Let’s “face” it, Sis: Getting glammed up every day isn’t always realistic. Heck, we’d be lucky to sneak in a swipe of lipstick some days — let alone a full face. And many of us value our unadorned, natural beauty even more with each birthday. But if you like a little polish before stepping out to the meeting, the movies or even the mailbox, these pro tips and tricks can get you out the door in no time. And the best part is, it’ll look like you made an effort, not that you tried too hard.
1. Push the “powder” button
Mindy Green, a licensed cosmetologist and owner of MG Beauty, suggests using a powder foundation as a quick way to look more polished. After all, the time it takes to blend liquid formulas can slow you down on those busy mornings. “If you think it’s a little too matte, use a makeup setting spray with a dewy finish or a fine mist of water to soften,” Green says.
Two powder foundations to try: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Powder Foundation ($40, Sephora) and Maybelline Super Stay Matte 24HR Hybrid Pressed Powder Foundation ($12, Target)
2. Count on concealer
We love a double-duty moment. Thankfully, concealer has you covered — from brightening your undereye area to acting as a foundation. “To provide foundation and concealer in one step, use an all-in-one concealer pen,” Green suggests. “You can build the coverage on areas you want to conceal and go lighter on areas you want minimal coverage.” While you’re at it, dab a bit of concealer on your eyelids to create an eye shadow base. “[To] keep your shadow on all day and [prevent] it from creasing, lightly dust powder over the concealer on the lid [beforehand],” Green adds.
Two concealer pens to try: M·A·C Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen ($35, Ulta) and Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Correct and Brighten Concealer Duo Stick ($36, Sephora)
3. Get even with eyeliner
Applying liner last minute may seem like a great idea until your hand starts to get a little shaky. But achieving a straight, clean line can be done — even when you’re pressed for time. Just note that pencil liner is usually easier to apply than liquid, making it the perfect fuss-free option. “If you struggle to draw a straight line with pencil liner on your lid, draw dots across the upper lashline, then draw a line through the dots to connect them,” Green advises. “If you prefer a softer line, you can use a cotton swab to smudge it.”
Two pencil eyeliners to try: Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Eyeliner Pencil ($29, Sephora) and e.l.f. Satin Eyeliner Pencil ($3, Target)
4. Fix waterproof woes
We love the staying power of waterproof mascara, but there’s nothing “low maintenance” about scrubbing these stubborn formulas off. Luckily, there’s a way around it. “To make removing waterproof mascara easier, start with a layer of washable mascara, then follow with two coats of waterproof [mascara],” Green suggests. Sure, it’s one extra step, but it could be worth it.
Two mascaras to try: L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Washable Mascara (Ulta, $11) and Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Waterproof Mascara ($33, Sephora)
5. Maximize multipurpose products
To quickly add a pop of color to your lips, eyelids and cheeks, Green suggests trying a makeup stick that can be used all over the face. This saves you the hassle of reaching for 50-’leven products, plus all the different brushes you’d typically use to apply each one.
Two makeup sticks to try: NUDESTIX Nudies Cream Blush All-Over-Face Color ($35, Sephora) and NARS The Multiple Cream Blush, Lip and Eye Stick ($39, Sephora)
