How to Improvise Cosmetics in an Emergency

We’ve all been in a pinch, either on vacation or in our own bathroom, where we’ve run out of a necessary item. Not to worry--you can still shave your legs, wash your hair or zap that zit if you know how to improvise cosmetics in an emergency. Heck, you can even fix your glasses without an eyeglass fix-it kit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Hair conditioner
• Toothpaste or baking soda
• Skin lotion
• Small stick

1. Shave your legs using hair conditioner if you’ve run out of shaving cream. It won’t foam up like you’re used to, but it will leave skin soft and silky.
2. Substitute soap for shampoo, or vice versa. Your hair might not have that same squeaky sheen, but at least it won’t hang in greasy clumps. You can also use shampoo to wash your body. No need to repeat after rinsing.
3. Zap a zit with toothpaste. Dab a small amount on the blemish and it will dry right out. Just make sure to not to leave a big white blotch of toothpaste on your face. Use baking soda if the toothpaste is gone.
4. Keep lips fresh and supple by using skin lotion on them if you have no lip balm. Do not lick your lips until it has all been absorbed or you’ll have a very bad taste in your mouth.
5. Repair eyeglass hinges with whatever’s available. Only a rare breed has an eyeglass fix-it kit with a tiny screw and screw driver at her fingertips. Paperclips, twist ties and wire work well. I stuck a small stick in mine when one side fell off while I was hiking and they’ve been holding firm for several months now.

Tips & Warnings

• Work with what you have.
• Always keep basics on hand. Petroleum jelly, baby oil, rubbing alcohol and witch hazel can serve many functions.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. Your skin will not shrivel and fall off if you use hand cream on your face.
• Don’t get too creative. Watch what kind of cosmetic you place near your eyes.
• Never substitute anything for eye drops, especially glue.