DIY Home Treatments
Most aestheticians agree that you should get a professional facial once per month. But if you give yourself a DIY facial at home, you can save quite a bit of money. For this DIY method, find a facial mask specifically catered to your skin type. For example, clay masks can help improve oily or acne-prone skin. A sheet mask, on the other hand, is best for dry and dehydrated skin as they plump, hydrate, and revitalize the face. However, if you’re looking to improve the texture of your skin and banish acne marks, look into doing chemical peels at home. Keep in mind these are riskier than clay and sheet masks due to their potency, so handle these with extreme care.
Search for a mask that contains an exfoliating substance like glycolic acid. Follow the instructions on your chemical peel of choice exactly to reduce risks. Finally, follow your treatment with sunscreen, since these masks reveal a sensitive new layer of skin that is susceptible to harm via the sun’s powerful UV rays.
Your spa night at home doesn’t have to stop at just a bi-weekly face mask. Take this time to fill your tub with warm water, bubble bath, and a few drops of essential oils. You can give yourself a manicure and pedicure at home, too. Simply use a nail tool to push back and cut your cuticles. Then, apply your favorite polish or glue down a pair of false nails for instant pampering.
This DIY spa method gives you the most value for your money. Buying your own products ensures that you’ll only pay a fraction of what a full-service treatment at a spa costs. You’ll also have leftover product to use for other occasions. Best of all, you can also design your DIY spa night to include all of your favorite treatments — and you won’t have to share the facilities with anyone!
Group Appointments
If you have a bachelorette party coming up or want to celebrate a large event, ask your spa of choice about booking a group appointment. Usually, parties of 10 or more people can receive a discount. Going with a large group can also be more enjoyable and memorable — especially if you’re celebrating certain milestones with your closest friends and family members like a birthday or a bridal shower.
Off-Peak Visits
Approximately 14 million Americans have used or currently use acupuncture treatments, but being able to afford this treatment can be tricky. Unlike giving yourself a facial, acupuncture should NOT be done at home. Unsterilized needles can lead to an infection. You can also cause yourself to bleed excessively.
Instead, book your appointments during off-peak seasons and times. If you work from home, make your appointment in the middle of the day on a weekday to cut down on the price. If you work a traditional nine-to-five, take a personal day off or see if you can work a half-day instead. It’ll be worth it since acupuncture is fantastic for treating stress. The practice utilizes thin needles to pinpoint areas of tension in the body. Acupuncture may also help ease chronic pain. This can be applicable to other spa treatments, as well.
Bundle or Buy in Bulk
According to Simmons National Consumer Survey (NHCS), 6.97 million Americans used professional waxing services four times or more within six months in 2019. If you find that you require a service this frequently, ask about buying a bundled package of services. Most waxing facilities will offer something like this, as hair can start to grow back in as little as five weeks. You can also bundle services at certain spas. For example, if you need a massage, you can group this service with a facial to receive a discount for both.
Search for Deals and Specials
Many sites offer coupons that can help you save anywhere from 20-75% on your first service. These sites include Groupon, LocalFlavor, and Yipit. Spafinder works similarly by helping you find deals by using your location. You can also sort through salons and spas by rating with this site. Look into what your salons and spas offer around the holidays, as well. For example, they may offer something around Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day. Lastly, you can join a spa’s email list to unlock newcomer discounts.
Try a Beauty School
One way you can save on beauty salon services — like haircuts or blowouts — is to book your appointment with a beauty school. You’ll get the chance to help aspiring beauticians hone in on their skills, but you’ll also receive a significant discount.
Some individuals may not feel comfortable trusting uncertified stylists with a dramatic change. If this is the case for you, you can offset your regular salon appointments with trims or styling appointments at local beauty schools. Toni and Guy, Paul Mitchell, and Aveda are three of the most popular academies in the nation, but your city may have other options. Look at reviews online before you go.
Money shouldn’t get in the way of you looking and feeling your best, and luckily with DIY services and special discounts, you’ll always look and feel your best. Taking care of yourself is so important, as our world is abundant with stressors. Going to the spa is a great way to unwind — but if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to spoil yourself, keep these tips in mind.