Make beauty do double duty

Article by: ELLEN WARREN , Chicago Tribune
Updated: September 6, 2012 - 2:45 PM

With the help of a cosmetics expert, we headed to the drugstore to round up workhorse products that do at least two jobs for the price of one.

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Hydrogen peroxide is usually used as a painless antiseptic for small cuts, blisters and abrasions. But it also can be used as a cheap teeth whitener.

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In this economy, who doesn't want -- and need -- to save money? You already watch for bargains, coupons, online deals and sales. That's smart shopping. You've learned that drugstore beauty products are often as good (or better) than the stuff that costs three, four or five times as much in department stores and boutiques.

And, of course, nothing beats a bargain at a consignment or thrift store. How many times have I stopped a conversation cold when I've bragged about the classic Manolo Blahnik almost-new pumps I found at a Goodwill store for $6.99?

Well, here's one more tip to add to your smart shopper arsenal: Drugstore products that do double duty. With the help of cosmetics expert Bryan Barron, I headed to the drugstore to round up some workhorse products that do at least two jobs for the price of one.

(All products from Walgreens -- walgreens.com -- unless otherwise noted.)

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Hair conditioner, $18.95, devachansalon.com

The usual: Hair hydration and untangling.

The unusual: A thin layer applied to damp legs substitutes for shaving cream (shower gel and soap work too).

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Oil-free eye makeup remover, $3.49

Usual: Take off eye makeup.

Unusual: Makeup stains on clothes. Dab stains with this, then launder as usual. "Dual-phase" remover, preferably with silicone, gives best results.

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Baby shampoo, $5.49

The usual: Use it to wash kids' (or your own) hair. The "no more tears" is a plus at any age.

The unusual: This is the absolute best for cleaning your cashmere sweaters and accessories. They'll be spotless and softer than when you started. The shampoo treats the delicate fibers gently. Never dry clean cashmere, by the way. And, if you've heard that you can use baby shampoo to remove eye makeup, don't do it. Even baby shampoo will burn your eyes if you slather it on vigorously.

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Lip balm, $1.69

The usual: Prevent and soothe dry, chapped lips.

The unusual: Tame unruly eyebrows, keeping them in place (or try hair spray on a toothbrush for the same effect).

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Hair mask, $2.79

The usual: Weekly heavy-duty hair treatment.

The unusual: Use a dollop as a daily leave-in conditioner for dry, damaged hair.

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Spray-on sunscreen, $13.99

The usual: The most hassle-free way to protect skin from harmful sun rays.

The unusual: Spray it on your hair to minimize drying effects of the sun and to prevent hair color from fading.

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Hydrogen peroxide, $2.99

The usual: Painless antiseptic for small cuts, blisters, abrasions.

The unusual: A cheap teeth whitener. Swish the 3 percent solution without dilution for a minute or so before you brush. Think of it as a pre-rinse. Another unexpected use: If your dog is like mine and eats things he shouldn't, keep it on hand to induce pet vomiting (but talk to your vet first).