This simple makeup routine is perfect for busy mornings, with quick hacks that get you ready in 5 minutes or less. Whether you’ve got 10 minutes or just need to look a little more alive, these tips are total game changers for moms on the go.
Forget the full face of makeup—you just need to throw something on (and fast) so you feel a little more human. I get it! Some days, there’s just no time for a full routine. But what steps actually matter most?
Let me tell you—it is possible to look put together in under 5 minutes. These tips won’t take much time, but they can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re staying home chasing the kids, cleaning the house, or out running errands, there’s something about taking a few minutes for you that can shift your whole mood.
You’re not aiming for full glam—you just want a little confidence boost and to feel more like yourself. These simple makeup hacks are made for you. Minimal steps, quick wins, and real-life tips that actually work.
Ok, right now we’re forgetting about full glam. This is the “I only have 3 to 5 minutes” simple makeup plan. When your toddler is on their third breakfast and your coffee is getting cold, these steps have your back. We’re going for a fresh and awake kind of look—nothing more, nothing less.
This is my go-to simple makeup routine when I’ve got two toddlers in the bathroom with me—one is wanting to be held, the other is asking for another snack, and both are somehow making a giant mess.
I know you can nail this. All you have to do is smooth out your skin, add some life to your cheeks and lips, and define your eyes just enough to look awake. Don’t overthink it. Grab what works and skip the rest.
Start with a simple base: if you don’t have time for foundation, grab a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream (This one is my fave —lightweight, quick to apply, and gives just enough coverage!). They come with both hydration and some coverage, so you can skip two steps. Start to apply around your T-Zone, then blend out towards.
Woke up with a big ol’ under-eye shadow or a red spot? Use a creamy concealer just where you need it. Gently tap it on, and only use a little bit. For more on quick makeup tips, check out this super helpful, easy makeup routine for beginners.
A cream blush and contour stick is going to be your best friend. Apply it on the cheeks and also your eyelids. Blend it with a fluffy brush or your fingers if you want. Quickly apply and go!
Highlighter brightens everything, but don’t feel like you have to have it if you dont have time. If you’ve got one handy, dab it on the tops of your cheekbones. A highlighter can really make a difference in the appearance of your skin if you do decide to apply it!
Brows frame your face, and even on the days when I don’t wear any makeup, I still do my brows and curl my lashes. This just helps you look more awake. Grab a brow gel or an eyebrow pen and fill in the sparse areas. Right now, you're just focusing on a little definition, not perfection.
Adding some mascara definitely makes your eyes look more awake. Even just one coat can be good enough. Go for a good volumizing mascara and do just the top lashes. Forget multiple coats; just do one good application, and you’re done!
Honestly, if I only had 3 to 5 minutes to get ready, I’d probably focus more on my eyes and skip lips altogether. But, in this case, I’d just add a tinted lip balm, lip oil, or a gloss. Stick it in your purse and reapply whenever you need to.
Bonus: If you are using a cream blush stick, you can apply this to your lips too, so your cheeks will match your lips! It’s a super simple trick that looks really nice.
Simple makeup gets even speedier when you prep for it. Having everything organized and in one spot makes a huge difference—especially when you’ve only got five minutes.
Life moves fast, and if you’re scrambling to find your mascara, it’s probably not going to happen. That’s why keeping everything in one place is a total game-changer.
The trick? Keep your basics and favorites in places you’ll actually use them. A bathroom drawer, a makeup bag, or even a high shelf works.
I keep all my makeup in one drawer in the bathroom. It’s not as organized as I’d like, but I know where everything is—and that’s what counts.
Try out the simple everyday makeup routine if you want even more ways to save seconds off your morning makeup routine.
Quick skincare at night = happy skin the next day. Clean, hydrated skin makes makeup go on faster and look better.
If you want something simple to follow, check out my 5 Step Skincare Routine made just for busy moms. Trust me, a little prep the night before really goes a long way.
You squeezed in five minutes—let’s make it count! Here’s how to keep your makeup looking good all day:
And if it fades? Oh well! That probably means you hugged your kids, laughed a little, and lived your life—and that’s way better than a perfect selfie.
You don’t need an hour in the bathroom to feel a little more like yourself. Simple makeup is a form of self-care, and it’s a good thing, so don’t feel guilty about it.
Even a single step—mascara, brows, a little bit of blush—can change your whole mood and help you show up for your day.
You are worth it, and you’re more beautiful than you know.
And just in case no one told you today, you’re doing a great job. Keep it up!!
These are my favorite simple makeup products I actually use when I only have 5 minutes to get ready! I keep them all in one drawer so they are easy to find in the morning.
This post includes the ultimate simple makeup routine you need to get ready fast! Save this post for the next time you're rushing out the door and need a simple makeup routine that actually works.
