Some mornings I have the time and energy to do a full makeup routine, but most days I just want something quick that still makes me look a little more awake and put together.

Between work, errands, and everything else that fills up the day, I’ve learned that a simple routine with a few products I really like works much better than trying to do a full face of makeup every morning.

Over time I’ve settled into a five minute routine that gives my skin a fresh, natural look without feeling heavy or complicated.

I’m definitely someone who prefers simple makeup. I like products that enhance my skin rather than cover it up.

These are the products I reach for most mornings when I want to look a little more polished without spending a lot of time getting ready.

Step 1: Start With a Good Skin Prep

The first thing I put on is Perricone MD Deep Crease Serum.

This has quietly become one of the products I use every single day because my skin just feels better when I use it. It helps smooth my skin and keeps it looking more hydrated.

Over time I’ve also noticed that it helps soften the appearance of deeper lines.

I apply a small amount across my face and let it absorb before moving on to the rest of my routine.

It’s one of those products that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, but it makes your skin look healthier and smoother before you even add makeup.

Step 2: A Primer That Blurs and Hydrates

Next I use TULA Skin Care Face Filter Blurring and Moisturizing Primer.

This product makes a noticeable difference in how smooth my skin looks. It helps even out the appearance of skin tone and redness while giving my skin a hydrated base before I add anything else.

Some days when I’m really keeping things simple I could almost stop here because it gives a subtle blurred effect that already looks better than bare skin.

It’s a great step if you want your makeup to go on smoother and last longer without looking heavy.

Step 3: Light Coverage With Tinted Moisturizer

After the primer I apply Perricone MD Tinted Moisturizer.

I prefer tinted moisturizer instead of a heavier foundation because it evens out my skin tone without feeling like I’m wearing a lot of makeup.

It gives just enough coverage to smooth things out while still looking natural.

For everyday wear this step usually gives me exactly the amount of coverage I want without looking overdone.

Step 4: A Little Glow With Miracle Balm

If I want a little extra glow, I use Jones Road Miracle Balm in Happy Hour.

Sometimes I just tap a small amount onto my cheeks to give a little color and shine. Other days I’ll use a light layer across my face to give my skin a soft glow.

It’s also great for highlighting certain areas. I like to dab a little on my forehead, the bridge of my nose, and the tops of my cheekbones when I want that extra healthy shimmer.

It’s one of those products that can be used in several ways depending on how much you apply.

Step 5: Mascara to Open Up My Eyes

Most days I keep my eye makeup very simple and just use mascara.

My go to is Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara because it adds both length and volume without needing a lot of effort.

One thing I really like about this mascara is the traditional bristle brush instead of the rubber or plastic brushes that many mascaras use now.

In my opinion the bristle brush helps separate lashes better and prevents the clumping that sometimes happens with rubber applicators.

The brush grabs the lashes and coats them evenly, making it easy to build volume while still keeping the lashes separated.

Even one coat makes my eyes look more awake, which is why this is the one eye product I rarely skip.

Step 6: A Quick Lip Balm to Finish

The last step is something simple on my lips.

I usually use Summer Fridays Tinted Lip Butter Balm.

It gives a soft tint and feels really moisturizing while adding a little shine without feeling sticky.

It’s one of those easy finishing steps that pulls everything together without feeling like you’re wearing a lot of makeup.

Why a 5 Minute Makeup Routine Actually Works

The older I get, the more I realize that makeup doesn’t have to be complicated to look good.

A few products that enhance your natural skin can make you feel more polished without spending a lot of time in front of the mirror.

This routine takes about five minutes and it’s the one I reach for most mornings when I want something quick, fresh, and easy.

Sometimes the best routines are the ones simple enough that you’ll actually stick with them.

Shop My 5 Minute Makeup Routine

If you want to recreate this routine, here are the exact products I use.

• Perricone MD Deep Crease Serum

• TULA Skin Care Face Filter Blurring and Moisturizing Primer

• Perricone MD Tinted Moisturizer

• Jones Road Miracle Balm in Happy Hour

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Volumizing Mascara

• Summer Fridays Tinted Lip Butter Balm

These are the products I reach for when I want something quick, natural, and easy that still makes me feel put together.