Super-cheap spa TREATMENTS

Many years ago a friend gifted me a hot stone massage for my birthday. Whoever dreamed up heating smooth rocks and using them, along with scented oils, to ease aching muscles is a genius.

But at $159 for an hour,

I’ve lumped the experience in the ‘too expensive’ box along with facials, manicures and hair treatments.

Instead, I’m always on the look-out for ideas on how to create my own beauty treatments at home.

These are some of my favourites.

MOISTURISE YOUR HAIR

Younger me had soft and bouncy curls, but the more greys I get the drier and frizzier my hair becomes.

I’ve tried lots of expensive salon and store-bought treatments on my hair, but I still think that simple coconut oil, available for under $10 from most supermarkets, works the best for me.

Warm a few tablespoons gently until melted, being careful not to make it too hot. Rub it through the lengths of your hair, then pop on a shower cap for 20 minutes or so.

Follow with your usual shampoo and conditioner.

FRESHEN UP YOUR FACE

Here’s a tip from Hurom.com that I love, because it not only makes your face feel fab, but it also uses something you’d usually throw away – juice pulp!

Once you’ve juiced your fruit and vegies of choice

– I love spinach, strawberry and kiwi – take a quarter cup of the pulp and mix it with an equal amount of oil, such as coconut or olive, and a few teaspoons of honey.

Apply the goop to your face and leave on for around 10 minutes while you sit back and sip your juice, then wash it off.

You’ll feel healthier both inside and out!

SMOOTH THOSE FEET

Our feet support us during our entire lives so they deserve a little pampering. But even a pretty basic pedicure at my local beautician costs about $48.

However it’s easy to show your tootsies some more affordable love at home with this recipe from Byrdie.com.

First, give your feet a good soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the skin. Next, whiz up one egg, one banana, four tablespoons of milk, two tablespoons of honey and five tablespoons of olive oil, until creamy.

Slather on your feet, then sit back and read that’s life! for 40 minutes while the lactic acid and other goodies help exfoliate and hydrate your dry skin.

Simply wipe off the mixture with a towel and give your feet a good wash.