by Nicole Mcclearn Sanchez

Created on: December 18, 2009

As a woman, it can be frustrating living up to the expectations of society.   The bar is set high for females. I can’t explain why it’s socially expected women wear makeup while men go au natural.  I’m sure someone has a historical answer to that, just not me. 

But don’t be discouraged by the double standard.  When men have dark circles under their eyes, or a pimple on their nose, they have to let the world see. 

Don’t fight it, embrace it and be empowered by the magic of beauty products.   Even if you don’t like to spend time on makeup, this 5-minute routine is simple and will give your natural appearance a wonderful boost.

Step one, tinted moisturizer.  It’s much lighter than foundation, and practically error proof.  Just rub into the face area and instantly have a brighter, more even skin tone.  Try Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.  It contains SPF 30 to protect you against harmful UV rays, is oil-free and hypoallergenic.  Great for sensitive skin.

Step two, warmth.  Give your cheekbones a lift with powder blush or bronzer.  It’s an instant wake-up for your face.  Maybelline Mineral Power Naturally Luminous Blush comes in a variety of natural colors to compliment any skin tone. With just a couple strokes of the brush, you’ll be radiant all day. 

Step three, eye shadow.   To keep your routine quick and simple, stick with a nude shimmer to add a natural brightness to the eyelid.  L’Oreal Wear Infinite eye shadow singles are a perfect choice.  Chose a color slightly deeper then your skin tone, and brush on, avoiding the upper eyelid area.

Step four, mascara.  Eyes are the first thing most people notice about a woman.  Get flirty fluttery eyelashes with a great mascara.  Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara in black/ brown will add volume and length with just a couple strokes.  Avoid waterproof formulas; they are difficult to remove without special eye makeup remover. 

Step five, lip-gloss.  Lip-gloss with shimmery color is the perfect way to keep your look fresh all day.  Lips will look full and hydrated, and feel great.  Keep it in your pocket or purse and apply as needed all day long.  Cover Girl Wetslicks Crystals Lip-gloss in the color ‘sizzle’ will look great on almost any skin tone.  Shades in the raisin family are complimentary to most women’s complexions. 

This entire process will take less than five minutes.  Well worth the time investment.  

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