Mornings in my house are a bit of a circus. I mean, does anyone else’s toddler think 6 AM is a perfectly acceptable time to have a dance party in the living room? No? Just me? Okay, cool. So when I say I’m “squeezing in” a makeup routine, I mean I have exactly 10 minutes—maybe 15 if I’m lucky, and that’s assuming my 3-year-old is content with just one pancake and not 14.
If you’ve ever had to juggle the chaos of getting yourself and your little ones ready for the day, you know that your morning makeup routine isn’t about perfection; it’s about survival. But here’s the thing: even if it’s rushed, there are a few products I love, love, love, that make me feel like I’m not running on 2 hours of sleep and a prayer.
First things first: coffee. If I had a dollar for every time I heard a mom say “I need my coffee before I can do anything,” I’d have enough for a full spa day. But seriously, you need that caffeine jolt just to get the blood flowing. Once it’s in hand, I’m ready to go.
Now, I’ll be honest, I could probably write a whole novel on the different ways makeup can be done—eyeshadow, contouring, lashes, setting sprays, all that good stuff—but ain’t nobody got time for that. My 3-step routine is all about quick, easy, and effective. And if I’m being totally real with you, half the time my makeup is finished in the bathroom while I’m brushing my teeth… or while my daughter’s throwing her breakfast at the dog. Mom life, am I right? Let’s give it up for Eileen at the Fort Lauderdale Mom Blog for these great makeup tips.
Step one: Tinted Moisturizer or BB Cream. I’m not fancy enough for foundation on a regular day. I just need something that evens out my skin tone without making me look like I tried too hard. I love the stuff that’s basically skincare in a bottle—SPF, hydration, a hint of coverage. I slap it on with my fingers (sometimes with a kid trying to “help”) and boom, I’ve got a fresh face.
Step two: Mascara. This one’s a must. Like, if I don’t have mascara on, do I even exist? I always go for a lengthening formula because my lashes are the definition of “barely there.” You’ll never catch me with those thick, full lashes (unless I’ve had a nap, in which case, miracles happen). Mascara’s a game-changer, though—just a few coats, and suddenly my eyes look awake and ready to handle the chaos of the day.
Step three: Lip balm with a little tint. Call it lazy, but I’m obsessed with a tinted lip balm that makes my lips look like I’ve had a nap and a smoothie all in one. I’m not into full-on lipstick most days because that’s just asking for trouble with my toddler’s sticky hands. But a little color and moisture? That’s all I need.
And that’s it. I don’t have the luxury of a 30-minute beauty routine, and honestly, who’s got the time for that? But this simple routine makes me feel like I can take on the day. I’m not wearing a full face of makeup, but I’m definitely not scaring anyone either. And let’s be real: on days when I’ve really hit the snooze button too many times, I’m just thankful for that first sip of coffee and the fact that my kids are fed, dressed, and somehow still alive.
So, fellow moms, if you’re looking for a routine that gets you looking and feeling like you’re on top of it all—without spending 45 minutes in front of the mirror—this is your vibe. Keep it simple, keep it real, and most importantly, don’t forget the coffee.