HOW TO DO A SPA FACIAL AT HOME

I’ve struggled with skin issues all my life. I have acne-prone and sensitive skin and over the years I’ve been to dermatologists and had facials, chemical peels, and acne laser treatments.

While I was loving getting pampered only some of the treatments were covered by my health insurance because of my acne.

Getting facials and other beauty treatments can be really expensive and its a luxury we can’t all afford.

This is why I now do my spa facials at home!

I not only save myself a ton of money but I save time by not having to drive to any appointments.

There will be products you need if you want to have the full spa-like facial experience, but keep in mind that you’ll only be buying these items once and they can be used over and over again each month.

Plus some items you may already have at home!

Keep in mind I’m not a dermatologist or esthetician these are just some tips I use at home and have learned from getting treatments and facials over the years. ENJOY!

Create a Spa-Like Environment

When you get a professional facial one of the reasons why they’re so great is the relaxing environment.

You walk into a clean clutter-free room that smells fresh, has soothing sounds playing, and a bed for you to relax in with no distractions.

To emulate this at home I suggest doing your facial when it’s quiet and when there will be no interruptions.

Making sure its a relaxing experience.

Put on some quiet soothing music. You should be able to stream some free meditation sounds or music online.

For my bedroom where I relax during my facial, I picked up a Himalayan salt lamp to add that extra touch. This is totally optional!

If you’ve never heard of a Himalayan salt lamp they’re said to help with everything from your skin to your sleep.

Plus they’re beautiful and give your room a nice glow. You can check one out here.

Get Comfortable

Now that you have your environment ready, its time to get comfy!

For this step, you really just need to have some nice comfortable clothes on and a robe if you love robes like me.

You will want to tie your hair up on top of your head so it’s not in the way when you lay down. You can keep it out of your face with a cloth headband.

You also want a place to relax while you’re waiting for your facial mask to dry (don’t worry we will get into the at-home facial steps next).

A bed or couch is just fine just make sure you have a blanket or throw in case you get cold.

At Home Facial Steps

Now we get into the fun part, the actual at-home facial steps!

What you will need all depends on you but these are the basics for most facials. I will mention some products I use in the steps but feel free to use any products you may already love and use.

1. CLEANSE

You will want to use a gentle non-abrasive cleanser to wash your face and remove any makeup.

A few I suggest are SkinActive Micellar Foaming Face Wash, Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar for Dry/Sensitive Skin, or one I’ll be trying very soon InstaNatural Vitamin C Facial Cleanser.

You can use a cotton round or a clean soft 100% cotton washcloth. I prefer a washcloth for this step.

You want to be very gentle on this step and remove makeup but don’t scrub your skin because we will be exfoliating later.

2. STEAM

After cleansing you are going to want to steam your face in order to open up your pores to get them ready for the next steps.

If you can invest in a facial steamer they are great. You can find them affordably here.

Alternatively, you could boil water, put it in a bowl, and place your face over it to absorb the steam.

You only want to do this for about 5 to 10 minutes. If your skin is very dry maybe even less. Just enough to open up your pores.

Side note: I would be cautious using the blackhead removal tools that sometimes come along with these steamers unless you know what you’re doing.

3. EXFOLIATE

Now that your pores are open you want to do some exfoliation.

For this step, you can use a gentle exfoliant product of your choice but I like to use a Charcoal Infused Konjac Sponge.

You just rinse and allow sponge to fully absorb water then gently massage your face using the sponge in a circular motion. You don’t even need a cleanser with this sponge (you can if you want).

Or you can use a gentle face scrub like this one from Cetaphil. You want it to be gentle and not abrasive like some apricot scrubs on the market.

4. APPLY A MASK AND RELAX

The next step after you’re done exfoliating is to apply a face mask and relax.

I’m currently using the Aria Starr Dead Sea Mud Mask. I have combination skin and I’m oily in my t-zone.

Another popular one is the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask which I will be trying next.

If you have very dry skin you can use a moisturizing face mask like Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Treatment Mask.

The face mask you choose will all depend on your skin type so read the description and if you’ve never done a face mask or have super sensitive skin, I recommend doing a patch test ahead of time.

TIP: For combination skin, you can use two different masks. I usually apply a mask for pores and oily skin in my t-zone and a hydrating mask for the rest of the areas.

Since most masks will take time to dry you will want to lay down and relax during this step. Listen to your calming music or just enjoy the quiet time.

Once your mask is dry, take it off using a warm wet washcloth or cotton pads and move on to the next step.

5. TONE AND MOISTURIZE

The last step is to tone and moisturize. The toner will close your pores back up and because facials can be drying you definitely want to moisturize even if you have oily skin!

Use a gentle toner and moisturizer, I recommend one that’s non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.

Some dermatologist favorites seem to be Cetaphil and Cerave. If you’re going out after your facial be sure to use one that contains sunscreen or add sunscreen on top to protect the skin.

You can also add a serum at this time too.

That’s it! You’re done! Treat yourself to an at-home facial once a month if possible but don’t overdo it because you could damage your skin.

I hope this post helped you and you share it with your friends! If you have any questions or comments leave them below!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here

KEEPING MOTIVATION TO PAY OFF DEBT

Paying off debt can be tough. It can often leave you feeling hopeless and like it will never be gone. You may feel like what’s the point? I’m here to tell you there is hope.

Some of the best ways I’ve found to stay motivated are to get educated about debt and to be around people who have similar goals as you. But how do you do this?

Don’t worry I’m not going to tell you to go back to school or join a support group for people in debt.

I’m going to show you EASY ways to stay motivated throughout the days, weeks, and months.

I actually use these tips for all of my goals not just paying off debt so keep reading and PIN THIS article for later as a reference.

5 WAYS TO GET MOTIVATION TO PAY OFF DEBT

1. Books

Books are probably one of the best ways to get educated and motivated. I’ve made it a goal each year to read a book a month at least. I actually prefer audiobooks because they’re faster to absorb for me.

Not sure what to start reading? A good one to start with is The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey.

Be sure to also check out my list of personal finance books that will change the way you think about money. This list will help you decide on some books to read this year.

MONEY SAVING TIP: If you like audiobooks and eBooks I highly recommend Scribd! You can access an unlimited amount of books each month for one low price. Use my referral link and get a free trial here.

2. Podcasts

I LOVE podcasts! I can actually say I’m a little obsessed with listening. I listen in the car, while cleaning and just about every chance I get.

Oh, and did I mention they’re free! You can download or stream them right from the free podcast player on your phone and some right on the website of the podcast.

Not sure which ones to start with? I have so many favorites but again my biggest motivator would have to be Dave Ramey’s podcast because he is constantly sharing debt stories and he gives it to you straight.

For my favorites check out my list of Personal Finance Podcasts. Add a few to your podcast player and start listening now.

3. Courses

Ok after reading this post you might think I love everything but I really do love learning so courses are another one of my favorite ways to stay motivated.

You can probably call me a course junkie because I love courses that much. Personal finance and blog courses are my favorites.

Personal finance courses are a great way to get educated and stay motivated to reach your financial goals. Most of the courses I love come with a community aspect, motivational videos, and resources so you’re not feeling alone while taking them.

One of my favorite resources is the Master Your Money Super Bundle because it has a ton of courses, printables, and ebooks in it for one low price so you will be good for a while. You can check that out here.

Another favorite especially for focusing on paying off debt is the Financial Reboot. This course is great because it was created by someone who paid off $37,000 in debt herself and not just a finance “expert”.

You can check it out here.

Check out more of my favorite courses on my resources page. Be sure to bookmark it for later as well.

4. Small Wins

Having small wins along the way is proven to keep us going when it comes to reaching our goals.

Small wins encourage you to move forward and make you feel like you’re accomplishing your goal.

This is one reason why the Debt Snowball method is so popular for paying off debt.

In the debt snowball, because you’re paying off your debts smallest to largest, you’re eliminating debts faster and getting the small win each time you wipe out a debt.

For example, say you have four credit cards with balances of $10,000, $3500, $2100, and $800. If you were to start tackling the highest balance it would take you a very long time and you may lose hope and motivation along the way feeling like it will never be paid off.

But if you were to tackle the smallest balance of $800, pay it off in a few months and then check that off as done, you will feel that sense of accomplishment.

You would then move on to the next one and while it may take a little longer you will get many small wins along the way to keep you going.

MORE READING: Not familiar with the Debt Snowball? Learn about the debt snowball here.

5. Make it Fun With Challenges and Printables

Do you love a good challenge? Challenges are a fun way to make paying off debt more doable.

Set a goal, use printables and money-saving challenges to make it fun and almost like an assignment or game.

I love using money-saving printables as a way to stay motivated and challenged by my goals.

You can get access to my FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY when you subscribe to my newsletter which is filled with printables and resources to help you reach your financial goals.

TAKE ACTION

In order to reach your goals, you need to take action. You can’t just read this and say it sounds good. You have to take action now!

Start by making a list of the items below using a sheet of paper or the free goal printables available in the resource library.

• Make a list of books you want to read.
• Make a list of podcasts to subscribe too.
• Make a list of courses you’re interested in taking.
• Subscribe to my newsletter and get access to free resources to help you! You can subscribe here.

Be sure to also come back and read more money saving articles. Create a pinterest board and save all the articles you find helpful to you. Start by pinning this one!

Questions? Comments? Leave them below this article and I will be sure to answer them.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here

10 TIPS TO HELP YOU STOP OVERSPENDING

Are you a spender? Are you not sure how you are overspending or just want to spend less? Check out these tips to help you to stop overspending!

1. Have a Goal

You want to stop overspending but why? Having a goal is key in staying motivated to not spend.

What is your WHY? Do you want to pay off debt? Do you need an emergency fund? How about a vacation?

Set some goals and keep referring to them when you’re wondering whether you should buy something or not. Having a goal will help you stay focused.

2. Use Cash

Leave your ATM and credit cards at home and use cash. If you’re in a relationship, let the person who’s most budget-conscious carry the cash if you tend to spend cash easily.

Consider using the cash envelope method to track your spending and stay on budget. It’s a system that has helped millions of people budget and spend less.

You can check out How to Use the Cash Envelope System for more information.

TIP: Hate the idea of using cash? Consider the cashless envelope system instead.

3. Wait

Resist buying anything the first time you see it. This will give you time to consider whether you really need it.

If you’re not willing to go back to the store for an item then you probably don’t really need it.

If you tend to shop online a lot then use a browser extension like Icebox for Chrome. It replaces the buy button on the most popular e-commerce stores, automatically saving you from your weakest moments. 

We all love a good sale but if you think about it, things are on sale ALL THE TIME.

4. Make a Shopping List and Stick to it

A list is actually quite useful and can save you from buying things you don’t need.

If you stick to your list you will not only save money but also time because you won’t have to run back out to get what you forget.

The less time spent inside a store the less money spent. The saying out of sight out of mind is very true and works with shopping too.

Have you ever been in a store and thought “omg I wanted this” or ” I need one of these”? Well next time that happens stop and think, have you thought about that item in the last 6 months?

Did you really need it or just because you saw it you all of a sudden needed it?

5. Don’t Shop Hungry

Ever go food shopping when you’re hungry? Eat before you go to the grocery store or any store for that matter.

When you’re hungry you’ll want everything and often buy more than you need because you feel hungry.

Plus you may end up buying premade food which is more expensive. Even if you’re at the mall you may end up grabbing a snack or drink when walking around so be prepared before you go.

6. Buy Used Items

Shopping thrift can save you a ton of money! Plus now with resources like Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp you can easily find things you need without leaving your home to search.

I’ve found appliances, furniture and home decor for pennies on the dollar on these types of marketplaces. People will list free items as well up for grabs. Keep in mind these items do go fast so when you see something you like, act fast.

You may also want to consider borrowing or renting instead of buying. If you’re only going to use something once or twice then consider whether or not you really need to purchase it.

Tools are a great example of something that can be rented or borrowed for one-off projects.

7. Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk doesn’t always save you money but if you do it strategically it can.

I don’t mean to just run out to your nearest warehouse store and buy huge packages of toilet paper but actually to stock up on items when they are on sale.

If you do shop at wholesale clubs just be sure to do the price comparison. Just because you can get a 48 pack of something doesn’t mean its cheaper than buying say four 12 packs of that item.

This is especially true if you use coupons and can use a coupon on each item.

The main way buying in bulk will save you money is that you won’t be running to the store as often. The fewer trips to the store will mean fewer impulse buys.

8. Do Free and Cheap Activities

Team up with other families for children’s activities. Take the kids to public parks. Watch for free community events.

Take advantage of free zoo and museum days in your area.

Have a girls night in instead of out. Plan a potluck. There are so many things you can do to save money on entertainment.

9. Plan Ahead

If you plan you’re spending ahead of time you won’t have to worry about affording things like gifts or back to school clothes etc.

Setup funds for things you know you will need throughout the year and plan for them in your budget.

For example, you can buy gifts throughout the year when you find the items you like on sale and save them for gift-giving occasions.

TIP: Check out How to Save on Gifts All Year Long for tips and a free gift planner!

10. Track Your Spending

Tracking spending helps you to figure out the areas that you’re overspending in. There can be things you’re spending money on that are really not important.

For example, are you grabbing a snack every afternoon from the cafeteria at work? If you’re tracking your spending you will actually see what you’re spending each week.

In this example, you can either cut the snacks completely out of your budget or grab a box of snacks at the grocery store and keep it in your drawer at work to save you a ton of money over time.

Questions? Comments? Why are your struggles with overspending? Leave a comment below!

Also, be sure to join my email list and get access to free resources and money-saving tips delivered right to your inbox! Sign up below!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here

USING THE CASH ENVELOPE SYSTEM

What exactly is the cash envelope system and how the heck does it work?

The cash envelope system was made famous by Dave Ramsey. If you’re following him or have read his book The Total Money Makeover (highly recommended) then you’ve at least heard of the envelope system and that’s probably what brought you to this blog post.

Related: Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps Explained

The cash envelope system is a simple system where you use cash instead of a debit or credit card (I go into greater detail below).

While it’s pretty simple, it does take some time to get used to especially if you don’t usually use cash or tend to just swipe all your purchases.

If carrying cash just scares the heck out of you then you can switch to a cashless envelope system (I talk about how to do that here). But before you do that try this system first! Using actual physical cash in hand has an emotional effect on your spending versus just swiping a card.

How to Use the Cash Envelope System

1. CREATE A BUDGET

In order to start using the cash envelope system, you have to have first created a budget. You need to know how much money to designate to each envelope and a budget is how you do that.

If you need help creating your budget check out how to create an effective budget.

Once you’ve created your budget, identify which categories in your budget will be tracked using cash envelopes and determine your cash amounts.

In order for the cash envelope system to work you need to know how much money you have to spend after all your bills are paid.

Whatever money is left will get divided up into different envelope categories.

Here are a few examples of cash envelope categories:

• Groceries
• Eating Out
• Gifts
• Kids
• Entertainment
• Giving
• Clothing

Everyone’s categories will be different but those are a few common cash envelope categories I see.

2. DECIDE WHAT ENVELOPE STYLE WORKS FOR YOU

Second, you’ll need envelopes! Makes sense right?

You can start with just plain blank white envelopes or use the free cash envelope printables in the freebie library.

If you have a little money in the budget you can grab my premium cash envelope printables ( just $4) or purchase some ready-made cash envelopes or cash envelope wallets from Amazon.

Use what works for you! If you’re someone who likes pretty things then get a pretty cash envelope wallet or pretty envelopes. If not then use plain envelopes or even a small accordion file to divide your cash.

2. GET THE CASH & FILL YOUR ENVELOPES

Now that you’ve determined your categories, set your budget, and have your envelope system ready you can now start filling your envelopes.

Cash the portion of your paycheck that will go into your envelopes. If you get direct deposit then you’ll need to go to the bank or ATM and grab the total amount of cash for that week, month, etc.

Most ATMs now have the option to choose your cash denominations so have your cash amounts ready before you go so you can select your cash denominations while making your withdrawal. You can write them on a piece of paper or in the notes app on your phone.

Or write the breakdown of those denominations on the back of your withdrawal slip if you’re going inside the bank or through a drive-through so that the teller will know what to give you.

Stick the exact amount of cash into the designated envelopes, recording the starting balance on each individual envelope.

3. RECORD YOUR TRANSACTIONS

Now that your envelopes are full you are ready to start. You’ll want to carry the envelopes you need for the day with you and avoid bringing a credit or debit card if you can.

As you take money out of each envelope you’ll need to write it down on the envelope or a cash tracker slip just as you would with a checkbook register (remember those?).

Whenever cash enters or leaves each envelope, record the amount you spent and the new balance so you know how much you have left for that week or month.

4. STICK TO YOUR BUDGET

If you run out of money in any one category and your envelope is empty that means you can’t spend any more money in that category!

When first starting out you can “borrow” from other envelopes but just know that this is a signal that you may need to adjust your budget or your spending.

Be sure to record any money you took out of another envelope and record the new amounts.

BUT you want to avoid having to “borrow” from any other envelopes too often and adjust your budget and spending as needed during your next budget review.

5. ALLOCATE ANY LEFTOVER CASH

If you have cash left over at the end of the week or month then you are doing great!

Any leftover cash should be allocated towards debt first and then towards savings. If you haven’t already built up an emergency fund then put any extra cash towards your first $1000 emergency fund then start tackling your debt.

Related: How to Pay off Debt When You’re Broke

If you find you always have extra in certain categories then reallocate that money to any categories you may be going over in or start directing it right at paying off your debt or building your savings and reduce that category amount for the future.

WHAT TO DO IF THE CASH ENVELOPE SYSTEM ISN’T WORKING FOR YOU

First, determine why it isn’t working for you. Are you not budgeting correctly? Remember to check out how to create an effective budget.

Are you losing cash or just feel nervous about having cash on you? Do you constantly forget your cash envelopes at home? If this is the case and you’ve actually tried the system for 3-6 months and it still isn’t working then I suggest trying a cashless envelope system.

To learn about cashless envelope systems, check out: How to Use the Cash Envelope System Without Cash.

The whole point of the envelope system is to use it to get control of your money instead of your money controlling you. So whether you end up using the cash envelope system as is or switch to a cashless envelope system, the concept will be the same.

Also, keep in mind that it will take time to adjust to the cash envelope system so don’t be too hard on yourself and give up. You can do it!

Keep going and you will soon see why it works so well for so many people.

Questions? Comments? Leave them below!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here