If you’re someone who likes to wear makeup to work (and you want a little more than just tinted moisturizer), this is the perfect time to nail down a go-to routine for busy mornings. Today I’m sharing my five-minute work makeup routine — quick, polished, and realistic — so you can feel put together and still get out the door on time.

You can also find my 3-product routine in this recent Reel I shared over on Instagram!

I’m definitely that girl that lays in bed scrolling Instagram for too long and I like to enjoy my morning coffee on the couch. But, I’ll rush to get ready and eat breakfast in the car. I can typically get ready for work in 30 minutes, even 15-ish minutes at times with my hair curled! I wanted to share my quick five-minute work makeup routine to look presentable at work but that doesn’t take too long in the mornings. If you’re interested in seeing my full coverage makeup routine (think family photos, date nights, or weddings) then check out this video.

WORK MAKEUP ROUTINE

Step 1

I start with the It Cosmetics CC cream. You can read my full and very honest review of it here. I recently switched to the fair shade and mix a little bit of light in it to get a better color match. This specific color-correcting foundation comes in several shades to match a wide variety of skin tones. I love to use this foundation for everyday makeup because it targets multiple needs: it doesn’t require a primer, has skincare benefits, covers SPF, and offers great coverage. I don’t use a foundation brush, but instead, I apply half a pump of this liquid foundation with clean hands. In some cases, applying makeup with clean hands gives the most natural look. I would start with a quarter to half a pump because a little bit of the product goes a long way to give you full coverage.

Next, I conceal under my eyes with this concealer. On my natural skin, I don’t have super dark circles, but I love to brighten up the area under my eyes. Some concealers give me a clogged pore under my eye if they’re too heavy or fragranced, but this one has passed the test for me. It’s thick enough to provide lasting coverage but doesn’t look caked on. I also like to use this concealer on any problem areas for the occasional break out of our blemish.

I add a little definition back into my skin when I apply bronzer with this bronzing cream along my cheekbones and hairline. Then you can just flip it over to apply blush to your cheakbones! I typically use this brush to achieve a natural look.

Step 2

I use the Benefit Gimme Brow (also here) for a quick fix to my super light blonde eyebrows. It gives you color and is very natural on its own, so if you need defined and perfect brows to leave the house you’ll need to use something else in addition to this! When I get ready for a weekend event or blog photos, I typically use this on top of the Anastasia Brow Wiz to get a more defined brow. You can watch my full-faced makeup routine in this video.

Instead of applying eyeshadow, I usually just swipe my concealer along the lid to even them out. Then apply two coats of my holy grail mascara. I usually always have to clean up the mascara on my lids after with a Q-tip. Which is a big reason I don’t bother with eyeshadow most days, especially when in a rush.

Step 3

For a little lip color, finish off the look with a tinted lip balm (I love shade millennial) or I’ll apply my favorite lip balm on top of lip liner. I usually don’t add anything to my lips until I park at work because I normally eat in the car on the way there, ha!

EYE MAKEUP FOR WORK

When applying eye makeup for work, be sure to keep it professional with neutral tones – this has been my go to eyeshadow palette for years! Personally, I like to use natural shades like taupe or light brown for a soft look. You can also add a thin line of brown or black eyeliner along the upper lash line for definition and a subtle pop. Avoid bold or glittery eyeshadows for the office, and remember to blend and keep it natural for a chic and confident look.

HOW TO GET READY FASTER IN THE MORNING:

• Have your makeup products laid out so you’re not digging for what you want. I typically keep the mentioned products out on my desk during the week and put them away on the weekend.
• Once you get your routine down, it’ll get quicker! Save your makeup artist moments and beauty trials to test out new methods like makeup brushing for the weekend, just in case you’re not a fan of something new you tried out.
• Use palettes to save time between opening and switching between multiple products – a lot of makeup can be used in multiple ways (think concealer on your eyes and eyeshadow as liner and in your brows, etc).
• Keep touch-up items in your bag. I don’t start with powder in the morning, but I always keep some in my bag along with a lipgloss or two to touch up after work.

To wrap up, I run my curling iron through my hair, get dressed, and grab a Kind bar as I head out the door. What does your morning routine look like?

Looking for more beauty finds? Check out my favorite beauty finds for spring!SaveSave

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