Look a million dollars for next to nothing

You don’t need to be rich to be radiant. These beauty tips and tricks are priceless... literally!

 

Go back to college

Beauty schools offer treatments with trainee therapists for a fraction of the price you'd pay in a salon. But if you like the idea of getting a beauty-enhancing treatment such as a massage totally free, head to your local adult education college. Trainee massage therapists have to give a certain number of treatments before they can qualify, so offer yourself as a case study to the head of the department and ask to be put in touch with any students who are looking for people to practise on. You will need to commit to being available for at least five massages and be willing to give written feedback on your treatments, but as massage is great for cellulite as well as relaxation, you'll get plenty from the bargain!

 

Use your nozzle

Want more control when blowdrying your hair? Use the nozzle attachment that came with your hairdryer, as it compresses the air and directs it exactly where you want it. Your style should be shinier and hold longer, too!

 

Make a date

Set aside an hour or two every week to devote to your beauty regime. Decide when and how much time you're going to spend on yourself and plan exactly what you're going to do in that time - touch up your roots, apply a facemask, tidy your brows. Stick to the time slot each week and revise your treatment plan according to your beauty needs. By helping you keep on top of your beauty to-do list, it will ensure you always look your best!

 

Reader tip ‘Switch from shower gel to soap. Soap is usually cheaper - and it lasts longer, too!'

Sally Lambert, Barnoldswick, North Yorkshire

 

Wait half a minute

The skin around your eyes is especially delicate so needs extra- special care. That means, above all, not dragging it when you remove your make-up. Avoid the need to pull your skin by leaving the make-up remover on for at least 30 seconds. By giving the remover time to work, your eye make-up should glide off easily when you gently wipe it with a cotton wool pad.

 

Reader tip ‘Firm but gentle massage boosts circulation, shifts dead surface cells and helps creams sink into dry skin. Try to do it when you shower for best results.' Linda Knight, Orkney

 

Reader tip ‘Steep some dandelion heads in hot water for 30 minutes then use the strained liquid as a skin toner. It's great for revitalising dull skin.'

Mary Balmbra, Ashington, Northumberland

 

Ask for advice

It's vital to use the right products for your skin and hair type to look the best you can be. But just as we're prone to wearing the wrong bra because we don't know our correct size, many of us apply the wrong skincare and haircare products. To find out what you should be using, book a free consultation at the beauty counter of a top- quality brand and go for a free consultation at a good hair salon to have your skin and hair assessed. You'll be under no obligation to buy products or book a haircut or treatment, but the advice could make a big difference.

 

Reader tip ‘When you dye your hair at home, it's easy to forget which shade you used last when you go to buy your next kit. I keep the top of the box in my purse so I'll know the shade name.' 

Mary O'Connor, Orkney

 

Steer clear of sugar

A diet high in sugar can cause premature skin ageing - sugar can bind itself to the elastin fibres in the skin, making it less flexible and able to repair itself. So cut back on the sweet stuff and your skin should stay youthful for longer. Study labels closely for ‘hidden' sugars in processed foods, which can give you a sugar overload without you realising.

 

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