Staying Beautiful in an Economy on Fire
Ladies, let’s face it: The naira seems to have lost its self-esteem, inflation is auditioning for the Guinness World Records, and even tomatoes are beginning to feel like a luxury. With every trip to the market turning into a mental maths marathon and beauty products skyrocketing faster than the fuel price, it’s no surprise many Nigerians are adjusting their spending habits.
But here’s the tea in 2025—no matter how hard the economy gets, Nigerian women are built to slay!
We are queens, we are resilient, we make magic out of nothing. So, if you’re broke but still want to glow in this Tinubu-era economy, relax, on a low key, grab your zobo, and let’s spill the secrets to looking stunning without breaking the bank.
Adopt DIY Beauty Hacks
You don’t need to empty your wallet for expensive skincare or makeup. The secret? Check your kitchen –
For glowing skin: Mix sugar, honey, and lemon juice to create a simple exfoliating scrub. Your face will thank you.
For hair care: Use eggs, mayonnaise and honey for a nourishing protein treatment. It sounds funny, but it works wonders. 👇
For soft hands and feet: Soak them in warm water with salt, lemon juice and a splash of apple cider vinegar. 👇
Treat yourself by yourself – These DIY remedies cost next to nothing and are just as effective as expensive salon treatments. Don’t kill yourself!
Read Also
Invest in Multipurpose Products
Forget having 10 different beauty products for each body part. Look for multipurpose items:
Shea butter: A budget-friendly lifesaver for skin, hair, and even cracked heels. It is everywhere in the market (but please beware of fakes).
Petroleum jelly (Vaseline): Yes, Vaseline, that original Vaseline our parents used on us when we were younger – it works as a moisturiser, lip balm, and even highlighter. Are your surprise!
Coconut oil: Use it to remove makeup, as a hair treatment, or for glowing skin. Easy to produce yourself if you can’t purchase one. 👇
One product, multiple uses—that’s how to outsmart the economy!
Thrift Your Way to Fashionable Looks
When designer brands are out of reach, thrift markets like Katangua (Lagos) or Wuse Market (Abuja) are your besties. Nigerians know it as Bend Down Select or 2nd Hand clothes.
The secret to slaying? Go early, when they are opening the bail, negotiate like a pro, and focus on timeless pieces like blazers, dresses, and denim. Pair them with statement accessories, and you’ll look like you stepped out of a fashion magazine. Don’t be surprised – some of the clothes you get from those highly priced boutiques were selected from the thrift shop.
Go Minimal with Makeup
With beauty trends shifting towards “less is more,” now is the perfect time to simplify your makeup routine.
Focus on the essentials:
– A good foundation or BB cream.
– A bold lipstick (you can even use it as blush!).
– Mascara to define your eyes.
– Always line your eyebrows properly.
– Use face moisturizers – good and less expensive brands.
Affordable Nigerian brands like Zaron and House of Tara have great options that won’t leave your wallet crying.
Make Use of Natural Hairstyles
Cut Your Hair: Braids are very expensive to make now. Bald hair and low cuts are trending. Celebrities are adopting it. With one or two good wigs/hair you can alternate your looks when you are tired of the low cut.
Micro Twists and cornrows: Twists and cornrows are not just beautiful but also economical. Twists is something you can even do yourself – very beautiful and lasting especially on natural hair. 👇
For the naturalistas, invest in leave-in conditioners and affordable gels to keep your curls popping.
Lock Your Hair
Starting locks and maintaining it when it is still short is expensive. But it is something you can do by yourself through videos online. For me – I maintain my locks myself, it is healthier.
Locking your hair yourself or going to the salon to do it is still on a low budget. It looks cute any time, any day!
Buy press-on nails
If you are a nail lover then go for press-on nails and learn to fix it yourself, instead of spending a lot of money paying your nail technician. press-on nails are cheap, easy to fix and they look gorgeous.
Stay Fit and Confident
Beauty isn’t just about your makeup or outfit; it’s also about how you feel. You don’t need an expensive gym membership—try home workouts, jog around your neighbourhood, or join free fitness groups. A healthy body radiates beauty, no matter what the economy says.
Tap Into the Power of Positivity
When all else fails, remember that confidence is the ultimate beauty secret. A bright smile, good posture, and a positive attitude can outshine even the fanciest makeup. Own your style, walk with your head high, and let your personality do the talking.
Slay On, Queen! 2025 may be tough, but Nigerian women are tougher.
With a little creativity, some DIY hacks, and a whole lot of confidence, you can slay effortlessly—even when the economy is on life support.
Remember, it’s not about how much you spend; it’s about how you carry yourself.
Now, go ahead and show the world that no matter the state of the naira, you’re still the queen of your own kingdom. Slay on, sis!
