A handful of products, applied in the right order, is all most everyday looks need.
Quick look
- Start with skincare: moisturiser and, in the daytime, sunscreen.
- Focus on the few steps that make the most difference to you, such as concealer, brows and mascara.
- Cream and multi-use products are quick to apply with your fingers.
- Keep a two-minute version for rushed days.
Everyday makeup doesn’t need to be complicated. The aim is to look like yourself, just a little more awake, in about the time it takes the kettle to boil.
Prep first
Start with clean, moisturised skin. In the morning, finish your skincare with sunscreen and give it a minute to settle before you apply makeup. It helps everything blend more smoothly.
The five-minute routine
| Step | What to use | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Even out | Concealer on any redness or dark circles, or a light tint all over | 1 minute |
| 2. Brows | Brush them up, then fill any sparse areas lightly | 1 minute |
| 3. Colour | Cream blush on the cheeks, blended with your fingers | 1 minute |
| 4. Eyes | One or two coats of mascara | 1 minute |
| 5. Lips | Tinted balm or a sheer lipstick | 30 seconds |
Make it work for you
- Oily skin: a little powder on the forehead, nose and chin keeps shine down.
- Dry skin: cream products sit better than powders and won’t cling to dry patches.
- If you wear glasses: focus on brows and lips, which frame your face behind the frames.
Little trick
Use multi-use products to save time. A cream blush can double as a lip and cheek tint, and a clear brow gel tidies brows in one swipe.
Hygiene matters
Keep your brushes and sponges clean, don’t share eye makeup, and replace products when they change texture or smell. Our guide to how long makeup lasts explains what to look for, and our guide to cleaning makeup brushes covers the rest.
Good to note
If a product makes your eyes sting, water or turn red, stop using it. See a pharmacist or GP if irritation doesn’t settle, and get urgent help for eye pain or any change in your vision.
The two-minute version
On rushed days, stick to the steps that make the most difference to you. For many people that’s concealer, mascara and a lip balm. A routine you can always manage is better than a full one you skip.
Ask away
Do I need a primer?
Not usually. A moisturiser and sunscreen you like often work well as a base. Primer can help if your makeup tends to slide off or settle into pores.
Can I skip foundation?
Yes. Many everyday looks use a little concealer only where it’s needed, which looks more natural and takes less time.
How do I make makeup last longer?
Apply thin layers, set any areas that get oily with a little powder, and carry one small product for touch-ups.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For skin, scalp or allergy concerns, speak to a pharmacist, your GP or a dermatologist. In an emergency, call 999.