In strange economic times like these, it’s nice to know that even if the market is crashing, you can watch your stock portfolio go down in flames with a head of well conditioned hair…as petty as it sounds.

As our country prepares to enter what economists are beginning to call a “depression” many of us will need to make some sacrifices and budget cuts. And yes, this means that silky smooth blow-dry in your favorite Orange County salon might have to go. However, after some research, we at THE POP FIX have found some sneaky alternatives that will give you a spa-worthy treatment at home for a fraction of the price you’re used to paying…and best of all, you can find these items at your local LA grocery or drug store

Top 5 Recession-Worthy Beauty Alternatives

5. Olive Oil

Other than dressing up your pasta, Olive Oil actually has quite a few uses outside of the kitchen. Soak your nails in this rich oil if you need to soften dry and brittle cuticles. You can also use a little E.V.O.O. as a deep conditioning treatment: apply the oil to your hair, concentrate on massaging it into the ends (typically the driest part of your hair), cover your hair with a shower cap, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. When you wash the oil out, you’ll be left with hair that’s silky smooth. Just be sure to work up a good lather with your shampoo unless you want your scalp to smell like food!

4. Cetaphil

Not sure if you want to keep buying that Khiel’s make-up remover? Then head to the drug store and pick up a bottle of Cetaphil. It works on dry or wet skin, and serves as a gentle, moisturizing cleanser. It’s even gentle enough to remove eye-make up. It’s also useful to keep around for fixing eyeliner and mascara applications gone-wrong. Just dab a little of this cleanser on a cotton swab and voila!

3.  Neutrogena Energizing Sugar Body Scrub

Buff away dry skin and ingrown hairs with this inexpensive exfoliator. It’s just over $9.00 , and can help to slough off dry skin before you put on your body baring  beach-wear. Use it on your feet for an impromptu pedicure, similar spa treatments this can run anywhere from $20.00-$50.00. Why not treat yourself at home?

2. Vaseline Daily Skin Shield SPF 15

For less than 5 bucks, you can have moisture and a SPF all in one bottle. Lotion is one beauty product that you’ll find in almost every girl’s bathroom-cabinet arsenal, and while we can survive without purchasing new facial masks, pre-blow drying hair serum, and post blow drying sculpting cream, lotion is the one beauty product that most people can’t go a day without. This product is inexpensive and protects your skin from sun damage. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

1. Essence of Beauty Face Brushes 6 PK

Every girl (or guy) whose ever been in the market for make up brushes knows that they can cost you a pretty penny. Many designers from Chanel to MAC to Juicy have their own expansive and expensive brush line, so it can be intimdating to know where to start. However, if you’re looking to replace old brushes  on the cheap, you can head over to a CVS near you and pick up a six-pack of Essence of Beauty Face Brushes. In this pack you’ll find a wide powder brush, a smaller brush that’s perfect for blush application, as well a few in different sizes for your eyeshadow…and all for under $10.00.