Beauty and the Budget: Make Your Own Spa in 4 Easy Steps

There's nothing more relaxing than a trip to the spa, but one look at the bill could make your beauty day a bust. Never fear, budget-minded spa-seekers! We'll show you how to turn your home into a relaxing retreat in four easy steps, and for a lot less than you'd spend at a real spa.

Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

When you walk into a spa, an atmosphere of dimmed lights, hushed voices, and soft music tells you that you've entered a zone of tranquility. Unless you're running a 24/7 daycare out of your home, that sort of setting is super easy to recreate. First, set the mood with authentic spa tunes. Plug some small speakers, like this refurbished Logitech Z506 5.1-Channel Surround Sound Speaker System ($39.99 after coupon code "EMCPAPA84", a $8 low), into your laptop and then stream Pandora's free Spa radio station. Of course, if Nicki Minaj or Megadeth puts you at ease, then feel free to do your own musical thing.

Next, you can tackle both aromatherapy and mood lighting by setting out a few candles. Your home spa will be stocked for months when you buy four large jar candles for the price of two from Yankee Candle (via coupon code "CATF114"). Now just turn out the lights and bask in the glow.

Spa Treatments Personalized for You

At a regular spa you're confined to whatever treatments they have available, and your relaxation lasts only as long as your budget can stand it. But at home, you can personalize your beauty regimen to fit your needs and schedule. Add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil or perfume to this Piping Rock Avocado Oil ($3.99, an $8 savings), and give yourself a personalized massage. Then follow one of these easy recipes to make your own face mask that's customized for your skin's needs. Don't forget to follow it up with a hot bath and warm towels straight from the dryer!

Nosh on Spa Snacks

There's going to be a lot of downtime during your treatments, so one thing you've gotta have in your home spa is snacks. Have a dish of nuts or trail mix handy for a quick protein pick-me-up. For an exotic treat, brew yourself a cup of this Teavana Singapore Sling Rooibos Tea — 2 oz. for $5.59, a 30% savings. And hey, if you've got edibles leftover from your home treatments, feel free to nibble on those... we won't tell!

Hang Out and Relax

Above all else, making a home spa is all about finding tranquility in your own space. So don't forget to take some time to kick back. You'll have no trouble relaxing in this Hammock Air Deluxe Hanging Chair, which is a $10 price low at $24.99. Otherwise, just lay down on your bed or couch and chill. No one's going to hurry you out of your own home spa, after all.

Follow the steps above, and you'll be on your way to a more relaxed you in no time. Readers, do you have any pampering recipes or experiences you'd like to share? Should we avoid eggwhite masks at all costs? Drizzle chocolate on our feet? Spill your home spa stories in the comments below!