My Five Minute Makeup Routine
We’ve all had those mornings where we’re rushing to get ready for work and all of a sudden it’s 7:45 am, you need to leave by 8, you still haven’t put on makeup and your hair is a rats nest. Trust me, I’ve been there. Often.
So how can you get out the door in time for your morning meeting while still looking polished and presentable? The key is easy, bendable makeup that can be applied quickly (and in the car if we’re being honest) with no brushes or blending required. Here’s what works for me:
Tinted Moisturizer - I look for a good tinted moisturizer that I can apply in 30 seconds with my fingers. Right now, my go-to is the Milk Makeup Sunshine Skin Tint (I use the color Honey). I actually prefer to blend this formula in with my fingers versus a beautyblender, even when I have I have endless free time to get ready. It makes your skin look even and dewy with that lit-from-within glow. The packaging makes it easy and mess-free to throw in my bag for later touch ups and it has SPF 15!
Concealer - For my everyday look, I use the Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer (in Custard). It’s a cult favorite, always looks great and hides my perpetual dark circles. If I do have an extra minute to spare, I use a beautyblender to blend it in. But fingers will also work in a pinch.
Blush - I’ve been obsessed with Glossier’s Cloud Paint for years. It’s hands-down my favorite blush of all time. It’s literally impossible to mess up application. The gel-cream formula blends in so easily and leaves a pretty, natural looking flush. My favorite color is Beam!
Highlighter - Highlighter can instantly make you look hydrated, like you got a full 8 hours of sleep and just alive. The Glossier Haloscope Highlighter is my favorite for everyday use and can be applied in 15 seconds. It’s an amazing dupe for the RMS Living Luminizer at a fraction of the price. Just sweep it on the bridge of your nose and above your cheekbones, blend with your fingers and you’re good to go.
Eyeshadow - Ok, this is a step you can skip if you’re in a crunch. But worthwhile if you have the time. The Supergoop Shimmershade cream eyeshadow adds a subtle wash of color across your lids and has SPF 30 to keep you protected. It’s buildable too, so you can layer it for a more dramatic look when you’re going out. I always get compliments that my eyes look pretty and bright whenever I use it.
Mascara - If you have absolutely no time to get out the door, mascara is the one step you should use. Mascara instantly makes you look more awake and put together. Great eyelashes can hide the fact that you forgot concealer. Benefit Roller Lash Mascara lifts and lengthens your lashes and won’t flake off by the time you reach happy hour.
Now that your face looks fresh and ready to take on the day, what can you do with your hair that takes literally no time, effort or product? Take a cue from Meghan Markle and go with a low bun. Just run a brush through your hair, pull it back to a low bun and secure with a chic hair tie. Then pull through some pieces in the front and voila! An easy, effortless look that gets you out the door in no time.