10 Skincare Hacks That Won't Cost You a Penny
On Getting the Most Out of Your Beauty Products
Ready to get more out of your beauty products?
We've all bought items that didn't quite hit the mark. Instead of letting them gather dust, why not repurpose them?
I've learned some nifty tricks to turn these almost-theres into everyday essentials, saving you both cash and time.
In this article, I’ll show you some smart ways to make the most of what’s already in your stash.
1. Repurpose Face Wash as Body Wash
If your face wash isn’t suitable for your facial skin, don't throw it away.
Instead, use it as a body wash.
Face washes are usually gentle, making them perfect for areas like your chest, back, and shoulders.
This way, you don't waste the product, and your skin still gets the benefits.
Using a nice, gentle cleanser all over feels great and can be soothing.
It's a simple trick to make the most of what you already have, turning a potential waste into a win for your skincare routine.
In fact, I’ve used a benzoyl peroxide face wash as body wash in acne-prone areas for years!
2. Use a Spoon for Depuffing Eyes
If you wake up with puffy eyes, a simple trick can help: chill a spoon in the fridge overnight.
In the morning, press the cold spoon gently against your under-eye area to reduce swelling and make you look more awake.Â
It’s the same reason I like Hero Cosmetics’ eye cream: it has a metal applicator that feels cool against your skin, soothing and reducing puffiness just like the cold spoon trick.
It's an easy and effective way to start your day looking refreshed.
3. Old T-Shirts to Dry Your Hair
For curly or frizzy hair, switch to using an old cotton t-shirt instead of a towel.
Towels can create friction and lead to frizz, but a soft cotton t-shirt is much gentler.
Avoid rubbing your hair; instead, try the 'plop' method: lay the t-shirt flat, flip your wet hair onto it, and wrap the shirt around your head.
This technique helps define your curls and reduces frizz, leaving your hair looking smoother and more manageable.
4. Old Mascara Wand as Brow Brush
Clean an old mascara wand and use it to tame and shape your eyebrows.
Wash the wand thoroughly to remove any leftover mascara.
Once clean, use it to brush your eyebrows into place, giving you precise control over stray hairs.
This simple hack helps keep your brows looking neat and polished without the need for expensive tools.
It's a budget-friendly and eco-friendly way to make the most of what you already have.
5. Lip Balm for Cuticles
Did you know you can apply lip balm to your cuticles to keep them moisturized and prevent hangnails?
Lip balm is designed to hydrate and protect, making it perfect for soothing dry, cracked cuticles.
Simply massage a small amount onto your cuticles, especially before bed, to lock in moisture overnight.
This easy hack helps maintain the health and appearance of your nails without needing multiple products.
It's also a convenient solution when you're on the go and don't have cuticle oil handy.
6. Hair Conditioner as Shaving Cream
Use hair conditioner as a shaving cream alternative.
It provides a smooth surface for the razor to glide, reducing the risk of nicks and cuts.
Apply a generous amount to the area you want to shave, let it sit for a minute to soften the hair, and then shave as usual.
This method not only gives you a close shave but also leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized.
Personally, I use Naturium Glow Getter to shave and never experience razor burn.
Plus, the added moisture from the conditioner helps prevent irritation, leaving your skin feeling pampered.
7. DIY Curl Refresher Spray
Take an old spray bottle, fill it with water, and use it to refresh your curls by dampening them.
Begin by lightly misting your hair to rejuvenate your curls.
Follow up by applying curl cream to add definition and hold.
Finally, apply a small amount of hair oil to seal in moisture and add shine.
This method helps maintain frizz-free, bouncy curls without needing a full wash and style.
It's ideal for refreshing your hair on non-wash days or whenever your curls need a little extra attention.
8. Reuse Sheet Mask Packaging
After using a sheet mask, squeeze out any remaining serum from the packaging and apply it to your neck, hands, or décolletage.
The leftover serum is packed with beneficial ingredients that can nourish and hydrate other areas of your skin.
Gently massage the serum into your neck to keep the delicate skin firm and moisturized.
Apply it to your hands to give them a soft, youthful appearance, and don't forget your décolletage (aka your upper chest area).
This simple step maximizes the benefits of your sheet mask and ensures that no product is wasted.
9. Repurpose Facial Oil for Cuticle Care
If facial oil is too heavy for your face, use it to moisturize your cuticles and nails.
Facial oils are rich and nourishing, making them perfect for hydrating dry, cracked cuticles and nails.
Simply massage a few drops into your cuticles and nails to keep them soft and healthy.
This is a great way to repurpose products that may not suit your face but still offer moisturizing benefits.
Some of my favorite facial oils are True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil and Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil.
Even if they are too heavy for your face, they can still provide excellent hydration for other areas. Be careful though, the Sunday Riley one is excellent for acne thanks to salicylic acid which can dry out your skin a little.
10. Extend Your Skincare Routine Beyond Your Face
Anything you can do to your face, you can reasonably do to your neck, upper chest, and the backs of your hands.
These areas are often exposed to the same environmental stressors as your face and can benefit from the same skincare treatments.
For instance, I use an extra pea-sized amount of retinoid for those areas in addition to the one pea-sized amount I use for my face.
This helps to maintain a consistent anti-aging routine and keeps these often-neglected areas looking youthful.
You can do the same with other skincare products like exfoliants, hydrating serums, moisturizers, and oils.
Extending your skincare routine to these parts of your body ensures that your skin stays healthy and glowing all over.
Cheers,
I will be using these tips.