As autumn looms around the corner and budgets are stretched further than ever before, we decided it’s time to round up a few of our favourite low effort, budget-friendly pampering beauty treatments for you to try at home. We guarantee that they will not only perk up your appearance, but your mood too!
All of these treatments can be done on a budget and within any home. All you need is a bit of time…
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Try these beauty treatments at home
1. Facial massages
We carry a lot of tension in our faces, especially around our jaws and temples (squinting at our phones doesn’t help), so a quick massage will make a real difference. All you need is a few drops of oil (we love Skin Creamery Facial Hydrating Oil, R325 for 30ml) and five minutes.
Start from the centre of your face and work outwards and upwards with your fingertips in small, circular motions before focusing on your forehead and jawline. Best done before bed and after cleansing, it’ll drain away puffiness overnight and help you nod off easier.
2. Aromatherapy showers
With a spa trip a little outside of a lot of most people’s budget, why not transform your bathroom into one instead?
One step up from lighting your favourite scented candle, turn on the shower before releasing a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil onto the floor. Combined with the steam, you can guarantee a gorgeously-scented and relaxing treat. It can make the floor a little slippery, so take good care. Not sure which oil to pick? Soil Organic Essential Oil in Lavender, R96,95 for 10ml, will help you nod off, Clary Sage, R149,95 for 10ml, is great for balancing changing moods, while Eucalyptus, R29,95 for 10ml, will leave you energised.
3. Manis
A quick file and paint will make you feel more ‘done’ but taking the time to look after your cuticles too will reward you with longer, stronger nails. Dot a drop of Kalahari Nourishing Nail Oil, R86, onto each nailbed before gently massaging in. For best results, make this the very last step in your routine so you don’t wash off all your good work.
ALSO SEE: How To Repair Damaged Nails And Keep Them In Tip Top Condition
4. Bath salts
If your new year’s resolutions have seen you hitting the gym more than usual, you’re likely to be suffering from sore, achy muscles. Pick up a bag of Dr Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt Relax & Relieve Soaking Solution, R129 for 1,36kg, to help you unwind. Not only is it scented with mind-soothing eucalyptus and spearmint, but the pure epsom salts work wonders to ease tension, relieve aching muscles and cramps, as well as flushing toxins from your body. Don’t be tempted to scrimp, you’ll need a generous handful to reap the benefits!
5. Face masks
Just like a good hair day, a good skin day can really boost your confidence. Packing super-charged skincare into a 15-minute fix, take the time to apply a face mask.
If your gripe is blackheads and build-up, look out for one with charcoal or salicylic acid to unclog pores. For tired, dry skin, hyaluronic acid is the skincare saviour you need. Or, if you’re lucky enough not to have a specific skincare concern to tackle, try Skin Republic’s Brightening Vitamin C Face Mask Sheet, R39,95 for one, to boost all-round radiance.
ALSO SEE: Your 10-Minute Summer Beauty Routine
Words: Jess Beech. Additional Words: Martinique Stevens