Makeup Hacks For Busy Mornings

Mornings can feel like a marathon, right? Between getting the kids ready, preparing for work, and making sure you don’t forget your keys, it’s hard to find a moment to spare for your makeup. But that doesn’t mean you have to leave the house feeling less than your best. Imagine this: getting your makeup done in the time it takes to brew your coffee. Sounds impossible? It’s not!

Prep: Time-Saving Skincare Hacks

Before we dive into makeup, let’s talk about skincare. It doesn’t matter how great your makeup skills are if your skin is dry or unprepared. A well-prepped base will help your makeup go on smoother and last longer. But who has time for a 10-step skincare routine when you’re rushing? Here’s where a few time-saving tricks come in.

1. Skip the Separate Serum and Moisturizer
   Instead of applying multiple products, use a moisturizer that doubles as a serum. Look for ones with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which will keep your skin moisturized without the extra time. A good moisturizer with SPF can also serve as your sunscreen, meaning you’re getting two jobs done in one step!
2. Use a 2-in-1 Primer & Hydrator
   Primers are a great way to create a smooth base for your makeup, but many take a minute or two to set. Save time by choosing a primer that also hydrates your skin. This way, you’re prepping your skin for makeup and giving it some moisture at the same time.

Here’s a quick list of skincare products that can save you time in the morning:

Foundation: Fast & Flawless

Now that your skin is prepped, let’s talk about the foundation. While it’s tempting to reach for a full-coverage foundation when you’re in a rush, this can often lead to too many layers that take forever to blend. Instead, go for products that are lightweight and easy to apply.

1. Skip Full Coverage
   When time is tight, opt for a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream instead of heavy foundation. These products even out your skin tone and give you a natural, dewy look without the need for hours of blending. A light layer is all you need, and it will let your natural beauty shine through.
2. Multi-Task with a Concealer
   If you’re trying to cut down on time, use a high-coverage concealer instead of foundation. Dab it under your eyes to hide dark circles, around your nose for redness, and on any blemishes. It’s a quick fix that covers everything, and you don’t have to worry about the rest of your face. Just a bit of blending with your fingers or a sponge, and you’re good to go.

Eyes: Simple & Stunning

When time is limited, we all know that eye makeup can be one of the trickiest parts of the routine. But don’t worry—there are a few tricks to simplify this process and still make your eyes pop.

1. Use Cream Eyeshadows
   Powder eyeshadows can be a little more complicated to work with when you’re in a hurry, but cream eyeshadows are quick to apply and blend. You can use your fingers to swipe them on in seconds, and they usually last longer, too. Choose neutral tones like bronze, taupe, or soft gold for a natural, polished look that doesn’t require a lot of effort.
2. Quick & Bold Eyeliner
   If you love eyeliner but don’t have time to perfect a winged look, try tightlining your eyes. This technique involves lining your upper waterline with a pencil eyeliner, which makes your lashes appear fuller without the need for heavy liner on your eyelids. It’s fast, effective, and looks great with minimal effort.
3. Mascara: The Finishing Touch
   Mascara is one of those products that can take your look from “meh” to “wow” in seconds. Choose a mascara that adds both volume and length, so you can achieve a full lash look with just a few coats. Skip curling your lashes if you’re really short on time—just a quick swipe of mascara can do wonders.

Brows: Speedy Shaping

Brows can sometimes be a make-or-break element in your makeup routine. But don’t stress! You don’t need to spend an eternity filling them in and shaping them to perfection. Here’s how to streamline your brow routine:

1. Use a Brow Gel
   Forget about pencils or powders that take forever to perfect. Brow gel is your best friend when you’re in a rush. A tinted gel will fill in sparse spots and keep your brows in place all day. Simply brush it through your brows, and you’re good to go!
2. Quick Brow Fix
   If you want to make your brows look more defined without much effort, use a clear brow gel to shape them. It’ll keep your brows looking neat, while a light tint will help make them stand out without extra steps.

Here’s a handy comparison of brow products and how fast they can work for you: