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Let’s be honest — some mornings feel like a sprint before your feet even hit the floor. Between packing lunches, hunting for lost shoes, and trying to drink your coffee before it turns cold (again), taking care of yourself can easily slide down the list. I get it — as a mama, nurse practitioner, and woman who’s seen one too many tired reflections in the mirror, I promise it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right routine, you can give your skin a healthy, radiant start in just five minutes — no spa, no ten-step K-beauty routine, no fuss. No matter what, if I take those five minutes in the beginning of the day, I feel refreshed and renewed and ready to take the day on. That goes the same if I actually get dressed and don't wear my leggings or pajama pants for the first half of the day.

Step 1: Cleanse Gently

Start with a gentle cleanser that washes away the night’s oil and sweat without stripping your skin. Look for hydrating ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid — they’ll leave your face feeling fresh, not tight.

I keep mine in the shower because, let’s be honest, everything takes less time in there. Maybe it’s because you don’t need a towel, or maybe it’s because no one cares if you splash the entire top half of your body while washing your face and you are left with wet sleeves. Either way, it works.

And if your skin is starting to hit that dry-winter-tight-face stage (hi, Minnesota), this is my go-to that still lets me exfoliate over the winter without turning into a snow-flaking mess.

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser. It’s formulated without dyes, harsh agents, parabens, or fragrance—just simple, soothing goodness. The company was founded by two pharmacists in Rochester, Minnesota, in 1975 to specifically create better products for patients with sensitive skin. Several of their products have earned the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, making them a trusted brand often recommended by dermatologists.

Step 2: Vitamin C Serum

If coffee came in skincare form, it would be vitamin C. This little powerhouse brightens, smooths, and helps your skin look awake and glowing again — even when you’re running on less-than-ideal sleep. A few drops each morning help fight dullness and support collagen for that healthy, fresh look. I always take any extra serum down my neck and upper chest or onto the tops of my hands — those areas need love too and are so easy to forget.

Lately, I’ve been loving e.l.f.’s Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Serum. It sinks in quickly, isn’t sticky, and you truly only need a small amount. The best part? It combines vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid, which work together to stabilize the formula and boost antioxidant protection. This trio helps defend against environmental damage, supports anti-aging, and works beautifully under sunscreen. I can't believe it took me this long to find this vitamin C or maybe it is new. It is very economical and the ingredients mirror a very well known yet very expensive brand.

Step 3: Moisturize + SPF Combo

Ok, so if you only do one thing — make it this. A moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher hydrates your skin while protecting against UV damage (the sneakiest cause of fine lines and spots). Think of it as your one-step anti-aging superhero cape. Quick, easy, and your future self will thank you. If you can, throw in a little tint by using a tinted version such as my favorite, Whoa Glow (e.l.f's tinted moisturizer combo). It is economical, has sunscreen, has a bit of color and does give you that glow! Side note: often I have a few of these moisturizers open at once and I combine them depending on where I am going. For example- I give myself more coverage with a thicker more opaque one if I am going to a Christmas party versus the hockey rink.

Step 4: Eye Cream

Those late-night feedings or “just one more episode” Netflix marathons? They show up under your eyes first. Dab on a caffeine-based eye cream to de-puff and brighten. You’ll look more awake in seconds! I use the Tula Brand stick which I love! For some reason- it seems faster and easier to me then opening up a jar and digging in and then what do you do with the extra cream on your fingers. Seriously though, I never realized how I had such dark circles under my eyes until I got used to my lighter and brighter look with my Glow and Get it Cooler and Brightening Eye Balm.

Step 5: Tinted Lip Balm, Mascara & Brow Pencil (1.5 minutes)

Finish with a few quick beauty touches that make a huge difference. Swipe on a hydrating tinted lip balm for a pop of color and softness. I like the lip tints that stay with you so you are ready for your zoom meeting an hour or two later and won't be looking back at you on your coffee mug. Then, add one coat of mascara or ten. I am guilty of this and often I have to tell myself that less is more.... Finally, fill in your brows lightly with a brow pencil. Even a few quick strokes frame your face and make you look instantly more polished. It’s the five-second trick that says “I’ve got it together,” even if you feel like you are far from it. I always like to share my favorite economical products and this is one of them! I love this Lash Princess False Lash Effect mascara. It is one of the cheapest price you will find as a mascara but works just as good as my Clinique brand. Try this Morphe Brow Pencil and Spoolie. Again, very economical but works great! Ok, last recommendation: I like a tinted lip balm that is a stain so it stays on my lips not on my coffee cup... When you are on zoom meetings, a little bit of color is so necessary...

Final Thoughts:

Life is beautiful chaos especially in this Christmas season— loud, busy, and but full of love. But that doesn’t mean you have to forget yourself in the mix. Taking five minutes each morning isn’t vanity — it’s self-respect. It’s stewardship of the body God gave you and a little act of grace to start your day on the right note.

So go ahead — moisturize that face, swipe that balm, flick those lashes, and fill in those brows. You’ll look awake, confident, and ready to take on whatever the day throws at you. You’ve got this! You might as well glow as well.

XOXO,

SG

5-Minute Morning Skincare Routine