Beauty on a budget

Put down that wallet! The latest at-home beauty treatments will have you touched up in no time. Click on for our budget-friendly DIY tips.

A version of this article appeared in our April 2013 issue, p. 42.

“Adhesive manicure strips are great for moms who don’t have a lot of extra time to first in a trip to the salon,” says Melissa Forrest, Sally Hansen expert and manicurist. Just ask our executive editor and busy mom of two, Kerrie Lee Brown, who tried them in our March issue (see “Test Drive,” p. 36). These convenient strips come in a ton of shades and are mess-free, easy-to-shape and gentle on your nails. LED lights are also available for certain gel polish kits, which make your nails harder and more chip resistant. However, either method you choose, nail strips are cost-effective, easy-to-use and not as messy as painting your own nails.

We like: Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips, $10
Where to Buy? well.ca

Dyeing your hair from a box is more nourishing for your locks than ever, says Garnier styling and colour expert Nina Farrauto. “By moving away from harsh chemical ingredients and going ammonia-free, the at-home experience now protects the integrity of your hair, and leaves it softer and shinier than before colouring.” Plus, many of the new formulas take less time to process, and foam or lather up like shampoo so they won’t cause a wet, drippy mess. But don’t completely give up on your stylist, warns Farrauto. “If you’re giving your look a major overhaul, like lightening your hair beyond two shade levels, it’s best to see a professional.”

We like: Garnier Olia Hair Dye, $13
Where to Buy? walmart.ca

Read more: Hair colouring made easy>

The DIY equivalent to a spa facial can do wonders for your complexion. A rejuvenating bimonthly peel that contains alpha-hydroxy acids will boost your cell turnover and give you that straight-from-the-spa glow. Or, try pampering your skin daily with a top-of-the-line cleansing system. The newest techie devices gently massage to thoroughly clean pores and refresh your skin. And, while the price tag may seem a bit steep (especially compared to a regular old face wash) the long-term results are well worth the investment.

We like: Clarisonic Mia2 Sonic Skin Cleansing System, $175
Where to Buy? sephora.com

Even when it’s only a cosmetic treatment, a trip to the dentist can cause serious dread — not to mention, a hefty price tag. But whitening your teeth at home is now quicker and more effective than ever, with various products on the market featuring enamel-safe ingredients that won’t cause gum sensitivity. Over-the-counter adhesive whitening strips are super convenient and allow you to whiten while you multi-task.

We like: Crest 3D Whitening Strips, $70 (packet of 40) ; $42 (packet of 20)
Where to Buy? shoppersdrugmart.ca