Beautiful for less

We know it's not easy to give up a beloved beauty regimen, especially one that works. But if you're looking for ways to trim spending on beauty products, at least until the economy improves, we looked to experts for a few suggestions.

Julie Hafer, owner of the makeup, hair and skin-care salon Beauty Ethics in Cameron Village, was our go-to girl for a list of the best makeup products under $10. Then Mary Lechene, who owns Hair By Mary on East Chatham Street in Cary, offered tips on how to save money and time on your hair.

Hafer, who sells the Paula Begoun line of skin-care products in her salon, says her picks are products that aren't tested on animals, and most are readily available at drugstores or online at beauty sites.

Here's what she likes:

• Maybelline Sky High Curves Extreme Length & Curl Mascara, $6.79
• E.L.F. Wet Gloss Lash & Brow Clear Mascara, $1
• L'Oreal True Match Super-Blendable Blush, $9.99
• Jane Lipkick Rich Color Lipstick/Moisture Rich Color Lipstick, $4.49
• Revlon LipGlide Sheer Color Gloss, $8.99
• DHC Eye Shadow in Moon, $5
• L'Oreal Paris True Match Super Blendable Makeup SPF 17, $9.99
• Revlon ColorStay Pressed Powder, $9.99

Lechene had these ideas about cutting down on hair care expenses:

• Maintain fresh-looking highlights and cut your spending by a third by opting for five to 10 individual foils (which normally cost about $5 to $10 each) in the area where you normally part your hair and around your hairline (if you pull your hair back). This will give the same effect as highlighting your entire head, since you already have a base, and you can only see new growth in the area of the part. Save money by repeating the technique in six weeks. By using this method, you can cut back getting full highlights to three times a year.
• Save money on cuts by opting for a cut that's not too short. Try a bob or a midlength cut if you can't pull off a long hairstyle. Not everyone has to live by the six-week rule for trims, especially if you have healthy hair that's not processed with color or damaged by hot tools. Often, you can go until your hair loses shape.