diva on a budget

Discovering your Diva does not have to break your bank. Here are some hints on ways you can save money for the things you really need.

There are some great makeup lines sold at drugstores. If you're looking for good brushes but don't want to spend more than $15 a brush, check out Sonia Kashuk at Target. Her brushes rival any you'll find at a department store. My favorites are the 03, 04 and 09 eyeshadow brushes. Kashuk also offers a set of 4 smaller brushes in a compact case with a snap clasp for your purse at a mere $12.99. Another line I like is Rimmel (available at Wal-Mart, select Target stores). Rimmel's Vinyl Gloss and nail polish formulas have amazing staying power and a great variety of colors.

For those who wax, save money by doing this yourself. Yes, I know this sounds scary. There are lots of great easy to use products on the market. My favorite is Sally Hansen's No Heat Gel Hair Remover. I have used it on my arms, legs and bikini area and it worked great on all surfaces. Divas devoted to their Brazilian waxing have permission to continue to see a professional for that particular service. I know that once you start having Brazilian's done it's hard to stop and you'll never get the same results doing it yourself.

A couple of tips for virgin waxers. Your hair has to be long enough. I know you think 5 to 7 days of hair might be long enough, it's not. You should wait at least 3 weeks after your last shave before you wax. The wax needs enough hair to "grab" on to. If you can resist your shaver for 7 days you'll notice that your hair is softer when you pass the stubble stage.

If you have a friend who waxes, ask for her help the first time (that's how I learned). Make sure you read and follow the instructions with whatever wax you buy. Some waxes are meant ONLY for face or body.