12 Skincare and Makeup Hacks to Save Time

In today's fast-paced world, looking your best shouldn't take all morning. We've compiled a list of skincare and makeup hacks that will have you ready in no time, all without compromising on quality. Whether you're rushing out the door for work or prepping for a night out, these tips are designed to save you precious minutes while keeping you fabulous.

1. Multitask with Tinted Moisturizers

Switch to a tinted moisturizer to save time layering foundation and moisturizer separately. This two-in-one product provides hydration while offering light coverage, creating a smooth base in one step. Tinted moisturizers are formulated with beneficial ingredients that focus on skin health, making them ideal for everyday use. They not only shorten your routine but also nourish your skin. Opt for a product that matches your skin type for the best results.

Beyond just saving time, tinted moisturizers provide a more natural look than heavier foundations. This can be a huge advantage, as it avoids the cakey effect that sometimes comes with applying foundation, helping your skin appear more flawless. If you have oily skin, choose a mattifying tinted moisturizer to reduce shine. For those with dry skin, a hydrating formula will work best. The versatility makes it a must-have in any makeup kit.

2. Invest in a Good BB Cream

BB creams combine the benefits of skincare and makeup into one product. They typically offer sun protection, hydration, and light coverage, perfect for days when you need a quick and easy solution. The blend of multiple functions means fewer products on your face, allowing your skin to breathe while still looking polished. Choose a BB cream appropriate for your specific skin concerns, whether it’s anti-aging, brightening, or acne control.

BB creams simplify your morning routine by reducing the number of steps necessary for a finished look. They often include ingredients typically found in serums, such as antioxidants and vitamins, making them a great option for those looking to cut down on their skincare regimen. Additionally, the coverage a BB cream provides is buildable, allowing you to customize your look based on the occasion without reaching for different products.

3. Optimize Your Skincare Routine

Streamline your skincare routine by using products that serve multiple purposes. Look for serums that also act as moisturizers or sunscreens with built-in antioxidants. Not only does this reduce the number of products you need to apply, but it also cuts down on the time needed for each step. Multi-purpose products are often designed to work synergistically, providing better results than when using separate products.

Consider integrating products with simple yet effective ingredient lists. For instance, incorporating a vitamin C serum that also includes hydrating components can reduce the need for an additional moisturizing step. Similarly, using a sunscreen with added benefits such as anti-aging properties can offer convenient, all-in-one protection. Choosing such hybrid products helps you get the best out of your skincare routine in the least amount of time.

4. Use Multipurpose Makeup Products

Save time by using makeup products that can serve more than one function. For instance, a lip and cheek tint can add color to both your lips and cheeks with just a few swipes. This not only saves time but also ensures a cohesive look. Similarly, products like a highlighter that can double as an eyeshadow can further reduce the number of items in your makeup bag.

Multipurpose products are perfect for travel or busy mornings when you don’t have the luxury of lingering in front of the mirror. For instance, a tinted balm that works as a lip tint, blush, and even a subtle eyeshadow can quickly freshen up your look. Utilizing fewer but more versatile products can significantly cut down your preparation time without compromising on your overall look.

5. Prep the Night Before

Prepare as much as you can the night before. This includes washing your face, applying your night cream, and even setting out your makeup. This reduces the steps needed in the morning. Laying out your beauty tools and products ensures that you’re not scrambling to find anything, making your routine smooth and stress-free.

Prepping the night before can also involve using specific treatments that work while you sleep, like overnight face masks or hair treatments. By dealing with key beauty needs during your sleep, you can wake up with minimal maintenance required. This hack allows you to maximize your sleep and look refreshed with minimal effort in the morning.

6. Keep Your Tools Clean

Dirty brushes and sponges can affect the application of your makeup and take more time to use effectively. Regularly cleaning your tools ensures quick and seamless application. Clean tools apply products more evenly, ensuring you don't have to spend extra time blending or correcting mistakes caused by residue build-up.

Establish a routine for cleaning your tools to keep them in the best condition. Depending on how frequently you use them, aim to clean your brushes at least once a week and your sponges a bit more often. Using gentle cleansers specifically designed for beauty tools will prolong their lifespan and maintain their performance.

7. Simplify Your Eyeshadow Routine

Opt for neutral, easy-to-blend shades that can be applied quickly and go with any outfit. Cream shadows are particularly fast to apply and can be done with a finger. These products often have buildable pigmentation, allowing you to go from a light daytime look to a deeper nighttime look with ease.

Another great tip is to use one shadow shade all over the lid and blend it out. Single-shadow looks can be beautiful and save you the time you might spend layering and blending multiple shades. Use a shimmering champagne shade for a fresh, awake look, or a warm bronze for something a bit more dramatic. Consistency in your eyeshadow choices ensures a coherent look with minimal fuss.

8. Master the Art of Quick Contouring

Instead of spending a lot of time on contouring, learn quick techniques like using a bronzer under your cheekbones and highlighter on your cheeks for a naturally sculpted look. Focus on the key areas where light and shadow fall naturally on your face for an effective, time-saving contour.

Using products that are easy to blend is crucial for quick contouring. Stick formulations tend to be more user-friendly and can be blended out easily with your fingers. Keep your movements light and blend seamlessly to avoid harsh lines. This will not only make the process faster but also give you a more natural finish.

9. Embrace the Power of Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a lifesaver for those mornings when washing your hair isn't an option. It quickly absorbs oils and adds volume, giving your hair a refreshed look in seconds. This can save you the time and hassle of a full wash-and-dry routine, allowing you to maintain a polished look with minimal effort.

Besides its oil-absorbing properties, dry shampoo can also add texture and volume to your hair. If you find your hair looks flat or lifeless in the morning, a quick spritz can revive it instantly. Choose a formula that suits your hair color to avoid any visible residue, and enjoy the convenience of fresh hair without the wash.

10. Prioritize Skincare for Better Makeup

Healthy skin reduces the need for heavy makeup. Ensure you are consistent with your skincare routine so that your skin looks good even without makeup, saving you time on application. Regular use of exfoliants, moisturizers, and serums tailored to your skin type can make a huge difference.

When your skin is healthy and well-maintained, makeup glides on more smoothly and lasts longer. This reduces the need for constant touch-ups throughout the day. Investing in good quality skincare practices and products can, in the long run, save you more time compared to layering on makeup to cover imperfections.

11. Organize Your Makeup and Skincare Products

Keeping your products organized can drastically reduce the time spent searching for items. Use organizers or clear containers to keep everything in place and easy to find. Clearly labeling your products or organizing them by routine step can further cut down the time you spend fumbling through drawers.

A well-organized makeup area can be a game-changer, especially on rushed mornings. Arrange your most-used products within easy reach, and store less frequently used items separately. Not only does this make your routine faster, but it also creates a more pleasant and streamlined environment for your beauty process.

12. Set Makeup with Setting Spray

A good setting spray can keep your makeup in place all day, reducing the need for touch-ups. This one step at the end of your makeup routine can save you time throughout the day. Look for setting sprays that offer additional benefits like hydration or oil control to further cater to your skin's needs.

Using a setting spray designed for your skin type can enhance your makeup’s longevity. For oily skin, a mattifying spray can prevent shine and extend the wear of your foundation and other products. For dry skin, a hydrating spray helps maintain a dewy and fresh look. Incorporating a setting spray into your routine not only saves time but also keeps your makeup looking fresh and flawless longer.