The beauty and health care industry generates more than $90 billion in revenue annually, thanks to a never-ending stream of new products. We’re constantly searching for the best products to brighten our skin or whiten our teeth, but that’s not always easy to do without spending a fortune on the newest fad.
But don’t worry, we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to spend a fortune on new products to achieve great results. You can get great results just by being creative with the products you already own. Whether you’re a Starbucks coffee aficionado or a toothpaste aficionado, the following hacks could save you hundreds of dollars.
1. Baby Powder for Longer Lashes
Products Needed: Baby powder, cotton buds, mascara
What it Does: Lengthens lashes
Cost: $2*
We all aspire to long, voluminous lashes that appear full and puffy, but with so many new lashes on the market every day, it can be hard to know which ones to buy. Most of the time, the results don’t match the ads. But don’t worry, we’ve got a solution!
Using a cotton bud dipped in baby powder and dabbing a thin layer on lashes before applying mascara is said to help the product stick. According to some bloggers, when you apply mascara, it feels like you’re paying for professional lash extensions.
2. Bra Insert for Applying Makeup
Products Needed: Bra inserts
What it Does: Acts as a beauty blender
Cost: $3*
While beauty blenders have been around for a while, it doesn’t mean that makeup connoisseurs aren’t looking for new ways to serve your face. A few years back, silicone blenders were all the rage, but then someone figured out that bra inserts do the exact same job.
This won’t cost you anything if you already have one at home. Just use the insert just like you would with a blender to put on your makeup.
The good news is that unlike a sponge, silicone won’t absorb as much of your product. This means that your foundation will last longer and won’t need to be replaced as often.
3. Aspirin for Blemishes
Products Needed: Aspirin and water
What it Does: Removes blemishes for clear skin
Cost: $1*
Aspirin is one of the most affordable over-the-counter medications in the world. But did you know that Aspirin has so much more to it than just pain relief? Some beauty influencers swear that they grind Aspirin into a paste and mix it with water before using it as a facial mask. So how does Aspirin work?
The active ingredients in the tablet are the same as those found in popular beauty products. According to the product’s claims, the mask can help fight acne, reduce fine lines, and even reduce irritated skin. Since it’s much less expensive than a high-end mask, it might be worth a shot.
4. Vaseline for All-Day Scent
Products Needed: Vaseline, perfume or cologne
What it Does: Holds the scent for longer
Cost: $2*
Have you ever spent a large sum of money on a fragrance or cologne you adore, only to find yourself irritated when you cannot feel it by the time the day is over? Even the most luxurious perfumes may not be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life, but there is a solution to this problem.
According to thrifty purists, you don’t need to splurge on a new perfume, just apply a thin layer of vaseline to your wrist and neck before spraying. The vaseline holds on to the scent, making it last a lot longer. Best of all, a tub at Target is less than $2.
5. Deodorant for Blisters…Or Servants
Products Needed: Roll on or spray-on deodorant/servants
What it Does: Creates a barrier to stop rubbing
Cost: $3*
Not only can you apply deodorant to specific areas of your body to reduce chafing, but you can also apply it to your feet to prevent blisters from forming on your feet due to shoe or sandal rubbing. All you have to do is apply either a foot spray or a roll on deodorant, and you’re on your way to blisters-free days.
Alternatively, you can take a page out of Queen Elizabeth’s book. According to legend, the Queen gives her new shoes to a servant for a couple of days to soften them up. By the time she returns them, they are soft enough to wear.
6. Toothpaste for Bright Nails
Products Needed: Toothpaste
What it Does: Brightens nails
Cost: $2*
You might not know it, but toothpaste can actually be used for all kinds of beauty stuff. Some people use it to cover up pimples, some people use it as a lip gloss, and some people use it to make their nails shine. So if you’re looking to save money on expensive cuticle oil, say goodbye to it and hello to some minty fresh magic!
All you have to do is take an old toothbrush and give your nails a scrub with toothpaste. Or, if you’ve got particularly sensitive skin, rubbing it in with your fingers does the trick, too. Leave it for a few minutes and wipe it off to reveal bright, healthy-looking nails.
7. Coffee Grounds for Exfoliation
Products Needed: Old coffee grounds
What it Does: Exfoliates skin
Cost: Free
Let’s face it, Americans love coffee. Indeed, almost every country in the world craves a cup of joe. That’s why you’ll find used coffee grounds readily available. Next time you brew a pot of coffee, don’t be so quick to discard the grounds. Keep them.
