Everyday Makeup Routine In Less Than 5 Minutes

My everyday makeup routine takes me less than 5 minutes. I keep my makeup simple and only use the basics for a fast and effortless look.

I’ve never been a huge fan of wearing makeup. Actually, I take that back, there was a phase in middle school/high school when I gobbed it on. But in college, me wearing makeup was a rarity. My uniform was jeans, a summer camp t-shirt, messy bun, bandana, and not a stitch of makeup on. I’d rather sleep than bother with hair and makeup. When I entered the corporate world I would take the time to make sure my hair was presentable (think sock bun vs. messy bun) and wore presentable clothes, but I rarely wore makeup. It took SO long and felt heavy as the day dragged on.

Fast forward to me being a stay-at-home mom. And back to t-shirts and messy buns every day! After a while, I felt like a hot mess. I was changing out of a t-shirt just to put on another t-shirt. And I always looked ready for bed. I realized I felt better, and more productive, on the days that I showered, got dressed, fixed my hair, and put on a bit of makeup. Since I still don’t have much patience for those things, I came up with a solution. I keep my hair relatively short and easy to manage and I spend less than 5 minutes on my face. This everyday makeup routine makes me look a tad more awake and put together without a huge time commitment.

My Everyday Makeup Routine (Less than 5 Minutes)

The Essentials – Skin

In order to knock time off my usual makeup routine, I prioritized what was a necessity for everyday makeup. Using concealer under my eyes and on any red spots or blemishes is a must. I start by putting it on any of my trouble spots and covering up my dark under-eye circles. Currently, I’m using NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Concealer in Fair.

I also like to even out my complexion a bit but, I HATE wearing a full face of foundation. A lightweight tinted moisturizer is my solution. My favorite is the Maybelline Dream BB Fresh with SPF 30 in Light/Medium. It feels hydrating and light but evens out my complexion. Plus, contains SPF, which everyone needs every day.

Everyday Makeup Essentials – Eyes

My eyes are usually the main focus for my everyday makeup. I look permanently tired, so brightening up my skin and eyes is necessary. My eyebrows are very light, so I like to fill them in a bit. I recently discovered eyebrow mascara and I love how quick and easy it is. The difference is subtle but definitely noticeable. I’ve been using NYX Tinted Brow Mascara in Chocolate.

Regular Mascara is an absolute MUST for my everyday makeup routine. Depending on the day I usually rotate between 2 different mascaras. My everyday go-to is NYX Worth the Hype. It adds volume and length, plus it’s waterproof so I don’t have to worry about smudging. If I feel like stepping up my mascara even more I will use Tarte’s Maneater mascara. It really lengthens my lashes and adds a lot of definition. I wear glasses, so a mascara that makes a big impact is more noticeable behind the lenses.

Everyday Makeup Essentials – Lips

The last piece of my everyday makeup routine is a fun lip color. I used to only use Chapstick, but now I love a bright lip every day. Matte liquid lipsticks tend to last the longest, so I prefer them. I have several different matte lipsticks and I’m always trying more.

My favorite budget lipstick is Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink. It lasts for a long time and doesn’t dry out my lips. It’s a little sticky until it fully dries and does rub off a bit though. I also use ColourPop Cosmetics Ultra Blotted Lip and NYX Lip Lingerie, which are both solid matte lip options. My absolute favorite is KVD Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lovecraft. I use it the most frequently. If I’m not in the mood for a bold lip color, then I will use Burt’s Bees tinted lip balm for just a touch of color. Having a little color on my lips elevates my everyday makeup. Plus, I love it.

So really, I have five products that get used 4-5 days a week. Because let’s face it, I still don’t always bother with makeup.

No Need to Set Aside Time for Everyday Makeup

Limiting myself to these five “essentials” is what makes this less than 5-minute everyday makeup routine so quick and easy. I know exactly what I’m reaching for and can quickly fix up my face in next to no time. It’s also cut down on the number of times I do my makeup in the car on the way to dinner or church. I almost always have at least 5 minutes to spare, even if I’m rushing, to do my routine. This means no more makeup melting from being left in the car too long on a hot day or misplacing my makeup bag.

Now that putting on a bit of makeup isn’t such a chore I’m more inclined to do it. This also means that I’m more inclined to run a brush through my hair and put on something other than a holey t-shirt (though I will still always choose leggings!). These things don’t take much time either, so overall I feel more “put together” but also less rushed. Sometimes I catch myself in the mirror and wonder how I became this person that cares about my hair and makeup. Then I realize, I’m the same Ashley who prioritizes more sleep over all else, I just figured out how to cheat the system a bit.

Are you a no-makeup person? Or do you have a routine that involves full-face and hair? I’d love to hear any other cheats you have for looking more “put together” with little to no extra effort!