5-Minute Makeup Routine for Moms Who Are Always Running Late
Confession time: I’m always running late. As a mom, trying to juggle everything while still getting out the door on time feels like a daily Olympic sport. While I’m working on my time management skills (because let’s face it, being late drives me crazy), there are moments when sacrifices have to be made—like my lengthy makeup routine.
My solution? A 5-minute makeup hack: perfect for those days when I need to look human without spending forever in front of the mirror. It’s my go-to for casual lunch dates, running errands, or when I just need to mask the “overly tired mom” vibe. Because even when time is tight, a little glow-up can go a long way and make you feel good! The best part? Everything i’m linking is available at Sephora or Ulta, so get your points and look good too.
Yes, I know these are two pricey picks, but hear me out—they’re SO worth it. This duo will quickly become your go-to every time you do your makeup. It’s my first step in both quick and full-face routines, prepping and refreshing my skin like nothing else i’ve tried. I start by mixing these two gems together for the ultimate combo of skincare and glow. The Bobbi Brown Face Base is ultra-moisturizing, while the D-Bronzi Drops add just the right touch of warmth and radiance to wake up my tired skin.
If i’m being honest—I’ve had dark circles long before becoming a mom, so mastering how to mask them has been a lifelong skill. And here’s the key: an under-eye brightener is an absolute must. After trying countless products, I’ve found that pot formulas (like this one) offer way better coverage than those in tubes.
I use the shade ‘Impossible Dream,’ and it’s a game-changer. With a concealer brush, I apply it right under my eyes, just like you would with any concealer. It instantly brightens and makes me look like I’ve actually gotten some sleep—so that’s a mom win!
Blush is my secret weapon for looking effortlessly put together—even when I’m not really trying… but still trying, you know what I mean? I use the shade Dusk because it’s light, natural, and works perfectly with my skin tone. What I love most about this product is its smooth formula and buildable color.
Fun fact: this was the first liquid blush I ever bought, and I’m still using the same tube today. Yes, it’s probably expired, but... do I care? Not really. A little goes a long way with this blush, so just dab a small amount, then blend it in for a soft, natural dimension and glow in seconds!
This setting powder is everything. I have a full-size in my makeup drawer and a mini in my purse—because you never know when you’ll need a quick touch-up! The formula is amazing and ultra blurring, and while I’m not totally in love with the shade range, I still make it work. Right now, I use 2 Medium, but it’s a bit too light. I justify it because I usually only apply this under my eyes, and I like that extra brightness anyway.
For this 5-minute routine, I use a big fluffy brush to lightly dust the powder over my face. We’re going for a soft, dewy look here—nothing too heavy. The goal is to keep it fresh and effortless, channeling that "clean girl" vibe. Less is more, and this powder does just the trick!
The secret to making your eyes pop without going overboard? Brown eyeliner. This one from Rare Beauty is my go-to—it’s incredibly creamy and literally the perfect shade of brown. I’ve been gravitating towards brown instead of black lately because it feels more natural and softer.
I like to only apply it just to the outer edge of my top lash line. This trick opens up my eyes and adds a subtle lift without being too bold. If I’m feeling extra, I’ll lightly line my lower lash line (not the waterline) and smudge it with my finger or a brush for a little more depth and definition. Simple, but it makes all the difference, I promise!
Step 6: Urban Decay Brow Blade & NYX Brow Glue
This is my holy grail brow combo—the ride or die. The only downside to the Urban Decay Brow Blade? It doesn’t come with a brow brush, and I like to brush my brows up first to see their natural shape before I fill them in. I lightly fill in the tail with the pencil and use the marker tip to define the front for a natural, hair-like look. This subtle fill keeps them looking polished but not overly done—more “I woke up like this” than full glam.
Now, the NYX Brow Glue? Never leaving my routine. I’ve tried other brow gels, but nothing compares to this one. It holds my brows in place all day (or night) long, and the formula is unbeatable. A little tip: I always do my brows after my powder because if the brow glue isn’t fully dry, the powder can get stuck and leave a white cast. Trust me, it’s a game-changer when you get this step right!
Step 7: Tarte Shape Tape Setting Spray
Setting spray is the secret weapon that ties everything together. It helps melt all your makeup into your skin, giving you that fresh, dewy look without things sliding around throughout the day. I’ve got a few setting sprays in rotation, but this one from Tarte is my current fave. The mister is perfect—super fine and even, making application a breeze. Plus, you get a lot of product for the price, so it’s totally worth it! This step ensures your makeup stays put, so you stay looking good while chasing your kids around.
Mascara is the final touch, but let’s be real—it’s optional. Some days, I skip it entirely because, well, it’s just one more thing to take off at the end of the day. That said, when I do wear it, I always go for brown mascara for that soft, natural finish. It ties everything together without feeling too bold. I like to apply it last, after my setting spray, so it doesn’t get wet and smudge. This one from Covergirl gives me the perfect volume and lift, without being too heavy.
And there you have it—my go-to 5-minute makeup routine that lets me look put together without sacrificing too much time. Whether I’m headed out for a quick errand, a lunch date, or just want to look like I’ve had more sleep than I actually have, this routine is my perfect balance of easy and effective.
These are the products I love, but if you’re not ready to splurge on new stuff, feel free to follow the same steps with the products you already have! It’s all about finding what works for you and enhancing your natural beauty with minimal effort.
