Don’t Buy, DIY: Make These 6 Beauty Products at Home to Save Money
Beauty products can cost a small fortune — but what if you could make your own at home with ingredients you already have in your kitchen?
From texturizing sea sprays to soothing face masks, it turns out your pantry may be the best substitute for the beauty counter.
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6 DIY Beauty Products You Can Make at Home
These six DIY recipes are easy to make, cost just pennies and let you customize your routine to your skin and hair needs. You’ll not only save money, but you’ll also skip unnecessary chemicals and take control of your beauty regimen. Let’s dive into the ultimate at-home beauty hacks.
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1. Volumizing Sea Spray
Get that breezy, beachy hair even when you’re miles from the coast. This DIY sea spray combines salt for texture, aloe or conditioner for softness and a few drops of essential oil for that fresh, tropical scent. Just mix hot water, coarse salt (like sea salt or Epsom) and your favorite softening agent. Let it cool, pour into a spray bottle, and scrunch into damp hair. You’ll get lift, volume and vacation vibes — for pennies.
- Off-the-shelf cost: About $15 for 6 oz
- DIY cost: About $1 a bottle
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2. Dry Shampoo
Skip the wash and still look fresh. You can make your own dry shampoo using pantry staples like cornstarch, arrowroot or cocoa powder (especially great for brunettes). Dab a small amount onto your roots, work through your scalp and brush out. Add a touch of essential oil for a lovely scent without the chemical overload. It’s a lifesaver for busy days — and your budget.
- Off-the-shelf cost: $7 and up, depending on the brand
- DIY cost: A couple bucks, if that
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3. Exfoliating Salt or Sugar Scrub for Hands and Body
For soft, glowing skin, all you need is sugar or salt, oil and a little scent. Choose sugar for a gentler scrub or salt for deeper exfoliation. Mix with coconut, olive or almond oil and add your favorite essential oils to boost the experience. Use it on your hands, feet or whole body for spa-like smoothness.
- Off-the-shelf cost: Up to $40
- DIY cost: About $3 per batch, depending on the type of oil you choose
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4. Body or Face Lotion
Hydrate naturally with this easy, customizable lotion. Mix coconut oil with lavender or tea tree essential oil for a soothing, antibacterial moisturizer. You can also experiment with shea butter, avocado oil or jojoba oil to suit your skin’s needs. Use it on your body or test a gentler blend for your face (just patch test first if you’re prone to breakouts).
- Off-the-shelf cost: Up to $35
- DIY cost: About $3 to $5 per batch
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5. Facial Toner
Toner doesn’t have to cost a fortune — or be full of alcohol and synthetic fragrance. Brew some green tea, try rose water or use witch hazel as a base. Add skin-loving oils depending on your skin type. Apply with a cotton pad or spray it on for a midday refresh.
- Off-the-shelf cost: Up to $45 for 8 oz.
- DIY cost: Depends on your ingredients, but could cost pennies or up to $4 per batch
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6. Face Masks
Customize your skincare routine with kitchen ingredients. For oily skin, try apple cider vinegar. For hydration, honey, milk or avocado work wonders. Add cocoa powder, egg whites or even oatmeal depending on your needs. You can mix and match to find what works — no Sephora splurge needed.
- Off-the-shelf cost: $13 for 1 oz
- DIY cost: From pennies to $5 per mask, depending on the ingredients you choose
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Get Glowing — Without Breaking the Bank
While you may need to invest in some containers and essential oils upfront, these DIY beauty recipes will save you big long-term. You’ll know exactly what’s in your products — and you’ll have enough ingredients to last all year. Best of all? You’re in control of your beauty routine.
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