I am not one to procrastinate (lie) or leave home without my essentials (another lie) when traveling. I would never stay out too late on a work night (pants are on fire) and try to recoup sleep by hitting the snooze button.

However, life happens and sometimes we are left in a pinch. My Aunt Yetta’s answer for everything was either smothering it in Crisco or spraying it with Windex. Got a nasty burn pulling that cake out of the oven? Smear it with Crisco. Have a wart? Spray it with Windex.

It must be a generational thing, but I questioned whether or not some of these “quick fix” beauty tips actually work. I put some research into a few repeated DIY remedies. It might surprise you to find some of the work and some actually make the problem worse.

Hemorrhoid Cream for Under Eye Puffiness
FACT:This will actually work. Several make up artists for the stars use this trick. However, my dermatologist warns that while it does work, it can actually become irritating to the super sensitive under-eye skin. Only use this trick in a beauty emergency. The formula is too strong for daily use.

Diaper Rash Cream for Acne
FICTION: This was once a practice my sister would employ during high school. Truth is, the zinc in the cream is too thick and will actually clog pores and make acne worse!

Crushed Aspirin for Pimples
FACT: The salicylic acid in aspirin helps fight inflammation in a pimple. Crush up one and apply directly to the problem area after splashing a little warm water on your face to help open pores.

Hydrocortisone and Antibiotic Ointment for Red Noses
FACT: Allergies or a cold have your nose red and aching from time with tissues? Hydrocortisone mixed with equal parts antibiotic ointment and applied to your nose will act as a soothing and bacterial killing shield.