How to Get Flawless Makeup in Less Than 10 Minutes


By Jessica Matlin


AT HOME: PREP

These products go on fast, require zero precision, and work their magic during your commute.

Quench skin. You know how you crave water in the a.m.? Your skin's desperate for a drink too - especially if you skimped on sleep, which leaves skin parched.

RELATED: 20 Unexpected Ways to Use Aquaphor

Look alive. Rehydrate dry, bloodshot eyes with drops before bringing potentially irritating eye makeup anywhere near them.

Wake up your face. "Liquid foundation reverses the look of tired skin almost instantly," says makeup artist Troy Jensen. Dot it in the center of your face, and blend outward.

Perk up with peach. Coral blush masks dullness, says Jensen. Cream formulas melt into foundation and can be dabbed on as you brush your teeth.

Work with bedhead. "Mist hair with texturizing spray, and throw it into a side braid," says NYC hairstylist Greg Cassese. It looks good in public and sets the scene for a more stylish, work-appropriate look later.

RELATED: How To Make Fake Hair Extensions Look Perfect and Natural


AT WORK: POLISH

A little detailing - done right at your desk - and you're ready to shine at your 10 a.m. staff meeting.

Add dimension. Pat creamy highlighter onto the tops of your cheekbones and lids. It attracts light, hiding dullness and shadows. (Bonus: Cheekbones look higher without a lot of effort.)

RELATED: 3 Ways to Use a Highlighter

Keep it simple and smudgy. Double-ended shadow liners let you create subtle (read: easy) definition with a pencil or shadow-filled sponge tip. Finish with mascara.

Bring out the balm. Busy mornings are all about tinted lip balms - they are quick and comforting and require less precision than lipstick.

Finish your style. Undo the braid, tousle texture with your fingers, and blast roots with dry shampoo for extra volume.

RELATED: 8 Surprising Ways to Use Dry Shampoo

Scent yourself. Keep a fresh, work-friendly fragrance at your desk for days (like this!) when perfuming yourself at home is the last thing on your mind.

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