Be Ready in 5: The Ultimate 5-Minute Makeup Routine for Girls on the Go

Let’s face it—some mornings, we just don’t have the luxury of time. Whether you overslept or have a last-minute Zoom call, this quick and easy 5-minute makeup routine will have you looking fresh, awake, and pulled together in no time. Perfect for busy students, working professionals, or anyone who wants to glow without spending 30 minutes in front of the mirror.

Step 1: Tinted Moisturizer or Skin Tint (1 minute)

Start with a lightweight tinted moisturizer or skin tint that evens out your complexion without needing a full foundation routine. Use your fingers to blend for a natural finish. Bonus points if it has SPF!

Recommended: Fenty Eaze Drop, Glossier Skin Tint, or Maybelline Fit Me Tinted Moisturizer.

Step 2: Concealer Where You Need It (30 seconds)

Dot a creamy concealer under your eyes, around your nose, or over blemishes—wherever you need a little extra coverage. Blend quickly with a damp sponge or fingertip.

Recommended: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer.

Step 3: Cream Blush or Lip Tint (45 seconds)

Use a cream blush that doubles as a lip tint to add color to your cheeks and lips in one go. Tap it onto your cheekbones and blend upward for a lifted effect, then dab some on your lips for a natural flush.

Recommended: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch, Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Stick, Tower 28 BeachPlease.

Step 4: Brows and Mascara (1 minute)

Swipe a tinted brow gel through your brows to shape and hold them in place. Follow with a coat or two of mascara to wake up your eyes instantly.

Recommended Brow Gel: Benefit Gimme Brow, e.l.f. Wow Brow.
Recommended Mascara: L’Oreal Telescopic, Maybelline Lash Sensational.

Step 5: Set and Glow (45 seconds)

If you’re oily or want your makeup to last longer, tap a little translucent powder onto your T-zone. Then finish with a spritz of facial mist or dewy setting spray to bring it all together.

Recommended: NYX Dewy Finish Setting Spray, Urban Decay All Nighter Glow.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a full glam routine to look polished. With just a few multipurpose products and five focused minutes, you can enhance your natural beauty and feel confident stepping out the door. Keep your essentials in one makeup bag for easy access, and you’ll always be ready—no matter how chaotic your morning gets.