40+ Brilliant Health & Beauty Hacks To Save You Time and Money

While unconventional, the following beauty hacks may initially seem unreal, but they have the potential to save you valuable dollars.

The health and beauty sector thrives with an annual turnover surpassing $90 billion, primarily propelled by a continuous stream of diverse products. Constantly pursuing methods to enhance our skin’s radiance or whiten our teeth, we find ourselves investing in the latest beauty hacks hitting the market shelves, leading to ongoing expenditure. What if an alternate approach were to reveal that achieving remarkable results is feasible by ingeniously utilizing everyday household items like Starbucks coffee or Colgate toothpaste? While unconventional, the following beauty hacks may initially seem unreal, but they have the potential to save you valuable dollars.

 
Some bloggers suggest that this beauty hack results in lashes that resemble professional extensions when the mascara is applied.
Image Credit: @elle / @ideiasincriveis / Pinterest.com

Items Required: Baby powder, cotton swabs, mascara
Purpose: Enhances lash length
Estimated Cost: $2*

Achieving lengthy, lush lashes that appear voluminous and full is a common desire, yet with the constant influx of new mascaras hitting the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. Frequently, the outcome doesn’t quite match the promises depicted in advertisements. Fortunately, there’s a clever hack for this dilemma.

Dabbing a cotton swab into baby powder and gently applying a fine layer onto the lashes before using mascara is believed to aid in better adhesion of the product. Some bloggers suggest that this method results in lashes that resemble professional extensions when the mascara is applied.

2. One of the more odd beauty hacks: Bra Insert as a Makeup Applicator

Simply utilize the insert similarly to a blender for applying your makeup.
Image Credit: @bustledotcom / Pinterest.com

Items Required: Bra inserts
Purpose: Functions as a makeup blender
Estimated Cost: $3*

The beauty industry has long championed the use of beauty blenders, yet resourceful makeup enthusiasts are constantly exploring innovative methods to elevate their makeup routines. While silicone blenders gained popularity, an ingenious discovery emerged: bra inserts could serve the same purpose.

If you already have these at home, this beauty hack won’t cost you a penny. Simply utilize the insert similarly to a blender for applying your makeup. The advantage? Unlike sponges, silicone minimizes product absorption, extending the lifespan of your foundation and reducing the frequency of new purchases.

3. Aspirin Hack for Blemishes

Items Required: Aspirin, water
Purpose: Eliminates blemishes for clearer skin
Estimated Cost: $1*

Despite its low cost, aspirin serves numerous purposes beyond being a simple pain reliever. Some beauty enthusiasts advocate for grinding aspirin into a paste and combining it with water to create a face mask. How does it work? The compounds present in these tablets are akin to those in popular beauty products. Allegedly, the mask aids in addressing acne, diminishing wrinkles, and soothing irritated skin. Given its affordability in comparison to high-end masks, this technique might be worth experimenting with.

4. Utilizing Vaseline for Prolonged Fragrance

Items Required: Vaseline, perfume or cologne
Purpose: Extends the duration of the scent
Estimated Cost: $2*

Have you ever invested in a beloved perfume or cologne, only to find its fragrance dissipating by midday? Even high-end scents sometimes struggle to linger throughout the day. But fret not—there’s a solution for this predicament.

Resourceful experts suggest a cost-effective remedy: rather than investing in a new fragrance, apply a light layer of Vaseline on your wrists and neck before spritzing the scent. The Vaseline helps to retain the scent, significantly extending its longevity. The best part? A tub of Vaseline costs less than $2 at retailers like Target.

5. Deodorant to Prevent Blisters or Uncomfortable Shoes

A quick spray or application of roll-on deodorant can grant you a pain-free and comfortable day.
Image Credit: @purewow / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Roll-on or spray deodorant
Purpose: Forms a barrier to prevent friction
Cost: $3*

Deodorant serves a dual purpose: not only does it help prevent chafing in specific areas, but it can also be applied to the feet to alleviate shoe or sandal-induced rubbing and blisters. A quick spray or application of roll-on deodorant can grant you a pain-free and comfortable day.

Additionally, taking a cue from Queen Elizabeth’s practice, it’s reported that she entrusted her new shoes to a servant to wear for a few days to soften them. By the time they’re returned, they’re already broken in and comfortable to wear.

6. Toothpaste Hack for Radiant Nails

beauty hacks: Take an old toothbrush and gently scrub your nails with toothpaste.
Image Credit: @elsierabalais / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Toothpaste
Purpose: Enhances nail brightness
Cost: $2*

Surprisingly versatile in the realm of beauty, toothpaste serves multiple purposes beyond oral care. Some use it on blemishes, as lip gloss, and even to brighten their fingernails. Say farewell to expensive cuticle oil and welcome a minty-fresh beauty hack.

Take an old toothbrush and gently scrub your nails with toothpaste. Alternatively, if you have sensitive skin, using your fingers for application works just as well. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it off, unveiling brighter and healthier-looking nails.

7. Using Mascara with Vertical Brush Application

Cheerful young brunette looking at her mascara on white background
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Mascara
Purpose: Ensures thorough lash coverage for a longer lash appearance
Cost: $5-$10*

Mascara serves as a remarkable aid for achieving the illusion of longer lashes. Apart from the product itself, the technique of holding the brush also plays a significant role. Instead of the conventional horizontal angle, try holding the wand vertically.

This approach offers a better angle, enabling access to all your lashes, even the smaller ones at the corner of your eyes. Unlike the usual method of coating lashes as a group, the vertical wand allows for individual lash application. When considering the best way to apply mascara, it’s not just about the number of coats or the brand, but also the application technique that matters.

8. Using Teabag and Nail Glue to Mend Broken Nails

A smart beauty hack: All you need is a tea bag and a bit of nail glue.
Image Credit: @lauradelacruz7 / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Teabag, brush-on nail glue
Purpose: Repairs broken nails and restores their appearance
Cost: $10*

Dealing with broken nails can be an inconvenience, and unless you possess nails of superhuman durability, it’s nearly impossible to avoid these mishaps. For those of us who aren’t endowed with Wonder Woman-like resilience, this beauty hack might come in handy. All you need is a tea bag and a bit of nail glue.

First, cut out a square from the top of a tea bag, roughly the size of the nail crack. Apply a coat of nail glue over the crack, preferably using a brush-on nail glue. While the glue is still wet, place the cut piece of teabag over the crack. Once it dries, apply another coat of nail glue over the top. This method effectively mends the nail, making it appear whole and ready for further use.

9. Embrace Lip Liner for Fuller-Looking Lips

Lip liner plays a crucial role in achieving a plump pout.
Image Credit: @styleyma / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Lip liner
Purpose: Enhances the appearance of fuller lips
Cost: $15-$25*

One enduring makeup beauty hack that’s here to stay involves overlining the lips. Why invest in lip fillers when you can achieve a similar effect with makeup? This technique, famously embraced by Kylie Jenner (who also opted for fillers), remains popular. Lip liner plays a crucial role in achieving a plump pout.

The key to successful overlining without an exaggerated effect is to utilize neutral shades. Begin by shading in your lips at the corners, slightly extending beyond your natural lip line. Blend the edges for a seamless transition and then fill in the remaining area with lipstick. This method helps create the illusion of fuller lips while maintaining a natural appearance.

10. Using Talcum Powder to Locate Stray Hairs

Dealing with unwanted hair, such as those on the chin or in other areas, can be a routine part of grooming.
Image Credit: @styleymag / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Talcum powder
Purpose: Facilitates the identification of stray hairs for easier removal
Cost: $6.99 for a 10 oz. jar* (e.g., Gold Bond available on Amazon.com)

Dealing with unwanted hair, such as those on the chin or in other areas, can be a routine part of grooming. Ensuring you’ve plucked all the stray hairs can be challenging. To swiftly identify and eliminate them, applying a bit of talcum powder to the area can be quite helpful.

The powder adheres to loose hairs, making them distinctly visible and easier to pluck. This effective hack isn’t just limited to chin hair; it can also be utilized for eyebrows, upper lip hair, neck hair, or any area where unwanted hair needs to be removed.

11. Utilize a Banana Peel for Skincare

Simply rubbing a banana peel on your skin can assist in rapidly drying out warts without causing any discomfort
Image Credit: @dvorakovihajek / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: A banana peel
Purpose: Offers natural skincare benefits
Cost: $1*

Once again, natural beauty hacks prove to be incredibly effective. Often, individuals spend a considerable amount on various skincare concerns such as acne treatments, wart removers, and products for bug bites. However, a natural and cost-effective solution exists for these issues: banana peels.

Simply rubbing a banana peel on your skin can assist in rapidly drying out warts without causing any discomfort. It also aids in skin regeneration, especially in the case of acne scars. For bug bites, applying olive oil on a banana peel can help alleviate itching and swelling. Give this natural remedy a try for these common skin-related concerns.

12. Embrace the Potent Power of Garlic

Garlic heap close up
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Garlic
Purpose: Evens out skin tone
Cost: $0.47

While not the most conventional beauty treatment due to its distinct odor, garlic surprisingly holds multiple effective skincare benefits. Packed with anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties, it presents compelling reasons to be integrated into your skincare regimen.

Incorporating garlic into your diet provides numerous advantages, but it can also be topically applied to your face to help lighten and even out your skin tone. For discretion, it might be best to do this treatment during a relaxed night in, as the potent aroma might be noticeable.

13. Substituting Moisturizer for Primer

While a good primer facilitates smoother and longer-lasting foundation application, a moisturizer can sometimes be a suitable alternative. While a standard moisturizer might not be as effective for addressing enlarged pores, using a slightly tackier facial cream can significantly improve the longevity of your foundation.

Even if you opt for a primer, applying a fresh layer of moisturizer beforehand can enhance the dewy and fresh appearance of your makeup. Additionally, moisturizing is crucial for preventing flakiness, particularly for individuals with dry skin.

14. Verify Your Makeup in Varied Lighting

Woman applying make up beauty product putting mascara in ring lighted round makeup mirror at home bathroom morning routine. Beautiful Asian lady getting ready applying eye make-up with brush.
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Mirror/camera
Purpose: Ensures makeup appears well in different light settings
Cost: N/A

An all-too-common makeup scenario involves creating a flawless look indoors, only to step outside and discover the colors seem off, or the blending isn’t as seamless as anticipated. This can be easily avoided by routinely checking your makeup in at least two distinct lighting settings: one with cooler light and another with warmer light.

If you’re applying makeup during the day, it’s vital to assess how it looks in natural light as well. Sometimes, the nuances in various lighting can entirely transform the appearance of your makeup, so ensuring it looks great in different environments can help avoid any unexpected surprises. One beauty hack you should never forget.

15. Using Elmer’s Glue as a Base for Easy Nail Polish Removal

Instead of a regular base coat, applying a thin layer of white Elmer's glue on your nails before applying the polish can significantly ease the removal process.
Image Credit: @todayshow/Pinterest

Items Needed: Elmer’s glue
Purpose: Facilitates easy removal of nail polish
Cost: $1*

Glittery nail polish, in particular, can be a real hassle to remove. However, a simple yet effective beauty hack can save you considerable time the next time you opt for a glittery look. Instead of a regular base coat, applying a thin layer of white Elmer’s glue on your nails before applying the polish can significantly ease the removal process. When you’re ready to remove the polish, you can simply peel it off your nails. This hack ensures a mess-free and convenient removal, particularly beneficial for those challenging glitter polishes.

Read: Women Share How Differently They’re Treated Without Makeup

16. Utilize a Bobby Pin for Lash Glue Application

a handy beauty hack involves using one end of a bobby pin to apply the glue onto the lash strip.
Image Credit:  @lifehack/Pinterest

Items Needed: A bobby pin
Purpose: Assists in applying glue to false lashes
Cost: $1 for a pack of 45*

For those who don’t regularly wear false eyelashes, the process of applying them can be quite challenging. Achieving the right amount of adhesive on the lashes can be tricky, often resulting in overdoing it, making the glue visible even if it’s meant to be transparent.

To counter this, a handy beauty hack involves using one end of a bobby pin to apply the glue onto the lash strip. Simply dip the end of the bobby pin into the glue and gently transfer it onto the lash strip. Pay particular attention to adding a bit more adhesive to the ends of the lashes, as these sections tend to loosen up more quickly.

17. Utilize Used Coffee Grounds for Skin Exfoliation

Coffee grounds serve as an exceptional natural exfoliator.
Image Credit: @brolonga / @shopify / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Old coffee grounds
Purpose: Exfoliates the skin
Cost: Free

Americans consume significant amounts of coffee, and it’s a beloved beverage worldwide. Consequently, used coffee grounds are easily obtainable. Instead of discarding the grounds after brewing your coffee, consider retaining them for an effective beauty hack. Coffee grounds serve as an exceptional natural exfoliator.

Their granular texture is ideal for sloughing off dead skin cells, and the caffeine they contain harbors antioxidants that benefit the skin. Whether it’s Starbucks or a local store’s brand, the grounds work equally well. Many individuals advocate for this method, claiming it surpasses the effectiveness of expensive facials.

18. Applying Red Lipstick to Conceal Under-Eye Bags

Apply the lipstick underneath your eyes as you would with concealer, and you'll appear more refreshed in no time.
Image Credit: @5minutecraftsfamily / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Bright red lipstick (any brand)
Purpose: Conceals dark circles
Cost: $5*

The appearance of under-eye bags is a common concern after a restless night’s sleep. While concealer may not always offer effective coverage, there’s an alternative beauty hack using a common makeup item: a bright red lipstick. You don’t need an expensive brand, just something readily available at places like Target or Sephora.

Apply the lipstick underneath your eyes as you would with concealer, and you’ll appear more refreshed in no time. The pigment in the red lipstick works to effectively neutralize the dark tones more efficiently than standard concealer, providing an affordable and alternative option.

19. Using Mayonnaise for Shiny Hair

Apply the mayonnaise generously over your hair, ensuring it's thoroughly distributed.
Image Credit: @bustledotcom / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Mayonnaise, wide-tooth comb, shower cap
Purpose: Acts as a hair mask to enhance shine
Cost: $3*

While the notion of using mayonnaise for hair care might deter some, those who’ve attempted this hack often praise its results. To accomplish this DIY treatment, you’ll require a sizable jar of mayonnaise, a wide-tooth comb, and a shower cap. Apply the mayonnaise generously over your hair, ensuring it’s thoroughly distributed.

Massage it in, use the comb to spread it evenly, then cover your hair with the shower cap and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Afterward, rinse it out, and your hair should exhibit a healthier appearance. This technique has even received endorsements from celebrities, suggesting its efficacy. If it’s good enough for millionaires, there might indeed be something special about it.

20. Using Floss Picks for Pore Cleansing

beauty hacks: Using Floss Picks for Pore Cleansing
Image Credit: @kidsdentalsmile/@glamour

Items Needed: Two floss picks
Purpose: Cleanses pores
Cost: $2*

Pore strips, even from reputable brands, can cost a few dollars, but there’s a cost-effective beauty hack using something you likely have at home. In 2017, a beauty blogger introduced this ingenious hack to the world. Begin by opening your pores with a hot towel applied to your skin for about five minutes.

Afterward, take two disposable floss picks and simultaneously scrape them over your skin. You’ll be amazed at the debris and impurities that come to the surface. If you don’t have floss picks on hand, you can easily find them for a minimal cost on platforms like Amazon.

21. Using Baby Powder to Remove Sand

Surprisingly, baby powder from stores such as Kroger can effectively dry the sand on your skin, making it a breeze to brush off quickly.
Image Credit:  @inquirer

Items Needed: Baby powder
Purpose: Facilitates easy removal of sand
Cost: $5*

Post-beach days often involve the challenge of ridding oneself of clingy, irritating sand before getting dressed. A helpful hack for this situation involves using baby powder. Surprisingly, baby powder from stores such as Kroger can effectively dry the sand on your skin, making it a breeze to brush off quickly. As an additional benefit, the skin feels smoother and adopts the pleasant fragrance reminiscent of a newborn baby—a delightful bonus to this sand-removal technique.

22. Using a Fork for Contouring

When it comes to contouring, utilizing a fork—typically found in most kitchens—offers a cost-free beauty hack solution.
Image Credit: @makeuphousehold / Instagram.com

Items Needed: A metal or plastic fork
Purpose: Serves as a contouring guide
Cost: $1/free*

When it comes to contouring, utilizing a fork—typically found in most kitchens—offers a cost-free solution. For individuals who have struggled with mastering the art of contouring, this beauty hack can provide a helpful guide. Placing the fork along the nose acts as a clear guideline, indicating where to apply the highlight (in the middle) and the shade (on either side).

While using a fork for makeup might seem unconventional, it’s an effective method that, when cleaned properly afterward, remains an inexpensive and discreet alternative to achieving well-defined contours. Many makeup artists invest substantial amounts in learning proper contouring techniques, making this an ultra-affordable substitute.

23. Using Cold Spoons for Puffy Eyes

utilizing cold spoons from home, remains a cost-free alternative, sparing you from spending on additional skincare tools.
Image Credit: @pinterest/@etsy

Items Needed: Two cold spoons
Purpose: Reduces swelling
Cost: Free

Two spoons from your cutlery drawer can serve a dual purpose. Placing them in the freezer for a while can offer significant benefits. The cold spoons become an invaluable tool for various situations, whether it’s dealing with food-related discomfort, hay fever, or calming skin after an emotional moment.

The cold metal instantly provides soothing relief to the skin, aiding in reducing puffiness and restoring brightness. While tools, like Gua sha offer similar benefits, utilizing cold spoons from home, remains a cost-free alternative, sparing you from spending on additional skincare tools.

24. Using Dryer Sheets to Tackle Hair Static

Dryer sheets, typically found in pantries alongside laundry supplies, prove to be an effective solution for hair static.
Image Credit: @missginadarling/Twitter

Items Needed: Dryer sheet, hairbrush
Purpose: Eliminates static
Cost: $3*

Dryer sheets, typically found in pantries alongside laundry supplies, prove to be an effective solution for hair static. If you don’t have them at home, they’re readily available for a few dollars at stores like Walmart. Dealing with static in long hair can be a nuisance, but dryer sheets can come to the rescue.

These sheets are designed to remove static from clothing in the dryer, making them perfect for managing hair static. Simply place a dryer sheet on top of your hairbrush and brush your hair, which swiftly reduces static, leaving your hair more manageable and static-free in no time.

25. Using Banana Peel for Teeth Whitening

Enthusiasts of this beauty hack suggest that rubbing the inside of the banana peel on the teeth and leaving it for a few minutes can produce a whitening effect.
Image Credit: @wikihow / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Banana peel Purpose:
Whitens teeth
Cost: $1*

Among the plethora of DIY beauty hacks for achieving a brighter smile, one involves the simple use of a banana peel. Enthusiasts of this method suggest that rubbing the inside of the banana peel on the teeth and leaving it for a few minutes can produce a whitening effect. This technique is based on the belief that the peel, abundant in magnesium and potassium, benefits the teeth, potentially enhancing their appearance.

Additionally, bananas are affordable and delicious, making this an accessible and low-cost method worth trying. Since professional teeth whitening procedures can be costly, this natural hack presents an inexpensive alternative for those seeking a brighter smile.

26. Using Baking Soda to Brighten Grey Hair

Asian lady with gray hair. Older woman with grey hair problem. Girl being stressed with damaged silver gray hair appearing on her head.
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Regular baking soda
Purpose: Brightens hair
Cost: $2*

For those with beautiful silver strands, ensuring the vibrancy and luster of grey hair is essential. One beauty hack to enhance the color and vitality of grey hair is creating a hair mask with baking soda and conditioner. Mixing baking soda with conditioner and leaving it on for about two minutes can revitalize the color, making the silver locks appear more vibrant.

However, it’s crucial to exercise caution, as baking soda can potentially be abrasive. To avoid potential skin irritation, it’s advisable to use gloves and prevent direct application onto the scalp. This method can help rejuvenate grey hair, but it’s essential to prioritize safety and skin health while using baking soda as part of your hair care routine.

27. Using Raw Potatoes to Brighten Dark Underarms

beauty hacks: Grating a raw potato and using it as a scrub for your underarms may seem unusual, but the natural starch in potatoes can help rejuvenate darkened skin in that area.
Image Credit: @positivemed / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Raw potatoes
Purpose: Brightens dark underarms
Cost: $1*

Raw potatoes, beyond their culinary uses, offer an unexpected beauty hack: brightening dark underarms. Grating a raw potato and using it as a scrub for your underarms may seem unusual, but the natural starch in potatoes can help rejuvenate darkened skin in that area. This method could be particularly beneficial for those aiming to address concerns about darkened underarms, especially in preparation for occasions like beach trips or when wearing strapless attire.

28. Using Tea Bags for Eliminating Shoe Odors

If you’ve had a box of teabags sitting in your cupboard unused, here’s a clever solution. Smelly shoes can be a common issue for many, but you need not invest in expensive odor-fighting products when a simple kitchen item could serve the purpose. Placing teabags, including herbal variants, into shoes overnight is believed to aid in neutralizing odors.

The tea bags are known to absorb unpleasant smells, leaving your footwear noticeably fresher by the next day. This cost-effective and convenient hack not only tackles shoe odors but also ensures that your old teabags are put to good use instead of being thrown away.

29. Creating a Saran Wrap Feet Mask

big roll of wound white transparent film for wrapping food, top view
Credit: Shutterstock

For a cost-effective and DIY beauty hack foot treatment, you don’t need to splurge on an expensive pedicure or foot mask; the solution might be in your kitchen. If your feet feel dry or rough, consider this hack using saran wrap, olive oil, and tape.

Begin by generously applying olive oil to your feet, ensuring thorough coverage. Subsequently, wrap your feet with saran wrap, similar to wrapping a gift, and use tape to secure it in place. Leaving this overnight allows the oil to moisturize the skin, offering a significant softening effect. The following day, after removing the wrap, your feet should feel remarkably smoother and more supple.

Read: 16 Items In Your Home You Should Be Cleaning Every Single Month

30. Using Tape for Blister Prevention

Close up image of man holding adhesive duct tape white background. male hands trying to fix something.
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Thick electrical tape
Purpose: Prevents blisters
Cost: $3*

Tape, often underappreciated for its versatility, can serve as an excellent tool for foot protection, especially for hikers. By applying a couple of layers of thick electrical tape to the soles of your feet before wearing thick socks, you create a protective barrier that minimizes the likelihood of getting blisters.

This method is highly valued among experienced hikers for its effectiveness in providing extra padding and preventing discomfort during long walks. It’s a cost-effective and practical solution for those venturing outdoors or anyone seeking to protect their feet from blisters.

31. Using Eyeshadow to Create the Illusion of Thicker Hair

beauty hacks: Using Eyeshadow to Create the Illusion of Thicker Hair
Image Credit: @Cosmopolitan / Pinterest.com

Items Needed: Eyeshadow, brush
Purpose: Creates the appearance of a fuller hairline
Cost: $2*

Achieving the appearance of a fuller hairline or thicker hair is a technique employed by some celebrities like Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian. You can replicate this effect by using makeup in your hair. To achieve a fuller look, select an eyeshadow shade that closely matches your hair color and use a brush to gently apply it along your hairline in upward motions. This beauty hack creates the illusion of thicker hair, enhancing the appearance of a fuller head of hair quickly and easily.

32. Using Face Icing to Enhance Skin Glow

An excellent, cost-free way to revitalize your skin is through a simple ice water treatment.
Image Credit: @tinachencraig / Instagram.com

An excellent, cost-free way to revitalize your skin is through a simple ice water treatment. After a sleepless night, when your face appears tired or puffy, reaching for makeup might not be the best first step. Instead, head to the kitchen and fill a bowl with ice water. Submerge your face in the icy water for short intervals.

This method helps reduce puffiness and can provide an instant glow, making you look and feel more refreshed, akin to a vibrant appearance like Miranda Cosgrove. Alternatively, some individuals prefer using a large block of ice and gently rolling it across their face for similar benefits.

33. Waiting to Shave Until the End of the Shower

close-up view of young woman shaving leg in bathroom
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: None
Purpose: The heat softens the hair and opens the pores, leading to a better shave
Cost: $0*

While the temptation is to shave immediately when entering the shower, experts suggest reconsidering that routine. It’s actually more beneficial to wait until the end of a hot shower before shaving. The steam and heat generated during the shower help to soften the hair and open the pores. This softening effect makes shaving easier and more efficient, resulting in a smoother experience.

By allowing the steam and heat to work during the course of your shower routine, you can ensure that your hair is adequately softened, making it easier to remove while minimizing the chances of irritation or razor burn. This beauty hack is equally effective for individuals dealing with stubborn facial hair, as applying a warm, wet washcloth to facial hair can reduce hair strength by up to 80%, ensuring an easier shave.

34. Utilize Full-Fat Milk to Protect Teeth While Drinking Coffee

Milk cream is poured into a iced cold brew coffee. Coffee cold cocktail drink with ice and milk in morning sun light.
Credit: Shutterstock

Items Needed: Full-fat milk Purpose: Prevents coffee from sticking to and staining teeth Cost: $3.68 per gallon*

Coffee is a morning delight for many, but its consumption can contribute to teeth staining. Even with regular dental hygiene, the habitual consumption of coffee can impact the whiteness of teeth. However, using full-fat milk might provide a solution.

According to Inner West Orthodontics, full-fat milk, being high in protein, can potentially prevent coffee from adhering to and staining teeth. The high protein content in full-fat milk acts against the staining effects of caffeine, which helps safeguard teeth from darkening due to coffee consumption. By adding this type of milk to your coffee, you might help counteract its potential staining impact on your teeth.

35. Using Liquid Sunscreen to Combat Acne

Beautiful Young woman with sun cream on face. Girl holding sunscreen bottle on the beach. Female in hat applying moisturizing lotion on skin.Skin care. Sun protection. Suntan
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Your preferred sunscreen
Purpose: Helps fight acne and prevents darkening of acne scars
Cost: $10-$15*

Individuals dealing with acne often face challenges with products that may seem oily or exacerbate skin conditions. However, it’s important not to neglect the use of sunscreen. Some sunscreen brands are specifically designed to combat acne, offering solutions to address this concern.

Opt for dedicated sunscreen products targeted at fighting acne rather than opting for lower-cost, generic brands. Acne scars also referred to as post-inflammatory pigmentation, can be further aggravated by exposure to the sun.

Wearing sunscreen not only aids in preventing new breakouts but also plays a crucial role in mitigating the darkening of existing acne scars, thus reducing their visibility. By choosing an acne-specific sunscreen, you not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays but also address acne-related concerns more effectively.

36. Using Volumizers Instead of Dry Shampoo

Young woman applying dry shampoo on her hair. Fast and easy way to keep hair clean with dry shampoo. Focus on the hand with spray.
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Volumizers
What it Does: Lifts hair more effectively than dry shampoo, which can strip moisture
Cost: $20-$30*

Many individuals turn to dry shampoo to refresh their hair and eliminate oiliness, aiming for lighter, cleaner strands. However, if your goal is to add volume and lift to your hair, consider using volumizers instead. Unlike dry shampoo, which is designed to absorb excess oil and moisture, volumizers come in serum or cream form and work by lifting the hair from the scalp, creating a boosted appearance and temporary volume.

For those seeking a lift in their hair, exploring volumizers can be beneficial. Notable products for enhancing volume include Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Body Builder, Honest Beauty Uplifted Volumizing Spray, and Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray, as recommended by Glamour. These products offer solutions to add volume and lift without stripping moisture from your hair.

37. Apply Lip Balm for Cracked Cuticles

Close up on a female hands with dry skin and hangnails. Long fingernails and cuticles in bad condition. Chapped and neglected hands. Hands care concept. Lack of manicure in a lady fingers.
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Lip balm with hydrating properties
What it Does: Heals dry, cracked cuticles when used nightly
Cost: $5-$10*

When faced with dry, painful cuticles and lacking immediate access to hand lotions or moisturizers, a quick remedy lies in your lip balm. Choose a lip balm with moisturizing components like honey, castor oil, or shea butter, and gently dab it onto your cuticles. Massage the balm into the cuticles using your fingertips each night before going to bed.

This simple yet effective routine helps nourish the cuticles, providing moisture and aiding in the repair of dry, cracked skin. However, avoid applying lip balm if there are cuts or broken skin, as it might cause irritation. This tip is especially helpful during winter when dryness is more prevalent.

38. Coconut Oil as Makeup Remover

Woman is moisturizing her skin with a coconut oil
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Extra-virgin coconut oil
What it Does: Removes non-eye makeup from your skin
Cost: $7-$10*

The versatile coconut oil offers a solution as a makeup remover. Thanks to its anti-yeast and anti-bacterial properties, it can serve as a gentle and effective way to eliminate makeup. When choosing coconut oil, opt for extra-virgin varieties for the best results.

Apply a small amount of coconut oil onto your skin using your fingertips and gently massage it over the makeup. Then, wipe off the oil and makeup residue using a dry cotton ball or pad. However, it’s important to note that using coconut oil near the eyes is not recommended for removing eye makeup. For eye makeup removal, it’s advisable to use a product specifically formulated for that purpose.

39. Lighten your foundation with moisturizer

consider mixing in a light-tinted moisturizer to tone down the foundation's color.
Image Credit: @FEMALE Magazine Malaysia/Youtube

Products Needed: Light-tinted moisturizer
What it Does: Lightens too-dark foundation
Cost: $10-$20*

Finding the perfect shade of foundation can be challenging. You eagerly purchase a new foundation, certain it matches your skin tone. But after application, you realize with disappointment that it’s too dark. Rather than abandoning the whole bottle or settling for an unsuitable shade, consider mixing in a light-tinted moisturizer to tone down the foundation’s color.

This straightforward solution helps lighten the pigment. However, bear in mind that the added moisturizer might result in a more translucent coverage. If you prefer full coverage, consider using color drops instead. Add one drop at a time of the light-tinted moisturizer or color drops to your foundation until you achieve the perfect, skin-tone match.

40. Leave some makeup remover on your nightstand

Dirty cotton pads, swabs, cosmetics and makeup removal product on light blue background, flat lay
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Makeup remover (wipes or balm)
What it Does: Prevents you from forgetting to take off your makeup
Cost: $5-$8*

Keep your makeup remover, whether in wipe or balm form, readily accessible on your nightstand. This ensures you won’t overlook the crucial task of removing makeup at the end of a tiring day. Neglecting to remove makeup before bed can have adverse effects, such as clogged pores and potential breakouts, as mentioned by The List.

Additionally, leaving makeup on overnight may result in skin dryness, increased sensitivity, and even premature aging. Therefore, having your makeup remover nearby ensures you don’t miss this vital skincare step.

41. Solution to Chafing: Apply Deodorant to Inner Thighs

Different deodorants on light background, top view. Skin care
Credit: Shutterstock

Products Needed: Deodorant
What it Does: Stops chafing
Cost: $2*

Feeling the burn of summer heat with inner thighs rubbing and causing irritation? It’s a common hassle, especially in hot weather. The internet’s buzzing about an easy, pocket-friendly fix. Applying deodorant to the inner thighs stops chafing! Just roll some deodorant onto the area, and enjoy a smooth glide between your thighs without discomfort. The best part? It’s a cost-effective solution, and most people already have deodorant at home.