Beauty Hacks You Can Do in Less Than One Minute
We may earn a commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we truly love.
Hi friends!
Ever catch your reflection and think, okay… we could use a quick reset? Same. But let’s skip the 12-step routine and get straight to the good stuff.
These are quick fixes I rotate through depending on the day, my mood, and how much energy I actually have. If you want to look put together without actually trying, keep reading. These are the hacks I swear by when I’m running late, feeling lazy, or just not in the mood to do the most.
Overnight Hydrating Mask
I love slapping on a hydrating mask before bed. It's so easy and makes such a difference in the morning. My favorite is this Cosrx one that plumps my skin while I sleep.
Wash Your Face With Cold Water
I love doing this first thing in the morning or even after a long day, and it's such an easy addition to your routine.
Use a Cleansing Balm for a Hydrating Cleanse
Just scoop a bit of the balm and massage it onto your dry skin. I love how it effortlessly melts all the grime and oil that builds up overnight. Plus, it hydrates like magic!
Lymphatic Drainage Massage While Washing Your Face
This is one of those things that works only if you do it in the right order, and the order isn’t intuitive.
Most people want to start at the forehead or cheeks because that’s where puffiness shows up. The problem is, lymph fluid needs somewhere to go first. If you start at the top before opening drainage pathways, you can actually make your face look more swollen.
Here’s the version that makes sense and doesn’t backfire:
Start at your neck, gently sweeping downward toward your collarbone for a few seconds. This opens the exit routes so fluid has somewhere to drain.
Then move up to your jawline, pressing lightly from your chin toward your ears.
Glide upward onto your cheeks, moving out and up with gentle strokes.
Use small, soft circles at your temples.
Finish at the forehead, sweeping upward from the center outward.
Light pressure only. This isn’t about sculpting or forcing anything, it’s about flow. The whole thing takes under a minute and makes a noticeable difference once you stop starting at the wrong place.
Instant Wrinkle-Reducing Patches
They're perfect for a big event or special occasion, like a wedding or party. Just pop them on for a little while, and you'll notice how smooth and youthful your skin appears.
Leave-On Face Mask
This product is a leave-on treatment, so you don't have to rinse it off afterward—super convenient, right? It works wonders to give your skin a gorgeous, glowing finish while smoothing everything. I love how easy it is to incorporate into my skincare routine. Although it says it's for overnight, I apply it and let it do its magic while I go about my day!
Use an Exfoliant
Paula’s Choice BHA exfoliant works wonders at removing dead skin, which helps prevent clogged pores. Plus, it helps your other skincare products absorb better, giving you more bang for your buck.
Spray-On Toner
Spray toners are for when you’re in a rush. At home, out, traveling, whatever. They’re just faster.
No cotton pads, no extra step, no standing there doing skincare math. Wash, spray, move on. It takes five seconds and your skin doesn’t feel tight after.
If I have time, I’ll use a regular toner. If I don’t, this is the shortcut.
Pore-Minimizing Serum
This is the step I use when my skin texture is being annoying, and I want it to chill out quickly.
Pore serums usually have ingredients that smooth things down right away, so your skin looks more even without waiting around.
It’s especially helpful if you’re wearing makeup and want it to sit better, but I also use it on no-makeup days when I just want my skin to look better fast.
Use Nasal Spray or Hemorrhoid Cream for Dark Circles
This one is a pinch-only trick, not a daily habit. Some people use a tiny amount of vasoconstricting products to temporarily reduce under-eye puffiness, but this is very much a special-occasion move, not a routine.
Caffeine Eye Cream
This is for mornings when your eyes look more tired than you feel.
Caffeine eye creams help tighten things up temporarily, so puffiness goes down and you look more awake without doing anything dramatic. I tap a small amount under my eyes, give it a few seconds, and that’s it. They’re helpful when your eyes just need to look a little more awake.
Lip Plumping with Cayenne Pepper
If you like a temporary tingle and already know your skin tolerates spice, this can add a short-term plump effect. Mix a small amount of cayenne pepper (or cinnamon or peppermint oil if cayenne is too intense for you) with your favorite lip balm. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your comfort level.
Leave-On Lip Mask
You know, a leave-on lip mask is one of those little beauty secrets that can truly work wonders for your lips. If you apply it before you go to bed, you'll wake up with irresistibly soft and plump lips by morning.
Red or Orange Lipstick Under the Eyes
Try dabbing a bit of red or orange lipstick underneath your eyes before applying your concealer. It neutralizes darkness when blended well. Think subtle correction, not obvious color.
3-in-1 Primer/Foundation/Moisturizer
3-in-1 products like Tarte's BB Tinted Treatment Primer will save you time, offering hydration, coverage, and makeup prep all at once!
Use Lipstick on Lips and Cheeks
Don't have time for multiple products? Use your favorite lipstick on both your lips and cheeks. Just apply with your fingers for an effortless monochrome look.
Apply Eyeliner Only to the Outer Half
It gives your eyes an instantly lifted appearance, and trust me, it's a subtle change that makes a noticeable difference. You'll love how it brightens your whole face without being too dramatic!
Use Scotch Tape for the Perfect Winged Liner
Want sharp wings? Place a small piece of Scotch tape along the outer corner of your eye to guide your eyeliner for that perfect wing every time.
Cut False Eyelashes in Half
If you want to achieve a more natural look with your false lashes, a great tip is to cut them in half and apply them only to the outer corners of your eyes. This technique opens your eyes and gives a lovely, fluttery effect without looking too dramatic. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Let False Lashes Glue Sit
Let your lash glue sit for about 30 seconds before sticking on the lashes. This little waiting game helps the glue get nice and tacky, which is super important because it ensures that your lashes will stay put and look fabulous for longer.
Tinted Brow Gel
A tinted brow gel shapes and fills in brows in seconds, giving them a fuller, natural look.
Use Setting Spray
You know how frustrating it is when your makeup just doesn't seem to stick around? Well, a quick spritz of setting spray can be your best friend! It not only locks in your makeup, making sure it stays flawless all day.
Quick 30-Second Scalp Massage
While washing your hair, taking just a minute for a quick scalp massage can work wonders. It helps get your blood flowing, which is super beneficial for promoting hair growth.
Wash Just Your Bangs
If you've noticed your bangs looking a bit greasy and flat, just wash them under the sink faucet with lukewarm water and shampoo. After that, to save time, wrap them in Velcro rollers while they dry.
Swipe Highlighter on Cheekbones
Applying highlighter gives your face a fantastic glow that instantly brightens your look. Just a little swipe on the high points of your face, and you're good to go!
Invest in a Hot Brush Tool
It honestly cuts down the time I spend styling my hair compared to traditional blow-drying. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to achieve that fabulous salon-like look at home, this is the way to go!
( I had the Dyson Airwrap and loved it… But it died the month after the warranty ended! I won’t be fooled again, so I got the SharkNinja shown below, and it works just as well; it’s just a tad bulkier.)
Use Eye Drops to Look More Awake
Bausch and Lomb eye drops reduce redness, making your eyes look bright and fresh in seconds. If you ever feel tired or have that pesky redness after a long day, these drops might be just what you need to look more awake and alert.
Use an LED Mask
If you're looking for an easy and effective way to give your skin a boost, try an LED mask. The best part? You can wear it while you get ready in the morning! You can even catch up on your social media or sip your coffee while it works its magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I make my winged eyeliner look sharp without spending forever?
A: Grab a piece of Scotch tape and stick it at the outer corner of your eye to guide your liner. It makes wings foolproof and saves you from having to start over.
Q: What’s a quick hack to refresh greasy hair without a full wash?
A: Sprinkle a little cornstarch on your roots and massage it in. It absorbs oil in seconds.
Q: How can I get fuller-looking lashes without going overboard?
A: Cut your false lashes in half and apply them only to the outer corners of your eyes. It opens up your eyes and gives a natural fluttery effect.
Q: Is there a quick trick to make dark circles less noticeable?
A: Try dabbing a bit of red or orange lipstick under your eyes before applying concealer. It neutralizes the darkness and makes you look awake AF. Just blend well to avoid clown vibes.
Pick one or two that fit your skin, your schedule, and your tolerance for effort. The rest are here when you need them. These are just small shortcuts that help on days when you want to feel a little more put together without turning it into a whole project.
So, what's your secret go-to beauty hack when you're in a pinch? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments! Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter to get the latest tips and trends straight to your inbox.
