A thing I've recently learnt: babies do not politely sit still while I do your makeup. Or their makeup, for that matter. I jest! I jest.

But seriously, they do not stay still. Ever.

You see, in the past I've written PLENTY of articles on quick beauty routines and what to use when you're running late or need a "five-minute face."

Watch: Speaking of makeup — here's the best moisturiser for under your base. Post continues below.

And I would like to profusely, formally, and tearfully apologise for pretending I knew what 'busy' felt like.

In hindsight, I didn't grasp the sheer velocity of a morning with an infant. I've had to ruthlessly edit my routine down to things I can apply with one hand — nay, one finger — while blocking the toilet with my leg. (Why is it ALWAYS the toilet?).

The secret? Sticks. Makeup sticks are God's gift to the time-poor. They are the backbone of my existence. They've cut my routine in half because there are no brushes to find, no palettes to drop, and no lids to lose. It's just: swipe, blend, go.

One product doing the heavy lifting right now is the MECCA MAX Zoom Cream Eyeshadow Stick.

Heard of it? Course you have, you clever little thing. Wouldn't be reading a beauty article if you hadn't.

I have a couple of different shades ('Cool Bronze' is my favourite because I'm boring) and they're the easiest but they're SO CREAMY. Easy to blend. Takes five seconds.

You swipe it directly onto the lid, buff it with a finger for five seconds, and suddenly you look like you made an effort. It's low-key, buildable, and fool-proof.

Want to know which Other Sticks are really great? Allow me to assist.

ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick, $80.

I love the OG Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint, but it becomes too difficult and messy — so I started using the Complexion Stick again, and I forgot how convenient it is and how much I love it! The formula is beautiful. Sits on the skin very nicely. Means you don't have to faff around with blushes etc. if you just want to blend it in with your hands.

Disco Stick Brow Sculpt, $20.

I'm a big stinkin' fan of the wax stick for your hair, and then I tried the brow sticks (again, this girl loves the sticks??) and it's also very good! My bushy brows suck at being uniform, but I also don't like them looking like they're glued down (some brow gels also go flaky and white and gross). This holds them in place without that stiff feeling.

MERIT Flush Balm Cheek Colour, $48.

These little buttons of blush have become my entire personality. I use them every single day, and they're delightful. Can also dab on your lips for a little pop of colour. They just melt into your skin and give you a beautiful, natural, 'more alive' look to your complexion. Especially if you've slept, like, two minutes and look like a walking corpse. Not naming names!!! (Erin Docherty).

e.l.f. Stay Cool Primer Stick, $20.

This is currently on sale at Kmart for $10, and it's such a goodie. In fact, most of the e.l.f Cosmetics range is — but ESPECIALLY the primers. This one is particularly delightful because it gives you a wee dose of hydration under your base, which my dry skin loves.

Chanel Baume Essentiel, $71.

This has been my go-to since I was a baby beauty editor. I've been using (the same one lol — sue me) for YEARS. It's a multi-use glow stick that gives your skin the healthiest, most natural-looking radiance. Perfect for using on your face (cheekbones, cupid's bow, the bridge of your nose), your eyes and your lips. Your skin looks dewy, juicy and like you actually drink eight litres of water a day. Best money I've ever spent.

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Feature image: Supplied.