Want just the highlights? Scroll down for our infographic on beauty quick fixes.
In general, we use this blog to talk about long-term solutions. We want you to look and feel your best whether you're interested in an in-office nonsurgical facelift or just want some tips on diet and skincare.
But none of that matters when you have to be at an event that's only hours away and your mirror isn't flattering you today. In fact, it's downright insulting.
We all have our little secrets when it comes to looking our best. Maybe it's a magic concealer that hides those pesky blemishes or a pair of Spanx that smoothes out everything just right. Today, we're going to share some of our favorite quick fixes for common concerns. They may not provide lasting solutions, but they sure do work wonders in the here and now. So, let's dive in and 'cheat' a little, shall we?
Concealing Wrinkles: Makeup and Moisturizer Magic
Alright, who spilled the beans about our age? Those little lines on our faces can be quite the tattletales. But worry not, with the right makeup tricks, you can blur those wrinkles away.
Emergency Hydration: Moisturizing is key to looking younger, so if your wrinkles are starting to show, make sure you get some extra hydration. While moisturizer should be part of your daily regimen, a little extra can help when you're feeling sharpei-esque. Or just spritz on a bit of toner throughout the day for a quick pick-me-up.
Primer Love: A silicone-based primer fills in fine lines, creating a smooth canvas for your makeup. It's like an Instagram filter in a bottle!
Lightweight Foundation: Heavy foundations tend to settle into the wrinkles, making them more noticeable. Opt for a lightweight, hydrating formula instead. Luminous, glowing shades also help.
Highlighter Hack: A dab of highlighter on your cheekbones and brow bone can give you an instant lift and divert attention away from the wrinkles.
Slimming Shapes: Style It Out
Clothing can play a big role in how our bodies look. With the right style choices, you can create illusions that flatter your body shape.
Darks, Stripes, and Monochromes: These tricks are classic for a reason. Dark colors, especially black, hide shadows created by any bumps or rolls. Vertical stripes can make you appear taller and thinner, and dressing in one color is an age-old hack for stylish slimming.
Shapewear: Shapewear can smooth out your silhouette and make your clothes fit better. It's like Photoshop for your body. Today's best brands come in all prices, sizes, and levels of comfort. Give yourself permission to splurge on a pricier option if you like. You're sure to get plenty of mileage.
High Heels: A pair of heels can make your legs appear longer and leaner, shave five pounds, and give you an instant butt lift. Plus, you get to feel like a goddess while strutting in them.
The Perfect Fit: Don't forget to actually buy clothes that fit. Baggy garments can make you look bigger, while tight-fitting ones might emphasize trouble spots. Choose something in between for a comfortable yet flattering silhouette.
Smooth Fabrics: Opt for smooth fabrics like silk or cotton instead of anything too textured or bulky. A thin knit is usually an ideal choice when you want to look slimmer.
Reducing Jowls: Hair and Makeup Mayhem
Jowls can make us look older than we are. But these tricks to downplay jowls can help you create the illusion of an angular jawline.
Contour: Use a contour cream or powder to define your cheekbones and jawline. This creates shadows that minimize the look of jowls.
Highlight: To downplay the size of your face, apply a highlighter to the top of your forehead, nose bridge, and chin. This brings focus to these areas and makes them appear more slender.
Tight Ponytails or Updos: If you have long hair, a high ponytail or updo can give you a mini facelift and carve out those cheek bones.
Other Concerns: Skincare Saviors
Whether it's tired eyes, dull skin, or dry lips, quick skincare fixes can come to your rescue.
Puffy Eyes: For puffy eyes or dark circles, a cooling eye cream can work wonders. Look for ones with caffeine or green tea. You can also gently run an ice cube around the area or use a cold compress.
Dull Skin: For dull skin, a brightening face mask can give you an instant glow. Choose masks with ingredients like vitamin C or turmeric.
Lip Lines: Keep those puckers hydrated. Use lip balm throughout the day and slip on some extra (or lip primer) before lipstick. You might want to opt for glossier, creamier looks, too. Matte lips are more likely to lead to the dreaded feathering.
Stand Tall
Most importantly, stand tall and smile with confidence. Not only does a don't-look-at-me slouch accentuate perceived flaws, but it also tells people that you expect to be perceived in a certain way, making it more likely that they will.
At the end of the day, there's no substitute for a healthy lifestyle and good skincare habits, but let's be honest, we all have our little "beauty cheats." They might not provide long-term solutions, but they help us feel confident when we need it the most.
Remember, the goal is to celebrate your unique beauty, not to hide it. Have fun with these tips and tricks. After all, life’s too short to not enjoy a little harmless 'cheating', right?
And if you have a little more advance notice, book a facial at Advanced Body Sculpting & MedSpa. You'll leave glowing and ready for your next adventure.
