Express Beauty to Love

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I am all about multi-tasking when it comes to beauty. Yes, there are days when I indulge and can spend as much as 45 minutes pampering my skin, but there are also days when I’m short on time.

Back in High School, I was obsessed with teeth whitening strips. My teeth were SO sensitive, my gums were hurting from using them, but I didn’t care. Well, those days are gone, thankfully. For years I loved using the Smile Brilliant system, but nowadays I really like Tarte’s Pearly Girl Teeth Whitening Pen. First of all, you can use it when you’re waiting for that face mask to dry, when you do your hair in the morning, etc. Second, it doesn’t leave my sensitive teeth in pain, and third, well… it brings instant results. What’s not to love?

A few weeks ago I mentioned Static Nails* in one of my Lovin’ Lately posts. I was so pleasantly surprised not only at how nice they looked (you definitely can’t tell they’re “stick-on” nails), but also at how long they stayed on. Of course, I had to mention them in this post- so quick and easy to use when you don’t have time for a manicure.

I have so much love for MAC’s Strobe Cream and use it nearly daily. The new Strobe Body Lotion is just as beautiful and works perfectly for when you’re short on time but want to give your legs, arms, and decollete a little glow. The only thing I noticed is that the body lotion doesn’t feel as hydrating as the OG Strobe Cream, but that will not stop me from repurchasing.

Glossier’s Boy Brow– another great product to reach for when you have no time to get ready. I have both versions- clear and brown. I love that these don’t feel sticky like some brow gels and tints tend to do, and they don’t fade throughout the day or tint your skin. Just the brows.

Okay, the next “express beauty” product on this list is probably the most expensive. I mean I can’t believe that I was willing to spend this much on an eyeliner (almost 60 bucks), but guys, Tom Ford’s Eye Defining Pen, is pretty incredible. When I’m in a hurry, the last thing I want to reach for is an eyeliner, but this pen just does all the work. It’s so smooth, doesn’t tug on the skin and is very easy to use. Shadow Sheilds also come in handy if you’re struggling with eyeliner.

Of course, I also have to mention a few lip care products- I love the buffer + lip plumper duo from BYBI Beauty* And, of course, there’s Laneige’s Sleeping Lip Mask. Yes, this is more of a nighttime product that helps moisturize your lips and get rid of any flakes overnight, but I found that it works really well when used in the morning too. I just apply a thick layer, leave it on for a few minutes, and wash off with a washcloth.

Last, but not least, I have to mention Ole Henriksen’s Banana Bright Eye Creme. This stuff is so lightweight and instantly brightens up that delicate area under your eyes that tends to look dark and puffy at times. I’m extremely picky when it comes to eye creams and generally don’t find them to do much, other than irritate my skin, but this one gets two thumbs up.

What are some of your favorite “express” beauty products to reach for when you’re in a hurry?