Here at Team MDC we employ a no-judgment policy. So, if you’ve ever opened your mascara-crusted eyes in a rather, unexpected setting, just know, we’ve all been there. Whether it’s an unplanned slumber party with girlfriends, a date night gone right, or you simply forgot your makeup bag while traveling (nightmare!) we’ve learned a few tips and tricks to help you look your best when you’ve got very little to work with.

1. Tame the Mane

Chances are, you’ve woken up with tangled tresses that look like they’ve been through a blender. If you don’t have any bobby pins or hairbands to throw your hair in a bun or ponytail then you’re going to have to think fast. Peep around in any available medicine cabinet for lotion, pomade or conditioner (used in tiny doses, anything will work here). Emulsify the product in your hands then smooth it over your hair, pulling and twisting pieces for a tousled, wavy look. If you’re seeing volume in odd places, try changing your hair part to cover the pouf. A deep side part is known to cure a multitude of oddities.

2. Remove Last Night’s Remnants

Rocking some raccoon eyes? Unfortunately, much to Taylor Momsen’s dismay, this look is never going to be a good look. To get rid of your rings, search for the gentlest lotion you can find and apply it with a cotton ball or Q-tip as a makeshift makeup remover. To avoid irritation, be careful not to get the lotion too close to your eyes.

3. Smudge Purposefully

Since you couldn’t totally remove last night’s eye makeup with lotion, wet a Q-Tip with water and use it to smudge around your lash line, evenly distributing any leftover eyeliner or eye shadow. The result will look more purposeful than regretful.

4. Add Color

If, like us, you carry your lipstick at all times, here’s the moment to pat yourself on the back. Pucker up and apply the color to your lips, then take a page out of the professional makeup artist book and make your lipstick work double duty as a cream blush. Apply a small amount to the apples of your cheeks and blend well. Two of our favorite lipsticks to double as blush are L’Oréal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Summer Rose and Too Faced La Crème in Marshmallow Bunny.

5. Spritz Away

You may already know this, but we definitely have a thing for some men’s colognes. Don’t be afraid to lightly spritz a guy’s scent before you head out the door—it will smell less masculine on you than your counterpart and leave you feeling fresh.

Ever had to get ready in a less-than-ideal setting? Spill your story below in the comments!

Photos: Thinkstock