Bad economy, Lay-Offs, skyrocketing costs of living, low stock prices… Yadda, Yadda, Yadda.  You can STILL look fabulous on a budget, kittens!  Most of us peasants have been doing extensive research in the “broke as a joke but still gonna rock it” test market for years.  Forget the department stores.  Forget those uppity specialty stores.  (sniff, sniff…darling, fetch me a tissue as we pause for a moment of silence).Take product problems into your own hands, be a kinder & gentler Visa slave, and trust the Make-up Mama on this one, sweets.

Clean and Clear Deep Action Scrub

This product is awesome.  It gently cleanses without drying but leaves you with a sweet, little minty tingle.  Oil-free and lightly scented, great for oily skin.

Clean and Clear Continuous Control Acne Wash

Also oil-free, this foamy wonder is a powerhouse.  It will remove all but the Tammy Faye-i-est of mascara while fighting the zitage with all its affordable little heart.  Again, for oily skin but who among us (after a 6-pack or two of Maxies) who isn’t?

St. Ives Invigorating Apricot Scrub

Now this IS a damn exfoliator. I have tried exfoliators from all 4 corners of the make-up world and this one is Muhammad Ali.  With one use, you will be glowing.  Just a friendly whisper, this one will take the hide off of a buffalo, so go gently if you’re “fraid”.  Definitely not the choice for sensitive skin faces, although can be a blessing for roughing up those stubborn ingrown hairs on other parts of the body.

Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat

My most favorite of the entire nail polish world.  This little gem can even make the cheapest, tackiest, tres Waffle House nail lacquer look just plain elegant.  My three words of advice about the “Vite”…not so FAST to DRY.  If I home manicure-it, I always try to give myself at least 30 minutes of “non-touching stuff” dry time.  It’s totally worth the wait, just see.

Marc Anthony (Strictly Curls) Curl Booster

I am in love with this fairly cheap, mega Curl spray.  A spritz, a scrunch or two, and some drying time led me to some really bouncy natural curls.  As a member of the Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam Rehab Club, Mr. Marc’s lovely elixir isn’t a bad cheaper substitute.

Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Lotion

Who says this is just for the Old-sters?  Smear this on those crusty post-summer feet, cover with socks, and enjoy.