My Go-To 5-Minute Summer Makeup Routine

Let’s be honest: I’m almost always in a rush. Whether I’ve hit snooze one too many times or suddenly remembered I have lunch plans in 15 minutes, most days I don’t have the time (or the energy) for full glam. And in the summer? Forget it. When it’s 90ºF out, the last thing I want is a full face of makeup melting off before noon. That’s exactly why I’ve perfected a quick, foolproof beauty routine that leaves me looking fresh, polished, and like I have my life together, even when I’m sprinting out the door.

My goal for this five-minute routine is simple: enhance my natural features and step out the door looking more awake, bronzed, and put-together without piling on a ton of product. I tend to stick to lightweight, breathable formulas that feel like there’s nothing on my skin, but still deliver just the right amount of coverage and radiance. In the summer, I love to keep it especially minimal: a sheer tinted sunscreen, cream bronzer and blush for a sunkissed glow, and a quick swipe of waterproof mascara and a pink gloss to tie it all together. If I have a few extra seconds, I’ll even dot on some faux freckles across my nose and cheeks to strengthen the illusion that I spent way more time in the sun than I actually did. Keep reading to discover my tried-and-true beauty products—including those from iconic brands like Chanel and Hourglass—that make looking good in five minutes feel totally doable.