Make-Up On The Go: Make-Up Tips & Finds for the Busy Mom

On my route to preschool drop off, there are 3 traffic lights and 1 train crossing.

In other words, 4 potential mini beauty salons.

My makeup is getting done in the car A LOT. I truly start the day with the best intentions. I wake up promising myself, this will be the day I’m on top of EVERYTHING! But somehow, someway, no matter what time I wake up, no matter how much time I allow- I always seem to be scrambling to get everyone in the car to arrive on time (okay, to arrive acceptably late).

To be clear, I am not condoning distracted driving- especially with precious cargo. But- sometimes there are ridiculously long red lights. Better yet, sometimes my husband is driving. And sometimes I can hustle to freshen up my face once I park. So when a safe to break situation presents itself en route to my destination, mom is going to make the most of that sunshade mirror.

Sure, maybe fair to ask- if you’re that rushed- why bother? Definitely would be easier to go au natural. Well, my life experience has taught me that you never know who you’re going to meet. You never know who you’re going to run into. And you never know who you’re going to have to sweet talk to avoid your child being permanently thrown out of school. The only sure thing, really, is if you allow yourself an I-give-up-pass for the day, you’re 100% going to run into your ex-boyfriend, your worst enemy, and be forced into a photograph that will be posted on multiple social media formats.

Enter the importance of the to-go make-up bag. A quick reach for, all in one place, personal presentation savior. Seems simple right? Shove a bunch of make-up in your mom bag. Well before you pull together that cosmetics case, consider a few elements for success. The to-go make-up bag will quickly go by the wayside if it’s not efficient, so let’s get smartly packing.

My Make-Up Bag Guidelines for Success

Compact: Don’t forget your mom priorities. The rock collection your child acquired in the park is of the utmost importance and you must carry it home, even if it’s at the expense of your beauty regimen. You know as a mom you are not losing your role as the family pack mule anytime soon, so sticking to makeup that would fit comfortably into a small cosmetics bag will be the best move.

Essentials Only: “Essentials” is unique defined to each of us, but when I say essentials, I mean- what do YOU need so no one is questioning if you pulled an all nighter (even if you did). Fresh faced glow is all we’re going for with in-a-rush make-up! Keeping it to essentials not only helps you prioritize what you’re touching up, but it reduces rummaging. Which as much as my husband loves my purse rummaging, mom’s got no time for that!

Start with Game Changers: When you’re reaching for your make-up to start your rapid beautification, assume that you are only going to get green lights from here on out. Use your time smartly, and start application with what makes the biggest difference for you. You don’t need to apply every piece of makeup at your disposal every time, just enough to make you feel like the beautiful mama you are.

Easy apply: The easier to apply, the better. Can’t stress this enough! When you’re in a rush and on-the-go, your focus is subpar, your application tools are limited, and your visibility is often limited to car mirrors and a compact. There is also a risk of an outfit crisis if application is too complicated and results in a fumble. Aim for makeup products that you can apply one handed while discussing with a toddler the difference between a Brontosaurus and a Brachiosaurus (if you know please contact me).

Price Conscious: As soon as makeup leaves my system oriented vanity, the likelihood of losing it goes up exponentially. Makeup slips out as I search for other things, and gets left open to dry as I hurriedly try to close and shove it back into my bag. Not to mention the risk imposed by curious little hands searching for trouble in mom’s bag at every opportunity. So be comfortable what you’re spending on vulnerable makeup!

Stay Natural: The further away you venture from your natural complexion, the more likelihood of landing a clown face. It is tough to get an idea of what your full face looks like with compromised visibility, which can lend to a too heavy application. Choosing natural hues for brows and face products will give you an easy cleaned up glow that will make you the envy of the pick-up lane.

Reconsider Powders: I’m all about my pressed powders and brushes, but they don’t have a home in my makeup bag. Not only am I aiming to avoid tools on the go where I can, but I am not interested in anything that could create a mess. Whether its due to dropping a compact or excessive banging around in my bag, crushed powder all over me and my purse is not a look I’m going for.

Keep the Baby Wipes Handy: One of the best tricks I have ever learned is the power of baby wipes to act as make-up wipes. Truth be told, they are more effective than many of the actual make-up wipes on the market. I always have baby wipes on me with two kids in diapers, but would keep them around just for impromptu face cleanups (mom & children alike) even if I didn’t.

Make-Up On-The-Go Must Haves!

From budget to bridge price points, these travel friendly cosmetics will brighten up your face and your life. As a mom you work non-stop. Treat yourself and let these magnificent make-up finds work for you!