12 Creative Ways To Use Old Cosmetics You Wanted To Get Rid Of, But Will Now Probably Keep

Jul 24, 2018 by apost team

You might think it's time to clear out your makeup drawer when cosmetics get old. They're still useful, though, and these 12 tips show you why.

1. The Secret Properties Of Toner

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Your toner isn't just good for your face. It is also an effective household cleanser. Toners with alcohol are great for removing bacteria. Squirt some on your hands as a sanitizer, or soak a cotton pad with toner to wipe down your computer keyboard.

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2. Clean With Cosmetic Oil

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Use cosmetic oil to clean stainless steel sinks. Wipe it down with a drop of oil on a cloth. Grab a paper towel to remove any excess. This creates a thin film of oil that will prevent buildup of soap scum and plaque.

3. Transparent Nail Polish Is A Miracle

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This is because it can be used to fix pretty much anything, not just your nails! Spread a tiny bit on polished furniture to remove scratches. Secure the tiny screws on your glasses with a thin layer of polish.

4. Powders Have Hidden Power

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The mineral salts in powder absorb moisture. This makes it great for stopping sweat. Before you hit the gym, apply powder to any spots where you sweat a lot, like your armpits. Now your skin won't be irritated anymore! Powder also saves you the money you'd spend on a fancy dry shampoo. Sprinkle it along your hair part and brush out the excess. (Do this over a bathtub or sink so you don't make a mess!)

5. Put Makeup Remover To Work

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Obviously makeup remover is great for cosmetics, but, like toner, this product tackles bacteria. You know that scum that stickers and price tags leave? Zap it with makeup remover! Try using a clear remover on cosmetic stains your clothes might have, too.

6. Nail Polish Remover Has More Than One Use

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It's a great solvent and stain remover as well! Nail polish removers with acetone can be effective on porcelain and tile. Wash it off after you clean to prevent it from eroding.

7. Creams Don't Just Moisturize

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Apply cream to leather purses to have them looking good as new. Before you store winter shoes, dab some cream to seal the material for the next season. This is a great way to get rid of creams you hate.

8. Shampoo Is Great For More Than Just Hair

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When you're washing delicate fabrics, switch out that laundry detergent for shampoo. It's much less harsh.

9. Lubricate With Lip Balm

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Vaseline is the powerful secret ingredient here. Apply it to split ends or squeaky hinges and notice its sealing power.

10. Multitask With Hair Spray

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Wipe away pesky cat hairs using a towel with hairspray on it. Hairspray is also effective as an anti-static: spray it carefully on clothes or balloons to make them last longer.

11. Exfoliate With Scrub

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Scrubs clear away dead skin particles for a fresher appearance on your face. You can apply this property to other areas of your skin. For example, scrub away dirt from your hands after you've worked in the garden. Take care of ingrown hairs before and after waxing or shaving.

12. Red Lipstick Cleans Up Tattoos

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No, it's not Photoshop - but pretty darn close! If you want to hide a tattoo, use red lipstick. Apply a thin layer, let dry, then apply foundation and hairspray to set. The reason this works is color theory: red is across from purple (commonly used as tattoo ink) cancel each other out. You can also use this method to cover up dark under-eye circles.

Bonus Tip: Remove Acne With This Unusual Method

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Instead of an expensive salon appointment, use an easy home remedy for clearer skin. You'll need a new toothbrush, 1 tbsp of baking powder, 1 tbsp of toothpaste, and warm water. After cleaning your skin, open your pores with the warm water. Then, in a separate bowl, mix together the baking powder, toothpaste, and more warm water. "Brush" the mixture onto your problem areas, and set for about 5 minutes. Wash it away once the time's up.

What other makeup "hacks" have you discovered? Pass them on to your friends and loved ones.