Many people seem to be have the idea that the more expensive the beauty product, the better results wil be on your skin.

This is something of a controversial issue, and one to which there is no right or wrong answer. I’ve tried many products, right through from the very expensive (Creme de la Mer) right through to your cheap and cheerful options that you can find at your local supermarket. The results from all of them have been mixed, and naturally it all depends on an individual’s skin.

But I can honestly say that some of the best beauty treatments I’ve tried have been ones I’ve whipped up at home, proving that sometimes, the simple things in life can be the best. These can also be a godsend when you’re down to your last few dollars and payday is still a way off.

Apple cider vinegar

If I had to be stuck on a desert island with just one thing, it would most likely be a bottle of apple cider vinegar. Well, maybe not quite, but I seriously use this stuff for just about everything. You can make it into a solution to clean floors, to freshen cut flowers, kill weeds and more. According to the Internet, you can also use it to remove skunk odour from a dog, which is always handy to know.

But my all-time favourite use for apple cider vinegar is on my hair. It’s a fantastic method of removing product build-up from your hair and adding shine. It’s also good for any flaky skin on the scalp.

Once a week, I make up a solution of one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one cup of warm water in a bowl. Don’t be too heavy-handed with the vinegar, or else you’ll smell like a salad is growing on your head. After wetting your hair, you dip the ends of your hair into the solution for a few seconds, then pour it over the rest of your hair, avoiding your eyes. Leave it on for a few more seconds, then rinse it off. I promise, your hair will be the shiniest it’s ever been.

I gave up shampoo and conditioner long ago in favour of natural cleansing agents, but you could also try mixing a little bit in with your bottle of conditioner for easier use.

Asprin mask

Another el cheapo beauty remedy of mine is an asprin mask for your face. This is a tried-and-true mask for exfoliating your face.

You simply take three or four asprins (note, this must be asprin, not Panadol or anything else!) and grind them up into a powder with the back of a spoon. Add a few drops of water, then a tablespoon of honey (which is a natural moisturiser) to make into a creamy mask. Apply to your face, leave for 10 minutes then rinse. This leaves your skin feeling so smooth.

Egg

If you’re looking for a deeply moisturising mask, you can’t go past the humble egg (raw, of course).

Simply separate the yolk and the white of the egg. Apply the white to your face and neck, then leave it for around 15 minutes while it dries on your face. Wash it off with warm water and pat your skin dry.

Next, stir the yolk with a fork and apply that to your face and neck. This provides the moisture to your face, so leave it for as long as you possibly can - at least 15 minutes. Wash the egg yolk off and dry your skin. It should feel soft and deeply moisturised.

Note: try to avoid doing this one in front of housemates as you can look rather stupid.

There are plenty of websites out there that have heaps of suggestions for other at-home beauty treatments. I like Make Your Cosmetics. And don’t forget if you’re having a specific skin condition that’s causing you trouble, you should seek advice from a dermatologist or other skincare professional.

By Caroline Warnes