early bird catches the worm

I am the ultimate morning person! I like to get to work by 8:00am (although really I should be there by 7:30am… oops) and have a lot I want to get done before then! I typically wake up at 5:45, make myself a cup of coffee, do a yoga routine, take a shower, dry my hair, cook breakfast (yes, just ask my husband, I fully make myself eggs every. single. morning.) Because of everything I like to get done before I get to the office, I’ve learned to be efficient with my face care and makeup routine.

1. Splurge on a great face wash that works for your skin. This Lancome mousse feels and smells so luxurious and I love the smell. It works perfectly with my dry and sensitive skin. It sounds so silly, but I do truly feel a difference from when I use other brands. I also noticed that very little of this goes a long way, so the tube typically lasts me 3 months or so.
2. Toner – I love Clinique toner because it is gentle on my skin but strong for getting off any leftover makeup from the day before. I am OCD about never applying makeup to a face that isn’t completely clean. Toner is great to ensure you are starting with a blank palate and this Clinique one takes just a few quick swipes.
3. Face lotion – again, Clinique is my absolute favorite for this. Applying face lotion in the morning is definitely not for everyone, but if you have dry skin (like me!) it is a must – it also helps keep the makeup I apply to stick to my face throughout the day!
4. Splash a quick swipe of bronzer all over. I go a shade darker than my skin and brush on just a very light layer. Laura Mercier makes a nice matte palette that looks very natural. I always put a touch on my neck as well to make sure my face color doesn’t stand out too much!
5. If you take anything away from this post try this NARS eye shadow!! I am obsessed with it. I have two – one to keep in my purse (since it is so little) and one to keep in my bathroom. I use the color Andromeda because it is sheer and appropriate for the day. I also apply it with my finger directly on my eye lid – no need for a brush. It adds just a subtle pop to your eyelid without looking like evening wear. If I ever go out for a dinner after work, I touch it up and even splash a bit on my cheekbones for a quick highlight.
6. Liquid eyeliner is a must to get through the work week. It is the only kind that doesn’t smudge by the end of the day!
7. I’ve tried all sorts of mascara throughout the years, and I know everyone has their favorites but Maybelline The Falsies is where my loyalty lies!
8. Blush is the last thing I apply before I run out for the day – It definitely helps me look more awake than I usually am! I love the NARS stick so I could apply throughout the day.