Cheap tricks

Luxury has a very special place in every woman’s heart but often it’s the little things that are among the most invaluable. You know what I mean, basic beauty tools and products we take for granted. Like the humble cotton tip – wonder that it is for removing stray mascara flecks and cleaning up over-zealous eyeliner applications. And don’t get me started on how useful it is for dealing with blemishes hygienically.
Speaking of hygiene, I’m also a huge fan of those nifty disposable sponges sold in huge packets at Priceline for about $5. I can always find a clean space on the sponge for a couple of days’ worth of base or powder application before they go in the bin. And if I’m feeling more Earth-friendly (yes, I know this should be a permanent state of being but who doesn’t want the easy way out sometimes?), I can wash and dry them for a second or third round as well.
Eyebrow pencil is another product I’m prepared to skimp on. As long as the colour is spot on, you keep it sharpened and always blend well into brows, it doesn’t really matter which brand it bears.
Next in my shopping basket goes Revlon’s excellent Mitchum unscented antiperspirant. Yes, it really works and because it’s fragrance-free, you don’t have to endure a cheap, overly strong scent that can be the downfall of some inexpensive body products.
I’m hardly the first to say it but Nivea Body Sunkissed Skin, is a supermarket superhero on the gradual tanning front and there are some pretty impressive hair conditioners in the next aisle, too. Look for brands such as Garnier and Schwarzkopf Extra Care that pour big dollars into research.
So there you have it, cheap tricks for less than $10 to have you looking one million dollars head to toe.
What’s your bargain basement beauty essential?
66 Member Comments
I love bargain beauty products especially if they are good and work.
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My latest great cheap discovery is the gel eyeliner from e.l.f. It is just as good as more expensive gel eyeliners.
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Sukin Hand and Nail Cream $9.99.
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love that smokey eye look
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It would have to be Garnier hair and skincare products, such a great range.
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Nivea as an answer for everything.
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Many good products don't cost the earth but choosing wisely is the way to go.
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Simple eye cleanser is cheap and effective for me.
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Essence gel eyeliner is very long lasting and very cheap.
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love dove products
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Fantastic tips! Thanks
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I buy some cheap products and splurge on others....cheap foundation and concealer is definitely a no no in my book!
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I love finding cheap things that work a treat! So handy! xx
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yeah - i love the body shop lip balms aswell, and i always use Garnier, smells great, works effectively and affordable. ;)
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i agree about the nivea sunkissed skin-good quality & nice scent. The body shop lip balms are always a favourite for me....not too expensive and last forever.
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despite trying many new products i always go back to my old faithful cleanser - cetaphil. $17 buys a 1 litre pump pack that i can store in the shower and will probably last more than a year!
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I have to agree on Garnier hair products. I've been using the supermarket stuff for as long as I can remember. My hairdresser always tries to sell me products that I'm sure are fabulous but I can't say I would change in a hurry.
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Oh, and check out sites like ebay or trademe (NZ), you can get some really great beauty products super cheap, although make sure it's new, I wouldn't want to wear second hand makeup :P
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It's been said before, but I can't go past blistex, it's an absolute essential and sooo o cheap.
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The best way to get bargains for anything is just to keep your eyes open and don't be afraid or embarrassed to have a good dig through bargain baskets or whatever is on clearance. You can save some serious bucks!! Also ordering online bulk stuff to share with a friend and split the costs is a great idea too, but only works if you like the same stuff!
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i bought a cheap thick brush to brush on my bronzer while i was a way for the weekend and forgot my brush set, it only cost me $6 from woolies in mandrah but it has been the best buy ever. its so soft and gives an even spread, im still useing it now. kinda wish i didnt spend so much on a brush set now.
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The Australis nail polish all-in-one base and top coat costs about $7 or $8 and makes $2 chemist nail polish look amazing and it won't chip for weeks. I love it! I'm also loving Nivea tinted Care Gloss this winter.
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i love getting tips and tricks like this. it shows you dont have to spend hundreds of dollars to look beautiful.
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I love Nutrimetics Products now although they cannot advertise online they have personal consultants who help you with your products, I know becasue I am one. By getting your own account with nutrimetics you can prucahse your fav products for cheap too!!
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blistex lip conditioner - love it!
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