Five Step Beauty Budgeting Hack

It's common knowledge that the beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar gold mine.  It's also common knowledge that that's too steep for this math teachers blood! But what is a girl to do when she wants to feel beautiful, fight aging and glow like a pregnant with twins, Beyonce? Well, as in previous posts, DIY is always an option. While I love my DIY masks, I'll be the first one to admit they are a time consuming option.  There is another route however...bargain shopping! Yep, I said it. I stalk my local Marshall's for you guessed it, moderate to high end beauty and skincare products.  This weekend I saved $37.00 on First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, and Cleansing Body Polish. I suffer from eczema.  The worst part is that within the last six months I've been developing rashes on my face, which then lead to hyperpigmentation.  Without the right products to battle the rashes, it takes months to reverse the hyperpigmentation.  I've been toying with products and so far, the Ultra Repair Cream just gives me an extra boost of moisture that my skin needs, a glow(not quite Beyonce, but getting there) and more importantly, no dry, flaky rashes, therefore, you guessed it, no three month battle with hyperpigmentation That's a win in itself, but the biggest plus, I found this baby at Marshall's and saved $19.00 on the cream alone!  It retails at Sephora for $32.00, I got it for $12.99.    

FAB Ultra Repair Cream $32.00

The body scrub is perfect for smooth summer skin.  It retails at Sephora for $25.00, but I got it for $6.99  I also always find a lot of Too Faced and Urban Decay products at discount stores such at Marshall's and Nordstrom for far less.

Now, just because a product is cheaper than my local Sephora doesn't mean I want to waste $20+ trying it out.  I actually try products before I purchase them, or even begin to look for them at discount stores.  Reason being, I may not find everything I'm looking for at the price or size I'd prefer, and be urged to buy it from Sephora. Knowing something works for you before purchasing it is the biggest hack of them all. Sample, sample. sample! Also, don't be shy! you need a sample for a minimum of a week to notice the slightest change in your skin.  Don't be afraid to ask for more.  I usually lead with "I'd like to sample this for a week before buying." to avoid not having enough to make a decision.

So here's my step by step beauty budget hack beauties:

1. Visit your local Sephora

2. Speak to an associate regarding your skincare or beauty needs.

3. ASK FOR A SAMPLE

4. If you love it, visit your nearest Nordstrom Rack, Marshall's, TJ Maxx, and/or Ross beauty department

5. Save, and glow!