In today’s busy world, juggling a variety of jobs has become a way of life. We’re constantly putting on many different hats, so it’s only natural we’d want our skincare products to reflect our everyday needs. Although no one product can do it all, by choosing a few double-duty items, you can cut down the time spent on your skincare routine and reclaim your shelf space.
Clever cleansers
These days, you can find many products that remove makeup, oil and debris while also toning the skin. Look into a product like MD Skincare All In One Facial Cleanser with Toner, which gently removes dirt and waterproof makeup and tones your complexion.
Multi-tasking moisturizers
No need to buy a separate sunscreen for your face when today's moisturizers offer SPF protection. If you’re worried about aging skin, choose a product like Philosophy When Hope is Not Enough Cream SPF 20 to both protect your skin and treat the signs of environmental damage.
For a flawless complexion, forgo the foundation and consider a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen. Try DuWop Revolution Face for hydrating sheer color and sun protection (SPF 15) all in one.
Shower shortcuts
Save time and space in the shower by purchasing a three-in-one shampoo, body wash and bubble bath. Philosophy three-in-one products produce loads of lather and are available in decadent smells like Margarita or Birthday Cake. In one step, these moisturizing formulas thoroughly cleanse and hydrate the skin while conditioning your hair.
You can also get double-duty products for the whole family. For guys on the go, CLEAN Men Shampoo and Shower Gel is an effective, less fragrant product. For baby, look for a gentle hair and body wash like Belli Calm Me, a tear-free product that’s perfect for baby’s sensitive skin.
Double-duty beauty
If your beauty bag is overflowing with five-too-many products, then it’s time you turned to double-duty technology. You can dramatically cut down on the number of beauty products you purchase just by investing in cosmetics that multi-task.
Instead of carrying a blush, lipstick and gloss, try Stila Convertible Color. Voted In Style's Best Beauty Buys 2008, this blush and lipstick combo provides cheeks and lips with radiant, warm color. Also, try Stila's three-in-one Convertible Eye Color, an eye pencil, eye shadow and smudging tool in one. To cover up imperfections and create a clear complexion, get a concealer and foundation in one, such as DuWop Surface in Pecan.
Unexpected helpers
When searching for a double-duty fix, don’t be afraid to experiment. You can find some surprisingly easy and effective products where you least expect them. For instance, if you need an extra dose of hydration for your skin and hair, then look no further than your cupboard. You can use olive oil, almond oil, grape seed oil and other oils commonly used for cooking on the hair and body. Specifically, almond oil is a highly effective, natural emollient that hydrates and protects the skin; use it on the lips, skin, hair and cuticles.
Full of vitamin E and antioxidants, olive oil also boasts hydrating and protective properties. Grape seed oil is odor-free and moisturizes without any sticky residue. Baby oil also makes a great moisturizer. A combination of mineral oil and fragrances, baby oil helps to soften dry skin. When applied to damp skin, fresh from the bath or shower, this mineral oil will lock in moisture to maintain supple, smooth skin. For sleek, silky tresses, smooth a few drops of oil onto your hair before blow-drying.
See also:
When to Pitch Beauty Products
Coming Clean: 5 Skincare Myths
Out with the Old, In with the New: Clearing Bathroom Clutter