Hi everyone, do you ever feel like there’s just never enough time in the morning for makeup? Between getting out the door and juggling everyday life, I’ve found that this simple 10-minute makeup routine works perfectly for me. I don’t always wear makeup, but when I do, this is what works best. My mornings are methodically planned — a small breakfast to prepare my daughter for the day ahead, getting her dressed in a cute, comfortable ensemble — and this routine fits seamlessly into that rhythm. It’s not about full glam or perfection. It’s about feeling put together, awake, and like myself, without adding stress to an already busy morning.
A little background on my makeup mindset
I started wearing makeup around the age of 11 or 12, with the guidance of my mum. One thing she always emphasized — and something that has stayed with me — is that subtle is paramount. There was a time when I wore a lot more makeup, but lately I’ve found myself gravitating toward softer, simpler looks. I’m not entirely sure why, but this routine feels very me right now.
Skin first (always)
My skin is very much combination. My forehead tends to be greasy, my nose area is dry, and my forehead can sometimes even be flaky — so it really is all over the place. I also deal with hormonal breakouts, which means heavy products are usually a no-go for me.
To keep things balanced, I cleanse using Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser alongside PanOxyl, which helps calm active spots. In the evenings, when I wash my makeup off, I make sure to use my facial scrubber from Sephora. It really works the cleanser into all the little nooks and crannies, and it’s a good rule of thumb to thoroughly wash your face at the end of the day to remove any grime you may have picked up.
My quick 10 minute makeup routine
1. Hydration is non-negotiable
I always start with Neutrogena Hydro Boost. This was actually first bought for me by my mum as a birthday gift after she saw it advertised in a commercial and thought it would be perfect for my skin. She was right — I’ve been hooked ever since.
I love the texture of this product. You can genuinely feel it penetrating the skin, and if I ever apply a little too much, I simply rub the excess into my hands. It’s lightweight, refreshing, and doesn’t emphasize my breakouts, which is exactly what I need.
Makeup moisturizer
2. Even out the skin
Next, I apply Maybelline Perfector, blending it in with a beauty blender. I love the sponge applicator on this product — it helps give great coverage while still looking natural. I usually stick to fair or light tones, as my skin is quite light. In the summer, I’ll go slightly darker thanks to a natural tan from being out in the sun.
Makeup foundation base
3. Set where needed
I lightly set my face using PUR Pressed Powder and a brush. This is probably the most expensive item in my routine, but it’s one I truly swear by. Not too long ago, I went into Shoppers Drug Mart and a makeup associate recommended it to me. She taught me that a little goes a long way — and she was right. It blends beautifully into the skin and keeps everything looking natural rather than cakey.
Eyes: my main focus
Because I wear glasses, I like to draw attention to my eyes. They’re green, and I’ve found that soft brown and neutral tones complement them perfectly.
I start with a very light cream MAC eyeshadow as my base. I use this specifically because it prevents my eyeshadow from creasing and looking awful throughout the day. With a greasy forehead, my eyelids can also get oily, so this step really helps everything stay in place.
From there:
- A light taupe goes into the crease to define the eye
- A dark brown shade is applied to the outer corners to draw the eyes out
- A shimmery peach sits in the centre of the lid to brighten
- A tiny amount of shimmery white goes on the inner corners to open up the eyes
I generally prefer matte shades overall, as too much shine can sometimes give the impression of greasy skin rather than glow.
makeup eye makeup side look
makeup eye makeup full face
Makeup close eyes with eye makeup
Eyeliner & lashes
I apply black eyeliner close to my lash line, then curl my lashes. Curling is essential for me — wearing glasses means uncurled lashes brush against the lenses, which isn’t ideal.
I finish with the classic pink and black Maybelline mascara. It’s reliable and simple, but if I were truly short on time, mascara is the first step I’d skip.
Makeup second brush application
Makeup almost finished with mascara
Finishing touches
Once everything is done, I spray Maybelline finishing spray and lightly diffuse it with a small kabuki brush. This helps everything melt into the skin and keeps the makeup looking soft and natural.
I do sometimes experiment with contouring, but for a quick routine like this, I usually skip it. Lips are optional — between drinking and constantly licking my lips, anything I apply never lasts long anyway.
Makeup selfie
Mum-proof makeup tips
- Stick to lightweight products that won’t emphasize texture or breakouts
- Focus on one feature (for me, it’s the eyes)
- Choose products you trust — being a creature of habit saves time
- Don’t feel pressure to wear makeup every day
Final thoughts
This routine isn’t about rules or trends — it’s simply what works for me. I don’t wear makeup every day, but when I do, this 10-minute routine helps me feel put together, refreshed, and ready for the day ahead. Subtle, simple, and realistic — just the way I like it.
If you liked this post as much as I enjoyed writing it, you may enjoy one these other posts:
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