Have you ever been on a trip and realized that all of your makeup is packed, but you've forgotten your brushes? This has happened to me one too many times, so now as a precaution, I always keep a few cream-based options on hand. But if you ever find yourself alone with a bag full of powder products, here are a few makeup application survival techniques that require nothing but your fingers and Read more

Here's a great little trick for when you are traveling and you forget to bring your favorite shampoo with you. Have no fear, body wash is here to save the day! Just take a little bit of body wash/shower gel, lather it into your hair and rinse. If you can get your hands on a moisturizing body wash, that's even better because it will act as a subtle conditioner as well. While this is not ideal for Read more

Okay, this isn't technically makeup, but since it's still in the beauty genre I thought it was relevant. Hair conditioner and hair masks can also be used as shaving cream. I realize that it doesn't foam or even lather really, but it does create a smooth, slippery surface that helps prevent nicks and scrapes from razor blades. However, something to keep in mind is that conditioner is a lot Read more

Planning on taking a tropical vacation this winter? The next time you are at the beach, collect a heaping handful of sand and seal it in a Ziploc bag. When you get home, put the sand in a bowl next to your bathroom sink, and as you are washing your face, add a pinch of sand into your cleanser to create an at-home exfoliator on the cheap. You shouldn't scrub too hard, and I recommend only using Read more

Ever been stuck in a bind when your nail polish is chipping and you need it off ASAP? Or how about when you are trying on several different nail colors in the middle of a department store but don't want to walk around with a fistful of mismatched nails for the rest of the day? Here's a little trick that always seems to work. Simply swipe a layer of clear nail polish over the top of the Read more

I hate to be the bearer of this news, but did you know that tinted moisturizer is really just face primer mixed with a light foundation? It's easy enough to make it yourself if you own these two products already. Here's what to do: In a small bowl, mix two parts foundation with one part primer. Apply with your fingertips and smooth out the areas around your jawline, hairline and nose with a Read more

Jane Richardson, a makeup artist for Nars, gave me a great insider tip about liquid eyeliner. Did you know that it could also double as mascara? Since liquid eyeliner comes in so many more shade options, you can now have endless possibilities for mascara colors too! When you've finished with your tube of mascara, don't throw out the wand. Thoroughly wash it off with soap and water, dip it Read more

You may think that concealer is simply for covering up blemishes, red blotches and under-eye circles, but you're not giving it nearly enough credit. A good cream concealer can also double as so much more! For example, it works well as an eyeshadow primer. Just dot a little bit on your lids with your fingertip, blend well and set with powder. Then apply your shadow (for best results, use Read more

For all of you who thought that the function of baby powder was to keep your feet, underarms, backs of your knees cool and dry, I've got one more for you. You can use baby powder on the roots of your hair! Say you are feeling a little greasy in between washings, or you overdid it on the styling products. Just put a little powder on your comb and brush from roots to ends. This will help absorb Read more

About to throw out that old toothbrush of yours, are you? Whoa Nelly, hold your horses. Your used toothbrush can also double as an eyebrow brush! I know it sounds kind of disgusting, but if you clean it properly, it's not going to transfer any cooties—I promise! First, disinfect it by soaking in it hot water infused with liquid anti-bacterial soap. Then, instead of spending more cash on a Read more