Looking good can take time, from skin care routines to hair styling and all the make up applications in between the hours can add up. Personally I just don't have hours to spend primping and priming - although I'd love it, so I'm always looking for ways to keep ahead of the game, save time (and money!) an look fab. So today I've 10 Beauty Cheats to share that I use all the time - they're simple tricks that will save you a little bit of time and money, and make sure you're looking tip-top.

1. Fresh Faced But Still 'Done'

Want some coverage but don't want a full face of make up? Mix a pea size amount of foundation with your regular moisturiser for a lighter way to even out your complexion.

2. Avoid Dark Smudges

When doing your makeup, do your eyes first, and gently hold a folded piece of tissue underneath to your cheek while you're applying your eyeshadow. That way whatever eye shadow and mascara that falls under the eye can just be wiped clean, and you won't be trying to get dark smudges out of your concealer.

3. Lip Balm - A Flexible Friend

Use clear lip balm to add dewiness to cheekbones and as a highlight on your brow bone. If your balm has a hint of pink, it can also double up as a blusher for your cheeks.

4. A Quick Way to a Great Pout

Add a touch of gloss to the centre of your bottom lip to make your pout appear fuller. Apply a lip-toned lipstick first, followed by a touch of gloss.

5. Keep Your Lipstick on Your Lips

To avoid lipstick escaping onto your teeth, once you've applied (find instructions here, for the perfect application!), stick your finger in your mouth and close your lips, slowly pull your finger out. This catches any excess lipstick that might stick to your teeth.

6. Simple Trick for Tough Mascara

Believe it or not, olive oil is a great way to remove stubborn waterproof mascara.  Apply it to a cotton bud and gently wipe over closed eyes to remove any tricky mascara residue.

7.  Wet Hair to Dry Super Fast

If you’re running late and your hair is still wet, use a paper towel! It soaks up more water than a bath towel, drying your much hair faster when you're on the go!

8. A Pep for Dull Skin

We all know that slices of cucumbers on your eyes eases tiredness. But I bet you never tried sliced tomatoes to brighten dull skin! Place sliced tomatoes on your face for 10 minutes, it will brighten dull tired skin and clear blackheads! Remove, rinse with some water and pat dry.

9. Cheap and Effective Exfoliator

Combine a mixture of honey and salt all over your body to moisturise and exfoliate. Wash it off and your skin will be gorgeous - tried and tested by Catherine Zeta-Jones.

10. Clean Teeth On the Run

Little known fact: strawberries contain malic acid, which serves as an astringent and can lighten surface stains - perfect for whitening teeth on the go. So if you can, eat some strawberries after a meal when you're out and about to get a fresh clean result. If strawberries are hard to come by, apples work wonders too!

Any Tips to Recommend? 

So there you have my personal faves, would love to hear yours - what's the best little trick you have up your sleeve?

Image Credits

Make up Bag via Forever21 | Patterned Bridesmaids with Pink Lipstick via Green Wedding Shoes | Selection of Make up via Lauren Conrad