Okay, I know that hack videos are always showing you the easiest way to do something, but a lot of times I find these hacks horribly unrealistic. No one has THAT long to get ready for the day or for bed. It is just impossible! Over the period of my freshman year, I have discovered these 12 simple beauty hacks and they have honestly saved my life! I HIGHLY recommend!
1. Always stick to your skin routine
If you already have one and swear on it as much as my roommate does, good for you! As someone that doesn't have horrible acne or anything like that, I found myself forgetting to do simple skin routine things. If your is just like mine, I believe only need 3 products. A cleanser for the shower, a moisturizer for the morning, and an alcohol free toner for the evening. That's it! That's literally all you need to give you skin an amazing boost of energy!
2. ALWAYS wear sunblock
I like a tan as much as the next girl. That sun kissed skin looks great on my Cuban complexion. But premature wrinkles? No thank you. I'll pass on those. Wear your sunblock, keep a hat on, and wear sunglasses. Your beautiful skin at age 30 will thank you when everyone around you is looking crispy.
3. Keep the simplest makeup routine
Ever in a rush or don't really feel like putting makeup on for your 9:25am class? Me too. There are only two products that you need to make your face go from a 4 to a 6 in literally seconds. Mascara and brows! Take 2 extra minutes to put those two products on and you will look like you spent an extra 15 minutes on your face, I guarantee it.
4. NEVER sleep with your hair up
I cannot stress this enough. Pony tails and buns are so bad for your hair because of the hair ties. Plus, no one likes a crease in their hair the next morning. My suggestion if you need your hair all in one place, braid it. Loose braids are not damaging to your hair, especially when its wet. 10/10 recommend.
5. Dress your best
I have done this for the longest time. Ever feeling exhausted and don't want to show it? Wear a nice outfit. It totally covers it up much more than a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Although some days I totally need the comfy outfit, I find myself putting on dresses or even a nice top with leggings. It makes you seem more put together than you really are, which is what I always need!
6. Brush your hair before you shower
I always brush my hair before I shower! As someone that is prone to hair loss (thank you stress headaches), I need to prevent my breakage in the shower as much as I can. I find that I lose so little hair when I brush it before showering, so I highly recommend it.
7. Change your pillow case
Imagine if we could see how much dead skin and sweat was piling up on our pillow cases... Usually, we are supposed to change them once day (I KNOW), but we all don't have time for that. My limit is 2-3 nights per side unless you are unusually sweaty or forget to wash your face before you shower. Your skin will thank you immensely.
8. Lay out your clothes the night before
This is probably the simplest way to follow #5. It literally saves you 10-20 minutes of scrambling through your dresser and closet finding a good outfit. If you need options in the morning, put out more than one outfit! Example: a dress, jeans with a nice top, and leggings with a nice top!
9. Clean up your space
This isn't a beauty hack for your body, I know. But this is a hack for your sanity. Take 5 minutes every night or a few times a week to clean up your space. I don't mean busting out the windex, but a simple putting your clothes away or moving the backpack from the middle of the room will do the trick. It makes you sleep a little better, feel a lot calmer, and be more compelled to allow guests into your room because it doesn't look like a tornado hit it.
10. Walk with a purpose
I believe that the most confident people are the ones that show that they have a purpose. Whether that is walking, writing in a planner, or doing your schoolwork. Remember your goals and your purpose. It will give you an extra glow that definitely shows.
11. Coconut oil is a must
I swear that coconut oil can cure really anything. It literally has the healing power of a god and smells absolutely amazing. Take it from my friends with peeling skin, it is truly a lifesaver.
12. Have a set routine
If you maintain a specific routine, you are more likely to keep up with it. You know what they say, it only takes two weeks to make a habit!
Work it girl!