There are days when your body feels like a wonderland--and then there are the other 300 or so days of the year. With all the pressure to look effortlessly beautiful, it's no surprise there are now entire stores devoted to achieving perfection. You've got shelf upon shelf of miracle cures masquerading as beauty essentials. We can't all be J.Lo (her love doesn't cost a thing, but her flawless looks sure do)--and for the amount of time and money it takes to get her into shape, why would we want to be?
Health Means Wealth
Want to look your best for free? Be healthy. A healthy body means clearer skin, bright eyes, shiny hair, and a body divas would die for. A healthy spirit keeps us looking youthful, nd nothing improves your appearance like a real smile. Don't forget to exercise your healthy mind. Intelligence is an underrated beautifier!
Be Simply Beautiful
Natural beauty should come, well, naturally. No matter what fabulous, new product beauty icons are endorsing these days, some (inexpensive!) secrets have stood the test of time--like protecting your skin from the sun, getting enough sleep, drinking water, and washing your face before bedtime. Slather on pricey night cream for 30 days, and you may and may not look better (but you certainly won't get your money back). Sleep eight hours a night for a week, and you'll see the difference immediately.
Do It Yourself
Many beauty splurges are only expensive when you pay someone else to fill your basin for you. Spice up at-home pedicures and facial with a few orange slices and lemon juice. If you're extra adventurous, cut and color your own hair (unstructed is edgy and in!). Splurge on scented soaps (lavender is destressing) for affordable aromatherapy. Learn the art of self-massage, and don't underestimate the beauty benefits of deep, long stretch.
Role-Model reality Check
Look past the airbrushed epitomes of beauty, and look for real beauty around you: your grandma's still lustrous hair, a friend's fit physique, your mom's 50-something and still radiant skin. Ask them for beauty secrets and advice for rea-life-near-perfection you can achieve.
