Many a girl has had to curtail their spending at hairdressers and nail technicians due to the economic recession. The usual monthly facials, or even the special occasion visits, have had to take second or no place to paying bills and meeting living expenses. Beautiful girls, however, are finding a way to stay ahead of the game and look just as beautiful (or nearly so) by doing some of their beauty services themselves. Do-it-yourself videos on the internet has taught many a girl how to improve their appearances using fairly simple techniques and everyday products. In keeping with the trend, we are going to look at some simple facials we can do as a part of our beauty routine.

Oatmeal

When you get to the bottom of the oats box and there's just a little left, don't throw it out. Use it instead in an exfoliating facial mask which will remove dead skin cells and moisturise your skin. Make a paste of oatmeal and honey or egg. Leave it on until dry and then remove with warm water.

Avocado

This is great for ladies of all ages, but especially those with dry and mature skin. Avocado is rich in Vitamin A and will help to reduce age spots, burns and scars. It is also an excellent moisturiser. Now that it is pear season, scoop out some overripe avocado into a bowl, mash it into a paste and apply to the face. Remove with warm water when dry or carefully peel and then gently wash face with warm water. For a variation on this facial, try mixing it with coffee which tightens pores and skin. Mixing a little lime or lemon with the avocado paste will serve as a natural lightener for spots and blemishes.

Cornmeal

Now we have a new use for cornmeal other than

porridge. If you have oily skin or wish to exfoliate dead skin cells, use cornmeal mixed with honey or egg as a scrub. Be careful not to rub too harshly as this can damage the skin and cause discomfort. A properly applied cornmeal scrub will restore moisture and elasticity to the skin.

In doing your facials be careful not to tug on the eye area, which is delicate. Also, avoid applying the facial product at the hairline, which is fragile. Keep hair away from the face. Give yourself a beauty treat without breaking your budget.

Send questions or comments to peacewaterservices@yahoo.com or follow me on Twitter@PeaceWaters or https://twitter.com/PeaceWaters