I get asked all the time by my peers that don’t really know much about make up and are starting to get curious about what products to use and how they can start. This is my list of the must have items that I use on days that I don’t have a lot of time and can’t spend more than 20 minutes on my face.

1. Moisturizer with SPF

I can not stress enough the importance of using a moisturizer that contains SPF. Even on the darkest, rainiest day, you MUST use this. The sun rays damage the skin a lot over time, and ages you faster. My go to choice is Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47. This is a bit on the pricier side, ranging from $32-$68. But it is absolutely my favorite and Argan Oil provides a lot of benefits that you may not find in other moisturizers.

2. Primer

Whether you decide to wear foundation or not, a good primer is always needed to make sure that your make up lasts and is locked in for you to tackle the day. I never leave my house without wearing Becca First Light Priming Filter. It retails for $38 for the full size, and about $16 for the travel size. However, this is very light weight and a little goes a long way. This primer can last you up to 3 months if you use it every day. It brightens your face with a slight shimmer and smells wonderful! I have used many other coveted primers in the beauty industry that worked great, but the smell was not as pleasant.

3. Brows, Brows, Brows

Girls do not walk outside without having banging brows. I think this is the feature that is most important to your face. I am loyal to Anastasia BH DIPBROW Pomade. It retails for $18, they have a huge variety of colors to perfectly match your brows. It glides on smoothly, and lasts a long time. It is highly pigmented and a lot is not needed. I suggest you use the ABH Brush #12 ($18) to apply this more smoothly. If you want them to stand out more then use this Bareminerals ($22) concealer to clean up around your brows after filling them in. The best brush to use for this is ABH Brush #20 ($18). Your hair can be a mess, and you can be dressed down, but conquering the perfect brows is key!

4. Foundation

On a daily basis I use a powder foundation because it is more natural looking. I have been a fan of this Mineralized Powder by MAC. You don’t need a lot of it, and it gives a nice finish to your face.

5. Bronzer, Blush, and Highlight, OH MY!

My favorite part of my routine! I like to do a soft contour with powder bronzer and highlight. There are soooo many good ones on the market. I absolutely love Hourglass bronzer. It lasts me over a year because I don’t need that much. I use this to contour under my cheek bones and at the edge of my hair line. It’s pricey at $50, but worth it. My go to high lighter is by ABH, I love that there are so many options depending on your mood. I use it on top of my cheek bones, on my nose, and right underneath my eyebrows to make them pop. Last but not least, I love me some Orgasm by Nars. It is by far my favorite blush, and feels it is the best hue for my skin color. I have a few other from other brands as well, including a fantastic one from Hourglass. But Nars has my heart.

I know I said only 5 steps, but don’t forget to lock in your look with a setting spay. I use Urban Decay. But also highly recommend this MAC one as well, it is very hydrating and they have some great scents. There you go ladies, now you are all set to conquer the day, looking fabulous and feeling even better. XOXO