We're not usually ones to complicate things — especially in our beauty routines. In fact, we're huge proponents of nixing unnecessary steps to make the process run more smoothly. But from time to time, we have to admit that going the extra mile can have major benefits for our hair, skin, and makeup. Taking the time to add an extra product, for example, can mean the difference between a so-so look and a dayum-girl one. So, we've compiled a list of a few simple steps you can to take to improve your beauty regimen in a major way. And we promise: They're not complicated. From mists to glosses, click through to find the products that will seriously up your makeup game.
Exfoliate Before You Shave
Looking for the closest shave, ever? Make sure to scrub up before you use your razor. "It gets rid of all the dead skin cells that could clog up your razor," says Rachel Sharoff, an aesthetician at Skintology Skin and Laser Center in NYC.
We Like: Montauk Juice Factory Detox Botanical Scrub, $23, available at Montauk Juice Factory.
Prime Before You Apply Makeup
This is something that most people know they should do, but typically skip. If you want your makeup to stay put for hours, a primer is an essential first step. There are even formulas that have amazing skin-care benefits, too.
We Like: Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer, $32, available at Sephora.
Use A Cleansing Oil Before Your Face Wash
We've all been there: You wash your face and think you did a good job of removing your makeup — but you wake up with raccoon eyes. To make sure you get every last bit of mascara, liner, or shadow off, start by using a cleansing oil before you reach for your facial cleanser. Apply it to dry skin. The oils will dissolve all traces of makeup. Then, you can wash your face and go to sleep.
We Like: Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil, $48, available at Sephora.
Add A Hydration Booster To Your Moisturizer
Even the most emollient moisturizers need an extra dose of hydration sometimes. That's why Dr. Dennis Gross came out with this booster. Add one or two drops of this concentrated serum into your cream and you'll have super-moisturized skin all day.
We Like: Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Concentrate Hydration Booster, $68, available at Sephora.
Use A Hair Oil Before You Shampoo
This trick actually works for two types of hair. If you tend to skip conditioner because your hair is fine and gets greasy, spread some oil through your strands pre-shampoo to lock in a little moisture. If your hair is on the opposite side of the spectrum and is coarse and dry, you should oil, shampoo, then condition for an extra shot of hydration.
We Like: Mullein & Sparrow Pure Series Argan Oil, $28, available at Mullein & Sparrow.
Use A Hair Gloss Before Your Conditioner
If you've got color-treated hair, it's a good idea to gloss your strands every time you shampoo to keep your hue looking fly. A formula like Rita Hazan True Color Ultimate Shine Gloss is a foam that's meant to be used between shampooing and conditioning. Work it through your strands, let it sit for a few seconds, and then rinse it out for gorgeous color.
We Like: Rita Hazan True Color Ultimate Shine Gloss, $26, available at Rita Hazan.
Mist Your Face Before Masking
Your skin will reap the most benefit from anything you put on it if it's a little moist. So before masking, moisturizing, or applying makeup, spritz on a face mist with a hydrating ingredient. This one has coconut water.
We Like: Herbivore Cosmetics Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist, $32, available at Herbivore Cosmetics.
Add A Brow Gel To Your Brow Regimen
Not setting your brows with a gel after filling them in is like not letting your manicure dry before you go digging around for your keys. All of the hard work you put into perfecting your brows will basically go to waste. So, set your set with a brow gel to ensure they stay in place all day long.
NYX Control Freak Eyebrow Gel, $5.99, available at Ulta.
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