Being a student can often come with the pressure to look and feel your best, but it’s a time when your cashflow can run pretty low. We’ve come up with plenty of hacks and DIYs that can help you save money and feel as gorgeous as possible. Let us know if you try any of them!
Switch to stick-ons
Getting your nails done can be a huge expense, whether you opt for gels, BIAB or acrylics. You’ll end up spending well over £30 per month on this self-care treat, which could easily be used on a food shop or even a fun night out with friends or flatmates. Stick-on nails are an affordable alternative that can look just as good! You can buy a pack for as little as £1 in the likes of Primark, and if you prep your nails properly they can last for around 2 weeks.
To prep, make sure you cut, file and buff your nails. Follow up with a nail dehydrator and a nail primer, both of which can be purchased for a low cost and will last you for months – meaning a great long-term saving. Invest in a good branded nail glue, and you’re good to go. Stick-on nails come in all shapes, sizes and designs, so you’re bound to find something that suits you.
DIY dyeing
If you like the look of tinted brows and lashes, or you’re not a fan of your natural hair colour, you can do this yourself at home. There are plenty of products on the market and tutorials online that will show you exactly what to do – just be careful not to make a mess and remember, dye stains! This might be a task best left for when visiting home at weekends or during the holidays, but it can definitely help you save cash as a student.
Homemade beauty products
From mixing cornstarch and baby powder together to create a dry shampoo substitute, to creating fresh body scrubs from coffee grounds and coconut oil, there are so many homemade beauty products that can help mix up your routine and save you money along the way. Natural yoghurt and honey are two things you might have in your student accommodation kitchen anyway, and when mixed together they make a face mask that gives you a serious glow! Tired eyes from studying? Take two green tea bags, steep them in boiling water, then pop in the fridge for 10 minutes before placing on your eyes to reduce puffiness and redness. There’s so much you can do when ingredients you probably already have, or that don’t cost half as much as traditional skincare and haircare products on the high street.
These are just a few ‘hacks’ you can use to save money and still look and feel your best; remember that fresh air, eating well, taking vitamins and getting enough sleep are all low-cost or free ways to feel on top form too!
Photo credit: Aditya Sethia
