard wonderful things about. A year later, and I'm still trying to justify my monthly manicure. I keep telling myself that the next time "will be the last time" but I can't give it up. It doesn't help that I enjoy talking to my manicurist! She's pregnant and when she goes on maternity leave, I think that'll be my push to take a break. Maybe...don't hold me to it.
2. Hair Blow-Outs. Cost, $60 per month
This is my biggest treat, and I do it about twice a month. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I swear it does wonders for my confidence. I can feel like a slob, walk into a salon, and leave feeling like royalty. I don't know what it is, but if I had to stop all beauty treatments aside from one, a good blow-dry is something I wouldn't give up. Maybe I have a slight complex which I won't get into here, but my hair has always bothered me. If it looks decent, I'm a happy girl. Weight fluctuates, we get older, but a good blow-dry won't disappoint.
3. Botox. I've done it four times total. Cost, $130 per session
I've mentioned botox in a couple of comments to my readers, but I've been hesitant to write about it at length for fear of being judged. There, I said it! Before my first appointment, I did a ton of research. I researched so much that I waited over a year to finally go ahead with it. I was extremely nervous, and even though I know people who have had cosmetic surgery, I was afraid that getting botox would make me look unnatural. You know what I'm talking about. We've all seen people on social media that look pulled and bulgy in all the wrong places. Some people become unrecognizable. I only get it in between my eyebrows, where the constant worry and anxiety I manage turns into deep frown lines. I don't want to look concerned all the time. However, because we are planning to have a baby, I think I'm done for awhile because it can be harmful and I would never risk that.
If you'd like to hear about my experience, let me know! Botox and fillers aren't as taboo these days, but I still feel sheepish. That being said I'd actually love to do an entire post, if you care to read.
What I Save On:
I can count on both hands how many times I've had a facial, and although they are definitely relaxing, I actually enjoy doing my own mini facials using my own products at home. I think if you have scarring or acne, facials are probably more of a necessity. For me, I usually reserve one night a week to turn on some music, throw my hair in a ponytail, and use a sheet mask. I also use
Fresh and
Milk makeup.
2. Hair Cut & Color
I think by now you've probably noticed that I don't fuss with my hair. I let it air dry during much of the Summer, or I get a blow-out. My hair is fairly healthy because I don't color it often. About three times a year, I darken it or just do a glaze for shine. I keep playing with the idea of lightening it, but I just can't bring myself to do it. I like how low-maintenance it is, and it allows me to get my blow outs without feeling too terribly guilty. As for the cut, a simple trim every three months is enough.
3. Tanning Treatments & Products
Once upon a time, I was a sun worshiper. I would lie on my patio in the dead of Summer, bronzing lotion slathered all over my body. I still enjoy the sun, but I don't actively seek out a tan appearance. I wear sunscreen religiously, a hat, and sunglasses (muumuu optional though I like those too). Nate teases me because whenever we are outside, I'm the one that has to sit or stand in the shade. I don't mind being fair skinned anymore. As long as I have a good moisturizing lotion mixed in with some glowy liquid highlighter, I'm good to go!
What do you ladies splurge on, and what do you save on? I'm curious about this topic so please share below!
