VALDOSTA —
Last year I went to the spa for the first time. I got a facial with all these fancy scrubs and creams and I remember laying there as they rubbed what could only be heaven all over my face. It was one of the single most glorious things that had ever happened to me . . . that is, until I got to the check-out counter and was given the bill. Yikes! My next treatment was in the emergency room as I had clearly mistaken my shock for a stroke.
The bill pretty much ruined spas for me forever. How could I possibly go relax knowing I was going to have to eat Ramen Noodles for a month to pay for it. I know it doesn’t sound that bad, but anyone who can remember trying to pay their first couple student loan bills also remembers the gag reflex that accompanies the smell of “beef-flavored” seasoning.
Even though I don’t have children, I do have a husband and that is almost just as bad and I also work full-time. Sure, going to the spa may not be a necessity per se but when the alternative is jumping off a bridge, I would say that relaxing is pretty important. Thus, once again I have turned to Pinterest. So here are some at-home spa treatments that use typical kitchen ingredients.
• Super Silky Summer Legs
Have you begun to look like an alligator because your skin is so dry and cracked? Sure, lazing around the beach and pool is glorious but it can make your skin look hideous! So, to smooth out those dry patches and give yourself a glow, lather on the following mixture: 1/2 cup of olive oil, three tablespoons of lemon juice and one and 1/4 cup of sugar.
• Microdermabrasion
A procedure that could cost hundreds from a spa or dermatologist could cost you virtually nothing with this trick. Combine three tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water and mix together well. Apply to face with circular motion, let sit for five minutes and rinse off with warm water. Just like that and easier than pie you will have a beautiful and glowing complexion.
• As Soft as a Baby’s Bottom
Mix together one cup of brown sugar, one cup of raw oatmeal, one cup of olive oil and apply to skin all over gently. Rinse off with warm water in the shower and you will feel as smooth as butter!
• Deep Conditioning
If you are trying to grow your hair out like me, then this tip is for you! Mix two egg yolks (separate from egg whites) with two tablespoons of olive oil and then dilute the mixture by adding one cup of water. Slowly massage through hair from scalp to tips. Let your hair absorb it for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse out. Watch out, Tresemme, I just stole some of your ooh-la-la!
• Teeth Whitening
A week’s worth of teeth-whitening product can cost around $40 to $50, if not more. Get the same results by swishing everyday hydrogen peroxide. After you brush for one to two minutes be sure to spit it out so you don’t die. No seriously, it’s lethal. Not only will you see a brighter smile but you will also give yourself tougher gums!
Not only are these tips on the cheap but they are all Budget Brittany approved! Sure, my husband thinks I’m insane because I keep taking eggs and oatmeal into the bathroom, but freaking him out a little from time to time has become subtly amusing. What can I say? We bumped our television package down to the bare minimum so I have to entertain myself somehow!
Don’t forget to visit me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BrittanysBudgetDiary and follow me on Twitter @VDT_Brittany.
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