Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic. ~Rosalind Russell By: Stephanie Horton
Over the weekend, I was putting on make-up and came to a realization: As I get older, I spend more money on my appearance with almost every year. "Is this true for everyone?" I anxiously thought.
My hair appointments have increased in expense by about $75 every 6-8 weeks compared to 1 year ago. My eye-brow grooming has increased by approximately $25 every 4-5 weeks compared to 1 year ago. My shampoo & conditioner went from Alba to Bumble & Bumble (about a $25 increase) over last summer. My lotions and perfumes are much more expensive now compared to two years ago. My make-up quality has drastically improved over time, but with that comes a drastic increase in price ($35 for mascara, $90 for primer and foundation combined, $25 for eye-liner, etc.) My gym membership and personal training preferences have increased by about $100 per month as of three weeks ago! My clothes cost more. My food costs more. And on top of all that, I've grown accustomed to getting weekly or biweekly manicures and pedicures. And lately, I've been considering fitting routine facials into my schedule. The list goes on and on!
I wonder if most women can relate with what I am saying or if I sound like a complete lunatic. After all, who would pay over $25 for
shampoo?! Apparently, I would...co-creator of Guiltless, advocate of self-love, preacher of self-acceptance. And of course, I can rationalize each and every single one of these price increases, and I feel anxious and somewhat fearful when I consider changing even one of them! On one hand, this is comedic. But let's face it, it's also a little scary. Does my taste in beauty products and salon services have a cap on expense or will I continue to fork it over more and more as I age?
Something about the expensive products and services makes me feel sexier, more professional, pretty and polished, aware and in-tune. It's somewhat of an addiction, and one that I have been completely unwilling to admit to as a potential problem until this moment. Some things, I still believe, are worth the extra cash. For example, a gym membership that inspires your workouts or fresh produce that gets you in the kitchen - these are things I will not sacrifice (along with my eye brow shaping, because let's face it, Italian eye brows require true professional care). But the lotions and perfumes, make-up and nail appointments are a bit excessive.
I want to challenge myself to spend just a little less on my appearance, which I feel will be a step toward self-acceptance. I won't sacrifice the things that I believe are actually worth it, but a few changes here in there can't hurt! I am ready to take the plunge!
First step: Purchase cheaper shampoo and conditioner.
Any recommendations?Do you relate with this problem?
How much of our bank accounts are we willing to sacrifice to perceived beauty?
Love is not toxic or tough. Love does not mean obsession. Love does not mean binging. Love does not mean restriction. Love means balance. Love is respect. Love is beautiful, whole, and free. 
