Everyone’s beauty routine is different, but it can include things like getting your hair and nails professionally done, getting a facial and/or other cosmetic procedures, and even going to the gym every day to stay fit. However, all of these things add up and it makes it hard (or very expensive) to maintain a health and beauty routine.

Fortunately, there are ways to make this less expensive. You can start by limiting the number of times you go out and do these things, depending on how often you do them. For example, once a week may not seem like it’s that often, but it can add up. You can also look into some cheaper alternatives.

#1: Fitness and Health

Exercising is something that can be considered a part of someone’s beauty routine because today’s beauty standards still favor slim and trim bodies. This is one of the reasons that many people are working harder to get to the gym at least once a week— that along with wanting to live a healthier lifestyle. However, the average annual gym membership is around $500— costing you around $42 a month.

Although that isn’t too much money, you can definitely save more money by working out at home— and you don’t even need to purchase equipment! There are many strengthening exercises that allow you to use your own body weight, and pilates is a well-known strengthening exercise (especially for the core) that requires no dumbbells, kettlebells, etc. Examples of strengthening exercises include:

Crisscross
Leg lifts
Planks
Pushups
Situps
Squats

There are also videos on YouTube that you can watch and follow along with. Just remember— whether you’re working out at the gym or at home— aim for exercising at least 30 minutes a day for five days a week. Also, make sure that you’re eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (avocados, olive oil, etc.), and lean/plant proteins.

#2: Hair, Skin, and Nails

Many women (and men) spend a lot of money on these very popular beauty treatments, and the costs can really add up depending on how often you get these treatments.

Hair

Some people get their hair done once a week, while others may visit the hair salon every other week or less often. Everyone’s hair needs are different, and it’s not possible for everyone to do their own hair successfully. For those in this situation, try washing your own hair before going to the salon, or bring your own hair products if your salon charges you for the products they use from their shelves.

On the other hand, you can try doing your own hair at home. Some hair routines are as simple as washing and drying, whereas other hair routines can be much more complex— requiring extra products and styling tools.

Skin

Dermabrasion and chemical peels are two beauty procedures that have become very popular in recent years. Both remove skin cells from the face to make the skin appear much smoother, removing acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles.

However both dermabrasion and chemical peels can easily cost a couple of thousand dollars, and not everyone can afford these treatments. Even microdermabrasion can cost hundreds of dollars, which doesn’t go as deep as dermabrasion. Instead, try adding exfoliants to your skincare routine, and you can even add retinol and glycolic acid serums (not at the same time) to treat certain skin concerns.

Nails

Nails are probably the easiest beauty treatment to do at home. You can give yourself a pedicure or a manicure, or you can simply paint your nails. Some people may even opt to apply fake nails that you can buy from the drugstore— many of which are now made with adhesive backs instead of requiring glue.

woman practicing self care

#3: Other Cosmetic Procedures

There are many other types of cosmetic procedures used by both men and women, but one cosmetic procedure that’s been around for decades is teeth whitening. Nowadays, there are several over-the-counter products that whiten teeth, but some people still opt to get a professional whitening, which can also cost thousands of dollars.

Some people may even choose to get veneers (fake teeth that are placed over original teeth), but this is also a very expensive procedure. Veneers are also permanent. A less permanent and less expensive alternative to veneers would be removable veneers.

There’s a way to save money on beauty, fitness, and other aspects of life— even if it means just cutting back. As always, do what works best for you and what’s best for your financial situation and your mental health.