Professional beauty treatments don’t have to cost a fortune. Australians are saving hundreds of dollars every year with a few smart strategies. Here are the five most reliable methods.
1. Book beauty model calls (the best method)
A model call is when a beauty professional needs a willing subject to practice on, photograph, or demonstrate a technique. They offer the treatment at free or heavily discounted rates in return. This is far and away the best way to access premium treatments cheaply. Model Call lists hundreds of these opportunities across Australia, searchable by suburb and treatment category.
2. Follow beauty schools on social media
Beauty academies and TAFE beauty departments regularly post model calls on Instagram and Facebook. A quick search for accounts using your city name and terms like “beauty school” or “beauty academy” will surface a list of relevant accounts worth following. Set post notifications so you don’t miss flash availability.
3. Ask for off-peak or loyalty rates
Many salons and clinics have unofficial off-peak rates for quieter days (typically Monday–Wednesday). If you’re a returning client, ask your practitioner directly — repeat business is worth a discount to most small businesses. You’d be surprised how often a simple ask results in 10–20% off.
4. Watch for new-business launches
When a new clinic or salon opens, they often run heavy launch promotions to build reviews and word-of-mouth. Following local beauty directories, joining suburb Facebook groups, and monitoring “new opening” posts in your area can surface these deals quickly.
5. Use group-buying and flash deal platforms
Group buying sites still exist and regularly feature beauty deals. The quality of providers varies, so always check Google reviews independently before booking. Stick to deals from businesses with 50+ reviews and a rating above 4.3.
How much can you actually save?
Model call pricing on Model Call ranges from completely free to 80% off standard retail price. A $200 set of hybrid lashes? Often available for $20–$40 as a model call. A $150 facial? Available free at beauty academies multiple times per week. Australians who book regularly report saving $500–$1,500 per year on beauty treatments.