UPDATED January 12th, 2018
Whether you are one busy mami or multi-tasking mujer, applying some make-up every day does make one look and, therefore, feel better. In addition to these mami-helpers, you can use skin and eye brighteners, which will make you appear as though you really slept 8 hours.
For those mornings when you hit the snooze button one too many times or spend half an hour hunting down your kid’s homework, here are some products that will help you save time and money, while helping you put your best face forward:
L’Oreal Paris Visible Lift Smooth Absolute
This anti-aging liquid foundation comes in 8 shades. It contains Pro-Retinol A, Vitamin E, elastin, and collagen to improve the quality of your skin. I used the Natural Beige tone, which blended well with my skin color. Keep in mind that, to look natural, foundation should match the color of the skin on your jawbone.
It has a practical brush applicator so you don’t have to resort to sponges or additional brushes. You need to twist the cap to dispense the foundation on the brush and apply with small strokes until it is well blended.
Tip: Make sure very little foundation is on the brush. By the time you think it’s enough, it may be too much. Apply as you would with any makeup brush and even out with your fingers if necessary.
It has SPF 17, which is an added bonus, and the price is $15.95 for 0.85 fl oz.
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Creamstick
Formulated with natural ingredients and fruit pigments, this chubby pencil is lipliner and lipstick in one. It has a velvety consistency and feels luxurious. It doesn’t feather and lasts a while, without drying out your pout. You will appreciate the time saver of lining your lips and then filling them out with the same pencil. Available in three shades: Naked Berry, Perfect Naked Mauve and Perfect Pink. I use Perfect Naked Mauve and love it.
The price is $15 for one creamstick.
Bye Bye Pores HD Silk Micropowder
This is a one-tone-for-all finishing powder by It Cosmetics that minimizes pores and, worn over foundation, helps set it. You can also apply it on its own, over your regular moisturizer to even out your skin tone. Throw it in your handbag for touch ups throughout the day, without having to look in the mirror.
It also has anti-aging properties thanks to vitamins and antioxidants. Paraben and talc free for the eco-friendly mami. The price is $24.
L’Oreal Paris One Sweep EyeShadow and Blush
Because of the unique applicator, the eye shadow can literally be applied in one sweep. The lighter tone will highlight your browbone, the medium tone will contour, and the darker color will line your eyes. However, it takes a little planning before you actually accomplish this.
The first time you will need to make sure you have the applicator pointing in the right direction when you swipe it on the eye shadow itself and then on your eyelids. You can use the tip of the applicator to apply more of the darker shade as needed or to line your upper lids, for example.
I tried the smoky eye tones, but you can choose from several palettes based on your eye color. When you have more time, just use your regular eye brushes for the exact look you want.
Price: $9.95 for 0.09 oz.
The sculpting blush is a duo set that includes a contour sculpting powder. The applicator is designed to enhance your cheeks and contour the cheekbones, all in one sweep. It’s easy to use (even easier than the eye shadow) and it blends well. Price: $12.95 for 0.30 oz.
Maybelline Great Lash BIG Mascara
At around $6, Maybelline is still the most affordable pick for mascara that goes on easily in next to no time, and makes your lashes look lush without having to layer it on. Saves time and a lot of money! I’ve tested far more expensive mascaras, but always end up going back to Maybelline. If you have time for only one thing in the morning, I suggest you do your eyelashes. You’ll immediately look more awake!