Effortless beauty and time efficiency don't have to exist separately. Spend less time looking in the mirror and more time making the most of your college experience with these three tips to quicken your beauty routine.

1. Put that hair up.

We all perceive protective styles as a “buss down” or ankle length braids, but at their core, protective styles are simply ways to shield the hair. 

There are an endless amount of ways to protectively style your hair. Knotless braids, wigs, or even bantu knots, mini twists and cornrows on your natural hair are just a few. Not only will these protect your hair and but they can also promote hair growth when paired with the right regimen. 

A low-maintenance protective style will allow you more time to sleep in a little later, beat the morning traffic, or start your day off with coffee and breakfast. Consider booking a hair appointment or surfing the web for DIY tutorials to put your own spin on them. 

2. Leave  time-consuming regimens for evenings or weekends.

Contrary to what you may see on TikTok, your skincare routine doesn't have to be 20 steps. Skin care brand Curology recommends the simple three-step skincare routine, “cleanse, treat, and seal formulation.” Cleanse with a face wash of choice, treat the skin with products that target your skin concerns, and seal with hydrating moisturizer. Of course, don’t forget to incorporate a suncreen into your routine to protect your skin against overexposure to the sun. 

If you stick to a simple three-step skincare regimen you are guaranteed to quicken your morning routine and still feel great.

3. Assemble your staple products.

Create a “go-to” combination of products can cut down a lengthy morning routine.

If lip gloss, blush, or highlight is your forte, or you might be into the “clean girl aesthetic,” a viral makeup routine that uses minimal product to achieve a “clean,” simple look. 

The “less is more” style is trending in the beauty world, as minimal makeup and three-minute makeup challenges are taking over social media. Busy students with what feels like a million other obligations- simplifying your routine may be helpful.