Motherhood has a way of turning beauty routines upside down. Those leisurely mornings spent blending eyeshadows and perfecting lip liner? A distant memory. But here’s what I’ve learned: looking put-together doesn’t require hours in front of the mirror—just a few strategic products that deliver maximum impact with minimal effort.
This summer, I’ve perfected a five-minute makeup routine that makes me feel like myself again, even on four hours of sleep. The secret? Lightweight, multitasking formulas that create a fresh-faced glow without the fuss. Bonus: nearly everything comes from Nordstrom, making restocks as easy as naptime online shopping.
Whether you’re a new mom, constantly on the go, or just prefer a low-maintenance approach to beauty, this routine is your ticket to looking awake, polished, and ready for anything—from playground duty to date night.
Step 1: The 30-Second Base
Skin Tint with SPF
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
This miracle worker combines dewy coverage, sun protection, and skincare in one step. The hyaluronic acid plumps my skin while the sheer tint evens out redness—perfect for tired mom skin. I blend it in with my fingers (no tools needed) for a natural finish.
Brightening Concealer
YSL Touche Éclat
My forever favorite for disguising dark circles. The lightweight formula brightens without creasing, and the pen applicator makes touch-ups a breeze.
Step 2: Effortless Eye Definition
One-and-Done Shadow
Tom Ford Cream Color for Eyes
A single swipe of this creamy shadow adds subtle dimension. I pat “Platinum” onto my lids with my ring finger—no brush required.
Foolproof Liner
Tom Ford Eye Defining Pen
This liquid liner glides on smoothly for a quick, precise line. The tapered tip makes winged liner possible, even with a toddler tugging at my leg.
Brow Magic
Anastasia Brow Wiz + Clear Brow Gel
The micro pencil fills in sparse areas in seconds, while the gel sets everything in place for a laminated effect.
Lash Boost
Lancôme Cils Booster XL Primer + Monsieur Big Mascara
The primer adds volume, and the mascara gives dramatic length without clumping. Together, they make my lashes look like I actually got enough sleep.
Step 3: The Wake-Up Trick
Cream Contour
Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick
I use a shade deeper than my skin tone to softly define my cheekbones. Cream blends faster than powder and looks more natural in daylight.
Cheek & Lip Tint
Ilia Multi-Stick in “Ladybird”
This rosy nude adds a healthy flush to cheeks and lips. The cream-to-powder finish lasts through snack time and baby kisses.
Step 4: The Finishing Touch
Long-Wear Lips
Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil + Anastasia Liquid Lipstick
I line and fill my lips with the pencil for all-day color, then top with a comfortable matte liquid lipstick that won’t smudge.
The Tools That Make It Possible
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Brush Set
These brushes are game-changers for rushed mornings. The angled face brush blends cream products seamlessly, while the shadow brush packs on color without fallout.
Why This Routine Works
- Multitasking Products: Fewer steps = less time
- Cream Formulas: Blend quickly and mimic natural skin texture
- Neutral Palette: Everything complements everything else—no thinking required
Pro Tip: Keep your staples in a small pouch for on-the-go touch-ups. (Mine lives in the diaper bag.)
Motherhood may have shortened my beauty routine, but it hasn’t dimmed my glow. With these trusty products, I can face the day feeling polished—even if my hair’s in a mom bun and my shirt has mysterious stains.
What’s your go-to quick makeup trick? Share your favorites below!
