We've all purchased makeup that ended up unused – colors that looked pretty in the tub somehow turn out just wrong on our faces. But instead of letting them go to waste, here are ten alternative double-duty ideas to put them to good use.

Foundation Base

1. Recycle As: Highlight/Shadow

If you have purchased the wrong shade of foundation, make them work as highlighting/ contouring colors to sculpt your features instead. Foundations that are 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone can be used as contour shades while those that are a few tones lighter are perfect as highlighters.

2. Recycle As: Blusher

Dark tones can also be used as blusher for an ultra-natural flush.

Blusher

3. Recycle As: Eyeshadow

Recycle unwanted blusher by converting them to eyeshadows. And vice versa, if the eyeshadows are in the correct earthy hues.

4. Recycle As: Cleavage shader

Blusher, especially bronzer, can be applied to really enhance the cleavage and make the bustline appear fuller. Sweep a line of bronzer between breasts with a fluffy brush to accentuate the shadow, and blend.

Brow pencil

5. Recycle As: Eyeliner

Using your brown kohl brow pencil to line your eyes allows for a softer finish. You can go heavier with brown eyeliners without looking severe.

Lipstick

6. Recycle As: Blusher

Lipstick can double as a blusher. Dab the color onto a sponge then apply onto the apple of your cheeks and blend with a fingers before setting with powder. Use lipsticks with shine to make your cheeks really glow.

7. Recycle As: New lip color

You can also create brand-new shades by blending two lip colors together. Layer on the darker shade first, followed by the lighter shade for your custom lip color.

Mascara

8. Recycle As: Instant hair tint

Mascaras that make your sensitive eyes tear, or simply fail to make your lashes lengthen and curl gloriously can be used to cover strands of grey hair temporarily.

9. Recycle As: Lash comb

And keep those old mascara wands – they are useful as lash combs to detangle mascara clumps.

Moisturizer

10. Recycle As: Leave-on hair conditioner

Unwanted moisturizers, especially those with SPF protection, can be used on your hair for extra sun protection and to enhance shine.