In the time it takes you to do your regular five-minute face, you could give yourself a makeover that’s more than skin-deep. Use these five simple tricks to radiate health, happiness and confidence in just five minutes. What could be more beautiful than that?
Look Alive
Pro makeup artist and long-time red lip devotee (and in the spirit of full disclosure, this writer’s lovely sister) Jen Brown says a swipe of red lipstick and a curl of your lashes will instantly brighten your face and boost your confidence, making you look awake and pulled together. “Red is classic, bold and still fresh,” Brown says, “and I never leave the house without curling my lashes—it opens up the eyes!”
Say Cheese
Once your lips are rouged, flash those pearly whites! A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that women are perceived as more attractive when they’re smiling. Plus, studies have shown that even if you’re just grinning and bearing it, the physical act of smiling can change your emotional state—making you feel happier.
Jump Up and Down or Something!
Get on the fast track to a youthful glow. Do a series of sun salutations or jump rope for 60 seconds. Anything that gets your heart pumping and the oxygen flowing will increase circulation, giving your face a healthy flush.
Don’t Get Your Grannie Panties in a Twist
You can’t feel sexy in those frumpy undies. And in case you haven’t heard, feeling sexy is the key to being sexy. So slip into some La Perla (and maybe put on some pants) and sashay down to Starbucks like the vivacious vixen you know you are.
Strike a Pose
Social scientist and Harvard Business School professor Amy Cuddy discovered that you really can fake it ‘til you make it! By taking a powerful pose (she demonstrates in her TED Talk) for just two minutes, you change your hormone levels and effectively make yourself feel more comfortable and confident—and confidence is the ultimate beauty serum!
