Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels
Makeup can actually be really tricky to work out – no matter what your favorite YouTube tutorials might tell you. No one is born knowing how to flick a perfect cat eye or contour flawlessly, it all comes from trying and testing your own methods and products until you figure out a way that works for you. Now, the morning routine can be pretty unforgiving on picture-perfect makeup looks. In fact, sometimes it’s so cruel that you find yourself panicked and doing your beauty on the bus or train – so, you need a calculated and precise method to make it as quick and painless as possible. Here is a streamlined and exact makeup routine to get you out the door and looking fabulous in a matter of minutes…
Prep and Prime
First things first, you need to prime your base. Skincare is incredible both for the condition of your skin long term and for the longevity of your makeup throughout the day. Wash your face with a zingy cleanser, tone if that’s your thing, and layer on a creamy moisturiser with a high SPF for protection. If you have oily, combination or acne-prone skin, you might want to use a primer with silicones and calming ingredients in it – this will stop your concealing or foundation from slipping. For dry, mature or sensitive skin, opt for a glowy primer to liven you up a little.
Foundation
Foundation is not a total essential, but it is great for creating an even base for the rest of your face. If you like to use foundation, apply with a synthetic brush in circular motions around your face, starting from inwards and moving outwards. Go for a tinted moisturizer for lighter coverage, you can apply this with your hands.
Dot Conceal
Dot concealing is taking a tiny brush, one that you might use for eyeliner, and dotting concealer on any blemishes and unwanted marks. Of course, this step is only for those who feel they need that extra coverage.
Apply Under-Eye Concealer
No matter how much makeup you like to wear day to day, under-eye concealer is always going to make you look brighter. Swipe a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your skin tone for a beautifully fresh effect.
Fill in Brows
Your brows frame your face, so it’s worth putting in some time to make them look as groomed and neat as possible. Use a tinted brow gel if you’re in a hurry, this will brush them in place and add some natural color. If you like to fill them in a little more, add a pencil or powder and brush through with a spoolie.
Apply Blush, Contour or Highlighter
Pick your poison here people! Whether you like a natural flush of cream blush, you’re a contour queen or you like that extra kick of glow from a highlighter, this is the time to add it.
Set with Powder or Spray
Once your face products are in place, you can get set! The powder is great for mattifying and keeping your makeup in place all day long. If you prefer to keep it fresher, a setting spray will hold down the fort without dulling down your glow.
Add Eyeshadow and Liner
Next, liner and shadow. This step rests on how much effort you like to put in every day. Add a subtle nude shimmer and a soft brown pencil liner for a made-up yet natural look.
Slick on Mascara
Layer on your favorite brown or black mascara.
Finish with Lips
Finally, the lips! Swipe on your favorite lipstick, stain, gloss or balm to tie you’re the whole look together.
And with that, you’re done! Head out the door feeling fresh and flawless, with plenty of time to spare!