Makeup How-To: Snappy in 7!

Whether you like to hit the snooze button, you’re a busy mama, or you’re always on the go and want a quick, easy makeup routine, here is what I recommend.

This simple routine follows the belief that by treating our skin well, we will have a better canvas to work with when it comes to applying makeup.

1. First, I like to start with foundation primer, as it bridges the gap from skin care to makeup. A lot of people skip this step, and it's totally up to you, but I have found with clients and myself that a primer is key for both maintaining the benefits of your morning skin care routine throughout the day and creating a smooth surface for makeup to adhere to. Think of the primer as an invisible barrier between your skin and the makeup. My favorite primer for the past several years is the Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer, which leaves my skin smooth, is SPF-15, and has just enough oil control for my T-zone. Some other brands with good primers include Smashbox, Laura Mercier, Murad, and Stila. Many brands have primers for various skin needs (e.g. color correcting, mattifying, hydrating, SPF, radiance, etc.), so take time to investigate which one is right for you. Also, Nordstrom, Ulta, and Sephora will often carry mini product sizes you can purchase and try for a few weeks before you commit to a larger size.
2. Applying foundation, BB cream, CC cream, or tinted moisturizer is an optional step if you want to even out your complexion or if you need quick cover and run product (I prefer anything I can apply with fingertips or a sponge). My favorites here are Cover FX (I even wore this on my wedding day!), Hourglass foundation, and Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer. Beauty blenders or triangle sponges are great for application, but in all honesty, my fingertips are the best and easiest solution. Plus, this method ensures that I waste less product!
3. If you are looking to cover dark circles, pimples, or redness, reach for concealer instead of a foundation. We often think it's best to pack on the foundation, but there are many times concealer may be enough (well, that and some coffee of course). When placing concealer under your eyes, only apply it where you have darkness. You may not need to add a full half moon of concealer. Typically, it is just needed in the inner bottom corner of the undereye area. Pat the concealer gently with your ring finger or a makeup brush. If in a pinch, glide a bit on your eye lid for a smooth, more awake look. Then conceal any other spots or pimples on the remainder of your skin with a brush or your fingertip. My favorites are Tarte’s concealer for use under the eye and Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage for everywhere else. If you use a brush, a small synthetic brush is best.
4. A good cream blush will wake up any complexion, and while it is often skipped, blush can make you look more youthful and well-rested (sign me up!). To apply, smile and apply your blush to the round area of your cheeks (these are called apples). I recommend Lollitint by Benefit, Calypso Coral by Bobbi Brown, or Color Pinch Cream Blusher by Beautycounter. Just dab and blend. And the best part? All three options can be used on your lips too! Hello, multitasker!
5. Set it and forget it! Set your skin with a translucent powder and puff. I recommend The Puff Translucent Setting Powder by Laura Mercier, or powders from Makeup Forever or IT Cosmetics. If using The Puff, simply tip the powder into the lid and press it into your skin. You won't need much, but then you're set!

Now that your skin is smooth rocking, let's tackle a couple places to pop!

6. For eyes: Try the Caviar Stick by Laura Mercier (Rose Gold is a great one!). Simply smudge the stick all over your eyelid and blend with your fingertip. Add a swift coat of mascara and you're done!
7. For lips: always keep your lips hydrated (I recommend Burt's Bees), then glide on a quick lip color. I love the Butter London lip crayons as they are three-in-one products (pencil, lipstick, and gloss). Their top-selling shade is Teddy Boy, but Mum’s The Word, Ruby Murray, and Toff are all good to have on hand. They also have a built-in sharpener in the lid, so you never have to search for yours if your crayon break