The beginning of a new school year can be a stressful and tiring thing, especially if it’s your first year on campus. Between figuring out where your classes are, getting used to new roommates, and trying to find time to hit the gym, how your hair or nails look might be the last thing on your mind. And that’s totally fine! But know this – you don’t always have to sacrifice beauty for brains. Take a look at these must-have beauty essentials to keep looking your best while doing your best (without the stress!).
1. Revlon Multi Care Base + Top Coat
While you’re living the “poor college student” life, weekly mani-pedis at the salon might not always been a feasible option. Save money by doing your nails at home! This 2-in-1 top and base coat by Revlon is not only convenient when painting your nails, but it also helps them stay vibrant and chip-free for about a week. At just $6.49 a bottle, it’s the perfect way to ensure that your nails will stay as sharp as you are while acing your way through classes.
2. Clean n’ Clear Morning Burst Cleanser
Fall term in Oregon may start out warm and sunny, but we all know much cooler days are coming faster than we would like. Avoid dry-outs and acne with this once-a-day facial moisturizer that will keep your face clear and radiant without the fuss. The best part: you’ll be able to find this life-saving face wash at most stores for about $5, so just add it to your weekly shopping list and you won’t even have to make an extra stop to pick it up.
3. Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizers
With their amazing scents and adorable backpack clips, there isn’t a cuter way to fight germs when you’re constantly around 30,000 people for three months at a time. And, since Bath and Body Works usually sells them both in store and online for 5 for $5, you’ll never have to pick just one! Snatch ‘em up for your backpack, purse, gym sack, and any other bag you might tote around between classes and parties to avoid catching colds that could hinder both your academics and your social life.
4. TIGI Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Shampoo
If you’re signed up for 8am classes this term, first off I’m very, very sorry for you. But have no fear! This dry shampoo by TIGI can help cure even the messiest cases of bedhead in seconds, so it can be a real lifesaver when you don’t have time to take a shower before class or after hitting the gym. You might be skeptical now, and at 21.99 it might be a little on the pricey side, but believe me – it will be totally worth it when you’re running late or even just need to catch a few extra Z’s in the morning.
5. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
Speaking of hitting the gym, we all know what it’s like to come out feeling great after a good workout but looking… not so great. These cleansing wipes by Neutrogena ($4.99 at most drugstores) are not only great for removing makeup in a non-greasy way, but they can also be used to remove sweat and excess oils from the face anytime, anywhere. Since they can be easily slipped into your purse or backpack, these wipes make it easy for you to freshen up even when you don’t have access to a restroom!
So, whether this is your first year on campus or your last, don’t be caught dead without these 5 beauty essentials this fall! Have any products you think we missed? Let us know in the comments!