Over the last year, people from all walks of life and industries have experienced very difficult circumstances in one way or another. This is especially true for those of us in the beauty industry. Personal care services have been shut down in the Toronto area for over 300 days during this time, and it’s no secret that the industry is hurting.
For many people, a morning makeup routine has been a thing of the past ever since Covid-19 started. Working from home has meant that a bare face, pyjamas, and a messy bun are the new workday norm. But with companies slowly getting back to the office, that’s about to change. Yep, it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll save time in the morning and still look your best at the office!
Here are my top 7 ways to save time on your makeup before work:
HAVE A GOOD SKINCARE ROUTINE
Creating a quick makeup routine starts with a great skincare routine (especially the night before). If you’re taking care of your skin, you won’t have to worry about covering up as much. Take the time to practice a skincare routine every evening that will leave you with fresh and glowing skin in the morning. This should include a face wash, toner, moisturizer, eye cream, serums, a lip mask, and any other products that you know will leave your skin feeling its best in the morning.
USE A TINTED MOISTURIZER
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good foundation! But if you’re in a hurry, it’s best to use a tinted moisturizer like a BB or CC cream that can both moisturize and provide coverage. A great thing about tinted moisturizer is that you can also apply it with your hands for a super fast application. Ensure that it also has SPF, so you’re protected if you didn’t have time to apply any sunscreen!
GET A LASH TINT AND LIFT
Having your lashes tinted and lifted could save you a huge amount of time by skipping mascara. Yes, mascara makes a big difference, but it can be time-consuming if you’re running late, and you also risk making a mistake. To avoid any messy mascara accidents when you’re in a rush, opt for a lash appointment that you only need to do every few weeks.
GET A BROW LAMINATION SERVICE AND TINT
Tinted and laminated brows can be a huge time-saver! Lamination gives the illusion of a more lifted eye, and the darker brow hair will look much fuller. This combination means you could completely skip the brow step in your daily routine and save some major time.
USE ONLY THE PRODUCTS YOU NEED
For a very quick routine, I recommend only using products that you really need. I recommend your base (tinted moisturizer), a concealer, brow pencil, mascara, a bronzer or contour, and a blush. While you might be tempted to use highlighter, liquid eyeliner, and additional products, it’s best to keep it simple to avoid spending any more time than you need to on each application.
SKIP DARK LIPSTICKS
A red lipstick can be really beautiful, but it’s best to skip it if you’re in a rush. Instead, use a light shade of lip balm or lipstick that also moisturizes so that you can avoid any mistakes and have hydrated lips all day long.
USE MULTI-PURPOSE CREAM PRODUCTS
You don’t need 12 different products to create a beautiful look. Many brands have come out with stick products that are multi-purpose and create a flawless look. For example, you can use a blush as lipstick and a bronzer as eyeshadow. It’s all about finding the right shades that can be used for different areas of the face. I also recommend using cream products because they can be quickly blended into the skin with your fingers.
The bottom line is that you’re just trying to create a quick and fresh makeup look. Focus on products that you know and love (this is not the time to try out a new mascara or brow pomade). Using go-to products that you know will work for your skin and enhance your natural beauty ensures that you don’t spend any more time than you need to on your makeup routine.
And remember, you can always throw your favourite products in your purse if you need to freshen up throughout the day!
WORDS & PHOTOS: JULIA DANTAS
