But it’s not a myth – it is possible to put on your makeup in this time. Gone are the days when primers, pencils and powders were required just to look ‘done’. Instead, carefully applied, hard-working products are all you need to get out of the door and not be mistaken for your elderly neighbour.

Foundation? You don’t have time. Invest instead in one of a new generation of BB creams and tinted moisturisers that disguise imperfections and add a luminosity that means you can dispense with concealers and highlighters. Liz Earle’s Skin Tint (£21.00) is my current favourite.

Reassuringly gunky, this skincare-makeup hybrid leaves you looking dewy with minimal blending. Now for some blusher: a pop of fresh, creamy colour is youthful and easy to apply, especially if you’re cautious of brushes. I love Clarins Instant Light Blush in Vitamin Pink (£19.00), which has a foolproof, lipgloss-style applicator.

That’s two minutes gone, so it’s time for your eyes. A simple bit of lash enhancing will suffice – with a powerhouse like DreamWeave Mascara (£12), which gives a superbly natural lengthening effect. The fine brush is perfect for speed, too, as you’d have to be really cack-handed to clog this.

Now, I’ve no desire for my brows to look particularly ‘urban’, but Urban Decay’s Urban Brow (£14.00) is a handy clear setting gel that helps to smooth them into a face-framing shape in a matter of seconds.

Finally, your lips. Let’s not be faffing about with liners and brushes – we’ve only got 40 seconds left. Instead, a lip balm with a tint will mean you’re doing some good as well as looking hot. In my handbag at the moment is Lanolips Lip Ointment with Colour SPF15 (£7.99), which is thick, soothing and leaves a cheekily glamorous sheen to your smackers. Comes in five shades too.

Now off you go.