That being said, I think I speak for many women in the Dallas metropolis, when I say that no matter how hard times are, that I will continue to go to work, school, church, on vacation, etc. looking somewhat presentable in public. That means that while I may be cutting back in some ways, like maybe not wearing makeup on the weekends around the house,  there will have to be overwhelming circumstances for me to give up my beauty products – without a fight. We Dallas women take our beauty rituals seriously and as we are home to many cosmetic and hair product companies, i.e. Mary Kay, we know that we will continue our path of acquiring beauty products by any means necessary.
How we have chosen to accommodate this slump in the economy, is by being resourceful. We are becoming savvier, overly-conscientious, read more labels and take advantage of various sales, discounts, coupons and making more bulk purchases than we ever have in the past.

My shopping habits have changed a bit, but the quality in the products I purchase remains consistent. I look for more inexpensive products that still have the same ingredients and percentages of effectiveness as my more expensive counterparts. I always ask for samples, and I always have a coin purse full of nothing but those punch cards – eagerly waiting for whatever discount is offered (and let’s not forget those double punch card days). My long time favorite store for punch cards is The Beauty Store and Salon (www.beautystoreandsalon.com) in Plano. Their punch cards give you $10 off your next purchase which I enjoy gleefully. They have so many different brands of hair and skin products that you can never go wrong shopping there. They have a salon that offers great deals and the employees are very helpful. They offer bulk shampoos and conditioners that you can purchase and split the amounts with your friends. This is a great cost savor that is also fun.

The internet has also been a growing companion for many of us as it has opened up a world of many new beauty products that we would not know about any other way. It is great to surf around but the web can also be used to help you find and use ecoupons and codes for purchases right here in Dallas. One of my favorite sites to search is www.retailmenot.com. Look for specific and favorite stores. You will not be disappointed.

Also, don’t forget that these times can be stressful. Check out some of the fabulous spa deals out there. MassageEnvy (www.massagenvy.com) is offering introductory massages for $39 while Polished (www.polished.com) in Frisco has a sparkling duo mani/pedi for $46 – and you get to keep the polish!

While I may miss the more profitable times we have experienced, I have to admit, the knowledge I have learned during this period of our economic history is invaluable. A couple of quick reminders to help you during this time are:

1. Read labels. Many manufacturers use the same company for their formulas.
2. Take advantage of discounts and sales and don’t be afraid to ask for more off a particular product.
3. If you don’t really need it, then keep shopping until you find what you need (that is a hard one for me!) and
4. Plan ahead. Bring your coupons and punch cards. They make a difference to your bottom line.

Don’t give up on your beauty routine and products. We all want to look good for less. Looking good makes you feel good. Stay happy and put together. You will appreciate it in long run.
 

For more info: Email me at: traceyrock1@gmail.com.