Top 5 Best Beauty Buys Under $10 Bucks

In difficult economic times like these it's nice to know that even if the stock market is down, beauty junkies can keep their head up, knowing that we don't have to break the bank in order to indulge in great products. Due to the downward spiral of the economy, many of us have had to make our own sacrifices and budget cuts. Thanks to insight from industry professionals, hours of trials, and tedious testing, I've compiled a list of the best beauty essentials that you can pick up at your local grocery or drug store. Better yet, all available under 10 bucks. Happy shopping!

Top 5 Best Beauty Buys Under $10 Bucks

5. Olive Oil, $8.49 at CVS

Whether it's atop angel hair pasta, or even your own hair, Olive Oil is one of the most versatile items you'll find at the local drug or grocery store. Soak your nails in this rich oil if you need to soften dry or irritated cuticles. You can also use a little E.V.O.O. as a deep conditioning treatment by massaging anywhere from ¼ cup to ½ cup (depending on the dryness of your tresses) into the ends of your hair. Cover your coif with a shower cap, and let it sit for 30 minutes. When you wash the oil out, you'll be left with hair that's silky smooth!

4. Cetaphil Facial Cleanser, $9.59 at Drugstore.com

Not sure if your department store make up remover is worth the splurge? Head to the drug store and pick up a bottle of Cetaphil Facial Cleanser! Not only does it works on dry or wet skin, but it also serves as a gentle cleanser suitable for even the most sensitive areas. Since it's gentle enough to remove eye make up, it's useful to keep around for fixing eyeliner and mascara applications gone-wrong.

3. Neutrogena Sugar Scrub, $9.99 at Neutrogena.com

Dry skin and ingrown hairs begone! Slough off your winter skin with this inexpensive exfoliant. Massage it into your skin and emerge from your shower feeling brand new. Or, rub this scrub on the tops and bottoms of your feet for an impromptu D.I.Y. pedicure treatment.

2. Vaseline Daily Skin Shield Body Lotion SPF 15, $4.69 at Amazon.com

Sure, we can survive without skin-tightening facial masks, pre-blow drying hair serum, and post-blow drying sculpting cream. But lotion is a bath and body staple that most beauty product minimalists won't go without. For under 5 bucks, invest in Vaseline Daily Skin Shield Body Lotion. Inexpensive and protects your skin from sun damage? Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

1. Essence of Beauty Face Brushes 6 PK, $9.99 at CVS.com

Anyone who has ever been in the market for cosmetic brushes knows that they can cost a pretty penny. Designers from Chanel to Juicy have their own expansive and often expensive brush lines. However, if you're looking to replace old brushes on the cheap, 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 eyeshadow, and all for under $10.00!