20 Genius Makeup Hacks That Will Save You Time and Keep You Flawless!

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, if you struggle to get your makeup looking right, check out these super simple makeup hacks that will get you looking perfect quickly and easily!

In the fast-paced world of beauty, every minute counts. With these 20 genius makeup hacks, you can streamline your routine without sacrificing that flawless look you love.

From quick application tips to innovative product uses, these hacks are designed to make your makeup routine easier and more efficient.

Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, these time-saving techniques will have you looking stunning in no time. Get ready to transform your daily routine and embrace the art of effortless beauty!

1. Use a Spoon for Perfect Winged Eyeliner

Achieving that flawless winged eyeliner can often feel like an Olympic sport, but it doesn’t have to be! Instead of wrestling with your liquid liner and wasting precious time, simply reach for a spoon. By placing the spoon against the outer corner of your eye, you create a handy guide for your wing, ensuring both symmetry and speed in your application.

Trace along the edge of the spoon for a crisp wing in mere seconds, and the best part? You can easily adjust the angle and length of your wing to suit your style, making this kitchen tool a versatile addition to your makeup routine.

And for an even better makeup experience, don’t forget to prep your eyelids with the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion to keep your eyeliner in place all day long. Finally, using quality tools like Real Techniques Makeup Brushes can elevate your overall application, ensuring you look put-together, even on those rushed mornings!

Product Recommendations:
• Real Techniques Makeup Brushes
• Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Eyeliner

2. Use Lip Balm as Highlighter

Looking to achieve that dewy, fresh-faced glow? A simple lip balm can work wonders as a highlighter! Just apply a small dab of your favorite lip balm on the high points of your face—like your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose—and you’ll be glowing in seconds.

For a fabulous option, try Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, which not only adds a lovely sheen but also keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day.

If you prefer something a bit more versatile, the Glossier Balm Dotcom is another excellent choice that blends seamlessly into your skin, giving you that coveted luminous effect without any fuss. This hack is perfect for those who want a more natural look or are short on time, making it a brilliant addition to your makeup routine!

Product Recommendations:
• Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
• Glossier Balm Dotcom
• Nivea Essential Care Lip Balm

3. Use Baby Powder for Volume

If you’re aiming to boost the volume of your lashes or hair, baby powder can become your ultimate ally. A simple yet effective technique involves lightly dusting Johnson’s Baby Powder between coats of mascara, which creates tiny layers that enhance the fullness and drama of your lashes.

For your hair, simply sprinkle a bit of baby powder at the roots to absorb excess oil and provide an instant lift, giving you that fresh, voluminous look that often requires a salon visit.

This time-saving trick is not only easy to do but also allows you to achieve professional results right at home without breaking the bank. Additionally, if you prefer a quicker option, consider using TRESemmé Dry Shampoo to achieve that same level of volume and freshness in seconds!

Product Recommendations:
• Johnson’s Baby Powder
• TRESemmé Dry Shampoo
• Maybelline Volum’ Express Mascara

4. Multi-Use Makeup Products

Streamline your makeup bag by choosing multi-use products that serve multiple purposes! For instance, a tinted moisturizer like IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream can function as both foundation and sunscreen, offering a flawless finish while protecting your skin.

Additionally, consider a versatile item such as the NARS The Multiple, which can be used on the eyes, cheeks, and lips, simplifying your beauty routine even further.

For a quick pop of color, the Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Color Balm is perfect for adding a touch of radiance to your cheeks and lips without the fuss.

These versatile products not only save you time during your application but also help reduce clutter in your makeup stash, allowing you to focus on what truly enhances your beauty, especially on busy days or while traveling.

Product Recommendations:
• IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream
• NARS The Multiple
• Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Color Balm

5. Freeze Your Eyeliner for a Long-Lasting Look

If you’re looking to enhance the longevity of your eyeliner, try freezing it before application. Simply place your pencil eyeliner, such as the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This clever trick allows the eyeliner to glide on effortlessly, creating a more defined and precise line that resists smudging throughout the day.

This technique is also fantastic for gel eyeliners, making them even more durable. Whether you opt for the NYX Mechanical Eyeliner or your favorite gel formula, this method requires no additional products—just your eyeliner and a touch of patience.

Say goodbye to frequent touch-ups and embrace a flawless look that lasts all day!

Product Recommendations:
• NYX Mechanical Eyeliner
• Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Eyeliner

6. DIY Tinted Moisturizer

Creating your own tinted moisturizer is not only a simple process but also allows for complete customization of your coverage. To achieve this, just blend your favorite moisturizer, such as Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel or Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion, with a few drops of your preferred foundation until you reach your desired tint.

This hack is especially beneficial during the warmer months when you seek lightweight coverage without the heaviness of a full foundation. It not only hydrates your skin but also helps to even out your complexion, leaving you with a radiant glow.

Feel free to adjust the ratio of moisturizer to foundation based on your skin’s specific needs, ensuring that you achieve the perfect match every time. Enjoy the freedom to create a tinted moisturizer that enhances your natural beauty!

Product Recommendations:
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
• Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion
• your favorite foundation

7. Blush for Eyeshadow

If you find yourself in a makeup pinch and need a quick eyeshadow solution, consider using your blush! A vibrant hue from your favorite blush can easily double as a stunning eyeshadow, providing a seamless and cohesive look.

For instance, the Milani Baked Blush offers a beautiful shimmer that can add warmth and dimension to your eyelids. Simply apply it with a blending brush for a soft wash of color.

Alternatively, the Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush is perfect for long-lasting wear, ensuring your eyes stay flawless throughout the day.

Lastly, the Benefit Cosmetics Dandelion Blush provides a delicate, natural flush that works beautifully for a monochromatic makeup look. This hack is especially useful when traveling, allowing you to minimize your makeup bag without compromising your style!

Product Recommendations:
• Milani Baked Blush
• Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush
• Benefit Cosmetics Dandelion Blush

8. Use Clear Nail Polish to Set Your Eyebrows

Keep your eyebrows perfectly in place throughout the day with a clever hack using clear nail polish! A small dab of clear nail polish, like Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Clear Nail Polish, can help tame those unruly brows and keep them set just the way you like.

This quick and easy solution is ideal for those moments when you don’t have eyebrow gel on hand or are looking for a more accessible alternative. Just remember to apply it lightly to avoid any clumping for the best results.

For those with thicker or coarser brow hairs, this hack ensures a polished and groomed appearance all day long. However, if you prefer dedicated eyebrow products, consider the NYX Control Freak Eyebrow Gel or the Benefit Cosmetics 24-HR Brow Setter for maximum hold and finesse.

Product Recommendations:
• Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Clear Nail Polish
• NYX Control Freak Eyebrow Gel

9. Use Your Fingers for Foundation Application

Sometimes, the best tools for applying foundation are your very own fingers! For a beautifully natural finish, consider using your fingertips to apply your foundation. This method allows the warmth of your skin to seamlessly blend the product, resulting in an effortless, second-skin effect that enhances your complexion.

Not only does this technique save you valuable time, but it also minimizes the number of makeup tools required in your routine. Simply dot your chosen foundation on your face and blend it out in circular motions for an even application. This approach works particularly well with liquid and cream foundations, such as the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Foundation, which provides a stunning dewy finish. Alternatively, the NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation offers exceptional longevity and radiance, while the L’Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation is perfect for achieving a flawless, customizable coverage. Your skin will look fresh and radiant with this simple yet effective technique!

Product Recommendations:
• Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Foundation
• NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

10. Use a Toothbrush for Exfoliation and Brow Grooming

A clean toothbrush can serve as your go-to tool for both lip exfoliation and brow grooming, making it a must-have in your beauty routine! For soft, smooth lips, gently brush them with a dry toothbrush to remove dead skin. You can enhance this process by using the Burt’s Bees Lip Scrub or the EcoTools Lip Exfoliating Brush for a more thorough exfoliation experience.

When it comes to your brows, use the toothbrush to brush them into place for a refined and polished look. Incorporating this dual-purpose hack not only keeps your makeup flawless but also adds a touch of self-care to your daily routine. Don’t forget to follow up with a hydrating treatment like Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer to keep your lips looking their best!

Product Recommendations:
• Burt’s Bees Lip Scrub
• EcoTools Lip Exfoliating Brush
• Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer

11. Revive Dried Mascara with Contact Lens Solution

Don’t be too quick to throw away that dried-up mascara! You can effortlessly bring it back to life with just a few drops of contact lens solution. This nifty hack is perfect for restoring the creamy texture of your mascara, ensuring it remains effective without the need for a costly replacement.

Simply add a few drops of a reliable solution, such as BioTrue Multi-Purpose Solution, close the tube, and give it a gentle shake. This method not only helps you save money but also minimizes waste, allowing you to get the most out of your favorite products like L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara and Revlon So Fierce! Mascara. It’s a quick and easy solution for those moments when you need a makeup refresh without making a trip to the store.

Product Recommendations:
• BioTrue Multi-Purpose Solution
• L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara
• Revlon So Fierce! Mascara

12. Use a Coffee Filter to Blot Oil

When you find yourself in need of a quick oil blot, a coffee filter can be your best friend! Instead of splurging on expensive blotting papers, simply tear off a piece of a coffee filter and gently press it against your face to absorb any excess oil.

This hack is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly portable, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Coffee filters are typically lint-free, ensuring a clean application without leaving any residue behind.

For those who prefer a more targeted approach to blemishes, consider using the Burt’s Bees Herbal Blemish Stick, which can help treat spots while keeping your skin looking fresh. If you’re looking for a traditional option, Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets are also a fantastic choice for quickly absorbing oil.

For a more luxurious touch, try Tatcha The Water Cream, which hydrates while helping to control oil, ensuring you maintain a flawless and matte look throughout the day, especially if you have oily skin.

Product Recommendations:
• Burt’s Bees Herbal Blemish Stick
• Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets
• Tatcha The Water Cream

13. Use Vaseline for Long-Lasting Fragrance

Want your favorite fragrance to last longer? A clever trick is to apply a small amount of Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly to your pulse points, such as your wrists and neck, before spritzing on your perfume. This petroleum jelly acts as a barrier, holding the scent for hours, making it an essential hack for those long days out.

Not only does this technique enhance the longevity of your fragrance, but it also keeps your skin moisturized. For an exquisite scent, consider using Chanel Chance Eau Tendre or the delightful Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Cologne. It’s a simple yet effective trick that elevates your perfume game, ensuring you smell as good as you feel throughout the day.

Product Recommendations:
• Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly
• Chanel Chance Eau Tendre

14. Use Powder to Set Your Lipstick

Keep your lipstick looking flawless all day long with this clever powder hack! After applying your favorite lipstick, like the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint, simply place a tissue over your lips and lightly dust a layer of translucent powder, such as the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder, over it.

This technique not only ensures your lipstick stays vibrant and in place without the need for frequent touch-ups, but it also helps prevent feathering, giving you that polished look you desire. Perfect for those busy days, this hack will save you time while keeping your lips looking stunning!

Product Recommendations:
• Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
• Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
• NYX Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie Liquid Lipstick

15. Mix Liquid Highlighter with Foundation

For a radiant glow that enhances your complexion, try mixing a few drops of Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter with your favorite foundation before application. This clever hack provides a luminous finish, eliminating the need for multiple products in your routine.

It’s especially ideal for achieving that sun-kissed look during the warmer months. Pair it with a lightweight foundation like NARS Sheer Glow Foundation for a fresh appearance, or opt for the Maybelline Dream Radiant Liquid Foundation for a more budget-friendly option. This technique not only saves you time but also ensures you achieve that coveted glow effortlessly.

Product Recommendations:
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter
• NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
• Maybelline Dream Radiant Liquid Foundation

16. Use a Hair Straightener for Curls

If you find yourself pressed for time but still want to add some gorgeous waves to your hair, using a hair straightener can be a game-changer! Simply take a small section of hair, clamp it at the top, and twist the straightener as you pull it down.

This technique creates stunning, effortless curls much faster than using a traditional curling iron. For an exceptional styling experience, consider the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat Iron, which offers excellent heat distribution and control. Alternatively, the CHI Original 1-Inch Flat Hair Straightening Iron is a classic favorite that delivers sleek results.

And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Remington S5500 Digital Anti-Static Flat Iron is a fantastic choice that won’t break the bank. With these tools, you can enjoy versatile styling while saving precious time on those busy mornings or last-minute outings!

Product Recommendations:
• BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat Iron
• CHI Original 1-Inch Flat Hair Straightening Iron
• Remington S5500 Digital Anti-Static Flat Iron

17. Use Your Phone as a Mirror

In a pinch and need a mirror? Your phone can be your best ally!

Simply open the front camera on your device to transform it into a portable mirror for quick touch-ups while on the go. Whether you’re using an iPhone SE, a Samsung Galaxy S21, or a Google Pixel 5a, this hack is especially handy when you’re out and about without access to a traditional mirror.

Not only does it provide a quick solution to check your makeup, but it also allows you to see your look from various angles, ensuring everything appears flawless. Embrace this simple yet effective trick to stay polished without the extra weight of carrying a compact!

Product Recommendations:
• Makeup mirror with LED lights
• portable makeup brush set
• travel-sized setting spray

18. DIY Makeup Remover

Creating your own makeup remover is a smart, budget-friendly choice that empowers you to control the ingredients you use. For an effective and natural solution, simply mix equal parts of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Thayers Witch Hazel. This combination not only wipes away makeup seamlessly but also moisturizes your skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

This easy DIY hack is gentle and devoid of harsh chemicals, ensuring your skin stays happy and healthy. Plus, it saves you the hassle of purchasing expensive removers while giving you the flexibility to customize the scent if you wish. For added convenience, simply store your homemade remover in a small bottle and keep some Cotton Rounds handy for easy application. You’re all set to achieve that flawless look while saving both time and money!

Product Recommendations:
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Thayers Witch Hazel
• Cotton Rounds

19. Use a Cotton Swab for Precision

For those intricate makeup looks, cotton swabs are an indispensable tool for achieving precision. Whether you need to correct eyeliner mishaps or tidy up lipstick edges, cotton swabs enable you to make detailed adjustments without disturbing the rest of your makeup.

To elevate your touch-ups, simply dip the swab in a reliable makeup remover like Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes or Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water for clean and crisp results.

This small yet effective tool can truly make a significant difference in achieving a flawless finish, allowing you to create sharp lines and perfect your look effortlessly.

Product Recommendations:
• Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
• Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
• Q-tips Cotton Swabs

20. Use a Makeup Sponge to Set Your Concealer

To achieve a flawless finish with your concealer, consider using a damp makeup sponge for both application and setting. After you’ve applied your concealer, gently press the sponge against the area to seamlessly blend it into your foundation.

This technique not only provides even coverage but also helps to reduce creasing throughout the day, making it an efficient way to achieve that coveted airbrushed look with minimal effort.

Using a damp sponge enhances hydration, leaving your skin looking fresh and radiant. For the best results, you might want to try the Beauty Blender Original Makeup Sponge, the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, or the EcoTools Makeup Sponge for the ultimate application experience!

Product Recommendations:
• EcoTools Makeup Sponge

Conclusion

These 20 genius makeup hacks are designed to save you time, enhance your beauty routine, and keep you looking flawless all day long.

By incorporating these simple yet effective techniques, you can elevate your makeup game without the stress.

Now it’s your turn! Which hack are you most excited to try? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know your favorite time-saving beauty tips!



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