The back-to-school season is here, and whether you’re heading to high school, college, or even work, looking fresh and put together can boost your confidence. However, with busy mornings and packed schedules, spending too much time on your makeup isn’t an option. That’s why these 21 back-to-school makeup hacks will help you streamline your routine, making it quicker, more efficient, and long-lasting. From skincare tricks that prep your face to simple yet effective makeup techniques, these hacks will ensure you stay flawless all day. Plus, we’ve included product recommendations you can grab from Amazon to make your beauty routine even easier.
1. Ice Your Face for a Smooth and Depuffed Look
source @laurwongs
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prep your skin for makeup is by using ice. If you wake up with a puffy face, swollen under-eyes, or enlarged pores, an ice cube or a cold facial roller can work wonders. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness, tightening pores, and leaving your skin looking refreshed and firm. This is especially useful if you’ve had a late-night study session or didn’t get enough sleep. Simply wrap an ice cube in a soft cloth and glide it over your face for a few minutes before applying makeup. If you want an even more convenient option, consider using a reusable ice roller, which provides a mess-free and soothing experience. The cool temperature also helps foundation and concealer apply more smoothly, preventing cakiness or uneven patches. Plus, it instantly wakes up your skin, making you look more alert for those early morning classes.
2. Use a Hydrating Primer to Keep Makeup Fresh All Day
source @milkmakeup
A well-prepped base is the foundation of long-lasting makeup, and using a hydrating primer is a game-changer. Many people skip primer, not realizing that it helps create a smooth canvas for foundation, minimizes the appearance of pores, and ensures your makeup stays put throughout the day. A hydrating primer is particularly useful if you have dry or combination skin, as it prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches or separating as the day goes on. It also adds a subtle glow, making your skin look naturally radiant. If your makeup tends to fade or slide off by midday, this simple step will make all the difference. Look for a primer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin hydrated and fresh.
3. Mix Foundation with Moisturizer for a Lightweight, Natural Finish
source @mixbeautylab
A heavy, full-coverage foundation can feel uncomfortable, especially during long school or work hours. Instead of applying a thick layer, try mixing a few drops of foundation with your favorite moisturizer to create a custom tinted moisturizer. This trick not only provides light, breathable coverage but also ensures your skin stays hydrated throughout the day. It’s perfect for those who prefer a natural, dewy look rather than a cakey or overly matte finish. This DIY method also saves time and prevents the need for multiple layers of makeup. If you’re in a rush, just blend it in with your fingers or a damp sponge for a seamless finish. The result? A fresh, glowing complexion that looks like skin but better.
4. Apply Concealer in an Upside-Down Triangle to Brighten Your Face
source @beautyspamarketplace
Dark circles and tired-looking eyes are common struggles, especially during the school season. Instead of dotting concealer directly under your eyes, apply it in an upside-down triangle shape. This technique not only conceals dark circles but also lifts and brightens your entire face, giving you a well-rested appearance. Blend it out using a damp beauty sponge for the most natural finish. If you want extra staying power, set the concealer with a lightweight translucent powder to prevent creasing.
5. Set Your Makeup with a Light Powder to Prevent Shine
source @narsissist
If your makeup tends to look greasy or fade quickly, setting your base with a translucent powder is essential. A finely milled setting powder absorbs excess oil, keeps your foundation in place, and gives your skin a smooth, matte finish. It’s particularly useful if you have an oily T-zone or live in a humid climate where makeup tends to melt off. Instead of applying powder all over, focus on areas that get shiny the fastest, such as your forehead, nose, and chin. This way, your makeup stays fresh without looking overly dry.
6. Use White or Nude Eyeliner to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger
source @colourpopcosmetics
One of the easiest ways to make your eyes appear larger and more awake is by applying a white or nude eyeliner to your waterline. This trick creates an illusion of brighter, wider eyes, which is especially useful if you have early classes or long study sessions. Unlike black eyeliner, which can sometimes make eyes look smaller, a nude shade enhances their natural shape while still looking subtle and polished.
7. Heat Your Eyelash Curler for a Longer-Lasting Curl
source @elnaz_golrokh
Curling your lashes instantly opens up your eyes, making them look more lifted and youthful. However, if your lashes tend to lose their curl quickly, try warming up your eyelash curler with a blow dryer for a few seconds before using it. The added heat helps shape your lashes, similar to how a curling iron works for your hair. Just make sure to test the temperature on your hand before applying it to your lashes to avoid burns.
8. Apply Mascara in a Zig-Zag Motion for Maximum Volume
source @rineebindra
Mascara is a staple in any makeup routine, but the way you apply it makes all the difference. Instead of simply swiping your mascara wand straight from root to tip, try using a zig-zag motion. This technique ensures that each lash is coated evenly, preventing clumps while adding extra volume and length. Start at the base of your lashes, wiggle the wand back and forth, then slowly comb it through to the tips. This not only separates the lashes but also lifts them for a fuller, more dramatic effect. For an extra boost, apply a second coat while the first is still slightly wet. If you’re someone who struggles with smudging or flaking throughout the day, opt for a waterproof formula to keep your lashes looking fresh from morning to night.
9. Use Clear Brow Gel as a Mascara Alternative for a Natural Look
source @shopmissakenya
Some days, a full face of makeup just isn’t necessary. If you want a more subtle, no-makeup makeup look, try using clear brow gel as a mascara alternative. This simple trick helps define your lashes without the heaviness of traditional mascara, making it perfect for school or work. Just brush a small amount of clear brow gel through your lashes to keep them looking polished while maintaining a natural appearance. This is also a great option for days when you want to give your lashes a break from regular mascara but still need a bit of definition.
10. Set Your Lipstick with Translucent Powder to Make It Last Longer
source @cluxcosmetics
Reapplying lipstick throughout the day can be frustrating, especially when you’re busy with classes or work. A simple way to make your lipstick last longer is by setting it with a bit of translucent powder. After applying your favorite lipstick, place a tissue over your lips and lightly dust translucent powder on top. The tissue helps diffuse the powder evenly, preventing it from making your lips look dry or cakey. This hack locks in the color, making it more resistant to smudging and transferring, even through meals and drinks. If you prefer a matte finish, this trick is even more effective, as it removes excess moisture from the lipstick while keeping the pigment intact.
11. Exfoliate Your Lips for a Smoother Lipstick Application
source @thrivecausemetics
Dry, chapped lips can make even the best lipstick look uneven and patchy. To ensure a smooth, flawless application, gently exfoliate your lips before applying any lip product. You can use a store-bought lip scrub or make one at home using a mix of sugar and honey. Simply rub the scrub in circular motions to remove dead skin, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Follow up with a hydrating lip balm to keep your lips soft and supple. Doing this a few times a week will not only improve the appearance of your lips but also make lipstick glide on effortlessly and last longer.
12. Try a Lip and Cheek Tint for a Quick, Multi-Purpose Product
source @houseofmakeupofficial
When you’re short on time, a lip and cheek tint is your best friend. These multitasking products add a fresh flush of color to your face in seconds, eliminating the need for multiple makeup steps. Simply dab a small amount onto your cheeks and blend with your fingers for a natural, youthful glow. Then, apply the same tint to your lips for a soft, effortless look. Tints tend to have better staying power than traditional cream blushes or lipsticks, making them ideal for long school or workdays. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to carry, making touch-ups a breeze.
13. Apply Setting Spray Before and After Makeup for Extra Longevity
source @bethmienbeauty
Most people only use setting spray at the end of their makeup routine, but applying it before and after makeup can make a huge difference. Spritzing your face with setting spray before applying foundation helps create a long-lasting base, while a final mist at the end locks everything in place. This technique is especially useful if you have a long day ahead and need your makeup to last without constant touch-ups. Look for a setting spray with a lightweight, hydrating formula to prevent your makeup from feeling heavy or cakey.
14. Add Highlighter to Your Inner Corners for Brighter Eyes
source @itsmakeupnotmagic
Bright, awake-looking eyes can make all the difference, and one of the easiest ways to achieve this is by adding a touch of highlighter to your inner corners. This simple trick instantly lifts and brightens your entire face, making you look more refreshed and alert. Use a champagne or pearl-toned highlighter and apply a small amount with a tiny brush or your pinky finger. This works wonders, especially on days when you’re running on little sleep but still want to look put together.
15. Use a Spoon to Create the Perfect Winged Eyeliner
source @gianmakeup_
If you struggle with getting your winged eyeliner even, a spoon can be a lifesaver. The curved edge acts as a guide for creating the perfect wing. Simply hold the spoon against the outer corner of your eye and trace along its edge to form a crisp, clean line. This hack is great for beginners who find it difficult to freehand their eyeliner or for those who want a foolproof way to get symmetrical wings every time.
16. Layer Perfume with Lotion to Make It Last Longer
source @luvesence_
If you find that your perfume fades too quickly throughout the day, layering it with lotion can help lock in the scent. Apply an unscented moisturizer or a lotion that matches your fragrance before spritzing on your perfume. The lotion creates a hydrated base that helps the scent cling to your skin for hours, reducing the need for frequent reapplications. This trick is perfect for long school or workdays when you want to smell fresh all day.
17. Blot Lipstick for a Natural, Stained Look
source @rubys.organics
If you love the look of lipstick but don’t want it to appear too bold or heavy, the blotting technique is a game-changer. This simple trick helps create a soft, lived-in lip stain that looks effortlessly natural while making your lipstick last longer. After applying your favorite lipstick, gently press a tissue against your lips to remove any excess product. This leaves behind a beautiful, diffused color that blends seamlessly with your natural lip tone. For extra longevity, apply a second layer of lipstick, blot again, and then lightly dust a bit of translucent powder over the tissue. This hack is especially great for busy school or workdays when you don’t have time for constant touch-ups. Plus, it gives a casual, just-bitten effect that pairs perfectly with minimal makeup looks.
18. Store Makeup Wipes in the Fridge for a Refreshing Cleanse
source @makeupfridge
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a cool face wipe after a long day of classes, work, or errands. Storing your makeup wipes in the fridge enhances their soothing effect, helping to de-puff and refresh your skin while removing makeup, dirt, and oil. This hack is especially beneficial during the warmer months when skin tends to feel hot and greasy. The chilled wipes can also help calm redness, reduce inflammation, and provide instant relief to tired, irritated skin. If you struggle with morning puffiness, a cold makeup wipe can be a quick wake-up call before applying your makeup. For extra hydration, look for wipes infused with aloe vera, cucumber, or chamomile.
19. Use a Small Brush for Precise Concealer Application
source @piccassokim
When it comes to concealer, less is often more. Instead of using a large sponge or fingers, try applying your concealer with a small, precise brush. This technique allows for targeted coverage, ensuring that you only apply product where you need it—such as blemishes, redness, or dark circles—without overdoing it. A small, flat concealer brush helps you blend seamlessly into the skin, preventing cakiness and keeping the rest of your makeup looking natural. This is particularly useful for long school or work hours when you want your concealer to stay put without creasing. For best results, apply a tiny amount of concealer, blend with the brush, and set it with a light dusting of powder
