The Perfect 5-Minute Makeup Routine

Makeup Lessons

16 Jun

A 5-Minute Routine: Is It Even Possible? Absolutely Yes!

Let me introduce you to a 5-minute makeup routine with only seven products!

If you like to wear makeup but are short on time, you will be pleased to know that it really is possible to do your makeup in 5 minutes. And to make it look good and not just a rushed job. It simply comes down to being smart about it and only picking the key products you need.

Why overcomplicate your routine?

Makeup should always start with your skincare before you begin to think about popping your foundation to ensure you have cleansed and moisturised to the very minimum. This will help with having a good clean base to start with, and it will help your products to apply well and look great. Unless you have oily or combination skin, you will be able to skip the primer, so there is one less product to think about.

The following steps are super quick and easy, so let's dive in:

Step 1: Foundation

Foundation does not necessarily need to be used all over your face; you could just place the product where you want the most coverage. My best piece of advice is to start in the centre of your face and, with your chosen method of application (brush, fingers, or sponge), blend the product out towards your hairline.

The majority of the product will be in the centre of the face, where we usually see the most redness and discoloration. By the time you get to the hairline, there will be minimal product left, so it is perfect if you do not want to fully cover up with foundation.

If you want even coverage across the face and want a quick application, grab a buffing brush and blend the product in circular motions across your whole face, ensuring the foundation is thoroughly blended into the skin.

Step 2: Concealer

Grab a concealer for corrections and to cover dark undereyes. You may find your foundation hasn't quite fully covered blemishes or dark circles, so you will need a little extra help from the concealer. It is better to do minor cover-ups with concealer than go back in with more foundation, and the finished look will appear too heavy.

If you really feel pushed for time, you could skip the first step of using foundation and just use your concealer as a base in areas where you would like the most coverage. Concealer works really well with the warmth of your fingers; alternately, you could use a sponge or small brush to push the product onto the skin; avoid swiping motions as you will disturb any foundation underneath.

Step 3: Multi-Cream Cheek/Lip

Grab a product that is designed to be used for both the lips and cheeks. This is not only a time saver but will also help your makeup look in tune; you could even swipe a small amount through your eye socket. Tap the product onto your cheekbones with your fingers, making sure to blend it into the base, then apply a slick of colour to your lips. Fingers work best with a cream product, as the warmth helps them blend into the skin better.

Step 4: Cream Eyeshadow

stretched for time, but really want something in your eyes? Grab a cream eyeshadow and blend it across the lids with your finger. One or two swipes and you are done; there is no need to worry about how long it is going to take you to blend powder eyeshadows.

Step 5: Mascara

Pop a couple of coats of mascara on your lashes to give your eyes definition and bring them to life.

Step 6: Brows

If you fancy a little bit of definition on the brows but don't have time to pencil them in, a tinted brow gel is going to be your new best friend! You can pick up some brow gels that have fibres in the formula if you suffer from sparse brows. The fibres will attach themselves to your existing hair, which will add fullness to the brow. Alternatively, you can skip this step altogether and treat yourself to a brow tint that will last between 4-6 weeks.

Step 7: Powder

The powder is only necessary if you struggle to get your makeup to last all day or have oily or combination skin. Only apply where needed, use a small amount, and press it into your skin with a brush; less is more!

A little extra bonus: if you are looking to wear your makeup from day to night or you really struggle to get anything to last on your skin, grab yourself a setting spray and spritz it 3–4 times across your face to set everything into place.

Top product recommendations

If you would like a bit of help finding good products to use, here is a list of makeup I would highly recommend. If you shop at Look Fantastic, you can get 20% off most products using LFTFNICOLALOUISE.

*Affiliate links

Foundation:

Normal Skin - Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk

Oily Skin - Bobbi Brow Skin Finish

Combination Skin - YSL Touche Eclat

Dry Skin - NARS Natural Radiant

Let me introduce myself!

I am Nicola! I started my business with one goal in mind, to help other women feel good about themselves and confident in their skin.

I have always been a firm believer in the idea that you should not hide your natural beauty. Makeup should be used to enhance what you have and the features you love. You will find me creating beautiful looks for brides-to-be and providing one-on-one makeup lessons.

My signature style is natural, healthy-looking skin.

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