Genius Makeup Hacks That Will Change Your Life

These makeup artist-approved tricks for eyes, foundation, and more will save you time and money.

Most of us have mastered the basics when it comes to makeup — stuff like how to remove waterproof mascara, where to apply blush, and how to cover up a zit with the right concealer. But even if you’ve been wearing eyeshadow and foundation for decades, there are some next-level tricks out there that will leave you asking yourself, “How did I not know this?!” So if you’re looking to learn a few smart beauty tips that will save you time and money — all while looking more glam than ever! — you’re in the right spot.

From tried-and-true beauty insider secrets to the makeup techniques celebs rely on (we see you, highlighting and contouring), we’ve rounded up the best tips and tricks recommended by makeup pros and makeup junkies alike. Whether you’re looking to fix common makeup problems like creasing, smudging, or fading, or you just want to change up your look, here are the best makeup hacks that you need to try it.

Powder your lashes.

 

The key to fluffier and fuller lashes? A little translucent powder. After your first coat of mascara, dust your lashes with a gentle coat of loose powder — this will add volume to your eyelashes by making them look thicker. Add a second coat of mascara to cover the dustiness, and you’ll see the difference for yourself.

 

Apply concealer in a triangle.

Instead of dotting concealer under your eyes, apply in un upside down triangle to brighten any dark circles and draw attention up to your pupils.

 

Learn how to apply eyeliner to complement your eye shape.

Everyone’s eyes are different — so that means everyone’s eyeliner should be drawn on a little bit differently, too. First, figure out your eye shape (hooded eyes, downturned eyes, monolid eyes, or round eyes), then learn the best eyeliner to use and the right way to apply it to make your eyes stand out.

Take your time putting on false eyelashes…

 

When applying fake eyelashes, don’t rush to apply them after adding the glue. “Wait until lash glue has dried for about 30 to 40 seconds before applying falsies to keep the strip from sliding around and a faster dry-time on lids.

 

…and don’t forget to look down.

After you’ve given your glue a minute to dry, hold a mirror below your line of sight as you put on your fake lashes. “Look down into a mirror when applying falsies,” says Teich. “It makes it easier to place the strip close to the lash line.

 

Make your own lip stain.

 

Wear your favorite lipstick color without worrying about it smudging or fading by turning it into a lip stain. “Apply your favorite cream or liquid lipstick, and leave it on for a minimum of 10 minutes,” says Ashburn-McKissock. “Then, use a wet cotton round to ‘remove’ it and apply your favorite lip balm after for a hydrated, stained look.”

 

Use your thumb to keep lipstick off of your teeth.

 

Nobody wants their smile to show off a set of lipstick-stained teeth. To keep your lipstick on your lips, simply pucker up and put your thumb in your mouth, then quickly pull it out. That way, you’ll wipe away any lipstick on the inside of your lips before it makes its way to your teeth.