Five Minute Mummy Makeover: How To Do Your Makeup With Two Kids

Step 1: Do Everything Else First

Unless you're one of those amazing (read: annoying) mums who sets their alarm at 6am before the kids get up - and even when I have those energetic starts to the day, I only want to brush my teeth, brush my hair and quickly get rid of that under-eye black shadow (because we're all too tired to do it before bed at night) - then you're probably dealing with both (three, four..) kids by the time it's your turn to get ready for the day. That's because we've done everything else first - that's the way most mums like it and that's the way most kids demand it. So before you look at yourself in the mirror (yes, I got rid of the under-eye shadow without a mirror!) get all those 'kid-demanding' things done first: clean them; feed them; dress them. It makes you feel organised and ready to spend a moment on yourself.

Step 2: TV Time

If there was ever a time when TV was 'necessary', your makeup time is it. Peppa Pig was made for your morning 'me' time (Play School, even better). If you're a mum who avoids putting your kids in front of the box completely (apparently there are mums who don't; although I think behind closed doors they treasure their Bananas in Pyjamas opportunity to go to the loo), then opt for the more seemingly educational options, such as the 'made-for-these-moments' iPad. Beware other so called 'independent play' options such as colouring because undoubtedly your makeup time will be repeatedly interrupted with sharpening pencils, picking up crayons and drawing your best interpretation of 'Papa at work'. Mirroring what you're doing could work a treat though. My Number 1 spends many minutes trawling through my cosmetics box: clicking open and shut the powder case; sorting the empty boxes; and 'trying' on lipstick (that is, putting a brush to her lips). If she ends up with black hands or red chunks on her teeth, it's ok: at least I got my makeup done!

Step 3: Make It Quick

You have five minutes maximum to complete your look. Play School may run for 28 minutes, but we all know that no programme can hold a toddler's continuous attention for longer than five.

Step 4: Face The Day With Your Face On

Now is not the time to apply the complete smoky eye look followed by your favourite blend of three various lipsticks. Have your essentials ready and do it in an order that works even if you're interrupted. If mascara and lipgloss make you feel ready to face the day, don't start with concealer. Get the mascara and gloss on straight up! Add concealer after, if you get your full five minute time slot. My favourite is a blush stick, where I can quickly rub on some colour to my cheeks and lips, followed by lip balm and eye cream. (By the way, NEVER compromise on eye cream. It always trumps every other makeup item you have. You will not regret it in 15 years' time). If I then get interrupted by pooey nappies or impatient cries, I'm ok. I can face the day with my blush, lip balm and eye cream on.

Step 5: Out Of Order

So you've managed to get the essentials on. My next suggestion is to continue a non-linear approach with the rest. If you do manage to get a few more minutes (thanks, Giggle and Hoot) you can add your next favourite items in the order of most important to least. So go the non-traditional approach to applying your makeup: maybe put your mascara on next . Then apply your eyeliner (yes, it's possible to put eyeliner on after mascara, you just need to practise!), because you never know when you'll get called away and your makeup time cut short. Mix the order up in whatever way it suits you, just don't feel you have to start with foundation, if your 'feel-good' cosmetic is lipstick. Priority is key.

Having your 'face on' for the day can be an essential part of being a mum. Just because you have two (three, four..) kids demanding your time, doesn't mean they can command your look. Coming soon.. 'How to Shower in One Minute'; 'Communal Toilet Time' and 'Eating on the Run'!!