We’ve tried dozens of “green” mascaras out there, but none give us the length, texture and glam of Tarte’s Eco-friendly lash hugger. Rice bran lax lengthens lashes and Olive esters condition, all encased in a recycled aluminum tube. It’s a perfect present for any eco-babe.

Available from Tarte for $15.

Calling all recessionistas: This summer, being broke isn’t an excuse for nasty hair!

I needed a blow-out for an event but couldn’t spare the $25 it’d cost at my usual cheapo salon. Google to the rescue! A little bit o’ search yielded an unbelievable find: a place that’d do my ‘do for half the price.

Too good to be true? Figuring I couldn’t possibly emerge looking worse than I went in (fingers crossed!), I proceeded to get lost in a remote section of NYC’s Chinatown before ending up on Pell Street, which, embarrassingly, is like five blocks from my apartment. How come I’d never noticed this before? There it was, sitting pretty atop  32 Pell was the Top Ten Hair Salon.

It was busy (good sign?), so I had to wait, but soon I was psyched to be receiving a yummy-smelling shampoo, condition and head massage. Next up was a fantastic blow-dry, and a humidity-defying flat-ironing to boot. I inched my way to the counter, sure that the extra wash and iron would bump up the price, but no! Ladies and you handful of gentlemen, this salon is one of its word.

Lesson learned: Don’t deal with dumpy hair when there are deals out there! And if one can find this kind of bargain in Manhattan, who knows what awaits all you ThisGirls in the Heartland!

ATTENTION, THISGIRLS! Share your finds for the fabulous and broke with your sassy sisters (we promise we’ll keep it just between us ThisGirls).

By ThisGirl JessZ

The only tan I’ve ever had was one that faded from a sunburn. I went tanning twice, and looked deep-fried both times. Sunless tanner has failed me every summer, leaving me streaked with polka-dots, handprints, and ghastly stripes. Needless to say, I have spent sufficient time blinding people with the white pallor of my skin…until now.

Not only does L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Gel give you results after one use, its also available in a 2-for-1 sale at Duane Reade! It retails for about $9, and you get 150 mL. Like all other self-tanners, you have to remember to exfoliate before usage and then wash your hands immediately after application. This tanner is cheap, easy, and most importantly not orange!

By ThisGirl Knows it All