Makeup artists share their five-minute get-ready routines

Simplicity is the beauty secret to getting out the door fast while looking your best. “The biggest mistake is overcomplicating things: too many products, too many steps, and spending too much time trying to perfect every detail,” says Taylor Savage, a makeup artist and the founder of cosmetics line Taylor Savage Beauty, based in Ontario. “Heavy foundation, complicated eye looks, or overly precise brow work can add unnecessary time.”

To achieve her own five-minute face, makeup artist Veronica Chu, whose clients include Coco Rocha and Ashley Callingbull, sticks to a streamlined routine with a base of illuminating lotion, medium-coverage complexion products and winged eyeliner to accentuate her eyes. “Having a uniform really makes a difference,” says the Toronto-based pro who relies on a wardrobe of all-black basics. “Without even thinking, I can get dressed in seconds because I know exactly what I’m going to wear and I’m the same way with my face.”

Prompt results start with skin prep. “Make sure that you’ve exfoliated,” says Chu. “People tend to waste so much time layering on foundation to try and cover up what should have been dealt with through skincare.” For a quick everyday look, both pros focus on concealer or foundation only where needed to even out a skin tone. “Avoid using sponges,” says Savage, “They tend to absorb too much product, and you end up using more than necessary, which slows you down.” Set yourself up with three brushes. “Concealer, foundation and powder are all you need,” says Chu. The LC 01 brush from the Canadian line rèphr is among her favourites.

Choosing the right formulas will also accelerate the process. “Cream formulas are especially easy to work with,” says Savage. She made Beauty Stix, a multi-use colour for cheeks, eyes and lips, to help create a natural look quickly. “Creams blend seamlessly with fingers or a brush, making them ideal when you’re rushing. They’re more forgiving compared to powders and allow you to build colour without overdoing it.”

Dedicate remaining time on the clock to accentuating eyes, then cheeks and lips. “For brows, skip pencils and use a tinted fibre gel for faster, more natural fullness,” says Savage. Mascara, a must-have, has the most impact with a finessed technique. “Always curl your lashes! This is a hill I will die on,” she says. “It’s the most underrated step that takes seconds but instantly lifts and opens the eyes, making you look more awake and polished without any makeup.”

And don’t rush your time with the wand. “Never take mascara and just slam it onto eyes really quickly,” says Chu, “It’s the type of product that you need to let cure. Give it a minute to set and then go in for another layer.”

Chu also attributes consistency to getting a polished face ready with speed. “Practice makes perfect and doing it repeatedly is the key to success,” she says. “Everything becomes easier.”

Six buys to try

Glowing skin, creamy formulas and enhanced lashes are key for a five-minute face.

Graydon Hydratone

For use after cleansing, before applying serum, this daily treatment from a Canadian brand revives dull, uneven skin with gentle exfoliating ingredients (such as gluconolactone and mandelic acid) and hydrating maple sap water.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Jumbo

Available in three shades, this luminous tinted moisturizer contains the hydrating properties of glycerin and shea butter. Try a dab of it across the middle of the face and over cheekbones before applying foundation.

LIXR Beauty Multi-Use Cream-to-Powder Concealer & Foundation Stick

Created in Canada, this creamy complexion stick provides medium, buildable coverage in 28 shades. The waterless formula also contains omega-rich fatty acids and ceramides to moisturize and support the skin barrier.

M.A.C Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lip + Cheek Mousse

With a whipped texture that can be used on cheeks and lips, this ultralightweight cream blends and builds with ease while providing 10-hour wear of soft, matte colour.

Clinique High Impact High-Fi Full Volume Waterproof Mascara

This volumizing mascara, with a nourishing formula that mixes coconut, argan and moringa oils, gives lashes a boost, but won’t budge or smudge when faced with water, sweat or humidity.

Tweezerman Pro Master Lash Curler

Did you know there’s a lash curler for every eye shape? This coveted beauty tool has a softer curve tailored to almond-shaped and deep-set eyes, and a double-handle body for enhanced comfort and control.