Viva Beauty on a Budget

Homemade Laundry Soap

2010-01-22T16:21:00.000-08:00

I am so glad to find this recipe on several other blogs. It's a DRY recipe for homemade laundry soap. I didn't want to mess with mixing, melting, and adding water in a big bucket. I like easy recipes and this one is definitely easy.

Homemade Laundry Soap

1 cup Borax
1 cup Washing Soda
1 Bar of Soap (I used Kirk's Castile. Other possibilities include Ivory, Sunlight, and Zote bars)

Directions: Grate the soap with a cheese grater or food processor. Place all ingredients in an airtight container and shake. I used a ziploc bag since I didn't have a container big enough.

Use 1 tablespoon per load, 2 tablespoons for heavily soiled loads.

Homemade Sugar Scrubs

2010-01-22T15:59:00.000-08:00

I stumbled onto my favorite" bath and body" website and found several sugar scrub products that looked so delicious to try! However, they were a little too pricey for me, which lead me to search online for homemade recipes! Making sugar scrubs at home is so easy and only takes a handful of ingredients! Don't spend a fortune at a store, you are really paying for the fancy packaging! I found a basic recipe and you can add your own essential oils and herbs of your choice.

Basic Sugar Scrub Recipe

1 cup granulated white sugar
½ cup olive oil (you can substitute sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil)

Directions: Mix both ingredients well and store in glass jar with lid

Scents to use: a few drops of essential oil, feel free to use any one of the following: lavender, jasmine, sandalwood, vanilla, etc.

Here is another fun recipe to try, it's called Peppermint Sugar Scrub. This one definitely looks fun to make and smell!

Peppermint Sugar Scrub

1 cup granulated white sugar
6 peppermint candies (approx 1/4 cup), finely crushed into a powder
1/2 cup olive oil (or any of the oils in the basic recipe)
6 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)

Directions:
1. Mix together granulated white sugar and crushed peppermint candies until well blended
2. Pour liquid ingredients into sugar mix and blend well

Homemade Bath Salts

2009-12-14T06:12:00.000-08:00

Why spend a fortune buying bath salts in the store, when you can make it at home for a fraction of the price?! Here is a simple bath salt recipe. Feel free to change it up and use your favorite essential oils!

I just made my first batch with 10 drops of Peppermint Oil and 3 drops of Tea Tree Oil. I used those two scents because I already have them on hand.

Here are some benefits to bath salts:

~Improve circulation
~Reduce tenderness
~Great for easing stiff, sore muscles and aching feet and legs
~Help purify the skin, cleansing away dirt, sweat, and toxins. Aid in healing of dry skin, making skin softer and more supple.
~Salts can also help improve common irritations such as insect bites, minor rashes, and calluses on feet, as well as more serious skin conditions like athlete's foot, eczema, and psoriasis.

Super Easy Recipe #1 ~

In a large glass or metal bowl, stir together...

2 cups Epsom Salt or Dead Sea Salt - or 1 cup of each (Do not use table salts, they will dry out skin! And when using Dead Sea Salt, be sure to remove any dark pieces that may have slipped through processing.)

1-2 teaspoons of baking soda, if desired (Makes skin soft.)

10-12 drops of essential oil (Lavender is best for a relaxing bath, Vanilla and Eucalyptus are also fabulous However, this is completely up to you!)

You can also add a small amount of food coloring paste (the kind used for cake decorating) if desired, but it's not necessary. I prefer not to use coloring, but it's up to you. This is your own homemade bath salt, make it however you want!

Next...

After you have stirred the salt really well (I do this for at least two minutes because it's fun; the more you stir the more the wonderful scent begins to come through!), pour into pretty glass jars and attach lids.

As for glass jars, reuse what you already have! Try using baby food jars, spaghetti and jelly jars, etc!

Homemade Toothpaste

2009-11-09T16:15:00.001-08:00

For the last few weeks, I have been gathering the ingredients and things that I needed to make my own toothpaste! Lately, I have been in search of ways to go natural, green, and living a more simple life. Today I finally had time to make my homemade toothpaste. The recipe I was using only calls for 3 ingredients! I used travel size shampoo containers to store my toothpaste. Other options include a glass jar or a used toothpaste tube. Here is the recipe I used ~

All Natural Toothpaste Recipe

1/4 cup Vegetable Glycerin
1/4 cup Baking Soda
10 to 15 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (food grade)

Directions: Too easy! Just mix the ingredients together!

The homemade toothpaste looks the same as store bought gel toothpaste but it doesn't foam or bubble up when you use it. It will take some time to get used to it.

Here's another recipe that I just found today. I look forward to trying this recipe out as well!

All Natural Toothpaste Recipe #2

2 tablespoons coconut oil
3 tablespoons baking soda
1/2 small packet of stevia powder
20-25 drops of peppermint oil*

Directions: Mix all ingredients together!

*Add about half of the amount of peppermint oil to start, and test the toothpaste to see how much you prefer.

Body Glitter

2009-11-02T05:07:00.000-08:00

I just found a body glitter recipe that is really easy to make and wanted to share it. Have fun with this one! Add some glitter and sparkle to your day, evening, or night out!

Body Glitter Recipe

What you need:
3 tablespoons of unmedicated aloe vera gel (can be found next to the hand lotions in discount or drug stores)
1/2 teaspoon very fine glitter, color desired
1 drop essential oil with fragrance desired (optional)
Food coloring (optional)

Directions:
Add as much glitter to aloe vera gel as you like (you can always experiment).
If you are using food coloring, mix a few drops at a time in with your gel until you get the desired color.
Add essential oil, if desired.
Stir to blend, then store at room temperature in a small, airtight jar or container.
Enjoy the body glitter!

NOTE: Some people are sensitive to essential oils. Test the body glitter on the inside of your arm before applying to face. DO NOT USE NEAR YOUR EYES.

The Amazing Jojoba Oil

2009-09-09T09:49:00.000-07:00

I started using jojoba oil about a week ago and have seen a huge difference. It does what it says and it is so versatile. Jojoba Oil is great for softer and healthier hair and softer skin. I added a several drops of jojoba oil to my hair conditioner bottle, so I use it every time I shower. I also use jojoba oil on my face and body. Jojoba Oil serves as an excellent moisturizer that is suitable for both daily and occasional use. Jojoba Oil nourishes and revitalizes skin, relieves sunburn, and can even be used on hands, hair and nails.

I have noticed that my hair is shinier, softer, and has more body to it. My skin and face are so soft! I am truly amazed! If you wear mineral makeup, it's great to use it under your makeup. You will look even better and your makeup will last longer.

I love using jojoba oil! There are so many uses for beauty. I am not buying several products for several issues that I have. Jojoba oil does it all for me. Here are a few uses for jojoba oil, so you can see how many ways you can use this wonderful product!

15 Uses for Jojoba Oil

There is no need to spend hundreds of dollars on products to reduce lines, smooth frizzy hair or remove makeup. Jojoba Oil is simple, natural, and has so many uses and benefits.

1. Eye Makeup/ Face Makeup Remover
Add a few drops to fingers or to a cotton ball and wipe over eyes and face. Rinse off with water or follow with regular cleanser.

2. Facial Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
Add a few drops to fingers or cotton ball. Cleanse face. Remove with water.

3. Facial Moisturizer
Cleanse face. Apply a few drops to fingers and then pat onto damp skin.

4. Foot and Hand Softener
Use alone or add a few drops to your regular moisturizer. Apply to hands and feet.

5. Intense Foot Treatment
Apply oil all over feet. Wrap in plastic and put on socks. Leave on for at least one hour. Feet will be beautifully soft and smooth.

6. Body Moisturizer
Apply immediately after the shower or bath while skin is still damp. It seals in moisture, leaving skin soft and smooth.

7. Massage Oil
Great for a massage therapist or for use at home. Perfect for sensitive skin.

8. Bath Oil
Add a few drops to the bath to leave skin moisturized, soft, and smooth. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for soothing aromatherapy.

9. Hair and Scalp Massage
Add a few drops to hands. Massage into scalp to relieve dryness.

10. Split End Mender
Add a few drops to your hands. Rub hands together and then apply to ends of your hair. You can also run hands lightly over damp hair to smooth frizzies. Remember to use only a drop or two.

11. Deep Conditioning Treatment for Hair
Pour a quarter-sized amount of oil into hands. Smooth over damp hair, applying most of oil to ends. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. Shampoo out and style as usual.

12. Lip Conditioner
Apply to finger and smooth onto lips. Great as an overnight treatment as well.

13. Cuticle Oil
Apply a few drops to rough, dry cuticles at least once per day.

14. Shave Prep
Apply to your beard or desired area beneath your shaving product. Helps prevent razor burn and leaves skin smooth and soft.

15. Aftershave Moisturizer
Apply directly after shaving to soothe and moisturize skin.

Mineral Makeup doesn't have to cost a fortune

2009-07-29T09:58:00.001-07:00

We have all seen the commercials for mineral makeup, been tempted to order the product. But did you know, those companies require a club membership to receive their products. Not only that, the products are pricey, at least for my budget! In these hard times, people are cutting back everywhere they can. You don’t have to cut back just to look great!

Attention Ladies: You do not have to break the bank just to look fabulous with mineral makeup!

Did you know mineral makeup is affordable, 100% natural, and good for your skin? Have you heard of Monet Minerals? Monet Minerals is mom owned and has been around since August 2007. Monet Minerals offers monthly sales and specials to help clients save money. Every order includes free samples. This gives you a chance to try new colors and products.

Are you aware of some of the benefits to using mineral makeup? Mineral Makeup does not clog pores or irritate the skin, which makes is essential for sensitive skin. A little product goes a long way, so you won’t end up spending so much in the long run. Mineral Makeup is water resistant, perfect for those who live in humid climates or for those who want to wear makeup while they are working out.

Monet Minerals have 5 or less ingredients in their products. Can you say that about your current makeup? Mineral Makeup does not expire, how great is that?

Mineral Makeup does not settle into lines and wrinkles, like store bought makeup. Mineral Makeup is versatile as well. You can mix the colors, you can wear then wet or dry to enhance your look.

Don’t settle for cheap, give Monet Minerals a try! You won’t be disappointed.

***I've been published, see this article at http://www.bukisa.com/articles/127491_mineral-makeup-doesnt-have-to-cost-a-fortune

Pesky Pimples

2009-07-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

Just this afternoon, I was searching the internet for natural remedies for pimples! I am so glad I found the the following, 5 Natural Blemish Busters, it's quick and concise!

As for myself, I plan on using Tea Tree Oil! I am somewhat familiar with it, plus it's very versatile. I can use it as a general cleaner around the house if needed. It can also be used for athlete's foot. I used to use tea tree oil shampoo and it smells so good!

I have tried the products with benzoyl peroxide and it always dried out my skin or just didn't feel right. I'd rather go natural and use tea tree oil!

Do you have any tips to combat the pesky pimples? What have you tried and what has worked for you?

Beautiful Eyelashes from home

2009-07-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

I've seen them, have you? I am referring to the commercials for Latisse, the product that claims to grow your eyelashes. At first, I was intrigued with this product, but not to the point of wanting to try it. I wasn't sold on the side effects! Plus, I wasn't even sure if they actually worked, the commercial didn't convince me. Lastly, you would have to go to your doctor for a prescription, then go to the pharmacy to buy it. In the end, you would have to pay for the doctor's visit and the prescription!

Here is the commercial if you haven't seen it:

After factoring in how much one would have to spend just to get the product, I am thankful that I found this article, Enhance Your Eyelashes Naturally. The author suggests the following, "Even if you have fallen victim to a mass media image of long-lashed beauty, do yourself a favor and use any sort of oil you've got around the house on your eyelashes instead. Any commonly-found home ingredient, like butter, olive oil, or baby oil, will do a number at making your eyelashes stand out if that is what you want. You certainly don't need to buy a new product, especially not one that will cost you $120 during a recession."

Homemade Makeup Remover

2009-07-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

I've been considering getting a makeup remover product from the store. Years ago, I used to use a makeup remove product from a direct sales business I used to rep for. I definitely miss having a makeup remover. For now, I remove my makeup when I wash my face in the evening. I just stumbled upon this homemade recipe to remove makeup! I am so excited! Not only that, the recipe calls for only 3 ingredients! This recipe will no doubt save you money! Go green and make your own makeup remover!

This recipe was categorized under travel toiletries, so you will only make a small amount.

You'll need
olive oil, baby oil, and lemon juice.

Mix Ingredients
Mix ¼ cup of baby oil with ¼ cup of olive and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Shake well.

Pour Into Container

More Green Tea Benefits

2009-07-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

If you can't tell by now, I am in love with green tea! I love making the homemade green tea mask! I've cut my ingredients down to the following: green tea leaves, a few drops of honey, and a few drops of milk! All three ingredients can be found in your kitchen! Don't spend hundreds of dollars going to a spa! Make your own mask at home! Treating yourself to a facial at home is so relaxing and a great way to improve your appearance after only 20 to 30 minutes! Perfect for busy moms! I leave the mask on for at least 30 minutes. My skin glows and feels soft and plump afterwards! I love it and best of all, it's free!

If you are a busy mom or busy working woman, how do you pamper yourself? Do you treat yourself to a spa day at home? What are your favorite recipes? If you don't have time for a treat, how do you relax and unwind?

I found a great article that I would love to share with you, called How to Make Your Skin Younger with Green Tea. This article is a quick read, but very informative! Here is my favorite line in the article, "The bottom line is that green tea has well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, so it’s feasible that topical green tea polyphenols could slow certain signs of aging."

So, what products do you use for anti-aging? Do you have any homemade face mask recipes to share?

***I've been published, see this article at: http://www.bukisa.com/articles/127402_more-green-tea-benefits

Reduce signs of aging with Green Tea

2009-07-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Green Tea is beneficial to your skin, it's soothing, healing, and helps to clear up acne. Green Tea also helps fight the signs of aging! Green Tea is a great detoxifier when used on the skin and used as a tea drink.

Feel free to use the following recipes as a guide. You can experiment and create your own recipe! Have fun!

Make a green tea mask with your used tea leaves

Add the following to wet tea leaves:

1 egg white, 2 drops of honey, and 2 drops of milk. combine well and apply to your face for 20 minutes 2 times a week!

Here's another recipe:

Green Tea And Chocolate Antioxidant Facial Mask Recipe

1 Tbsp. Green Tea Powder (or a used green tea bag)

1 Tbsp. Dark Cocoa Powder

Enough Honey To Make a thick paste

Mix green tea powder and cocoa powder with honey and add 2-3 drops essential oils of your choice(optional). Apply liberally on your face, avoiding the eye area and rinse off after 20 minutes.

This Recipe will make your skin softer and smoother, heal acne and regular use will delay the signs of aging.

Here is my own version of a combination of both recipes:

1 used green tea bag
a few drops of soy milk
2 drops of honey
cocoa powder
coconut cream concentrate

I left this mask on for about 20 minutes. My skin feels so soft and smooth! My skin looks and feels plump! Plus, I didn't have to spend $$$ on any "anti wrinkle" or "anti aging" cream either! Have fun with the recipes and create your own!

Green Tea Skin Toner

2009-07-06T05:49:00.000-07:00

Packed with antioxidants, as well as vitamins C and E, green tea is an excellent skin toner and anti-irritant. Green Tea can also sooth aggravated skin or sunburn.

Green Tea Skin Toner
1/2 cup filtered water
2 tsp organic green tea leaves

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Place the tea leaves in a clean glass or ceramic bowl, pour in the boiling water, and allow them to steep for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Strain the tea leaves and allow to cool.
4. Pour the tea into a spray bottle and spritz onto your face. Do not rinse off.

Welcome!

2009-07-06T05:24:00.001-07:00

Hello and welcome to my new blog ~ Viva Beauty on a Budget!

I started this blog to help others find budget friendly solutions to their skin care needs. I am finding myself unable to afford the store bought skin care solutions. I recently started looking for "anti aging" or "anti wrinkle" solutions at the store and online. They are a little too expensive for my budget, so I decided to start looking online for homemade recipes and solutions!

I hope to share what I find with you! Please feel free to leave comments, suggestions, your own recipes, etc!

Thank you for visiting!