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7 multi-use makeup products that will cut your beauty routine time in half
Streamline your beauty routine, one swipe at a time
On a girls’ trip to Berlin not too long ago, my carry-on got flagged. No, it wasn't because of my soft, mini multi-speed bullet vibrator – I'd actually left that at home to make more room for the real offender: two bags full of liquids, very much over the permitted limit. Apparently airport security didn’t agree that you can never have too many makeup options. And, despite my rather desperate begging (not my finest mo’), I had to reluctantly bin a number of my prized beauty possessions, including a full-sized liquid foundation. I cry.
One year on, and thanks to the following multi-tasking products, I’ve somewhat managed to perfect the art of the travel makeup bag. Learn from my mistakes to ditch the hassle (and heartbreak) and streamline your routine. After all, you’ll have more room for souvenirs…
Garnier Pure Active 8hr Invisible Hydrocolloid Blemish Patch - 22 Patches
Surprised to see me? Well, what makes these pimple patches makeup multi-taskers is their discrete powers. Just like Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak, Garnier’s clear hydrocolloid stickers can be worn totally disguised under makeup. We’re clearing blemishes, even during full-beat occasions.
Skin Nova is a fail-safe option for itsy bitsy makeup bags. Niacinamide and beta-glucan in its ingredients list make for the perfect base as they brighten and soothe skin while also minimising redness. Plus, its metallic sheen leaves skin with a glossy finish. You can forget layering with this multi-tasking marvel!
Introducing a celeb fave (Hailey Bieber, we thank you for your services): the Make Up For Ever harmony palette. Delivering an entire full-face base routine in one travel-friendly compact, the 12 multi-use creams can be used alone or mixed together to create your perfect foundation, concealer, blush, contour and highlight shades.
Nothing says multi-hyphenate makeup more than a two-in-one cheek and lip tint and this hydrating formula makes for a soft, dewy finish in all the right places. P.S. Don’t be alarmed by the colour – although only one shade, it adjusts to the individual pH levels in the skin to bring out your very own flattering flush.
Trinny London really nailed the efficient beauty assignment with this product. The dual-ended mascara and tinted brow gel is a power duo. The larger wand coats lashes in a lengthening and volumising formula while the other defines and tints brow hair with a smaller, more precise bristle applicator.
Leave your makeup brush set at home and replace it with this one-brush wonder. Although ‘only’ two ends, both can be used for multiple steps in your routine. Blend out cream products and/or pack on setting powder with the smaller brush and add colour to the cheeks – via bronzer, blush and/or highlight – with the contoured side.
Ditch separate primers and setting sprays because MAC’s Prep + Prime Fix+ can be used as both. Spritz before makeup application on clean skin for a smooth, plump base and/or as a final step to set and perfect. Oh, and it can also be used throughout the day for a refreshing hydration boost, too.
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
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