1/11/13

Skin care therapists have to start somewhere, and that place is often at the nationwide Aveda Institute. Since students need hands-on training, you can get not one, not two, but FIVE Aveda facial treatments for the normal cost of one. Top trainers supervise all students, and you reap a five-star facial for as low as $20. It's a great way to try Aveda's all-natural products at a fraction of the cost. Check out the menu of deeply discounted eco-beauty treatments at aveda.edu.

1/10/13

Gas Buddy is an app for your smartphone that helps you locate the lowest price for gas in your neighborhood. You can win free gas cards simply by earning points, which you do by submitting real-time gas prices whenever you fill up. Once you earn 1,000 points, you're eligible to win a $250 gift card toward free gas.

1/9/13

Three skin care certification programs that have real standards and are vetted by independent agencies are EcoCert, the Natural Products Association NPA mark and the USDA's organic certification. Any other certifications you see on products should be taken with a grain of salt -- many of those credentials are made up by the manufacturers, with little or no third-party vetting.