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Tip Store: Beauty: Skin Care and Make-up

​Ancient Treatment for the Face

​If you spend your hard earned money on lotions and potions to remove makeup and soften your skin, try swapping to a pantry item in almost every home, OLIVE OIL. It is natural, inexpensive and has been used for centuries to moisturise the skin, even before it was used for cooking! It can be applied to the body and if you use it to remove makeup, follow it up with a foaming cleanser.
Contributed by Frances Mavropoulos 

Pretty Eyes for Less

​I started tinting my eyelashes and eyebrows at home after it became too expensive to pay the $35 -$50 a go that it costs at the beauty salon. I initially bought the special eyelash/eyebrow tint from the chemist for $18 which gave me 12 treatments, then I came up with an even better way to save. A male friend had pointed out to me that men’s hair colour comes in resealable tubes so I purchased a box of men’s hair colour from Woolworths for $13.50 and tried it. So far I have been using the same box of colour for the last two years about 12 times a year and I’m not even a third of the way through the tube. All it takes is a small amount of hair dye and developer mixed together and then you can apply it to your brows and lashes. I use a bit of Vaseline around my eyes to protect my skin from discolouring and then go about cleaning the house, putting out washing or whatever needs to be done and then wash it off after 10 minutes. Voila you have beautiful eyebrows and eyelashes for a fraction of what it would cost at a salon plus it only takes about 5 minutes of your time to apply and wash off. 
Note - if you have blonde hair like me you just buy a light brown tint for your brows and black for your lashes.
Contributed by Victoria Vosloo

Get More Out of Tubes

When you reach that "spurtie" stage of emptiness with your hand cream or moisturiser (or sunscreen, or anything that comes in a plastic tube), I get out the scissors and cut the tube in half. Then you can used your fingers to clean out the tube or cut it lower to reach the bottom. To close it up for another day, just slide one cut end over the other telescopic style. You can get so much more product out of your tube that you thought was empty!
Contributed by Trina Bergmann​When you reach that "spurtie" stage of emptiness with your hand cream or moisturiser (or sunscreen, or anything that comes in a plastic tube), I get out the scissors and cut the tube in half. Then you can used your fingers to clean out the tube or cut it lower to reach the bottom. To close it up for another day, just slide one cut end over the other telescopic style. You can get so much more product out of your tube that you thought was empty!
Contributed by Trina Bergmann

Grow Those Eyebrows

My eyebrow technician has told me that daily brushing of my eyebrows will help stimulate growth on my vary sparse eyebrows. The little brushes you can buy all add up so I have come up with this money saver. Once you have finished using your mascara brush instead of chucking it in the bin, leave it out to dry and there you have a usable and up-cycled eyebrow brush. 
Contributed by Kate Lawrence, January 2019

​Travel Size Make-Up and Skin Care Saves Money

I love to buy good quality brands of make-up and skincare however I find that a little goes a long way, meaning many full sized products are past their use by date long before I’ve used them up.  I now buy travel sized versions which are cheaper initially. Of course buying the smaller size can be more expensive per gram than the full size product, but if you end up throwing half of it away, it will cost more in the end. As a bonus when you do travel you don’t need to purchase anything extra. 
Contributed by Rebecca Clay

​Use All of Your Tube Products

I try and use all of my makeup foundation and toothpaste and other products that are in tubes. I can squeeze most of the products and use small bulldog clips to hold the tube in place, but some tubes won't fold well. I now put the tube under hot water, this softens the cream and it either slides down to the opening or makes it easier to squeeze. My tubes last at least a week longer and the saving varies depending on the cost of the product.
Contributed by Denise Heydon, 2nd August 2018

Mineral Make-Up Portion Control

Mineral Make-Up Portion Control​I've got sensitive skin and on the rare occasions that I wear makeup, I only use organic or mineral makeup. Problem is, liquid foundation can be really expensive and I don't go through it quickly enough. I have found a few on line stores that sell samples of make up like Zuii. I found that one sample pack lasted me for a couple of functions. I got a pack of 4 different colours which worked out great, one was too dark, but from the others I got a winter and summer foundation and the really light one works great as a concealer! It does depend on the brand, some of them the sample is only enough for colour and patch testing.
Contributed by Sonja Smout

Related Website:
​http://www.zuiiorganic.com/

A Simple Cotton Bud makes a Great Lip Brush

​I've recently started to use a cotton bud with my stick lipsticks that are unable to be used straight onto lips as they have worn down. I've been amazed at how much lipstick I have still been able access this way. I've searched for a lip brush in a number of retail stores and haven't found one, so have been extremely happy with the cotton bud. With liquid lipstick, perhaps cutting the tube, similar to toothpaste may help. Unknown whether the lipstick would dry out though.
Contributed by Danielle Morrish, 8th September 2017

Switch to a Solid Lipstick for Long Lasting Colour

​My advice is to change to a solid lipstick instead of using a liquid lip colour. I keep my lipsticks that have worn down in with my makeup. I firstly apply a lip pencil over all of my lip and then use a lip brush to use up the last of the lipstick in the bottom of the tube. This makes sure I use all the lipstick and I find it stays on longer. I carry a newer lipstick in my bag of the same or similar colour for reapplying when needed.
Contributed by Lee H, 4th September 2017

How to Get Every Last Drop from Your Liquid Lip Colour

​Place your mostly-empty lip gloss tubes standing upright in the mug of hot water. (They should be sealed tightly so the H2O doesn't contaminate the products.) After 10 minutes, the gloss on the sides of the tubes should have settled to the bottom. Now remove the gloss from the package. To do this, use your knife to pop out the stopper, which prevents the liquid from seeping out of the tube. Then pour the remaining gloss into a small container- or use a small stirrer spoon (the micro spoons they use at Gloria Jeans, McDonalds and even beauty counters use them to give you a 1ml tester) to scoop it out. Further, you can approach your high end beauty counters (such as KIT at Myer) for a small sample of whatever takes your fancy, they often decant it into micro pots, clear miniature lip balm pots that are perfect for re-using, or decanting your own beloved-but-almost-done products into. I wouldn't recommend cutting a hard tube of gloss with a wand open though (like a mascara wand, not a flexible crimp sealed tube) as the harder plastic can turn to small slivers which could contaminate your gloss.
Contributed by Sandra Darling, 1st September 2017

Try Trimming it Down

​If I have read your question correctly, I believe you are describing liquid lipsticks or glosses that have a doffout applicator. In order to use the remaining amount you can try cutting the top off or filing it down, otherwise using a lip brush which usually have long handles on them to make sure you are getting all of the product. 
Contributed by Amber Lyons, 1st September 2017

Get Every Last Drop with a Cotton Bud

​Flexible cotton buds are great for getting the last bit out of all your makeup containers. They are usually longer than the applicators supplied and can easily bend to get the last drops out of lipstick, lip gloss, foundation and even powders. Tubes can have the bottoms cut off and cotton buds used to get the last bit out - often lasting at least another couple of weeks.
Contributed by Chris Peachey, 31st August 2017

Simple MOO Everyday Moisturiser

​500ml pump bottle of sorbolene with Vitamin e
1 teaspoon lavender or rose essential oil
1 teaspoon apricot oil
Add the essential oil and apricot oil to the Sorbolene and mix well with the plunger.
This is a lovely everyday moisturiser.
Contributed by Maureen Newman, 4th June 2017

​EVOO or Coconut Oil from Aldi are Great Moisturisers

​I use coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil. You only need a very small amount (otherwise your skin will be greasy) and it keeps my skin looking great. If you buy these oils from Aldi then it is very cheap indeed.
Contributed by Leanne Masters, 3rd June 2017

​EVOO Doubles and Cleanser and Moisturiser

​Try extra virgin olive oil, both as a body moisturiser and as a facial cleanser/moisturiser. Incredibly warming and nourishing to the skin and no oily residue.
Contributed by Kim, 2nd June 2017

​Simple MOO Vitamin E Scrub

​I use a simple scrub from vitamin e cream and table salt, and coconut oil to moisturise. Works beautifully!
Contributed by Cass Forsyth, 1st June 2017

​Simple Sorbolene

​You can pick up Sorbolene Cream or Sorbolene Cream with Vitamin E for less than $7.00 for 1000ml in supermarkets. This is the moisturising ingredient in all face or body moisturisers including those that cost more than $100 a jar. Everything else is just added to make you spend more or sound special. Depending how you use it this will last you months if not years.
Contributed by Allison Thorpe, 1st June 2017

​MOO Moisturiser

​Skin cream/Moisturiser: 1/3 Olive Oil, 1/3 Coconut Oil (both cheap and fabulous), 1/6 Macadamia, 1/6 Almond… or any good oil that you like, then a bit of Rosehip (more expensive), and an essential oil that is recommended for topical use (e.g. lavender, tea tree). I put mine in a nice pump bottle as it can be a bit hard to dispense from other bottles. I use this all over - face and body.
Contributed by Susie Venkat, 1 June 2017

​Whole Body Organic Moisturiser

​I use pure organic coconut oil (I buy a large tub from Iherb with free postage) to moisturise my whole face and body - all natural and its absorbed quickly plus my skin has never looked or felt better. I decant into a small (recycled)jar that I keep in the bathroom and another in the bedroom for a mani/pedi before bed :)
Contributed by Judy Kidd, 1st June 2017

​Coconut Oil Moisturiser is the Best

​I use plain old cold pressed organic coconut oil. A tiny bit in the morning so I am not greasy and I use extra at night. I have extremely dry skin and after using a myriad of products over the years this works wonders, it's the cheapest and has nothing nasty in it.
Regards
Contributed by Linda S. 1st June 2017

Simple, Cheap, Skincare Ideas

​For waterproof eye makeup remover I moved to Johnson’s baby oil. It does not sting your eyes and leaves your lashes soft and pliable – mine have stopped falling out. It really does remove all your waterproof mascara! You will also need to purchase some cotton face wipes – which you can buy for about $1 for 50.l

For a cheap toner, get a $2 spray bottle and fill it with Witchhazel (bought from any chemist for about $5) which is an astringent. You can put it in the fridge in summer for a cool spritz, you can even add a couple of drops of rose water.

For an exfoliate I use a salt (finer than sugar) and olive oil mix. You can make it as fine or as heavy as you require. Once again you can use it as is or add a bit of essential oil for fragrance. 

If you want a homemade moisturiser go to website “naturalandhealthyliving” you can find a variety of moisturisers to make at home, depending on your skin type.

The simplest seems to be:
• ½ cup coconut oil – anti ageing, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and can be purchased from supermarkets. 
• 12 drops of Lavender Oil – Relaxing, antioxidant, helps skin with free radicals
• 1 teaspoon of Vitamin E liquid – or pierce a couple of vitamin E capsules – Helps with scarring, helps hold solution together. 
Melt coconut oil in microwave or over a pot of boiling water, add Vitamin E and then lavender, beating with stick blender as it cools down.
Contributed by Joanna Harper, 1st June 2017

Save on Make-up

We all know about opening the toothpaste tube to get it all out, but what about other things? If your make comes in a tube, when you can't squeeze any more out cut open with a craft knife and scrape out into a little jar. You will have quite a lot left and be able to use every last drop.
Contributed by Lynda Tomlinson, 21st June 2016

​Zero Waste Lipstick

When I am down to the last of my lipstick I use a cotton bud to get the rest of it from the tube. Three months later I'm still doing it. This extends my lipstick for ages but best of all I'm not throwing product away, keeping my money and not wasting perfectly good lipstick because of a (I think deliberate) design fault.
​Contributed by Kath Alderwick, 1st January 2014

​Rosehip Oil for Youthful Skin

Rose hip oil improves skin hydration and softens lines, dims discolourations and gives your skin a healthy glow. Buy a tub of inexpensive face cream and a bottle of rose hip oil. If you look around you can usually find it on special and it is going to last ages. Before moisturising scoop a small amount of cream into the palm of your hand and add a couple of drops of rosehip oil. Mix it in and then smooth the cream over your face as usual. You'll see and feel results pretty much straight away. I also add a couple of drops to hand cream and body lotion with similar results. Who needs expensive cosmetic surgery!
​ Contributed by Ann Drummond, 30th May 2013

​Moisturiser on a Budget

​Approximate $ Savings: $20.00 a fortnight

I have very dry skin and need to use a lot of moisturiser or I break out in eczema and my skin starts to peel off. Someone told me to try olive oil and I did once but felt all slimy and smelly. Someone else told me they used it as well, so I tried again. I have some extra-virgin olive oil from one of my friends' orchards and I put it in a small spritzer bottle and when I get out of the shower and am still wet, I spritz about 10 squirts onto my hands and rub it on and it goes a long way and rubs in nicely - not slimy or smelly. My skin feels fantastic! The trick is to use a good quality oil which the first time I tried it was not. Apparently Italians and Greeks have been using olive oil for years as a moisturiser - goes to show that sometimes the old ways are the good ways.
​- Contributed by Katherine Scott, 22nd February 2013

​MOO Facial Exfoliator

During the warmer months in particular I notice my face gets quite dull and sticky. I will usually buy a commercial facial exfoliator to revamp my skin and clear away the nastys, but I am determined to save for a house and any money saved brings me closer to that goal.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup Bi-Carb Soda
Enough water to make into a thick paste

​ I start by washing my face then simply mix the bi-carb and water to make a thick paste. Apply paste liberally over the face and rub it in circular motions (usually takes around a minute or so, don't stress it does tingle). Rinse off with warm water. Voila - all the results of an expensive facial exfoliator without the spending :) Use once to twice a week for delicious skin.
​- Contributed by Laurie Bennett, 14th January 2013

​Cheaper than Bio Oil!

​Approximate $ Savings: $19 per bottle

​Chemist Warehouse consistently provides chemist brands for less! Take the previous tip about Bio Oil (for using on face instead of expensive facial treatments etc.). The RRP listed on the Chemist Warehouse website is $24.99 for a 125ml bottle, but the standard Chemist Warehouse price is $17.69 - that's over $7 difference! But if you buy a generic brand of the same item (in this case the brand is "Healthy Care" and the product is called "Super Body Oil" and is all natural) this will save you almost a further $17.00! $24.99 versus $5.99! I know which one I'd buy!
- Contributed by Vashti Wood, 24th January 2013

​Beautiful Skin, Simple Solution

​I use BIO OIL in the 125ml bottle for wrinkle cream at night instead of pricey name brands. This amount lasts well over six months as you only use of few drops and costs about $32. Your skin seems to absorb the oil mixture without feeling greasy. Leaves skin soft and glowing!
​- Contributed by Sunny Seagull, 8th January 2011

​Beauty Spot

​Approximate $ Savings: $306

​I am a girly girl and love to go to beauty pampering salons. I am a stay at home mum, and after the birth of my last child found it really hard to justify spending $100 on an eye lash tint and some waxing. So, a good friend and I decided to try the eye lash tint at home. We found a direct to public local supplier of hairdressing and beauty products and picked up the tint and the oxidant and the cotton rounds for $13.95. (Or you could look online) The cost of one treatment is usually $20 at a beauty salon and as it normally lasts 4 – 6 weeks, that's around $160 a year going to salon every 6 weeks. We used about 2cm of tint and there's probably 50 tints to one tube, and a lot of oxidant, I think we'd definitely get around 2 years' worth of tint to one tube. So I'd estimate the total savings at $320 - $13.95 = $306.05. As it's winter at the moment, we're going back to the beauty supplier to try our hand at waxing next up, just in time for summer…
- Contributed by Carolyn Pimentel, 15th July 2012

​How to Get Lipstick to Last Longer

​This is for those of us who are constantly looking at saving money but still enjoy a good quality lipstick. When your expensive lipstick flattens out and you are no longer able to use it and are constantly pushing a lip brush into the cylinder - stop, it will damage your brush. Put your used lippy in the fridge so it is firm. Find a container, I use a small screw top container (one used previously for cosmetics that has been washed). Using either a thin, fine letter opener or long metal nail file insert the letter opener down the side and in a circular motion move it around the edge and then underneath. You will find your left over lippy comes out in a little blob that you can drop into your container. I then use the brush over a couple of uses to get the last remaining traces from the lipstick canister. In my small container I may have up to three different shades and colours that I use, depending on needs and I often mix a couple together. You will be surprised at how much longer your lipstick lasts and the saving over a year.
​- Contributed by Bridgid Batchelor, 21st January 2013

​The Complete Beauty Product

​I recently heard of a lady in her 60's who has used olive oil as a beauty aid for many years. She simply adds a cap of olive oil to her bath and submerges herself under the water including her hair. She has no wrinkles and her hair is shiny and her skin is soft with no dry skin. I have tried this and was impressed from the first day. After one week my skin is more supple and age spots have faded. My scalp doesn't feel itchy and dry and my hair is shiny and more manageable. All this has improved with one product. I no longer need to purchase moisturiser for different areas of my body. It is all done at the same time. Imagine how much money it could save over a lifetime.
​-Contributed by Denyse Wilson, 11th February 2012

​Saving on Beauty Treatments

​Approximate $ Savings: Can be as high as $500 in a day saved!

Victoria University has a beauty salon operating with its beauty and dermal students. Most of the basic services are offered for a fraction of the regular price and it is always supervised by qualified teachers. However if you are really frugal you can phone them or just turn up and ask if they need models for anything. The students must perform treatments for their assessments and are usually desperate for models for this so as a model you will get your treatment free. You can, if really organised, spend an entire day there getting treatments done with the best products absolutely free. Services I have had done this way are: massage (saved $80), facials (saved $80-$200), basic and advance manicures (saved $42-$72), pedicure (saved $45), eyebrow and lash tint (saved $25), waxing (saved $100 approximately for eyebrow, leg, bikini and underarm), spray tan 35 electrolysis 1.50 a minute! There are also similar offers in the hairdressing department as well I've heard.
​- Contributed by Chez Street, 14th July 2012

​A Simply Luscious Skin Treatment

​Used coffee grounds make a lovely body exfoliator. Before turning on the water, gently rub cooled used grounds on dry skin, in the shower because it's messy. Then shower off to reveal beautifully smooth skin. There is even a slight oil released from the grounds! Luscious!
​- Contributed by Carmel

Editors Note: Coffee grounds are also great in the compost too or sprinkled on the garden around precious plants to keep the snails at bay. You can also use them to scrub a burnt pot - just sprinkle them onto the burnt on food and scrub. Don't tip them into the rubbish though, add them to the compost (if you haven't added any detergent). Cath

​Beauty Shop Swaps

​Approximate $ Savings: 100%

​Kudos to Paula Begoun, the cosmetic cop. She has reviewed cosmetic and hair products in the US for many years, her book "don't go to the cosmetics counter without me' is now into 7th edition. She reviews all those amazing skincare claims from a scientific viewpoint and tells you the facts and what the research on ingredients actually shows. I've saved myself hundreds of dollars by not getting sucked in by all those glossy mag adds for the latest skincare fad. And you don't need to buy the book now, just visit Beautipedia.com and check out the reviews. Example, lip gloss, i had bought the latest Elizabeth Arden shine gloss for $38, turns out the Aldi gloss is just as good and costs less than $10. And those exfoliator products you buy? Cleanser and face washer does exactly the same thing! Should be required reading for every teenager battling acne too, many of the big selling acne products contain fragrance or alcohol that makes blemishes worse, not better. Do the research, then hit Priceline with your list of Paula's pick products and try the testers, then shop knowing you're getting value and proven results.
-Contributed by Carolyn Rogers, 3rd June 2012

​Microwave Lip Balm

Approximate $ Savings: $100 - $200

​ I spend quite a lot of money on lip balms, both tinted and natural, especially in winter months when my lips chap easily. My recipe below saves you lots of money as lip balms can cost $3 to $20 depending on the brand and if it's tinted.

Lip Balm Recipe
Makes 40ml

Instructions:
Heat up 1 tablespoon Vaseline (or just any petroleum Jelly) in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time until the Vaseline has melted (careful as it can be hot). In a separate small bowl add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (you can also use almond oil or avocado oil or coconut oil or rice bran oil), mix together with a few drops of your favourite essential oil such as rose, lavender or peppermint, eucalyptus etc. You can also add a little bit of honey if you want your lip balm to have a little sweetness. Combine this mixture with the melted Vaseline, stir well but take care not to form bubbles. Then pour into an empty lip balm stick or pot. Cool and put in the fridge for about 1 hour. It is now ready for use!

​ I did the calculations and it works out to be approximately 5 cents to 10 cents per 7ml lip balm stick.

Tinted Lip Balm Recipe Make as above but add in some old lipstick for colour, you will need to melt the lipstick gradually in the microwave as well.

Additional tip: If you want your lip balm to last longer you can add in Vitamin E, which can be sold at Pharmacies in clear tablet form, which you can then pierce with a sharp knife and squeeze the Vitamin E oil into your mixture. Another way to get Vitamin E is to use Rice Bran Oil which comes with the vitamin E.
- Contributed by Shan Yang,12th August 2012

​Beauty for Less

​I have used student beauty therapy salons for years. The price is a fraction of the regular salons and if you tell them you are in a hurry (which I always am with 3 kids under 4) you could have the qualified therapist! What a bargain.
​- Contributed by Susa Pantos, 12th August 2012

​Make Your Favourite Lipsticks Last Longer

​Approximate $ Savings: $50

​Isn't it annoying when you favourite lipstick colour runs out - especially when the shade is no longer available? Being a part-time beauty consultant, I learned to make all my lipsticks last longer by using a small cosmetic brush to get deep inside the bottom of the lipstick canister. This way you get a few more weeks use out of your favourite colour. Multiply this over all the lipsticks you use over time and it adds up to a lot of savings, never mind the stress of having to replace your favourite colour.
- Contributed by Gabriele Frenkel, 25th August 2010

​Beautiful Skin on a Shoestring!

​Approximate $ Savings: $100 - 300 pa

I have been using this homemade body scrub for about 6 years and I am often complemented on how good my skin looks. You can make this up easily from ingredients you already have in the cupboard. In a bowl mix 3/4 - 1 cup castor sugar (finer grains are gentler on the skin, no castor sugar? then whizz white sugar to make it finer), add the juice of half a lemon or lime, 1 tablespoon olive oil and enough shampoo or body wash to mix to a sloppy paste - (Homebrand version is fine, it doesn't have to be expensive body wash). Now stand in the shower "starkers" and rub this mix all over your body, even your face - it will dry off a bit as you go but don't worry, turn on the warm water and rinse off! Presto! - you will have the smoothest skin, you'll be amazed. It feels so good - I do this about once every 3 - 4 weeks. Don't buy commercial body scrub, this is so much better, cheaper and more natural especially if you use a natural shampoo or body wash to make it! I buy my shampoo, conditioner and moisturisers from Auroma - based in Hallam, Victoria. You can shop online at www.auroma.com.au and delivery is approximately $10. I buy 5 litres of Additive free Shampoo for $22.50, that's a tiny $4.50 a litre! Add some essential oils and you have a beautiful shampoo/body wash that's all natural.
- Contributed by Belinda Clarke, 26th May 2011

​Website: www.auroma.com.au

​Avocado, Honey and Almond Face Mask

​This isn't exactly a cream, it's a mask, but it does the same thing. I have used this quite often and my skin is great because of it. As well as sensitive skin, I have allergies and because of this I can't use a lot of over the counter products due to the use of scents like lavender etc.

What you will need:
Avocado ½ tsp honey
1 tsp finely chopped almonds Bowl

Instructions:
Stone the avocado, scoop the avocado into bowl and mash. Add ½ tsp honey and one teaspoon finely chopped almonds. Apply to your face and relax for 10 minutes. Before removing, massage it gently into your skin for a mild exfoliation.
​- Contributed by Annemarie Manning, 23rd August 2010

​Just a Cotton Bud

You don't need to buy a lipstick brush to make your lipstick last longer - just cut a cotton bud in half and use that to apply the last bits of lipstick - you can even store it in the lipstick tube!
​- Contributed by Emma Malica, 19th August 2010

​Avocado and Honey Mask

You will need:
2 tbsp of avocado
2 tbsp of honey
1 egg yolk

Instructions:
Mash up the avocado, add the honey and egg. Mix it all together and apply.
​ - Contributed by Annemarie Manning, 23rd August 2010

​Cream Honey Face Pack

​I found this face pack on a webpage that I have used now and then. Mix together one teaspoon each of cream (thickened full cream) and honey and gently massage the mixture into the face and neck. Leave for 15 minutes then rinse away with warm water.
​- Contributed by Annemarie Manning, 23rd August 2010

​Squeezing Every Drop

​I use a skin moisturizer that comes in a plastic bottle and have found that even after turning the plastic bottle upside at the end it's life there is still a fair amount of the product left inside. To get all of the remaining moisturizer out of the bottle I carefully snip open the bottle with a pair of scissors and place the cut bottle carefully in a freezer bag to keep the product from losing moisture until it is all used up, which is usually 2 - 3 days worth of additional applications.
​- Contributed by Sharon Hards, 8th July 2010

​Day and Night Face Cream

​I was told by my chemist that all face creams contain Sorbolene Cream with perfume added. You can buy a very large bottle with a pump of Sorbolene from the Chemist for under $10, this will last one person at least a year ! Also good for applying to body directly after a shower, as it absorbs really well.
​- Contributed by Lesley McCarten, 13th August 2010

​Kill Your Cosmetics Bill

​Approximate $ Savings: $150 per annum

​The cosmetics (or should I say, costmetics...) industry doesn't tell us that good skin really starts from within. Good organic flaxseed oil costs $15 per 280ml, which lasts one month. Take about 1 tbsp on top of (don't mix it) milk or juice before bed (it can give you wind in the day!) and you will have perfect glowing skin within 10 days, and it will heal cracked skin on the rest of your body over time. Throw away your moisturisers which are full of plastics and petroleum and massage a few drops of vitamin C oil or rosehip oil on wet skin, followed with any old moisturiser to seal it in. Your skin will have even skin tone, be blemish-free and will even out dry or oily patches. Give it a try - you will stop wearing makeup because it covers beautiful glowing skin.
- Contributed by Laurel, Prahran, 30th May 2009

​Use Vitamin E Cream to Minimize Skin Imperfections and Save

​Approximate $ Savings: $16+ (depending on how much used)

I had skin cancer surgery on my face and wanted to minimize scarring. A friend (a former nurse) told me to use Bio Oil. This is $20 for a 200ml bottle ($10 per 100ml) at the discount chemist. Another former nurse then told me, vitamin E cream will do the same thing. This is $4 per litre bottle(40 cents per 100 ml) at the discount chemist.
​- Contributed by Iris, Keperra, 30th October 2009

​Extending Lipstick Life


Approximate $ Savings: $10-50

​ When you have used a lipstick down to the barrel, don't throw it out, because you're only half-way through the product. Buy a little propelling lipstick brush from Target or Kmart and use it to apply the remaining lipstick. The brushes have a cap so that you can take anywhere them in your handbag. They are only a few dollars, and you will be amazed at how much lipstick is left. I have been using mine for months now, and there's plenty left! As a bonus, you can get a nice lip line, because the effect is like using a lip pencil.
​- Contributed by Jane, Chatswood, 23rd May 2009 

​Use a lipbrush to get every last bit of lipstick and save money Every Last Bit of Colour

​I started years ago using a lip brush to apply my lipstick. It helped make it last longer on my lips but the extra bonus was that there is a lot more lipstick still in the bottom of the tube that people throw away because they can't reach it and are unaware of it's existence. So, by buying a new lipstick for in my handbag and keeping the old one at home for use first thing in the morning with the lip brush I extend the life of my lipstick tube and still keep up appearances in public.
​- Contributed by Dianne, North Rocks, 23rd May 2009

​Mix the Perfect Shade

​How many times have you bought face makeup and realised when you get it home it is either too dark or too light? To fix this, go back to the same shop and purchase either a lighter or darker shade of makeup, which ever you need, and gradually mix them together until you get your desired shade. This way, you are not throwing your makeup out because it is the wrong colour. I am never worried if I am choosing makeup as I know I can fix it up using this method. A great saver I think.
​- Contributed by Loretta, Broadmeadows, 4th May 2009

​Grandma's Beauty Secrets

​Like most women, I try to take care of my skin and hair. My husband and I have recently had a baby, and I am off work. So, to make our budget stretch a bit further, I've returned to some old beauty tricks my mum taught me. Instead of buying a facial scrub, I use a mix of olive oil and sugar. In place of a facial masque, I use natural yoghurt mixed with a bit of honey - just 2 tbsp yoghurt to a little drizzle of honey. Smooth it on, leave 10-15 minutes, then rinse off! And for dry hair, heat a little bit of coconut oil (oil, not milk) in the microwave for a few seconds, apply to hair as you would a normal hair treatment, and leave overnight. Wash out in your morning shower, for beautiful, silky hair. Best to sleep on a towel though, the oil is very greasy to touch (although it all washes out of your hair) and can stain pillowcases if you're not careful. The coconut oil is available from the Asian cooking section of the supermarket or from Asian specialty food stores, around $6 for a 500ml bottle that lasts ages! I've saved well over $200 just in the last year!
​- Contributed by Laura, Berwick, 20th May 2009

​Best Ever Makeup

​Approximate $ Savings: approx $200 annually

​My best beauty find ever has been invisible zinc tinted daywear. I use it all year round for lovely coverage and most importantly the longest lasting UV protection. Best place to buy is Chemist Warehouse, and by protecting your skin you are able to use simple and effective moisturisers such as Cetaphil, also get this at Chemist Warehouse. I was given this skin care advice by a doctor who specialises in skin care.
​- Contributed by Jan, East Geelong, 26th April 2009

​Mix the Perfect Shade

​How many times have you bought face makeup and realised when you get it home it is either too dark or too light? To fix this, go back to the same shop and purchase either a lighter or darker shade of makeup, which ever you need, and gradually mix them together until you get your desired shade. This way, you are not throwing your makeup out because it is the wrong colour. I am never worried if I am choosing makeup as I know I can fix it up using this method. A great saver I think.
​- Contributed by Loretta, Broadmeadows, 4th May 2009

​Tinted Moisturisers That Match

​Approximate $ Savings: $25

​Instead of buying tinted moisturiser (which can be costly) I mix both my moisturiser and foundation together and apply it to my face and neck. I find this way I use all of my foundation (instead of it becoming dried out and throwing it away). You get to have a tinted moisturiser that more closely matches your skin as you choose the foundation colour yourself instead of being stuck with one that may not match your skin exactly.
​- Contributed by Diane, Oatley, 28th January 2009

​Chill for Easy Sharpening

​Put your eyeliner pencil in the freezer for 15 minutes before you sharpen it to make sure it doesn't chip and gets a nice sharp point.
​-Contributed by Victoria, Acton, 16th February 2009

​Compare Online Stores for Best Price

​Approximate $ Savings: $146.50
​Just by shopping around online and at the beauty salon I have found huge savings on skin care. I use the Dermalogica skin care range but almost all are available. www.skincarestore.com.au is the best value out of the 3 mentioned. www.skincaredirect.com.au and www.strawberrynet.com. I had them all open and was very surprised at the price differences. A quick example: $61.50 vs. $114.50 for 100ml skin smoothing cream and Intensive Eye Repair $51 vs. $91.50. Comparing skincarestore.com.au with skincaredirect..com.au and the salon is even more of a saving.
- Contributed by Sarah, Freemans Beach, 6th January 2009
Websites:
www.skincarestore.com.au
www.skincaredirect.com.au
www.strawberrynet.com

​Pencil Cases Not Just for Pencils!

​Approximate $ Savings: $19+
​The other day I was in the chemist looking for a new cosmetics bag, but was put off by the price of $20+ for some very average looking bags. I went down to Office Works and purchased a pretty purple mini pencil case for $0.99 instead. It is the perfect size and the type of material is easy to clean if there is any cosmetic spill.
- Contributed by Katherine, Nowra, 29th December 2008

​Luscious Lashes for Less

​Approximate $ Savings: $180+
​Having in the past paid the hairdresser to tint my eyebrows and eye lashes I decided to buy a kit and do it myself. The kit only cost $14 from Priceline and lasts for 12 months. I had found it be fantastic, not only have I the exact colour that I wanted, I actually find it lasts longer than when the hairdresser used to do them!
​- Contributed by Cheryle, Chittaway Bay,31st January 2010

​Skin Care Bargains at the Market

​I regularly travel to outdoor Sunday markets for buying bargains etc. One of the most expensive items on my agenda, and others' agendas I'm sure, would have to be skin care products. Often, shoppers buy these items at regular prices and find that they are often the wrong colour or to dry, too oily etc. These items are still "as new" and are available at the markets for half the price or less. If you know the product and it suits you, buy it. I have saved heaps this way. Of course I check the contents and If I am satisfied that the contents are barely used and clean, I see no problem with this. I hope this savings tip helps.
​- Contributed by Loretta, Glenroy, 22nd May 2010

​Pantry Skin Care

​Approximate $ Savings: $800 per year

​As I have dry skin and a small amount of eczema on my face and neck I was spending a fortune on creams, with the night cream being the most expensive, until I came across OLIVE OIL. Yes, from the pantry! I use it every night before going to bed and my skin has never been better and my wallet never as full!!
​- Contributed by Dawn, Kalamunda, 4th April 2010

​Lip Brush Cleans Out Lipstick Tubes

Discovering all my lipsticks (half a dozen)were worn to the nub I dug around and found an old lipstick brush and am happily still using lipsticks I would once have thrown out for quite a few more months. Cost: absolutely nothing.
​- Contributed by Sandie, Suffolk Park, 20th May 2010

​Evenly Applied Lipstick

Apply lipstick with a lipstick brush, It will go on more evenly and will last twice as long and save you money as well.
​- Contributed by Tracey, Copacabana,3rd February 2010

​Easy, Natural Beauty Care

​I'm into easy, natural products I can find in the fridge and pantry for beauty care. Here's some I've found: Cleanser - milk. Toner - apple cider vinegar + water. Masks – egg white (oily), porridge, honey (warm slightly and use fingers to tap it), mashed avocado (dry), mashed banana (oily), plain yoghurt. Exfoliates – sugar + oil (good for hands after gardening), sea salt + oil. Hair treatments – egg (in cool water otherwise will scramble), mayonnaise. Eyes – cool cucumber slices. Bath – Chamomile tea bag to help relax you, powdered milk to soften skin. If you don't have these available there are plenty of other ideas online.
​- Contributed by Clea, Currajong, 11th December 2008

​Host a Makeover Party

​I organized a get together with a number of my girlfriends to bring along all their makeup and skincare which had been bought or received with gift with purchase only to find the colour or ingredients to be unsuitable. We all put our products on the table and had great fun having our own make-up skincare party by trying each others products to find suitable products and colours to swap and take home. I suggest if you get a free lipstick and you think the colour is not right for you, please take a cotton bud to the product and then apply to your lips so if the lipstick is the wrong shade you can give to someone else. We all make mistakes when purchasing different items and if they are wrong they sit in the cupboard until they go off and then are thrown away. We all had a great time and came away with swops and products for everyone. In fact, two items that I picked up I would never have tried unless I had a chance to play with my girlfriends with out the pressure of the cosmetic girls trying to close expensive sales on shoppers. Give it a go girls and have some free glam fun.
​- Contributed by Linda, Castlecrag, 28th August 2009

​Spray Fresh and Cool

​To keep cool, I use a water spray bottle and spray my face and sometimes my arms. It is very refreshing. I've just bought a smaller version to take with me in my handbag on hot days when the public transport I use is not air conditioned. -Contributed by Jacinth Myles, 12th November 2009

​Buy Your Expensive Cosmetics as Cheap as You Can

​My friends and I have discovered a website called strawberrynet.com, they have all the top brand cosmetics, skin care and hair care for considerable discounts, they also have specials where you can pick up a real bargain, with free postage! I've bought lots of presents for family and friends from the sites 'Special Offer' page and buy in bulk and put away for birthdays and Christmas. In addition every time you place an order you qualify for more and more discounted rates. If you can't live with out the expensive products, then at least buy them as cheap as you can!
​- Contributed by Belynda, Ormond,​5th August 2009

​Samples Save

Approximate $ Savings: up to $500 per year

​ I'm always getting samples of products (moisturisers, cleansers, shampoo, conditioner, body wash etc) and the majority of them have enough for more than one use/application. Whenever I open a sample of a product I always empty the sachet/bottle into a small container first. By doing this, I get multiple uses out of the sample, rather than just one (most people use what they need (or even use all of it, just for the sake of it) and then throw it out.) and some of them last for ages. There are a number of products that I haven't had to buy for years as I have enough of the product in sample sachets. Most companies that make beauty products have samples available. I hardly ever have to buy beauty products/toiletries and it's also a great way to try new/different products without having to pay for the full size (which you may not like).
- Contributed by SF, Hawthorn West, 8th January 2010

​Multi-use Sorbolene for the Whole Family

​I use a generic brand sorbolene cream instead of shaving cream. It is great, leaves no mess and moisturises my legs at the same time!! I also use it as a general moisturiser for the family, make up remover and as body wash for my daughter in the bath (she has sensitive skin). It is also cheap enough that when my daughter want to make "soup" or "baking" in the bath, a couple of drops of food colouring and a squirt of sorbolene in her "mixing bowl" (bucket) keeps her very happy! - Contributed by Yvonne, Rochedale South, 24th September 2009

​Every Last Brush Stroke

​Invest in a lip brush. With this tool you can access all the 'down deep' lipstick in the casing which is otherwise inaccessible.
​- Contributed by Mary, Sydney, 22nd September 2009

​Make Your Own Travel Packs

​Have you seen the traveller packs that are sold in supermarkets now? Mini bottles of shampoo, hand cream etc which by the way are very expensive (you are definitely paying for the convenience!). I travel quite often and many years ago I was given a toiletry bag with mini containers in it as a gift. I fill these with my shampoo, conditioner, body wash etc. I also pack cotton buds/tips in little zip lock bags. These are often used to put spare buttons in when you buy a new item of clothing (another recycled freebie) I have been doing this for years and I just assumed everyone else did it too. But seeing how many different items are coming out in these mini packs.. perhaps I was onto something!!!
​Contributed by Michelle, Bayswater, 16th March 2009

​Naturally Clear Skin

​Approximate $ Savings: $1188

I received some great advice on treating acne from a naturopath which saves me $1188 per year and is much more effective that other expensive treatments that I have tried. My naturopath informed me that lemons stimulate and aid elimination in the kidneys and liver (organs responsible for eliminating waste) and drinking lemon water will result in visible improvements to the skin. I now start every morning by juicing 1 quarter of a lemon, adding this to a large glass of water and drinking it. I have seen a dramatic improvement in my skin and my friends and family have all commented on how clear and healthy my skin looks! I use to spend $20 on face wash and $50 on acne cream that would last 3 months, as well as $80 per month on an acne facial in an upmarket (but expensive) skin clinic. This totalled up to a whopping $1240 per year! now I spend $2 on a kg of lemons per fortnight. Totalling $52 per year, leaving me with $1188 to spend on more important things.
- Contributed by Angelee, Hope Island,3rd November 2008

​Double Duty Skin Care Saves Money

​Approximate $ Savings: 20+
​
​Instead of paying $20+ for a little 15ml eye cream buy a night cream as it is richer and contains just as concentrated anti-aging properties as eye cream. Aldi sell a really great night cream for $8, which won first place in the English Beauty Awards (even beat a cream valued at 120 pounds)
​- Contributed by Katherine, Nowra, 28th October 2008

​Skin Care Store Saves $44 Plus

​Approximate $ Savings: My saving - 28%!

​Since joining the Cheapskates Club I have been amazed at the savings to be made by shopping around. I find the cheapest price online, then ring a few local stores to see if they will match the price. But when I found the great prices that skincarestore.com.au were offering, I decided to purchase then and there to secure the great prices. After completing checkout, they gave me another 5% discount for ordering more than one item. Total price to buy the 2 Dermalogica products at my local salon = $157 + car wear and tear plus petrol. On this website it cost $113.05, a saving of 28%, and the products arrived at my door within 48 hours. This site is worth a look if you enjoy high-end beauty products and don't want to convert to home-made kitchen ingredients.
​- Contributed by Jacki, Warner, 19th June 2008

​Getting the Beauty College Treatment

​Approximate $ Savings: $15 - $60

​I love getting pampered (of course, who doesn't!). I love my manicures, pedicures, facials and massages. Unfortunately, not very long ago, I had to take out a very large loan. This meant that I was looking at living off $40 a week to cover food, clothing phone bills and anything to do with 'pampering'- so as many people have done, I cut out my morning coffees and stuck with the instant stuff they have in the kitchen at work, brought all my food in from home and bought everything I needed in bulk. There was no spending on shoes or clothes and definitely no manicures! After a while I went crazy. Work was becoming too stressful and I needed something more. I knew that my usual pampering routine was way out of my budget so I looked for alternatives. I found a few beauty colleges in the city and decided to give them ago. My first session was at Ella Bache (48 Clarendon st South Melbourne http://www.collegensw.ellabache.com.au/ ). The facial was sensational and at $38 was a quarter of the price you would usually pay. What's more, I found that the students performing the treatments were much more committed to doing a good job than in the proper salons. After the facial, I went in for a waxing session, seeing as though I had a wedding on that weekend. The waxing cost half of what I usually spend. I saved $60 on the facial and $15 on the waxing and regained my sanity!
​- Contributed by Dora, Niddrie, 19th August 2008

​Free Samples Make Great Travel Sizes for Cosmetics and Skin Care

​Approximate $ Savings: $10.00 - $20.00

​I am an AVON representative, and many a time I have given customers free samples of their favourite products. One lady always takes her samples on holidays with her as she always used to run out of her favourite product. Saving your free samples to use for travelling not only saves space but it saves a lot of money buying those special 'travel sized' products that cost almost as much as the full size.
​- Contributed by Maryellen, Cowra, 12th August 2008

​Stock Up While Travelling and Save

​Approximate $ Savings: $159
​
​Usually when asked by friends travelling overseas if I need anything I say no. This time I asked them to cost the price of my Oil of Olay Total Effects cream and Oil of Olay eye gel and provided them with the Aussie price ($30 and $39) and a picture. These products they were able to purchase for me for $7 and $9 respectively, so not only did I save on the price I also asked them to purchase my whole years supply for a total cost of $48.
​- Contributed by Shaani, Camberwell, 10th August 2008

​Change of Packaging Means Cheaper Lipsticks

​Approximate $ Savings: $8.00 per lipstick

​Apparently Rimmel has changed the packaging of their Moisture lipsticks. They have not changed the colours in the collection so you can now get your favourites for $3.99 instead of $12 each. You have to look in the discount bins in the store not on the normal Rimmel display. Good make up is so expensive . It was great to see a brand I like so discounted. I am glad I went to Giant Chemist yesterday.
​Contributed by Christelle, Surfers Paradise, 18th March 2008

​Coconut Oil for Healthier Skin Care

​Having had cancer, I actively seek out 'healthier' forms of cosmetics and skin care. One product I like for a night cream is virgin coconut oil. It can be a little hard to find. I found a fair trade website called "Tribes and Nations" that sold it for $11 for 400mL. This is way cheaper than most skin care items and should last a year or more and can also be used for massage and cooking. Many health 'experts' are reversing their opinion regarding cooking with coconut oil and it seems that popular opinion is that it is now a healthy option for cooking. I have found this particular website excellent to deal with and I bought 2 products to make the most of the reasonable postage costs. Perhaps the cost could be split with a friend if ordering at the same time. This product has absolutely nothing in it except coconut oil and is produced within 1 hour of opening the coconut!
​- Contributed by Jane, Goulbourn, 28th March 200

​Best of the Best Moisturisers

​Approximate $ Savings: up to $50 per jar

​I have used many different skin care products over the years (including some of the shockingly expensive brands). The best of the best in my personal use has been the fantastically priced 'Protec E Cream' which costs less than $10 for a huge 250 gram tub and is available at chemists. It contains amongst other ingredients Vitamin E, Vitamin D and Vitamin A. It is an easily absorbed formula that is non greasy and safe for use on the face, hands and body. I use it twice a day and despite being quite allergic to some types of cream find this one has not reacted with my particular allergies at all. I am using this one for life - (or as long as they keep making it anyway)
​- Contributed by Jules, Hobart, 26th April 2008

​Tinted Moisturiser Doubles as Foundation

​Ladies! Instead of expensive foundations (make-up), try using Dove's tinted moisturiser in honey or beige. They coverage is just a good as expensive make up brands and costs next to nothing! I think it's under $10 a tube, which should last you around 1 - 2 months!
​- Contributed Sarah, Highett, 4th by April 2008

​Luscious Lips for Less

​Aldi have a great brand of lipstick called Lacura. It's $6.99 for a lipstick and lipliner and there are 6 shades to choose from. The lipstick is very moisturising and the colours are great. In the past I've paid $20-$25 just for a lipstick from the branded names and the quality wasn't as good as these. Contributed by Kate, 12th March 2008

​Homebrand Skin Care as Good as Brand Name

​I always used to use expensive moisturisers and face wash from Jurlique, thinking that they made my skin better! Now I just buy Nivea products for my face as well as Woolworths Homebrand skin repair cream and I can't even notice the difference!
​Contributed by Wendy, Sefton Park, 12th March 2008

​Where to Get Cinnamon Oil

​I use cinnamon oil to plump my lips and I save a fortune. I had to get my health food shop to order it in. My bottle is from Sun Valley Aromatherapy (PO Box 559 Mullumbimby, NSW 2482. Ph: 02 6684 5476), and is a 25ml bottle. It also says Cinnamon Leaf 100% Essential Oil. It cost me about $8 for the bottle but it is really strong and you don't need very much or it will make your eyes water. I usually put a drop on my finger and then smear it on my lips and don't use if your lips are cracked or sore.
​- Contributed by Sian, Mackay, 10th November 2006

​Scraping the Savings

​Approximate $ Savings: $50c - $1 per use

​When your tubes or bottles of shampoo, conditioner, make up, seem empty, are they really ? Cut them open with a sharp knife (on a chopping board for safety) or with scissors and see how much is left! Then put the whole bottle or tube in a plastic zip lock bag and continue to use every last bit of the product you have paid for - just scrape it out with your fingers - and reseal the bag. I have got another 7 applications from liquid makeup and 4 or 5 from shampoo and conditioner containers that I thought were empty! This tip could apply to many other items you use. - Contributed by Anne, Cranbourne. 11th January 2008

​Bronzers at Hand

​Approximate $ Savings: $30

​Instead of buying a new bronzer/blush use those old eyeshadows you no longer use. Crush the colours you like together to make one you like. This saves about $30 depending on what brand you usually buy.
​- Contributed by Kaeli, Ferntree Gully, 10th August, 2007

​Beautiful Eyelashes the Easy Way

​I have discovered a way to achieve beautiful eyelashes the cheap and easy way. I am fortunate to have lovely long eye lashes but they can be difficult to shape nicely when I apply my mascara. I have discovered that if I apply a very small amount of Vaseline to my eyelashes at night before I go to bed it is much easier to apply my mascara in the morning. (This is after I have removed my make-up and I have clean lashes of course). By using the Vaseline and a lash curler I can now achieve a much better shape and the mascara I use (Maybelline from the supermarket) now gives me a longer and thicker texture. They look great and I know I am saving several dollars as the marketed brands of mascaras with conditioners are very expensive.
​- Contributed by Michelle, Kew, 8th August, 2007

​Plain Labels For Beauty Products

​I use a supermarket brand talc, underarm deodorant and moisturiser (for my face); plus I buy my husband a generic shaving creme - I find these as good as the brand names.
​- Contributed by Carolyn, 12th November 2007

​Made Up to the Very Last Drop

​Approximate $ Savings: $5 and up, depending upon price of makeup

​To get the 'last drop' out of your expensive makeup, leave the jar upside down in hot (not boiling) water while you shower, and then watch the remainder pour out easily. Also, frustrated with not being able to use all of my long-lasting lip colours (eg. Covergirl) with the applicator not reaching the bits in the bottom of the tube, I found that if you carefully remove the base, your applicator can reach the remainder of the product - but be sure to replace the base loosely until used or the product will quickly dry out.
​- Contributed by Lesley, Bangor, 3rd August, 2007

​Online Store for Making Your Own Cosmetics

​Approximate $ Savings: Varies For all those ladies who like to look after their skin but cannot afford the brand creams and lotions.... www.auroma.com is an online shop (they also have stores in Adelaide and Melbourne) that sells all the ingredients required for making a myriad of skincare products, as well as household cleaners. I have saved hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars as I used to spend up to $80.00 on one particular night cream alone which I can now make for less than $5.00. If you buy in bulk you get more savings and you can make extra for gifts saving even more money.
​- Contributed by Melanie, Wallan, 17th October 2007

​Blend Leftover Lipsticks for Unique Colours

​Approximate $ Savings: $20.00

​I find a lot of lipstick left in the cylinder when it is used down to the top of the cylinder. I keep all those lipsticks until I have four or five and scrape the remaining contents into a container and stand on a boiling pot of water to melt the lipstick. I then blend it all in to make an even colour and place it into a small container suitable for my make-up purse. When the lipstick cools and sets again, I am then able to use it by applying with a lip brush or a cotton bud. The supply goes on and on.
​- Contributed by Margaret, Doncaster East, 6th October 2007

​Strawberry Face Mask

​Approximate $ Savings $30 or more For a face mask mix 3 tablespoons plain yoghurt with 4 small blended strawberries. Used 2-3 times a week makes your skin feel great.
​- Contributed by Debra, Dundowran Beach, 14th June 2007

​Drying Up Pimples

​A dab of methylated spirits on those new sore pimples will dry up the pimple quickly, dab it on when you first feel a blind pimple and again before you go to bed. Keep away from flames.
​- Contributed by Katrina, Heathcote, 8th September 2007

​Homemade Toner

​Approximate $ Savings: $6-10 Homemade toner: 1 tsp vinegar mixed with 5 Tbsp water. Apply to face with cotton pad just like normal toner.
​- Contributed by Sophie, Newtown, 5th September 2007

​Alternative Moisturizer

​Approximate $ Savings: $6-20 Try this as an alternative to expensive moisturizer: either apricot kernel oil or sweet almond oil which should both be available from health food stores or even supermarkets. I use a mixture of both of those plus jojoba oil actually, stored in a little bottle. After washing face, remove excess moisture with a towel but leave face damp. Massage your oil of choice into face. The water in your face acts as the moisturizer and the oil acts as a nutrient. It is quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving your skin oily afterwards. I've actually got normal moisturizer at home too but have stopped using it now, as I like this much better! Cheaper obviously too, a bottle of oil will last you ages.
​- Contributed by Sophie, Newtown, 5th September 2007

​Lip Tinting the Frugal Way

​Approximate $ Savings: $50.00 I love the lip tints that the big name cosmetic companies put out but not the huge price. If you buy a bottle of cochineal food colouring and apply this carefully to your lips with a cotton but and then let it dry for a few seconds and smear a little Vaseline on your lips you end up with the exact same results as the expensive product and it only needs touching up once a day. Cheap and lasts well over a year for under five dollars.
​- Contributed by Di, Flinders View, 2nd September 2007

​Eye Makeup Remover

​Approximate $ Savings: $20-$30 I always have bought really good quality eye make- up remover until I found out baby oil works just as well. It doesn't hurt if you get any in your eyes and it is so cheap! I paid $1.50 for a 500ml bottle 8 years ago and it is still half full. Just decant into a smaller bottle put a dab on your finger and wipe gently on your eyelashes. Then wipe off with a wet cloth. Great for your lashes too.
​- Contributed by Jessica, Mt. Gambier, 16th March 2007

​Making Lipstick Go Further

​When your lipstick is nearly finished get a cotton tip and scrape the remainder out and mix it with Vaseline. It will turn into a lip-gloss in your lippie colour. You should get at least 20 extra applications! - Contributed by Brooke, 22nd January, 2007

​Really Empty Tubes

​When you get to the end of a plastic tube (foundation, hand cream, etc) cut the tube in half. Wipe out the bottom of the tube and place it over the top. You will be amazed at how much product is still available to be used and keeping it together like this prevents the product from drying out.
​- Contributed by Margi, Kingsley, 21st December 2006

​Fountain Cosmetics Online

​If you want to buy great makeup and beauty products at a discounted price try looking at Fountain Cosmetics online (www.fountaincosmetics.com.au). They are up to 30% cheaper than buying in a store. You can also become a member and receive regular updates on specials they run each week. I have managed to save myself a substantial amount of money on great skincare, hair care and makeup products - all brand names!
​- Contributed by Bronwen, Wollstonecraft, May 10th 2005

​Easy Moisturiser

​You don't need money to look beautiful. I used to have very oily skin. Now I don't. I make my own moisturiser that works just as well. Just blend 1/2 cup of lemon juice with 1 egg white and 2 teaspoons of honey. Easy! Honey is good for blemishes and acne.
​- Contributed by Dieu, Bankstown, April 16th 2005

​Cosmo Cosmetics

​The cheapest and best cosmetics are Cosmo Cosmetics (also sells skincare, hair care, body care and fragrance). They sell discontinued & sometimes products recently launched in retail. They are even cheaper than Paddy's markets in Haymarket or Flemington. Eg. Maybelline's Forever Lipcolor (recently launched) retails for about $15-$20 and I paid $8 at Paddy's and later found that Cosmo Cosmetics sell for $4 !! The best and cheapest long wearing lipstick (not transfer resistant) is Cover Girl's Marathon Lipstick for only $2.50!! Even branded cosmetics like Elizabeth Arden eye shadow set (in recent brochure at $15.95 (was $49) or Nina Ricci Lipstick at $9.95 (was $48) and lots more. You have to check it out! Heres the best news - they are easy to find and my favourite ones are at Chatswood, Hornsby & Parramatta : 1) Chatswood (near Westfield) : Shop 24, 445 Victoria Avenue, NSW - Tel (02)9413 9433 2) Hornsby (in Westfield) : Shop 3103 Westfield, NSW 2077 - Tel (02)9482 4988 3) Parramatta (near Westfield) : 256 Cnr Church St & George St, NSW 2150 - Tel (02) 9633 1522 4) Campbelltown : U-10 Macarthur Square, NSW 2560 - Tel (02) 4627 3305 5) Merrylands : Shop K04 Stocklands Mall, NSW 2160 - Tel (02) 9637 1641 6) Liverpool : Shop 124 Westfield, NSW 2170 - Tel (02) 9601 4597 7) Wetherill Park : Shop 95 Stockland Mall, NSW 2164 - Tel (02) 9729 2920
​- Contributed by Harket, Pyrmont, March 15th 2005

​Make Your Moisturiser Last Longer

​For all those people out there, mostly for women who use cleansers and moisturisers, there is a really cheap and easy way to make these products last a lot longer and often go on smoother. When you get your squirt or fingertip of product, wet your other hand briefly under the tap, shake off the excess water and mix the product with the water on your hands by rubbing together. Not only will it go on smoother, last longer, but it will also moisturise your hands and stop the 'heaviness' that you can get sometimes from rich products. This also works to blend 2 products together!
​- Contributed by Denise, Golden Grove, March 7th 2005

​Make Your Own Lipstick Palette

​Don't throw out old lipsticks. Buy a small plastic bobbin case from the haberdashery section of a discount store, scrape out the remainder of the old lipsticks and fill each of the bobbin spaces. You now have a lipstick palette you can keep in your vanity and just need to use a lipstick brush to apply.
​- Contributed by Jeni, Ocean Shores, March 19th 2005

​Sorbolene as a Moisturiser

​I find I save a lot of money by using Sorbolene cream as a moisturizer. I keep a bottle (1 lt for 4.95 from my chemist) near every sink in the house. That way It's easy to remember to rub some on my hands after doing whatever work I'm doing...dishes, laundry etc. Or simply washing my hands. I also use it on my face. I already written to say I make my own face cream out of it, but for those of you that missed it, if you put a small amount of sorbolene in an empty face cream container. (I keep my old ones and wash them in the dishwasher and store them for next time). I then add vitamin A oil from 3-4 capsules of vitamin a and the same of vitamin E to the sorbolene. Simply snip a tip off the capsule and squeeze the oil out. Mix it up well and use it morning and night on clean skin. At least you know that you really are getting vitamins in your cream and that they are fresh. I also use sorbolene in place of shaving cream for my legs, under arms and bikini line. Simply wet the skin and run a small amount of sorbolene over your skin and shave away. It leaves your sking really soft and no shaving rash EVER. My husband uses it to shave his beard...but he finds that the kind that comes in a tub and therefore much thicker works better than the pump pack, however he does use the pump pack when the tub is unavailable or finished. You can use sorbolene on babies and children and as an all over moisturizer. If you have sensitive skin, you can even use it in place of soap in the shower and for washing your hands. If you like your moisturizer to smell nice simply add a few drops of essential oil to it. Happy Cheakskating!
​- Contributed by Silvia, Port Kennedy, March 14th 2005

Moisturisers

​We can pay a fortune for moisturisers. But... a few drops of cold pressed sesame oil rubbed onto dry skin will result in a noticeable difference almost immediately. It's not greasy like other oils, costs about $10 a bottle and can also be used in the kitchen.
​- Contributed by Debbie, Greenwith, October 18th 2006

​Getting Sand Off Painlessly

​As summer approaches with trips to the beach the problem of getting sand off at the end of the day often means a fun day out end in tears. There's a quick and easy solution - take a tub of talc with you, when it's time to go sprinkle the talc over the sand and it comes off your skin painlessly and quickly, no tears!
​- Contributed by Jane, Vermont, October 30th 2006

​Make-up Remover Towels

​Instead of buying expensive facial makeup remover cloths use baby wipes instead, they are safe and good for sensitive skin.
​- Contributed by Anita, Wellard, October 7th 2006

​Chemical Free Make-up

​If you don't want nasty chemicals in your beauty products but you refuse to pay $40 for each one, check out the "Naturals" range found at most chemists. It's 100% free of nasties and the shampoo/conditioner costs $19.95 each for a one litre bottle. I have waist length thick hair and my partner uses it also. One each of these lasted us 3 months and my hair is super smooth and the frizz has gone right out of it, even when it's humid. They also make face products, baby products, kitchen and laundry . . . . it's a fantastic range. Most of the items are $9.95 or less, it's just the Shampoo/Conditioner that costs extra although they do offer a smaller bottle but it works out dearer, nice to try the product though and then you have some smaller bottles to refill when you go away.
​- Contributed by Rachel, July 21st 2006

​Vitamin E Moisturizer

​Instead of using expensive creams and lotions for face and scalp, try using Vitamin E oil mixed with Strawberry oil bought from a health food store and rub into your face and dry flaky scalp. Your wrinkles will disappear and your face will be soft and younger looking. Your scalp will be clean and free from dandruff when rubbed in daily on wet hair. Your hair will shine, get thicker and healthier.
​- Contributed by Joanne, July 5th 2006

​Bi-carb Face Wash

​Need to clean out those dead skins cells on your face? Here is an easy homemade solution that works: Mix a little bit of bicarb soda with enough water to make a loose paste. Apply it to your face and rub gently. Rise with warm water.

​Cheap Sunscreen Applicator

​Refilled roll-on deodorant bottles can be used for sunscreen. Carefully pop the roller out, wash the roller and the bottle thoroughly and fill with sunscreen. The cream rolls on easily, saves greasy hands and you can also buy large bottles of sunscreen much cheaper. These are the perfect size to keep in your handbag, pack in schoolbags, send to sport etc.

​Acne Treatment

​Here is another homemade skin care product that you can try. This one is for acne. Add 2-3 teaspoons of basil to 1 cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes. When cool, use a sterile cotton ball to apply to the skin on the face.

​Budget Skin Care

​Instead of buying an expensive name brand astringent for use in your skin-care regimen, use witch hazel, a soothing treatment that has been recommended by skin professionals for decades. Cheaply priced, it s available over the counter at any chemist.
​At the end of every tube of toothpaste, moisturizer, foundation etc, there is a substantial amount still left in the top of the tube that just won't squeeze out! So to stretch your $$'s further simply CUT OFF the end of the top of the tube and CAREFULLY use whatever is left inside the tube.... You will be pleasantly surprised how much is actually still in the tube that you normally would throw out...Over time, this can save quite a lot of money, especially in the expensive cosmetic department.
​- Contributed by Theresa, Dromana, September 20th 2006

​Hint on Saving Money on All Types of Tubes