The average woman spends five whole days in front of the mirror every year. It is no wonder the beauty industry is a 160 billion plus dollar industry.  Many women have reported that the recession has not affected their need to look their best.  Even if that means spending more than they should on beauty products and roaming the stocked walls and aisles of Sephora.

Well in 2012. Less is more—both in cost and quantity.  And 2012 can also be the DIY year, if you aren’t afraid to take matters into your own hands.

We love organic products, but not always the organic price tag.  Many companies are working to lower the prices of their natural products that are cost efficient for the average consumer. Whole Foods is carrying 97% natural hair line Love + Toast for under $15. And if you’ve been living under a rock, Moroccan Oil is simply the best. And because sleek hair will always been en vogue, it’s the best treatment for your buck.

We spend a ton on highlights and lowlights, but at home hair color is getting more succinct and easy to use. Courteney Cox famously revealed her $9 hair-coloring trick.  She has Friends money and still uses Clairol brass-free brunettes treatment. And while at-home treatments have the stigma of being accident-ridden, many companies are coming out with foam, mess-free applications.  Clairol has  one—and the reviews are positive.

If you’re going to splurge, do it on a concealer. Cle de Peau Beaute isn’t inexpensive, but it isn’t exorbitant. And it’s worth it. You won’t need a drawer full of cosmetics with the Clea de Peau Beaute Compact Foundation Set. Instead of wasting money on multiples, spend the money once.  Plus it will help you get rid of all that clutter.

-Arianna Schioldager