Six Tips For The Busy Mama’s!

Now that I have a child, I know firsthand how hard it is to get ready in the morning and still keep an eye on a child. My son Malachi is amazing, but I am so busy getting him ready in the morning that I have hardly any time left for myself. All mothers have been there before: You are in a rush to get the kids out of the house and once you do, you glance in the mirror and think, “Wow, how did I let myself out looking like this?” Keeping a stash of makeup and a few accessories in my bag have kept going and lookin’ good on the go! I love how just a simple swipe of lip gloss can and a cute headband can pull my look together quickly. Here are some great tips to help all the busy moms out there!

1. Stock Up On Dry Shampoo
THE. BEST. INVENTION. EVER. Ok, maybe it is not better than the baby swing or portable changing pads, but still really, really fantastic. Don’t have time to shower? No problem. Spray in some of this magic product to absorb oil, add texture, and um… smell better! These sprays contain oil-zapping ingredients like oat or rice powder, and they really do work. If your hair is extremely oily, you will want to bring a travel size along in case for reapplying and refreshing. Mix cornmeal with a little water for an at home fix!
2. Get That "I've actually slept" Look — Even When You Haven't
I don’t know many moms who are able to get anything close to adequate rest. If you suffer from dark circles and bags under your eyes, try applying ice — in the form of a gel eye mask, frozen spoons, your kid's boo-boo cold pack, whatever you want — for 10 minutes. If you don’t have time for that, use a cooling eye gel like 100% Pure Cucumber Eye Gel. Leave it in the fridge, glob it on your bags first thing in the morning, and remove after 5 minutes. Follow up with a light-reflecting concealer.

3. Get A Phenomenal Haircut
Talk to your stylist and tell them that you don’t have time to style your hair every day. If you have a good stylist, he will make you look good all day without a ton of maintenance and product. This will mean that you have to embrace your natural texture no matter what it is. It also means you should opt for a more organic, less fussy style. Your days of Vidal Sassoon-inspired precision are — for now — over. Luckily loose, easy, almost undone texture is really hot right now. Trust me, with the right cut and the right products, you can rock any look.
4. Prioritize
When it comes to skincare, everyone knows to moisturize and then use sunscreen. However, you should also do your best to add exfoliation to your routine. It’s essential to healthy, brighter, younger-looking skin. If you don’t have a lot of time to do your makeup, I’d reach for concealer, mascara, and blush first, as they’ll have the biggest impact quickly. For hair, get regular trims to keep your ends healthy and your style fresh. Don’t wash your hair every day but when you do, use a high-quality shampoo and conditioner.

5. Choose Products That Do Double Duty

Doubling up on some of your steps and products in daily maintenance will save you a lot of time. For example, a tinted moisturizer that contains SPF protection is actually three products in one. Tint, moisturize and protect with one application! Be on the lookout for other ways to cut corners with these amazing products. These days, there are so many ways you can double and triple up products. You can self-tan while you moisturize, protect hair from heat styling while adding shine, and treat your face to a scrub and masque combo. My favorite is Image Skincare’s Daily Defense Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30. This sunscreen will protect your skin, moisturize your face, and is a great base foundation!

6. Create A Diversion

Malachi is a bit high maintenance and has a hard time playing on his own without making a mess or breaking something. This creates a big problem if I happen to have plans beyond the park or the library, and I really need look my best. When I’m faced with that dilemma, I treat my son to a big bubble bath. He gets to play in the tub, and I get to spend an hour in the bathroom. As a bonus, he comes out all fresh and clean. It’s a win-win. Of course you just need to make sure to keep your eye on them at all times!