Between school, extra-curriculars and everything else in between, there is hardly any time to get in a makeup routine. Usually, you end up rolling out of bed, throwing on an extra large tshirt and heading to class sans-makeup. But have no fear! We have the perfect quick makeup routine so that you can look and feel great in a pinch.
1. Primer
Hydrated skin will keep your face smooth and radiant, letting your makeup go on smoothly. Find a primer or facial moisturizer that works well with your skin and the first step to a flawless face is complete. Try Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Moisture, Aveeno’s Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer, or Smashbox’s Photo Finish primer.
2. BB cream
This is often underestimated because it doesn’t give you the full and thick coverage a heavy foundation would. Luckily, this isn’t a photoshoot, it’s class. BB cream gives you just enough coverage without the cake-y feeling. I’s light so it’s perfect for all day wear, especially when you’re walking across campus in the heat. Just apply it evenly across your face with a brush or sponge. Check put MAC’s Prep and Prime BB Beauty Balm or Maybelline’s Dream Fresh BB Cream.
3. Powder
Powder and BB cream? Yes. Even though this doesn’t sound simple, you only need a light layer of powder to go over your BB cream just so your makeup is locked in and shine free. It would be tragic if the cute guy sitting next to you had to be the one to let you know your eyeliner was at your cheek bone (I don’t think that is what they mean when they say “highlight and contour”). MAC’s Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation or Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder is great for this step.
4. Blush or Bronzer
You should definitely have some dimension to your face. If you choose bronzer over blush, try to apply it lightly under your cheek bones. Let us repeat, lightly, under your cheek bones. Some might be a little intimidated by blush or bronzer, but if you find the right shade and practice applying it, you’ll never want to walk out the door without it. Both Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Bronzer and Nyx Baked Blush get the job well.
5. Light Colored Eyeshadow
A minimal eyeshadow can do wonders. There aren’t many that wake up looking bright, happy, and refreshed (except BeyoncĂ© of course), so a little eyeshadow can make your eyes pop. A matte (no shimmer), light cream colored eyeshadow can give you the appearance that you actually did wake up like that. We love Urban Decay’s eyeshadow in Foxy and Nyx’s Nude Matte eyeshadow in Kiss the Day.
6. Eyeliner
This step is optional. It’s all about how you feel and what you’re comfortable with. Minimal application on your top lash line can make your eyelashes appear darker and thicker. If you do choose to follow this step, use a liquid liner pen. They are easy to use and stay in place all day. Try Kat Von D’s Ink Liner or Nyx’s Super Skinny Eye Marker.
7. Mascara
Mascara is a miracle worker. If your eyelashes aren’t naturally thick (no worries, a lot of people’s aren’t) adding mascara is your game changer. Supposedly, the brand and type of mascara you purchase doesn’t really matter, just as long as you’re picking the right brush for you–find your perfect match here. Check out the really popular Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara or Tarte’s Tartiest Lash Paint.
8. Lip ANYTHING
You don’t need Kylie Jenner’s Lip Kit to have great looking lips. Lips are a beautiful feature and it’s important to not to forget about them. Even if all you do is add a tinted lip balm on your way out of the door, don’t skip this step. Lip products will help improve your morning appearance tremendously. We love Clinique’s Chubby Stick or Nyx’s Ombre Lip Duo.
They say if you look like you’re ready to conquer the world, you probably will. But don’t forget that your natual face IS just as beautiful with or without makeup. Do whatever works best for you, boo.