We’ve all been there — sometimes the idea of smacking that snooze button a few more times is way more enticing than waking up early and putting on a full face. Have no fear — there’s plenty of ways to look like you spent more than just five minutes on your makeup without actually having to.
Reverse contouring
Everyone who’s tried their hand at contouring knows it takes time, and if it’s rushed, it might end up looking unblended and strange. A new trend, called “reverse contouring,” focuses on highlighting instead of using dark, unforgiving powder. Highlighter is a cream or powder based makeup, generally a few shades lighter than your normal skin tone and usually shimmery. Try swiping a bit over the natural high points of your face, like your cheekbones, brow bones and the tip of your nose. Since it’s so easy to blend out, reverse contouring adds definition to your face without the hassle.
Skip the foundation
While it may feel like no face is complete without a good base, there’s other ways to achieve a great look without using foundation. Aim for something a little lighter, like a beauty balm or a color correcting cream — AKA a BB or CC cream. They both give the effect of a smoother, more even complexion, but without the stress of a full face of foundation. For added ease, blend out your cream with your hands. Since these options are more like moisturizers, it’s much easier to use your fingers to apply.
Wake up with make up
Chances are, if you’re scrambling to get ready because of your snooze alarm, you might be a little sleepy. Tiredness tends to manifest around your eyes with dark circles and puffiness — eliminating this makes you look refreshed and ready to face the day. Instead of covering up every blemish you see, smudge a bit of concealer under your eyes. Try patting it around in a triangle shape — if you try to just cover up the darkness, it can accentuate puffiness. For an added pop, dab some light or shimmery eye shadow in the inner corners of your eyes.
Focusing on one part of your face, like a bomb lip color, can help make a morning where you were short on time look like one where you slaved on your face.
Focus on one part of your face
Think about your favorite part of your makeup routine to do, and do it. Whether you can kill a quick winged eyeliner, rock a red lip or fill in your brows to perfection, adding in just one aspect of your normal makeup will make it seem like you’ve spent a lot of time on it. Don’t have a go-to look? Try practicing something you’ve always wanted to work, so when the time comes, you can bust out a wicked smokey eye in a few quick swipes. Brush on some mascara, swipe on some gloss and head out the door!
