Everyday we are bombarded with many products that we are told we must use or we should not live without. I have compiled a list of 12 inexpensive beauty and health essentials for 2012. They will cost you less than $40.00. Although they may not be what you think, they can make a big difference in your skin, hair and general health. Next week, I will give you a list of luxury items for 2012.
Lip balm -- Keep dry cracked lips moisturized in the winter and protect them from discoloration and darkening during the summer by applying lip balm with SPF several times each day. It's also important to stop licking your lips which may dry, and damage them. ($1.88, ChapStick LipShield 365 with SPF 50+, Walmart)
Pumice stone -- Rough feet in the bed in winter is a real turn off and they don't look very nice in summer sandals. Keep the pumice stone in your shower and use it everyday. Rub the skin on your feet very gently (remember not to scrub). ($2.97, Trim Neatfeet Massaging Pumice Stone, Walmart)
Lip brush for spot treatments -- A lip brush is the perfect way to apply spot treatments used for acne pimples or dark spots. The lip brush will allow for more precise application of the treatment. If you are looking for a great acne spot treatment, try Rx for Brown Skin's Precise Clarity Acne Spot Treatment). ($1.98, Paris Presents 6-Piece Touch-up Brush Set, Walmart)
Nail buffer -- It's time to revive weakened, dry and brittle nails from using acrylic nails, gel polish and ultraviolet light by going natural for 4 to 6 months. Keep nails clean, trimmed and buffed. You will be surprised how great they will look. ($2.97, Revlon Crazy Shine Nail Buffer, Walmart)
Dental floss -- Healthy gums mean healthy teeth and a healthy heart. Diseased gums (periodontal disease) will adversely affect your overall health and flossing only takes a few minutes. ($.97, Johnson & Johnson Reach Dental Floss, Mint Waxed, Walmart)
Vitamin D3 -- Vitamin D is essential for your immune system and many Americans are deficient (especially those with skin of color). Check with your doctor for the exact dosage that you will need. ($5.94, Spring Valley Maximum Strength - 5000 IU, 100 Softgels, Walmart)
Facial wipes to remove make-up -- Even if you fall into the bed at night exhausted, its still not too late to remove your make-up and clean your face. For beautiful clog-free pores, use pre-moistened facial wipes right from the comfort of your own bed. ($4.97, Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes, Walmart)
Toothbrush -- This mini toothbrush can be used anywhere without water and it has a flavor bead to combat bad breath. Great for the daytime after you eat or when you fall into the bed exhausted. ($.94, Colgate Wisp Mini-Brush, Walmart)
Bobby pins $3.14 (Walmart.com) Goody CoulourCollection Slide-Proof Bobby Pins Black - Repair your hair by minimizing the heat from blow dryers, curling or flat irons. Use the pins to either pin curl or wrap your hair each night. It takes only a few minutes and you avoid heat the next day.
Mole skin -- Corns, calluses, blisters, sore feet.... a little moleskin will cushion those sore feet. ($3.27, Dr. Scholl's Molefoam Padding, Walmart)
Scale -- Check your weight at least once a week to avoid creeping up during the year. Obesity can lead to hypertension, diabetes, loss of confidence and skin problems. ($7.97, Sunbeam Dial Bathroom Scale Compact, Walmart)
Visine Eye Drops -- These drops can be used to combat red eyes, red bumps and facial redness. Just a drop or two will do it. ($3.62, Visine Original Redness Relief Eye Drops, Walmart)