With all the doom and gloom of recession talk I’m sure most of us will be adding saving money to our new years resolutions going in to an uncertain 2009. However we don’t want to let ourselves go in the process so here’s a couple of tips for a beauty budget.

If having had a look through your most likely extensive range and still feel you need to buy something make it a bronzer. Bronzers are multi functional, last forever, range in price and give an instant glow. Bronzer can change your look, going from ok but pasty at this time of year to having a real healthy glow. Brush the bronzer over your cheeks and temples to give yourself a real boost. You can also use it going down your neck line if you are wearing a shirt or v-neck top saving the need for fake tan. Egypt Wonder and Rimmel do a great range of bronzers. Add to this simple trick a quick lick of lip gloss, mascara and you’re done.

Don’t waste money buying new brushes or brush cleaner to apply your bronzer just use a mild shampoo and conditioner you already use on your hair to clean yours. Alternatively you can wash them with washing up liquid to give a really hygienic clean. If you do need to buy a new brush buy one with real hair so you can maintain it over time. The Body Shop have good value brushes.

The oldest trick in the book to save money on buying blusher – lipstick! Smile and apply using your ring finger in a dabbing motion going upwards on the apples of your cheeks and watch them glow. Just be careful when choosing the colour.