Category: Frugal Living Tips

More than one-third of women in the United States (37 percent) have reported using anti-aging skincare products to treat and prevent wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and other imperfections.

Are you part of this group? Are you in the market for new, better products?

If so, it’s important to remember that not all skincare products are created equal.

Read on to learn about ten of the best anti-aging products available on the market today.

1. DHC CoQ10 Quick Gel Brightening Moisture

This great anti-aging gel-cream contains coenzyme q10. This is an antioxidant, meaning it protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals, which speed up the aging process.

It also contains vitamin C and daisy extract, both of which brighten up the skin.

DHC CoQ10 is absorbed quickly, so your skin gets all the beneficial nutrients it needs in seconds. It can be worn alone or under makeup. You can also double up the amount you use when applying to turn it into a luxurious, nourishing face mask.

2. Body Merry Retinol Surge Moisturizer

This cost-effective anti-aging moisturizer is perfect for fighting off fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration.

It contains retinol, a popular anti-aging ingredient that helps accelerate skin renewal and minimizes the appearance of imperfections for smoother, firmer, and more evenly-toned skin.

The Body Merry Retinol Surge Moisturizer has a very affordable price point, but it offers long-term results that rival much more expensive products and even professional treatments.

3. Lancer The Method: Nourish Cream

This nourishing skin cream is the perfect option for smoothing out both deep wrinkles and fine lines that dull the skin.

It’s not cheap, but it is highly effective. Not only is it made with a special proprietary, oxygen-boosting complex, but it also contains a number of beneficial natural ingredients, including avocado and olive oils.

With all of these awesome ingredients, it’s no wonder this cream penetrates deeply into the skin and works wonders on nearly all signs of aging.

4. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer SPF 30

You don’t have to spend a fortune on skincare to get great results. Some of the best anti-aging products can be found at your local drugstore.

One example is the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer SPF 30.

Testers love this product and find that it works wonders for brightening and firming the skin to make you look younger and more vibrant.

Like many other anti-aging products, this moisturizer contains retinol to even out skin tone and minimize wrinkles.

It also contains sunscreen to protect your skin from future damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays. It’s the perfect day cream, whether you’re heading to the beach or heading to the office.

5. AmorePacific Time Response Eye Renewal Creme

If you’re looking for a high-quality eye cream and aren’t concerned about splurging a bit, then the AmorePacific Time Response Eye Renewal Creme is the way to go.

This product has received perfect scores from testers when it comes to its firming and hydrating abilities. It’s also been deemed on the best products for minimizing puffy eyes.

It also has a mild scent and luxurious texture, so you’ll love smoothing it on your skin every day.

6. Nu Skin ageLOC Elements + Future Serum

If your skin has an uneven texture or if you notice a lot of dark spots, this is the product for you.

Nu Skin’s ageLOC Elements + Future Serum is a high-quality serum that is filled with scientifically backed anti-aging ingredients. It works wonders at firming up the skin and smoothing it out for a more even appearance and feel.

In addition to a more even texture, you’ll also see more benefits like the minimized appearance of pores and brown spots. This serum also has a luxurious, silky texture that feels wonderful on the skin.

7. L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Dark Spot Correcting & Illuminating Serum Corrector

This is another drugstore product that works just as well as — if not better than — its pricier department store counterparts.

L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Dark Spot Correcting & Illuminating Serum Corrector does a great job of minimizing the size and color of age spots. It also contains ingredients like niacinamide, retinol, vitamin C, hydroquinone, and kojic acid, which help even out and brighten up skin tone.

You can apply this mild, lightly scented product to your face and chest on a regular basis to improve the appearance of your skin without causing irritation.

8. Philosophy The Microdelivery Triple-Acid Brightening Peel

If you want all the benefits of a peel but don’t want to pay for one at a spa, you’re in luck. Philosophy’s The Microdelivery Triple-Acid Brightening Peel contains alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate and brighten the skin while minimizing spots and the appearance of your pores.

This product comes in easy-to-use pads as well that help simplify your skincare routine.

Worried about irritation? You don’t need to with this peel. It’s extremely gentle and won’t cause any burning or tingling when you use it.

9. Skyn Iceland Angelica Line Smoother

If you have stubborn crow’s feet or forehead lines, this product will help smooth them out in no time. It actually contains GABA, which promotes muscle relaxation, to erase and soften all kinds of facial lines.

Using this product is like getting a mini Botox treatment. But, you get to pay way less than what you’d pay at a spa or aesthetician’s office!

10. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advanced Therapy

Don’t forget to pamper your lips! If you want silky, soft lips, this is the product for you.

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advanced Therapy contains peptides and hyaluronic acid, which help with minimizing lip lines and increasing firmness and fullness.

As an added bonus, this product also has a fresh, lemon scent and is easy to apply on the go. You’ll never have to worry about cracked, dull-looking lips again!

Looking to Save on the Best Anti-Aging Products?

Do you want to invest in some of the best anti-aging products mentioned on this list? Do you want to do it without breaking the bank? Then check out our list of printable coupons today.

There are tons of options available that will help you look your best while also helping you save your hard-earned money!

Ever considered vaping but got scared because of the potential costs?

To outsiders, vaping looks expensive. You’ll have to buy a kit, some mods, and then your constant supply of e-liquids. This might scare away those who have been wanting to try vaping, especially when the prices of these supplies will get higher when the government taxes them.

However, vaping on a budget is 100% possible. You won’t even have to settle for low-quality items; you can enjoy the experience without spending more than you need to. It may be the solution to start a new hobby like cloud-chasing or to help quit tobacco smoking.

How is this possible? Read on to find out!

Get it Right the on the Get-Go

Do you want to know how you can save more in the long run? Don’t buy the cheapest set-up you can find.

This is one of the biggest money sinks in vaping. Users who wanted to save would buy vape starter kits with questionable quality and then buy again once their flimsy set-up breaks. They do this cycle again and again not knowing that they’re wasting money by buying cheap.

If you buy a reliable set-up in the first place, you won’t have to keep buying, which will save you more money than you would have if you bought a cheap vape. We do recommend buying an affordable one if you want to try if vaping is right for you, though, we imagine that trying one of your friends’ is still cheaper.

Don’t think that you’ll have to shell out a huge amount of money either. There are affordable vape starter kits that will last you a long time, but you will have to exert more effort into finding them.

Try reading reviews on Google and see which brands give a good value for their price. You can watch YouTube reviews or ask experienced vapers around you for their opinion, too.

Don’t worry when the time that you’ll want to upgrade your set-up comes. There are also cheap vape mods that will fit within your budget. However, make sure you only buy from a reputable company as fakes are everywhere.

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk is also a good way to save because companies usually give out discounts if you make a big purchase. Like with our tip above, you’ll have to shell out more money in the beginning, but you’ll eventually feel the savings as you utilize your gear and e-liquids.

This also applies when buying bigger bottles of e-liquids. If you find a flavor you like and you can see yourself using it for a long time, don’t hesitate to buy a big package. It’s usually cheaper by the weight.

E-Cigarette Co-Ops

Taking buying in bulk to a whole level, e-cigarette co-ops are a group of people who get their supplies from Chinese manufacturers. As a group, they can make a wholesale purchase that comes with a huge discount.

You’ll usually find these groups on Facebook and forum sites like Reddit. Of course, you’ll have to exercise patience and caution.

Dealing with strangers on the internet is still risky, but there are legit ones out there that won’t run away with your money. If you know someone who participates in this activity, ask which ones you can join. This will be safer at the least.

Take Advantage of Sales and Deals

Online and brick-and-mortar stores have sales where you can score your favorite e-liquids or that mod you want for lower prices. They also have regular deals, like BOGO and such, that should allow you to save more.

Websites like Blazed Vapes have great deals on top of affordable prices.

If you want to get updates on sales, subscribe to your favorite stores’ email list. Some stores don’t have it, though, so you can try looking them up on Facebook or other platforms.

If they have a social media account, follow them there as well so you’ll see their posts and updates right there on your feed. Facebook even allows you to get notifications when a page or person publishes a post. Sometimes, stores will run contests and such on social media as well.

Coupons and Referral Programs

Some vendors give out coupons on certain occasions, such as when you share their social media post or when you make a purchase for the first time. If you want to save big on vaping, you’ve got to have an eye on these things so you can take advantage of every store’s offerings.

You’ll also find stores with a referral program of some sort. This is the perfect time to urge your smoker friends to quit smoking and switch to vaping. Make sure they buy from the store, though.

Budget and Monitor Your Vaping

Having a limited budget means you have to keep an eye on where every cent goes. To start monitoring your vaping expenses, set a budget first. How much are you willing to spend per month on this activity?

Then, track how often you buy stuff, the prices of each stuff you buy, and how long does a consumable item like e-liquids last. Take note of how long it takes you to go through a bottle of vape juice. Either adjust your budget according to your habits or adjust your habit according to your budget if you have limited funds.

If you have something you want to buy but it’s not in the budget, force yourself to spend less than your budget and save what’s left at the end of each month. You can also save some of your cash for that month and spend only what’s left; this is the preferable solution.

The good thing about keeping a budget is that you’ll be more mindful of every purchase you make, so this has a side effect of getting you to be more frugal. Note that while keeping track takes time, the hardest part will be sticking to your budget.

Save on E-Liquids

After buying a set-up, you’ll have to shell out money for the e-liquid. For reference, 10 mL of vape juice usually lasts 3 to 7 days, depending on how much you use per day. The average user uses up around 2 to 3 mL per day, but if you’re a heavy user, you might not be able to save at all.

Aside from buying less, are there other ways to save on e-liquids? Read on to find out.

DIY Vape Juices

Some smokers started making vape juices themselves, allowing them to adjust the nicotine level, flavor, texture, and more according to their liking. More than that, the DIY route is often cheaper.

If you want to venture into making DIY vape juices, make sure to buy ingredients that won’t expire in bulk.

However, keep in mind that making an e-liquid isn’t as easy as mixing all the ingredients in one bowl together. It takes time and practice before you get to the point that you like what you’re creating.

It might also take away the simplicity of vaping for you. Moreover, there are affordable premium e-liquids by professionals who have the right knowledge and experience. Hence, this option might not be viable for some.

Buy Small Bottles

If you get bored easily or you want to try a new flavor, stick to small bottles. Look for manufacturers that offer smaller options, so you won’t have to commit to one flavor for a long time.

If you end up not liking a flavor, you’ll either have to keep it stored (which is a waste of money) or power through it (which will diminish the vaping experience). You won’t have this problem if you buy in small quantities.

Furthermore, you can alternate between different flavors when you buy small bottles of each. This is great if you don’t like huffing the same flavor every day.

Maintain Your Gear

You paid good money for your vaping gear; you want to make it last its lifetime, don’t you?

Too often, we see smokers neglecting their kits because they don’t see the harm they’re causing. “It still works fine,” is a phrase we usually hear. The thing is, it might work fine right now but it won’t before you maximize its use without maintenance.

For the budget-conscious like you, maintain your gear by cleaning it every time you change a flavor to get the most out of your money. Give it a weekly cleansing and do a deep thorough cleaning every few weeks.

You won’t have to clean some components; you replace them instead. An example is the coil, which will need replacing every 10 to 14 days. The more you vape, the faster you’ll go through the coil and vice versa.

For how to clean your vaporizer, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Vaping on a Budget is Possible

Now that you know how vaping on a budget works, you can now embark on this journey without worrying about spending too much. Keep these tips in mind and stick to your budget to keep costs as low as possible while you enjoy the experience.

We have more frugal tips for you! Visit our blog to learn how you can save in other areas of your life. Check out this post tackling the 5 DIY pest control tips you can try right now.

On a budget? These days, who isn’t?

Just because you’re budgeting doesn’t mean you can’t look fashionable. Trends are fun and even though money might be tight, that doesn’t mean you can’t join in on the fun.

The best way to do that is with jewelry. They’ll complete any look in your closet.

But we won’t be talking about just any jewelry trends. We’ll go over ones that are stylish and will still be in years from now.

Ready to take a look at the list? Let’s get into it!

Delicate Necklaces

Bring all the attention to your face and decolletage with layers of dainty necklaces. The more you layer, the better!

There’s a variety of lengths so feel free to play around with different styles. Some have gemstone accents while others can be personalized with your initials on a round or square pendant.

To keep costs low (as buying one necklace at a time can get pricey) look for sets. Layered necklaces often come in sets so you can rock this trend even on a budget.

Wide Bracelets

Cuffs, bangles, and chains, oh my! For this jewelry trend, it’s all about stacking.

No matter your tastes, you too can take part in this fad sweeping the nation. And did we mention an armful of bracelets is a great look for the warmer seasons?

For the boho babes out there, this trend has your names all over it. So be sure to grab yourself bohemian jewelry to customize this craze to your liking.

Tassel Earrings

Who doesn’t love a tassel? And the good news is that they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.

So, revel in the sway of tassels as earrings. Nothing is more playful and flirty than a bundle of beads or colorful threads.

Not only are they fun but they make a statement as well. Throw on a pair and that’s all you need to complete your outfit. You can dress them up with a little black number or dress them down with a casual t-shirt and jeans.

Chunky Rings

We went over dainty necklaces, bold bracelets, and flirty tassel earrings–but what about rings? For this trend, it’s all about the size.

Chunky, statement-worthy rings are in! Forget your grandma’s infinity band and go for rings that are large enough to reach your knuckle.

Rather than stack on the bling, consider adding a ring on more than one finger. It’s an edgy look that anyone can pull off.

And don’t be afraid to mix metals as well. Nothing makes a statement better than breaking the fashion rules.

Ready to Rock These Jewelry Trends?

Being on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t participate in certain jewelry trends. Thanks to a wide array of retailers, you can find something that’s not only stylish but fits your budget as well.

Looking for more advice on frugal living while looking fabulous? Check out our fashion and beauty category today!

Planning on taking a summer road trip? So are a lot of people. The economy is pretty good these days. So people are spending more, and that includes taking vacations and doing more traveling.

You should know that gas prices have inched up. In fact, due to an increased cost of crude oil, gas prices are the highest we’ve seen in a while.

The average gas price is $2.81 a gallon. If you’re planning on doing some traveling this summer, or have a long commute to work, the money you spend on gas could really add up.

But are things to do that could save you money on gas. If you make a few changes, you could potentially save thousands of dollars. Read on to learn more.

1. Slow Down

Driving the speed limit can save you nearly $500 a year. Erratic driving, like accelerating quickly and slamming on the brakes increases the amount of gas you use. That increase can amount to nearly 40% more spent on gas.

Instead, when the light turns green, gently speed up. When the light turns red, slowly coast until you have to step on the brake. If you want to know how to save money on gas, these small changes can make a big difference.

2. Shop Around

Although most gas prices in an area will be relatively the same, prices do fluctuate. In some places that difference can be as much as $1 a gallon, such as in big cities like Los Angeles.

Prices will be higher at a gas station right off the highway or at a major intersection, compared to a station in town or on a street with less traffic.

And prices in the city might be lower than prices in the suburbs. Gas stations are counting on drivers’ willingness to pay more out of convenience. Many gas station apps will tell you where to save money on gas.

3. Grocery Store Discounts

Some grocery stores offer significant discounts on gas. Many will save you as much 10 cents a gallon for every $100 you spend in their store. Over a month’s time buying groceries, you can a lot.

Memberships to discount stores like Costco or Sam’s Club means savings at the pump too.

Also, many gas stations offer different prices for gas when paying with cash over credit. It might mean taking a few steps into the station to pay, but again, a little inconvenience means big savings.

4. Keep Your Car Maintained

It’s important to keep your tires properly inflated. Not only can under-inflated tires cause them to wear out faster or wear unevenly, but it can mean using more gas.

Be sure to check your tire pressure periodically, especially as the temperature increases.

Also, do regularly scheduled maintenance, including tune-ups, filter checks, and oil changes. All of these can keep your car more fuel-efficient and save you money on gas.

5. Drive Less

Take the bus if you can. Driving solo back and forth to work is convenient, but if you can take public transportation, it will save you big bucks on gas, insurance, car maintenance and parking costs.

Now that the weather is nice, walking or riding a bike is a great way to save money, get exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. Many cities offer rent-a-bikes or bike sharing on street corners.

Plan your driving. If you find yourself running errands every other day, try to plan more efficiently by getting all of your errands done in fewer trips.

If you can, do your shopping online. Many stores offer free delivery. This includes grocery stores, Amazon of course, and even shopping on this website.

That’s How to Save Money on Gas

Now that you know how to save money on gas, you’ll soon be taking fewer trips to the gas station.

But if you’re ready to make some big changes, you could think about buying a car that’s fuel-efficient, such as a hybrid. This not only saves you money but helps save the environment.

Or, get a credit card that offers cash back on gas purchases.

Enjoy your summer travels with the family. But if it’s possible, walk or ride a bike. You’ll save money and enjoy the scenery a whole lot more.

For more great tips on frugal living, visit my blog.

Engagement rings are expensive, and the fact that folks in the United States spend an average of $6,351 on them is proof!

Let’s consider the monthly average salary of people in the typical “marrying age” (between 25 and 34 years old), which is around $3,300. This means an average engagement ring costs about two months’ worth of salary!

In an ideal world, an engagement is something you’d want to spend money on. However, this precursor to marriage is only a small start of more wedding-related expenses to come.

That’s why engagement ring sales should make it in your list of prospects. After all, you’d want enough budget for the wedding itself, and the family you’ll soon build.

How exactly can you save money with these ring sales when it’s time to propose though?

Don’t worry. This guide we came up with will show you how to do that!

Why Go for Engagement Ring Sales in the First Place?

A recent Forbes article pointed out that engagement ring prices average $5,000. That’s $1,351 less than the average actual spending. But it’s still a hefty price.

Think about how you can use a lump $5,000 to make a down payment on a new house you’ll share with your would-be wife. Or how you can spend it on a one-of-a-kind honeymoon. You can even start a family with less student loan debts!

These show how many things you can do with the money you’ll save when you opt for more reasonably priced engagement rings. So, when the time comes to get on one knee and pop the question, you need to choose between being practical and having a status symbol.

Ring sales are your ticket to securing a rock for less. These deals give you access to more affordable options – including diamonds. All without suffering from the consequences of burning through two months’ worth of salary.

Now that you know you still have hope of getting your soon-to-be-spouse a diamond, next is to learn how to get it. So, without further ado, let’s start this money-saving list when buying engagement rings.

Be A Prince, But Don’t Spend Like Prince Harry

Did you know that experts believe Prince Harry proposed with a whopping $350,000-worth ring to Meghan Markle? Granted, the value has a lot to do with the ring boasting of two of Princess D’s diamonds. But all in all, that’s a price very few Americans can handle.

Yes, you want to be the prince charming your better half has ever dreamed of. At the same time, you also want to make sure you can still take care of the wedding and wedded-life finances.

As such, the first thing you should do is establish your finances. These should include the following:

• How much you can afford
• How much you’re willing to spend
• How much more you can set aside as some sort of leeway

From here, consider the types and styles of ring your budget can accommodate. Yes, you need to learn the basics of diamonds’ 4 Cs. But you also need to consider your would-be wife’s needs and preferences.

Keep in mind that women do their careful research when buying men’s jewelry after all. So, the same should go true when it’s your time to shine and buy that shiny rock.

The 4 Cs of Diamonds You Need to Know

According to GIA, the creator of the well-established diamond 4C quality standard, these Cs stand for the following:

1. Color
2. Clarity
3. Cut
4. Carat Weight

All these contribute to the final price of the rock. But shape, such as whether it’s round, cushion, oval, princess, or emerald, also affects the price.

For your reference, the five above-mentioned shapes or “cuts” make the cut (sorry) when it comes to the most popular. Knowing more about them can then help you determine which one best suits your soon-to-be-bride. After all, you can already incorporate her own style and preference in your buying decision.

Buying Rings without the Middle Man

Make no mistake – when you opt for engagement ring sales, you’ll get a genuine stone. So long as you do so from a trusted merchant, you can buy a huge diamond and pay much less.

How?

For starters, because reliable and trustworthy jewelers offering these deals have no use for middlemen. In other words, the rocks and rings go straight to them. It’s for this reason they can sell their genuine products for much less.

Imagine proposing with a big ring that you saved a month for but would’ve otherwise cost you two months’ worth of salary. You can rest easy knowing your savings can handle the wedding, all the while putting a huge smile on your partner’s face.

Online Engagement Rings That Save You Even More Money

You’ll find many online merchants selling reasonably priced engagement rings, but not all of them can help you further cut your expenses.

For instance, not all online ring sellers offer free shipping – anywhere in the country or even the world. Also, considering that you’d want insurance to cover your purchase, shipping rates alone can already make your final bill skyrocket.

You also need to consider the possibility of returning a ring. For instance, you made a mistake on the ring size, having bought a 7.5 when you should’ve chosen a 6. Some merchants may not allow returns, and even if they did, charge you for fees incurred.

Lastly, think about the guarantee. Imagine 10 years from now losing one of the ring’s accent gemstones. It’s a rare occurrence in high-quality engagement rings, but it’s still a possibility.

That’s why you want to work with a jeweler who offers lifetime guarantees. This way, your then-wife can have her engagement ring back in the same condition she received it from you.

Start Your Search for the Best Engagement Ring Now

As you can see, engagement ring sales can help you propose sooner than you would if you have to save for several months to buy a ring. So, start shopping now for these rings at reasonable prices!

Also, don’t forget to check out our budgeting tips and tricks! These will come handy when it’s time for the wedding and the family-building!