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40 Small Ways To Make Your Hair & Makeup Look Way Better

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by Claire Epting
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

When it comes to looking and feeling your best, there’s no “one size fits all” formula — rather, it’s an individual approach for each person. That being said, there are small tips and tools that are almost universally helpful, and this list is packed with beauty hacks on Amazon that make achieving effortless makeup looks and hairstyles an oh-so-easy task.

You don’t need to be a professional makeup artist to create stunning looks at home — you just need the right tools. For starters, this set of highly rated makeup brushes includes everything you need to apply foundation, blush, eyeshadow, and more with utmost precision. And if it’s fuller, longer eyelashes you’re after, this ingenious lash primer will do the trick, and you can follow up with a few strokes of this curling eyelash comb for lots of definition.

The same idea applies to hair. If you’re someone who struggles to find time to get ready in the morning, this cult-favorite hair dryer can help — it doubles as a round brush, effectively drying and styling your hair in one simple step. Or, maybe you’ve noticed your strands have been feeling a little parched lately; just apply a small amount of this nourishing argan oil hair treatment to instantly boost radiance and shine.

Below, you’ll find tons of highly rated and affordable beauty products that will make your hair and makeup routine so much easier — with ahhh-mazing results you won’t believe.

1This Tinted Face Sunscreen That Adds Coverage In More Ways Than One

This tinted sunscreen stick is convenient in multiple ways — not only does it give your face the SPF protection it needs (and is also water-resistant), but it comes in an effortless stick applicator that also acts as a foundation or skin tint, all thanks to the different skin-like tints available for this sunscreen. It’s also reef-safe, cruelty-free, and broad spectrum.

  • Available shades: Chestnut, Creme, Latte

2A Hair-Finishing Gel That Applies Like Mascara

Smooth flyaways and slick back updos with this hair finishing gel that’s applied just like mascara. The gel formula is made from protective beeswax and strengthening keratin — just swipe on a small amount using the included wand to hold individual hairs securely in place. “This product is pretty amazing!! It has completely replaced my hairspray,” one reviewer raved. “Holds great and it doesn’t make my hair hard. Very impressed!”

3The Makeup Setting Spray With Rave Reviews

With over 5,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, it’s clear this setting spray from beloved makeup brand Urban Decay is the real deal. This oil-free spray can help your makeup stay perfectly in place for up to 16 hours, offering a natural finish that won’t dry out your skin. And, it suits all skin types.

4These Ultra-Thin Razors For Touching Up Brows & Removing Peach Fuzz

These tiny razors allow you to safely remove the light hairs that linger around your eyebrows, upper lip, and jawline, creating a smooth base for applying foundation. Each one has a plastic precision cover that assists you in sculpting and shaping your brows, and the ultra-fine blades are equipped with micro-guards that keep your skin protected against nicks and cuts.

5This Lash Primer That Volumizes & Conditions

Açai oil and mango butter are the key ingredients in this lash primer, which conditions and volumizes your delicate eyelash hairs. Apply a few strokes to each eye, wait 30 seconds, and follow up with your favorite mascara. The mascara clings to the primer rather than your eyelashes, resulting in a fuller look — and better protected lashes.

6The Argan Oil That Hydrates, Protects & Strengthens Hair

Argan oil is known for its superior moisturizing properties, and it works to revive dry strands when applied to the hair. OGX’s penetrating hair oil treatment boasts a 4.7-star overall rating and for good reason; it has a lightweight texture, and it strengthens and protects hair while adding a lustrous quality to your locks. Apply it to your hair right after shampooing and conditioning for best results.

7An Eyelash Comb That’s Contoured To Your Eyes

With tiny stainless steel prongs, this eyelash comb works to separate your lashes and remove clumps of mascara. The best part: The unique curved design contours to the shape of your eyes, so you get definition that’s totally natural. The comb comes with a protective cover that shields the teeth between uses.

8This Satin Pillowcase That Are Gentle On Skin & Hair

Made from smooth but durable satin, this sleek pillowcase is gentler on your face and hair than cotton. Why? Since satin isn’t as drying as cotton, the smooth fabric won’t absorb your skin’s natural oils. Likewise, cotton has the potential to grip your hair like Velcro, but the smooth surface of satin material helps prevent breakage when you toss and turn.

  • Available sizes: 4
  • Available colors: 26

9This Spray That Provides Instant Relief To Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can be super annoying and irritating — keep bacteria and dust away from your eyeballs and lashes with this hypochlourous acid spray. By removing the bacteria from the eye area, this spray helps everything from dry eye to contact irritation to blepharitis (eyelid irritation), which can be especially helpful when applying and removing makeup at the beginning and end of the day.

10This Eyeshadow Base That Prevents Smudging & Fading

After applying this eyeshadow primer to your lids, your makeup will not only stay in place longer, but the pigments will be more intense. Use the wand applicator to apply a thin layer over your eyelids before completing the rest of your look. Great for weddings, parties, and everyday use, this primer will keep your eyes looking on fleek (and smudge-free) for hours on end.

11The Shine-Enhancing Hair Rinse That Works In Just 8 Seconds

For those of us who are always on the go, it can be tough finding time to show our hair a little extra TLC. That’s why L’Oréal Paris created this rinse-out treatment — it only takes eight seconds to moisturize your hair, add shine, and make hair look (and feel) like you just walked out of the salon. Just massage it into the lengths of your wet hair before rinsing — the amino acids will target damaged strands by forming thin layers called lamellars that’ll make hair look silky and smooth.

12A Complete Set Of Professional-Quality Makeup Brushes

What you apply your makeup with is often as important as the quality of the makeup itself, and this set of 14 brushes has earned a 4.-6-star overall rating after 87,000 reviews — and it won’t put a dent in your wallet. The set includes everything you need to apply a full face of makeup: foundation, blush, eyeshadow, bronzer, lip liner, and more. The silky bristles are dense, making it easy to apply with precision and blend to your heart’s content.

13This Curl-Enhancing Cream With A Tropical Scent

One whiff of this curl-enhancing cream, and you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical island. The formula is made with coconut and hibiscus, which is combined with silk protein and neem oil to create a hydrating blend that moisturizes and defines curls. “Curly hair holy grail right here,” wrote one reviewer, and another raved, “AMAZING moisture and shine!!”

14The Eyeliner Stamps That Create Perfect Cat Eyes

Creating perfectly even winged eyeliner is no easy feat. Luckily, these waterproof eyeliner stamps take all the guesswork out of the task. You get two dual-sided eyeliner pens, one for each eye. Use the stamp side to place a wing in the corner of your eye, and the brush side to fill in your lash line. And there you have it! No more “winging it” — just a uniform, smudge-proof cat eye.

  • Available sizes: 8 millimeters, 10 millimeters

15Some Reusable Bamboo Cotton Pads To Remove Makeup (& Create Less Waste)

Cotton pads are great for removing makeup or applying facial products like toner, but they tend to create a ton of waste. These reusable bamboo cotton pads are the perfect alternative, just use them in your routine and throw them in the wash when you’re done. They’re suitable for all skin types and come in a pack of 20.

16A Fan-Favorite Makeup Primer With A Matte Finish

Over 18,000 reviewers on Amazon have given this face primer a perfect five-star rating, and it’s easy to see why — the mattifying formula turns your face into a smooth canvas for foundation, blush, bronzer, and more. This long-lasting formula also minimizes the appearance of pores and curbs excess oil for a look that’s picture-perfect all day long.

17This Spray Powder That Creates Mega Volume & Body

If full-bodied, voluminous hair is what you’re after, this spray powder is an amazing shortcut — and it’s a dream for fine hair. With just a few spritzes, the light-control formula will add major body and lift, regardless of how long or short your style is. One reviewer wrote, “Just one pump of this stuff and I actually have volume and texture to my hair.”

18This Dual-End Brow Brush That You Need In Your Brush Collection

If your eyebrows are looking crazy, then chances are the rest of your makeup look won’t look as good either. This two-sided brow brush allows your to both fill in and shape your brows to get the look you desire, and it’s super slim and lightweight, so you can even throw it in your purse for touch-ups throughout the day.

19This 4-Pack Of Claw Clips With An Upgraded Design

A modern update to classic hair claws, this four-pack of hair clips boasts a cool, angular design that makes any updo more fashion-forward. Besides being early 2000s-chic, these large claw hair clips are downright practical: Use them to keep your hair out of the way when you wash your face, apply a mask, or do your makeup.

  • Available color and style combos: 10

20A 2-Pack Of Microfiber Hair Wraps That Speed Up Drying Time

Made from absorbent microfiber, these towel wraps speed up drying time and features elastic loops in the back, so you can secure them in place as you get ready. The soft material is gentle on all hair types, and causes less friction and damage than traditional cotton terry. “I've been using Turbie Twists for upwards of 8 years, and I'm obsessed with them,” wrote one reviewer. “They're so functional and allow you to do other tasks while your hair dries.”

  • Available colors: 10

21The Lightweight Gel Moisturizer With Sky-High Ratings

Boasting an ultra-high 4.7-star overall rating after 62,000 reviews, this lightweight gel moisturizer is perfect for anyone who wants hydration without the thick, creamy feel of traditional creams. Gentle, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, the fast-absorbing gel is made with hyaluronic acid to attract and bind water to skin. Offering hydration for up to 48 hours, reviewers have praised the formula for making skin “super soft,” “velvety,” and “supple.”

22This Brightening Eye Balm That’s Infused With Caffeine

Like a cup of coffee for your under your eyes, this caffeine-infused balm adds lots of hydration while reducing puffiness and tightening skin. Even better, it’s infused with topical brightening particles that counteract any darkness. Apple and watermelon are responsible for its moisturizing effects while lentil and probiotics condition and protect delicate skin.

23The Wet Brush That Detangles Without Tugging Or Damage

With flexible, heat-resistant bristles, the Wet Brush is safe to use on damp hair, detangling strands without tugging or risk of breakage. Plus, the open, vented design helps your hair dry even more quickly while you blow dry. Suitable for use on all hair types, the curved shape contours to your scalp for extra comfort.

  • Available colors: 8

24These Skin-Resurfacing Pads Infused With Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that effectively removes dead skin cells, revealing the smooth, supple skin underneath. These glycolic acid cleansing pads also include a dose of moisturizing hyaluronic acid, soothing blue daisy, and skin-brightening witch hazel. You can use these pads up to three times a week for a complexion that’s smooth and glowing.

25A Filtered Showerhead That’s Gentler On Skin & Hair

Hard water can be rough on skin and hair, leading to dryness and breakage, but this special filtered showerhead removes chlorine and other impurities. Plus, it offers a luxurious bathing experience, thanks to the three spray patterns: rain, gentle stream, or power stream (great for rinsing hair products). The showerhead installs quickly — in less than one minute!

26This Fan-Favorite Bonding Oil That Strengthens & Repairs Damaged Hair

This highly concentrated bonding oil works on damaged hair at a molecular level, repairing and strengthening strands after just one use. It also further protects your hair from heat, which is particularly helpful if you blow-dry or straighten your hair often. Lightweight and non-greasy, this oil leaves your hair feeling shiny and vibrant, and it’s racked up 22,000 reviews and an impressive 4.7-star overall rating.

27A 20-Piece Assortment Of Funky Hair Clips

Stuck in a hairstyling rut? This pack of assorted hair clips will definitely give you some inspiration. You get 20 different clips, ranging from subtle gold bobby pins to chunky rectangular barrettes. Adorned with pearls, costume gems, and rhinestones, these hair accessories are an easy, affordable way to switch up your hair.

28This Oil-Absorbing Facial Roller Made With Real Volcanic Stone

A reusable alternative to blotting papers, this facial roller is made from absorbent volcanic stone that instantly soaks up excess oil on your face, mattifying your skin without messing up your makeup. (It also feels amazing on your skin, like a mini facial massage.) The stone can be washed with gentle cleanser and reused over and over. Keep it in your bag and use it for touch-ups on the go.

29A 6-Pack Of Satin Hair Scrunchies That Don’t Tug On Hair

The problem with conventional hair bands is that they can tug on strands and cause breakage, but these satin scrunchies are much gentler; the silky smooth material glides across strands without snagging or pulling. You get six different colors in a pack, so you can even match your scrunchie to your outfit.

30The Multi-Use Concealer With A Cult Following

Maybelline’s multi-use concealer is a favorite among beauty fans — over 83,000 customers have given it a perfect five-star rating on Amazon. Infused with antioxidant-rich goji berries, the lightweight formula goes on smoothly and evenly, and the applicator sponge allows you to easily blend. It’s versatile, too: Use it to conceal, correct, and contour.

  • Available shades: 14

31A Soothing Lotion Made With Chamomile, Calendula & Pansy

If you have cracked, dry skin, it may be time to try out this Weleda Skin Food body cream. Both nourishing and fast-absorbing, this blend of blend of chamomile, calendula, and pansy extracts will give your skin the hydration (and sweet-smelling scent) it needs to thrive. Use it as a body lotion, face moisturizer, primer — the world is your oyster with Skin Food.

32This 2-Pack Of Lip Conditioner Sticks That Are Non-Sticky

Shea butter and vitamin E work together in this conditioning balm to soothe dry, cracked lips. The smoothing formula has a creamy texture that softens as it hydrates, and buyers have reported that it’s not sticky or waxy like other balms. One reviewer noted that it’s “lightweight and smooth, offering a thin protective moisturizing layer and a light scent that isn't overpowering.”

33These Adorable & Functional Scrunchies That Are Gentle On Your Locks

Scrunchies are softer than traditional rubber hair ties, making them a much gentler option for putting your hair up. These Kitsch scrunchies are incredibly soft and so adorable, making them not only ideal for up-dos but also as a chic hair or wrist accessory. These come in a pack of five so you can keep one in your hair, purse, car, work tote, and more.

34A Face Primer With Over 7,000 Five-Star Ratings

Although pricier than many drugstore primers, this Embryolisse primer is worth the extra few bucks. It’s suitable for all skin types, giving your face the hydration it needs with just a few pats — without a greasy look or feel. When comparing this primer to another popular high-end option, one reviewer wrote: “[...] I actually prefer this $13 product to the overly priced product. Sounds crazy, but I actually felt like I got way more moisture payoff from this product.”

35An All-Time Favorite Hair Dryer That Doubles As A Volumizer

Dry, detangle, and volumize your hair in just one easy step with Revlon’s cult-favorite one-step hair dryer. Hot air rises from the airflow vents, located in between a series of pin and tufted bristles that smooth strands. The unique oval-shaped design creates extra lift at the roots and also gently curls ends for a salon-worthy look. Sound too good to be true? It’s not — 269,000 buyers have given it a perfect five-star rating.

36A “Magic” Sponge That Removes Eyeshadow From Brushes

Easily swap out eyeshadow colors by rubbing your brush on this makeup-removing sponge. The absorbent sponge soaks up pigment like magic, allowing you to quickly clean off your brushes without any liquid. This way, you don’t even have to wait for your brush to dry before applying another color. You can reuse the sponge over and over again — just clean it with warm water about once a week.

37This Naturally Pigmented Multi-Stick For Your Lips, Eyes & Cheeks

Pigmented with natural plants and minerals, this multi-stick packs in vibrant color for use on your lips, cheeks, and eyelids. The creamy formula is infused with moisturizing argan oil, vitamin E, and shea butter, leaving your skin feeling smooth and moisturized. Available in five gorgeous pink and red shades, this stick will become one of the most versatile items in your makeup collection.

  • Available shades: 5

38A Natural Way To Boost Eyelash & Eyebrow Growth

Want to know a simple but effective secret to growing fuller, longer eyelashes and brows? Cold-pressed castor oil. This USDA-organic castor oil from Kate Blanc Cosmetics comes with a dropper, precision brush, and spoolie brush, so you can effortlessly apply it to your lash line and eyebrows. Way cheaper than heavily marketed formulas, you can even add a few drops to your facial moisturizer and conditioner for softer skin and hair.

39This Refreshing Facial Mist That Hydrates & Sets Makeup

If your skin is in need of a midday pick-me-up or your makeup needs a glowy finishing touch, spray a few spritzes of this rosewater spray to instantly refresh and set. Suitable for all skin types, this refreshing facial mist is a must-have for on-the-go or for your makeup kit. And there’s only two ingredients: purified water and rose flower oil.

40These Under-Eye Pads That Catch Excess Eyeshadow

Don’t you hate it when eyeshadow falls off your brush and onto your cheeks? Thanks to these self-adhesive shields, you’ll never have to worry about that again. The fabric pads can be placed underneath your eyes, catching any excess shadow that comes off your brush while applying. Once you’re finished, just pull the shields off and voila! You’ve got a smudge-free look.

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