Who doesn’t love a good spa day? From facials and massages to hair services and nails, there are plenty of reasons to treat yourself and visit the spa. However, spa services are rarely affordable – a single spa service can easily cost $150 and up. Spoil yourself without breaking the bank. Here are 6 affordable alternatives to the spa.
1) Go to a Beauty School
Hair needs a trim? Instead of dropping mega dollars at the salon for a simple service, take a visit to the local beauty school.
Beauty school students have to spend a set number of hours cutting hair before they can earn their credentials. Because of this, many beauty schools function as all-out spas, but without the hefty costs.
If you’re hesitant to let a total newbie cut your hair, you can always ask for an experienced student instead. Be sure to bring photos of the hairstyle you want, so it can help guide the stylist.
2) DIY Nails
A fresh manicure and pedicure is an easy way to treat yourself. However, getting the combo at a salon can cost you anywhere from $50 to $1000 per trip. Ouch.
Instead of going to the salon, purchase the equipment you need to do your own nails at home. Nowadays, you can even do your own gel or dip nail polish at home, so the options are limitless.
Amazon or beauty stores like Ulta have large supplies of nail supplies. While it may be an investment up front, you can easily recoup that money in just two or three manicures.
3) Color Your Hair At Home
Salon color is insanely pricey. We are talking anywhere from $50 to $400 per coloring session. And if you have to go back every six or so weeks for a touch-up, the cost can completely blow your budget.
Instead of going to the salon, color your own hair at home. At-home hair dye has come a long way, and products can produce some pretty magnificent colors in a fraction of the time. Best of all, a box of hair dye only costs $5 to $15, making it a much more affordable option.
4) Make a Homemade Facial
Did you know you can make your own facial using ingredients you already have in your kitchen?
Here are 6 easy DIY face mask recipes you can make in your own kitchen!
5) Add Some Essential Oils
Essential oils are an easy and inexpensive way to make any plain shower seem more luxurious. Simply purchase any scent of oil from a drugstore and put a few drops in your shower. The steam from the shower will carry the scent, making for a spa-like experience.
6) Soak in the Tub
A relaxing, at-home spa experience can be as simple as a simple soak in the tub.
Fill the tub, play some relaxing music, and add some essential oils or bubble bath. Giving yourself time to simply be alone is relaxing enough.
Rachel Slifka is a freelance writer and human resources professional. She is passionate about helping fellow millennials find success with their finances and careers. Read more by checking out her website at RachelSlifka.com.
