100 Ways to Save Money on Makeup and Beauty Products

100 Ways To Save Money On Makeup And Beauty Products

We know you’re constantly searching for fresh ways to cut costs.

So, we set out to discover how much you could save by adding a few more money-savvy beauty tips — 100 of them to be precise.

No matter if your grooming routine is a quick five-minute ritual or an elaborate session, you’ll likely uncover new strategies to spend less on cosmetics.

How to Get Great-Looking Hair Without Spending a Fortune

Say farewell to bad hair days with these wallet-friendly tips.

1. Nourishing Shampoo

Mix 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1/3 cup liquid castile soap, 1 teaspoon olive or almond oil and 10–20 drops of your preferred essential oil(s) in an inexpensive squeeze bottle and shake thoroughly.

Use about a teaspoon per wash (shake right before using) for hair that’s silky, soft and wonderfully scented.

2. Clarifying Shampoo

Try this baking soda and vinegar rinse combo every few weeks to strip away product buildup, hard water residue and other grime.

3. Dry Shampoo #1

Banish oily roots with baby powder or talcum powder. Work a small amount into your roots to soak up oil and reduce shine.

4. Dry Shampoo #2

In an emergency, grab spray starch from the laundry area. With either option, start sparingly and add more if necessary.

5. Conditioner

You probably have pantry staples to whip up at least one of these 13 DIY hair conditioners.

6. Leave-In Conditioner

No need for a specialty item — dilute your usual conditioner in a spray bottle.

Combine one part conditioner with three parts water. If it feels too heavy, add more water.

7. Hair Mask

Revive parched locks and repair styling damage with these 19 homemade hair mask recipes.

8. Deep Conditioning Treatment

Any of these seven inexpensive DIY deep conditioners will help restore moisture to your hair.

9. Make Hair Products Last Longer

We all tend to pour out too much shampoo and conditioner. Purchase cheap 100-milliliter containers from the dollar store and portion out your product daily.

Resist over-washing.

Better yet, skip shampooing every day. Depending on your hair type, frequent washing can strip the natural oils that keep strands healthy and shiny.

Professionals suggest washing two to three times per week.

10. Split End Repair #1

When you’re in a bind, rub a tiny amount of lotion or conditioner into split ends to temporarily “seal” them.

Apply it only to the tips to add enough moisture to fuse splits together.

11. Split End Repair #2

The best defense against split ends is prevention.

Trimming your ends every 8–12 weeks keeps hair robust and healthy, and can actually promote longer growth. This simple tutorial teaches you how to trim split ends on your own.

12. Fight Frizz

Run a dryer sheet through your hair to eliminate static (and leave a pleasant scent!).

13. Tame Flyaways #1

Don’t tote a separate product; your purse hand lotion can smooth stray flyaways.

Rub a small amount between your fingers and smooth — add more only if needed.

14. Tame Flyaways #2

If you spot a rogue hair at home, spritz hairspray on an extra toothbrush (even a worn one works).

Brush the flyaway against the grain to tuck it back into place.

15. Shine Spray

Bring dull, dry hair back to life with this homemade shine spray recipe.

16. Scented Hair Mist

Want your hair to smell delightful without clashing with other scents?

Spray your hairbrush with your perfume or body mist and brush through your locks.

Instantly fragranced hair.

17. Hair Strengthener

Dealing with fragile strands? The fix might be in your refrigerator.

Separate an egg yolk and rub it into clean, damp hair after washing and conditioning.

Leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

18. Hair Curling #1

Have you tried rag rolling?

Depending on your technique, you can achieve tight Shirley Temple-style curls or vintage bob waves.

Cut old sheets or t-shirts into strips, then dampen or towel-dry hair before bed.

Starting at the ends, wrap sections around the rags and roll your hair upward to where you want the curl to sit. Tie the rag to secure.

Sleep on it, unroll in the morning, and finish with hairspray. If curls won’t hold, add a bit of product before rolling for added hold.

19. Hair Curling #2

Pin curls take more time but give excellent all-over curls. Section damp hair according to the curl size you want.

Twist each section into small spiral buns and secure with bobby pins. Looser spirals yield loose waves; tighter spirals create stronger curls.

Let them set overnight and release in the morning.

20. Beachy Waves

Braid slightly damp hair before bed. In the morning, unravel the braids and tousle with your fingers.

Large braids create loose, voluminous waves — small braids produce a more textured, crimped look.

21. Hair Dye #1

Avoid harsh chemicals (and costly salon visits).

Create natural hair dye from herbs and plant ingredients. This resource explains which mixtures produce which shades.

22. Hair Dye #2

For a less permanent or playful look (like for a party), try Kool-Aid. This tutorial guides you through the process.

23. Pump Up the Volume

Blow-dry your hair upside down for instant lift and bounce — no extra products needed.

24. Trick Ponytail

Split your hair into two ponytails to create the illusion of extra length.

First, tie the section above your ears into a high ponytail. Next, gather the remaining hair into a second ponytail slightly lower.

When arranged correctly, the top pony will cover the lower one, concealing the elastic and producing one long-looking cascade.

25. The Perfect Bun

Repurpose a lone sock into a DIY donut bun maker.

Cut off the toe, turn the sock inside out and roll from ankle to toe into a donut shape. Thread your ponytail through, then roll the donut down to the ponytail base, tucking strands as you go.

Secure with pins and a quick spray of hairspray for a flawless round bun.

A man washes his face in the bathroom.
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How to Find Facial Skin Care Products in the Pantry

Step aside, expensive retail solutions. These tricks are often gentler on skin — and kinder to your bank account.

26. Face Wash

Whether your skin is oily, dry or combo, recipes in this cleansing guide provide natural, affordable alternatives to commercial cleansers.

27. Toner

Witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for a DIY toner.

Mix 1/4 cup witch hazel and 1/2 teaspoon vitamin C powder in a small spray or dropper bottle and shake well.

Apply a small amount with a cotton pad after washing your face. Keep the bottle away from heat and sunlight.

28. T-Zone Shine

Prevent shine before it appears.

Dust a bit of cornstarch over your T-zone before applying foundation.

29. Blotting Sheets

Control shine on the go.

If you’re in a public restroom, grab a clean toilet seat cover — it absorbs oil while leaving makeup intact, similar to blotting papers or rice paper.

30. Acne Fighter #1

Anti-redness eye drops can lessen acne inflammation by constricting blood vessels.

Soak a cotton swab in the drops and press gently against a pimple for five minutes to reduce swelling.

This also helps calm itchy bug bites and minimize under-eye puffiness.

31. Acne Fighter #2

Another quick remedy: dab mouthwash on a pimple. The alcohol content helps it shrink and heal faster.

32. Acne Fighter #3

Diaper rash cream can serve as a spot treatment because it contains zinc oxide, which reduces inflammation.

33. Blackhead Remover

Use a DIY mask to minimize blackheads.

Mix 3 tablespoons raw organic honey with 2 tablespoons baking soda.

Massage in circular motions over your face, leave for 30 minutes and rinse with warm water.

34. Anti-Aging Serum

Help slow signs of aging with a DIY face serum tailored to your skin type.

35. Skin Softener

Treat yourself to an inexpensive facial by combining 1/4 cup powdered milk with a splash of water to form a paste.

Massage onto your face in circles, let it dry, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

36. Exfoliating Scrub

Use common kitchen ingredients for an effective, pleasantly scented exfoliant.

Mix 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (organic preferred), 1 cup olive or coconut oil and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Use a tablespoon at a time to scrub your face, then rinse thoroughly. Store leftovers in an airtight jar.

37. Face Moisturizer

Raw honey alone makes a wonderful moisturizer.

Smooth it over your face in the shower, leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse for noticeably softer skin.

38. Face Masks

Whether tackling acne, dryness or excessive oil, homemade oatmeal masks can help.

Find recipes here.

39. Itch Relief #1

As you may recall from childhood chickenpox, oatmeal is soothing for dry, irritated skin.

Stir two cups of instant oats into a hot bath and soak for 15–20 minutes to enjoy relief.

40. Itch Relief #2

For targeted itch relief from bug bites or poison ivy, a dab of toothpaste can help.

Mint-flavored varieties offer a cooling sensation that eases discomfort.

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Body Care Products For Less

Your skin is your largest organ. Instead of piling on expensive commercial items, indulge it affordably with these natural alternatives.

41. Perfume

Create your own signature fragrance with essential oil blends — try these roll-on, solid and bottled perfume ideas from this guide.

42. Make Your Perfume Last Longer

Don’t reapply midday — extend your morning scent by rubbing a little petroleum jelly on pulse points before spraying.

43. Exfoliating Scrub

The same mixture you prepared for your face works great on hands and body.

Mix 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, 1 cup olive or coconut oil and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Scrub a tablespoon at a time and rinse well. Keep the rest sealed for future use.

44. Bubble Bath

Whip up a fragrant, luxurious bubble bath by combining 1/2 cup light almond oil, 1/4 cup honey, 1/2 cup liquid soap, 1 egg white and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.

Use 1/4–1/2 cup per bath and refrigerate any leftover mixture because of the egg.

45. Bath Oil

Whether you crave relaxation, nourishment or an energizing soak, this homemade body oil recipe offers many custom options.

46. Bath Bombs

A pampering treat or thoughtful gift, bath bombs are simple to make at home with this customizable recipe.

47. Bath Salts

Reduce stress and soothe skin with these 15 DIY bath salt recipes.

48. Body Lotion

With just three ingredients and 10 minutes, this DIY lotion recipe delivers countless variations.

49. Perfumed Body Lotion

Don’t waste the last drops of your favorite perfume.

Pour them into unscented lotion to craft a personalized scented moisturizer.

50. Body Oil

Keep your skin supple day and night with these three DIY body oil recipes.

51. Body Illuminator

Create a subtle glow by mixing a bit of olive oil into your regular body lotion.

52. Foot Scrub

Make a delicious-smelling “sugar cookie” foot scrub.

Combine 2/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/3 cup packed brown sugar. Stir in 1/2 cup olive oil and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract until well combined.

Store in a jar and enjoy!

53. Cracked Heels

Petroleum jelly works wonders on cracked heels.

Rub it on and sleep with socks on to let it repair overnight.

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Makeup That Won’t Make You Broke

Whether your makeup routine is a quick touch-up or a detailed application, there’s an economical trick for you.

54. Face Primer

Blend 3 tablespoons face lotion, 3 tablespoons aloe vera and 1 1/2 tablespoons of your foundation to craft a primer that evens skin for makeup.

55. Concealer

Make a quick concealer by mixing loose powder with liquid foundation.

56. Blush #1

Turn ordinary moisturizer into a creamy blush.

Stir a tiny bit of cherry gelatin powder into your moisturizer for a natural-looking flush.

57. Blush #2

Short on time? Dab a bit of your favorite lipstick onto your fingertip and blend into your cheeks.

Done.

58. Bronzer

Mix 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon cocoa powder and 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder, adjusting to match your skin tone.

Press firmly into an empty compact to create your DIY bronzer.

59. Highlighter

If you own shimmery eyeshadow, you can make a highlighter.

Transfer a small amount of shadow into a container (like an empty lip gloss pot), add 4–5 pumps of facial lotion and stir to a smooth cream.

60. Makeup Remover #1

Coconut and olive oil or fragrance-free lotion all work to take off makeup.

Massage in and wipe away with a washcloth or cotton pad.

61. Makeup Remover #2

Exfoliate while removing makeup with this sea salt and coconut oil scrub.

62. Brush Cleaner

Mix two teaspoons distilled white vinegar into a cup of hot water to clean your brushes.

Swirl brushes gently against the glass to loosen buildup.

Rinse with hot then cold water, reshape bristles and lay flat to dry.

63. Fix Crumbled or Shattered Powder Makeup

Dropped your favorite powder? Save it instead of replacing it.

Add a few drops of rubbing alcohol to the loose powder and press it back together with your finger.

Allow it to set for about 30 minutes — good as new.

64. Self-Tanner Corrector

Tone down a too-dark self-tan by mixing 1/2 cup lemon juice, 1 tablespoon baking soda and a cup of water.

Gently rub the solution on overly dark areas with a sponge, loofah or old toothbrush.

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Make Your Own Eye Makeup Products

From eyeshadow to eyeliner, boost your eye look with homemade alternatives.

65. Eyeshadow Primer

Mix 1/2 teaspoon foundation with 1/2 teaspoon face lotion.

Apply before eyeshadow to keep color vibrant and long-lasting.

66. Eyeshadow

Arrowroot powder and shea butter are the base for this natural eyeshadow recipe, which offers variations to create multiple shades.

67. Eyeliner

Try this non-toxic eyeliner composed of activated charcoal and coconut oil from this tutorial.

68. Mascara

For allergy-friendly or all-natural mascara, consider this homemade formula.

69. False Falsies

Skip false lashes and glue. Curl your natural lashes and apply one coat of mascara. Dust baby powder onto the lashes with a cotton swab, then add another coat.

The powder helps the second coat adhere, making lashes look thicker and longer.

70. Eyebrow Corrector

For groomed brows without spending a lot, an old toothbrush sprayed with hairspray will tame stray hairs. Alternatively, sweep a dab of clear facial moisturizer through them.

71. Eyebrow Pencil & Filler

No special tools needed to fill sparse brows.

Use short strokes of your eyeliner to outline brows, then fill with eyeshadow.

All set.

72. Puffy Eyes Fix #1

Chill a metal spoon in the freezer or a glass filled with ice.

Place the curved side over your eyes to reduce puffiness.

73. Puffy Eyes Fix #2

Green tea reduces swelling thanks to antioxidants.

Brew two green tea bags, chill briefly in the fridge and rest them on your eyes for a few minutes.

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Design Your Own Designer Lip Makeup

Try these lip hacks and get ready to pucker up.

74. Simple Lip Balm

Even beginners can make this easy three-ingredient lip balm.

Melt 1/4 cup coconut oil with 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon beeswax. Add a few drops of chosen essential oil(s), pour into small containers or tubes and let set.

  1. Flavored Lip Balm

For a tastier balm, follow this method using powdered drink mixes like Crystal Light or Kool-Aid.

76. Lip Gloss

Rescue nearly-finished lipstick stubs by melting them briefly in the microwave, then mixing with petroleum jelly in a small container.

Let solidify to create a custom gloss. Mix various old lipsticks to invent new shades.

77. Lipstick Mattifier

Want a matte finish from a glossy lipstick?

Apply lipstick, then lightly dust baby powder over your lips.

78. Extend the Life of Your Lipstick

Skip liner and translucent powder.

Apply one coat of lipstick, press a tissue to blot and set, then apply a second coat.

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Your Home Is Your Personal Nail Salon

Give yourself a salon-worthy manicure at home with these helpful suggestions.

79. Cuticle Cream

Petroleum jelly-based lip balm softens dry cuticles and makes them easier to push back during a DIY manicure.

80. Base Coat

Prep nails for polish.

Wipe dry, unpolished nails with a vinegar-soaked paper towel to remove oils and residue. This creates a clean base that helps polish adhere and prevents bubbles.

81. Nail Polish Speed-Dryer #1

Waving freshly painted nails in the air can create bubbles.

Instead, lightly spray plain, unflavored cooking spray over wet nails to help them dry faster.

82. Nail Polish Speed-Dryer #2

Harden polish quickly by filling a bowl with ice water.

Air-dry nails for three minutes, then submerge them in the ice water for another three minutes to speed the setting process.

83. Nail Polish Corrector #1

Made a mess with polish? No need for a special correction pen.

Use a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to clean the edges.

84. Nail Polish Corrector #2

Prevent slips in the first place!

Apply petroleum jelly around cuticles and surrounding skin with a cotton swab so polish won’t stick to those areas.

85. Fix Smudges

Quickly correct smudged polish by moistening the tip of your finger with saliva and gently dragging the polish upward.

86. Nail Polish Remover #1

For a more natural remover, soak a cotton ball in lemon juice mixed with white vinegar.

87. Nail Polish Remover #2

Rubbing alcohol works in a pinch.

Note — you may need to repeat applications to remove all polish.

88. Nail Strengthener

Restore weak nails with an olive oil and lemon juice treatment.

Follow step-by-step directions here.

89. Broken Nail Repair

Use a tiny drop of superglue to mend cracked or split nails.

Finish with an opaque polish for a seamless appearance.

90. Nail File

When you’re out of emery boards, a piece of sandpaper or the strike strip from a matchbook will do the job.

91. Nail Whitener

If nails look yellowed, brighten them with a mixture of whitening toothpaste and a squeeze of lemon juice.

92. Nail Art

No need for expensive kits.

Try these super-simple hacks using common items to create trendy nail designs.

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Teeth

These brightening tricks give you plenty of reasons to grin.

93. Whitening Toothpaste

Sprinkle a little baking soda onto your toothbrush to turn ordinary toothpaste into a whitening scrub.

94. Whitening Treatment

Skip costly strips and kits — use a common household product to whiten teeth.

Apply several coats of hydrogen peroxide to teeth with a cotton swab and let it bubble for a few minutes.

Swish an extra capful of peroxide in your mouth for a minute.

Spit and rinse well. Repeat once or twice daily until you reach the desired whiteness.

Shave Dollars Off Your Shaving Products

Forget subscription shave services — here are simple ways to save.

95. Shaving Cream #1

Coconut oil helps prevent nicks and cuts while shaving and leaves skin soft.

Make a shaving cream by combining coconut oil with other ingredients via this recipe.

96. Shaving Cream #2

Feeling lazy? Finally use those half-empty conditioner bottles leftover from products you tried once.

Stock up on inexpensive conditioners during sales. They moisturize and soothe as well as pricey shaving foams, gels or creams and tend to last longer.

Save Money On Other Stuff, Too!

There are plenty of additional ways to save while looking your best.

97. Beard Oil

Manage beard itch and dandruff with this homemade beard oil recipe.

98. Beard Balm

Try this beard balm recipe to condition and shape your beard, adding masculine scents.

Experiment with different spirits and essential oil blends for unique fragrances.

99. Aftershave

For a stimulating aftershave, try this spicy DIY aftershave. For a gentler option, this version uses avocado, shea butter and chamomile.

100. Hair Pomade

Create a custom-scented pomade with this beeswax-and-oil recipe.

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