Whether it’s going to a nail salon to get a pedicure or a relaxing facial, pampering myself is one of my favorite activities. However, as a college student I have a lot less money lying around to support that “luxurious lifestyle.”  So, I decided to come up with a compromise: Find a way to look good without being forced to survive on Ramen Noodles.  The result?  Here’s a quick rundown of my top at-home beauty kits.

Sigma Makeup: Beauty-on-the-Go Complete Kit ($99.00)
Sigma Makeup has composed this kit that includes the perfect colors for any college girl. Simone Xavier, creator of Sigma, personally shared why she thought it made the perfect DIY beauty kit, “It gives you the opportunity to experiment and to be creative. You can take a neutral look to work or a killer smokey look for a night out. You can mix eyeshadows, blushes, and highlighter in one single palette. This is the magic behind this kit.” With the interchangeable palette, you and your friends will definitely have a blast getting ready. It even includes a set of step-by-step instructions on how to master the perfect smokey eye!  So when you step out of your dorm room, you can walk with confidence knowing that you look absolutely gorgeous.

Soap & Glory: A Change of Face Set ($29.99)
The creator of the fabulous Bliss Spa in New York City, Marcia Kilgo, made a budget-friendly alternative line of facial and body products at Target. The Change of Face set is the perfect DIY facial that gives spa-worthy results. It includes a facial exfoliator, cleansing cloths, and a moisturizer.  With the cheeky names and adorable pink vintage packaging, the products are hard to resist. Her line smells absolutely divine and goes far beyond any Target bath and body product. After using all the products included in the kit, you’re guaranteed to have luminous skin.

Revlon Pedi-Expert ($9.99)
Rather than make multiple trips to my nearest nail salon, I often just paint my own toenails at home.  This pedicure set includes a nail clipper, a foot shaver, mini nail filer, and Revlon’s Posh Pink nail polish. I find that the foot shaver is an absolute must for summertime because I form calluses much more quickly. You can also easily file and shape your nails using the tools provided with little or no effort.

L’Oreal Superior Preference Hair Color System ($8.99)
I used to only trust my stylist to change my haircolor because of few self-inflicted traumas in the past, but this product completely changed my opinion of at-home dyes. L’Oreal has a ton of different shades that you can choose from, but most importantly, what you see is what you get. The color I selected came out exactly the way that I wanted, and it left my hair smooth and silky.

All in all, these kits saved me time, money, and the stress of trying to figure out how to pay for a uber-expensive salon appointment AND eat for a week!

— By Nicole Stockdale