Makeup Tricks for New Moms
Fake looking wide-awake
Eliminate the evidence of nighttime feedings — those bags and dark circles — with an under eye cream. Better yet, choose a roller to make application speedy, like the Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark Circle Eye Roller. “What you want to look for in an eye cream is caffeine. It speeds up circulation to reduce bags,” says Koch. For extra help with under eye puffiness, keep spoons in your freezer to place below your lids on days you wake up extra swollen. $11, Target.com
Choose the right concealer
We’re forever indebted to the inventor of concealer — it’s instant gratification. “A creamy concealer is really important. Pat it on, never rub it in,” she says, since the area is super sensitive. “Even when you’re exhausted, it actually makes it look like you slept.” She recommends Amazing Concealer Amazing Cosmetics. $28, Ulta.com
Even out skin tone
Blotchy skin is a reality for many new moms, thanks to hormones that are still fluctuating. Koch says to tackle it with a mineral-based foundation. A powder version, like Laura Mercier Mineral Powder is the easiest and fastest to apply. “The minerals have fewer chemicals, and crushed minerals have light-reflective particles that give you that glow,” she says. $39, LauraMercier.com
Choose drugstore mascara
Who has the time (or the steady hand) for eyeliner? Koch recommends using mascara to wake up your eyes. “It’s not the type of thing you need to spend a lot of money on,” she says, recommending Covergirl LashBlash. $7, Target.com
Get glowing
“Bronzer is the eighth-wonder of the world,” Koch says. “It gives you that sun-kissed healthy radiance that you don’t have as a new mom.” The Naked palette by Urban Decay comes with blush too. $30, Sephora.com
Take your lip gloss to go
The easiest quick fix for a new mom? Lip gloss. Keep one in your diaper bag or purse, so you can put in on wherever you go. “Choose a natural color — there’s too much room for error with bright reds and oranges,” she says, recommending Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss. $25, Sephora.com
Plus, more from The Bump:
Stylish and Comfy New-Mom Looks
7 Ways Having a Baby Makes You Sexier
Lose the Baby Weight (Without Really Trying)
