TOP 15 Beauty secrets & quick fixes

We're always looking for some beauty secrets, maybe some tricks to spice up our look or add a touch of sparkle. Well I whipped up 20 beauty secrets, check em' out and tell me what you think :]

1. Mascara is a must-have

One thing you should always have: Mascara. This adds some definition and a nice bold look to the eyes. A simple yet beautiful touch. Or probably not sure what eyeshadow to put on? well, 'when it doubt, use mascara.'

2. Erase those dark circles

One of the biggest common problem in women. Those dark purple half circles that appear under our eyes. This is caused by lack of sleep, or lack of energy (nutrition). One quick way to fix this? Concealer. Remember to pat the concealer on the under eye area [or blemish area] (do not rub, this stretches the sensitive under eye skin). Two great and affordable concealers you can try out:  Sonia Kashuk® Hidden Agenda Concealer Set & the Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer - Beige. (both have good ratings and reviews) It's also recommended to apply some Aloe Vera gel under the eye to create a temporary firm state, this also helps awaken that tired look.

3. A fix for Thin lips

Majority of us women feel the need to do something about our thin lips. There is always a quick trick, such as using a lip highlighter (a shade lighter than your lip color) then apply it and line on the outer lip. Another cool trick, says to create a "curvy bounce-off" looking upper lip: apply a good highlighter overdrawing your lips cupid bow.

4.  Kill that zit! 

Zits and pimples can really get irritating! Especially if your only 1 day away from an important occasion. Don't let that drown you. Top quick fixes:  A drying lotion works perfect! a recommended one is Mario Badescu Drying Lotion . Using a cotton swab, apply a dab of the product (DO NOT shake the bottle, only apply the pink sediment at the bottom) on your zit (pimple or whitehead)  let is sit and dry (if you are doing this before bedtime be sure to rinse in the morning). 

Another quick fix: "by applying a dime size of Aveeno's 1% hydrocortisone cream, and leave it on for a max of 2hrs." - Instyle (Fall - September 2010 issue)

5.  Create an instant smokey eye

For quick and beautiful smokey eyes: use an eye pencil (matte is better) it can be dark plum, midnight blue, or even a charcoal color. Apply all over the lid, and some on the lower lash line. Then to create the smokey effect, smooth & smudge it out with a cotton swab. (add some brighten on the inner corner of the eyes)

6. Mineral powder for glow

Another must-have. Just by applying some mineral powder glow, it completely creates a beautiful natural effect (without the cakey look of course!) 

7. Take a change - add some volume

Taking care of your hair is primary. You can't get volume with damaged hair. Snipping split ends (even if it's just cm) monthly is a good way to start. Be sure not to add too much hair styling products, as this will damage your hair. And, volume boosting shampoo and conditioners can help add that body of hair back.  (Garnier Fructis Fortifying 2 In 1 Shampoo & Conditioner Body & Volume 13 oz. $4.30) great fix = healthy volumous hair. 

8. Flawless skin

Flawless skin comes with care. That means choosing the right cleanser and moisturizer for your skin type, that you can use from morning to night, daily. Exfoliating once a week is a "must-do". This helps by removing old dead skin cells, and renewing the skin. Nothing calls for a healthy glowing skin than Exfoliating. 

9. Tired of pores? then take the final step.

If you have large pores, and just want to shrink them. Then there is one way to go. Visit a spa and ask for a microdermabrasion treatment (a very good facial treatment. It will shrink the pores as well) 

10. Small eyes? Make them look bigger!

If you want your eyes to look bigger, you'd have to stay away from dark shades. You can start out with beautiful and natural tones and shades such as sandy pink, pink, nude, dusty earth, and light brown.

11. Hard to remove waterproof mascara?

Majority of waterproof mascaras are tough to remove. A quick (and the best) fix  to this is by adding a few drops of Olive oil on a cotton pad/ball. Close your eyes and smooth the cotton pad over on the eyelashes, keep it for about 30 seconds, then wash/wipe your lashes clean. 

12. Tangled hair?

This is probably caused by lack of combing after shower, or pillow case. It is recommended to use a silk or satin pillow case, since these won't tangle your hair. 

13. You can never go wrong with a little blush

Really, you can't go wrong with a little color on your cheeks. Apply some mineral blush just a tad bit lower from the cheekbone. This adds some color & freshens up your look.

14. Moisturizing is your best friend ;]

Especially a hydrating moisturizer! You can never go wrong with these, this keeps your skin hydrated, smooth, and refreshed. (make sure the moisturizer is for your skin type. It should at least include some vitamins, and zinc. Zinc helps by protecting the skin by harmful sun rays.) 

15. Whiten teeth with Baking soda & Hydrogen peroxide

The secret was revealed! I mean, don't waste so much money on teeth whitening treatments when you've got the answer right here. Yellow teeth are usually caused by smoking, drinking wine, coffee, soda, and juice. Anything that will stain your teeth. Baking soda & Hydrogen peroxide are two great ingredients to use for teeth whitening. Hydrogen peroxide eliminates bacteria, as well as decreasing the chance of cavities. And baking soda is the sparkle for the whitening ;] 

• Brush your teeth like you do everyday
• Once you've brushed your teeth, apply some Baking soda on your tooth brush (must be clean) and start brushing your teeth (max. 1 min.)  and rinse.
• Rinse with hydrogen peroxide, and let it sit for a maximum of 30-45 seconds. (if you feel small bubbles then it's a good sign!) and rinse again with cold water.

You can rinse with Hydrogen peroxide (no more than 30%)  1-2 times a day. 

Best beauty secrets & quick fixes! ;]