When you’re on a budget, you may feel as if skincare needs to take a backseat. After all, if you can’t afford the best products then what’s the point?
I’m here to tell you that a quality skincare routine is possible for anyone on any budget.
In this article, we’ll explore four ways for you to maintain healthy skin on a budget. From minimizing your list of skincare necessities to taking a proactive approach to health and prevention, here are my budget-friendly tips.
1. Keep It Simple
Who needs a 6-step, 7-step, or even 8-step skincare routine? No one, really.
You really just need to focus on three things, both morning and night, and that’s cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin.
When you break it down like that, it’s much easier to keep your skincare routine to 4 steps and below.
First, find the right cleanser for your skin type. Whether you have normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, or a combination, there is a cleansing product out there for you.
Next, it’s time to moisturize. This step is especially important for those with dry skin or for those who are trying to minimize signs of aging.
Finally, take preventative measures. That means sticking to a regular skincare routine, using sunscreen every day, and just generally taking care of your body.
2. Evaluate Your Lifestyle
Speaking of taking care of your body, you’d be surprised at just how many lifestyle choices have an impact on the quality and health of your skin.
What do I mean by “lifestyle choices.” This term is intentionally broad and non-specific, and it really just means anything that may impact your health and wellbeing.
Examples of lifestyle choices may be smoking, drinking, exercising (or not), stress management, etc.
I’m not saying that you need to make drastic changes right now. But any changes you can make to support a healthier lifestyle (e.g. quitting smoking, cutting back on drinking alcohol) can have a noticeable impact over time.
3. Clean Up Your Diet
While diet is certainly a lifestyle choice, I believe it deserves a section all its own.
That’s because what you put into your body can have a huge impact on the appearance and health of your skin.
Remember, we’re focusing on maintaining healthy skin on a budget. So you don’t need to make any expensive additions to your weekly grocery bill. Instead, be more conscious of what you’re eating and maybe make a few simple swaps.
For example, fish is packed full of protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. All of which can have a positive impact on your overall health and that of your skin. Adding it to your diet just once or twice per week is enough to reap the benefits.
And don’t forget one of the most budget-conscious and health-conscious choices you can make is to drink more water. Not only will you reap the benefits physically (clearer skin, anyone?), but your wallet will likely thank you for cutting back on juices, sodas, and other beverages.
4. Be Cool(er)
Do you want to save on your hot water bill and prevent dryness, flaking, and premature aging?
You can do all of that by simply turning down the temperature of your shower faucet.
There’s no denying that a steaming hot shower after a long day is relaxing. However, the effects of hot water on the skin cannot be ignored.
Not only do hot showers leave your skin feeling tight and itchy immediately afterwards, but it may also cause long-term damage to the keratin layer of your skin. This is the layer responsible for locking in moisture.
You don’t have to take cold showers, but instead lukewarm water is what’s best for your short-term and long-term skincare goals.
Which budget-friendly skincare tip did you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments below!