As a Beauty Editor, I have decided to forgo these 6 makeup products this winter.
Many may not realize this, but prior to my career as a beauty journalist, I trained as a makeup artist. Makeup was actually what initially drew me to the beauty industry. Although I wasn't particularly skilled at art in my youth, I had a passion for creativity. When my grandmother gifted me my first eyeshadow palette (from Avon, naturally), I quickly discovered my talent for achieving the perfect smokey eye. Years later, makeup remains a cherished aspect of my life. While I lean towards a more natural look now, I still enjoy experimenting with products and creating new looks. Although I prefer to keep my makeup collection minimal, one thing I (and many beauty editors) love to do with the change of seasons is refresh my makeup bag, especially when moving from summer to winter.
In the summer, the focus is on bronzed skin and glossy lips, while winter often leads us to opt for heavier foundation and long-lasting lip colors as our skin adjusts to the colder climate. I don’t advocate for completely replacing your makeup bag for winter, but I believe that a few simple adjustments can significantly enhance your appearance. Below, I've compiled the winter makeup swaps that consistently earn me compliments, so keep reading for my suggestions.
**6 Winter Makeup Swaps, Recommended by an Expert**
1. **Mattifying Primer < Hydrating Primer**
During summer, my skin tends to get oily, so I reach for mattifying primers (which are great for oily skin) to combat excess shine throughout the day. However, in winter, my skin becomes quite dry, leading me to switch to a hydrating primer to maintain a plump and dewy complexion. I believe winter makeup is all about solid skin preparation, so be sure to apply your moisturizer and SPF in the morning before your primer to ensure a fresh look. My top tip? Wait for your moisturizer and SPF to fully absorb into your skin before using primer to avoid pilling.
**Shop Hydrating Primers:**
- **Kate Somerville HydraKate Power Plumping Primer**: My winter favorite; it always keeps my skin feeling plump and radiant.
- **Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer**: An absolute classic, perfect for achieving a glowing base this winter.
2. **Skin Tint < Foundation**
In summer, I usually tan well and feel confident wearing lightweight skin tints that let my natural complexion shine. Also, I dislike the feeling of a heavy foundation in warm weather. However, as temperatures drop, I find myself opting for fuller-coverage formulas since my dry skin can appear quite red. You may worry that full-coverage foundations are too drying; luckily, many brands now offer hydrating, full-coverage options that are ideal for winter.
**Shop Full-Coverage Foundations:**
- **Sisley Phyto-Teint Perfection Foundation**: Delivers a naturally matte finish with medium to full coverage and a hydrating formula that cares for the skin.
- **Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation**: Another wonderfully hydrating formula with a beautifully blurring effect.
3. **Powder < Setting Spray**
Speaking of dry skin, I never leave home without mattifying powder in the summer, but in winter, I might skip this step altogether. I find that setting powders can make my dry skin appear flat, so I prefer to finish my makeup with a hydrating setting spray. If you choose to use powder in winter, apply it just on the areas where you need it most rather than all over your face, and follow up with a hydrating setting spray.
**Shop Setting Sprays:**
- **Vieve Invisiveil Setting Spray**: A lightweight setting spray with skincare and makeup benefits.
- **Laura Mercier Translucent Hydrating Setting Spray Ultra-Blur**: An unmatched setting spray from Laura Mercier.
4. **Powder Blush < Cream Blush**
I admit, I use cream blush year-round, but if you typically use a powder formula, I highly recommend trying a cream blush this winter. This product not only adds a beautiful flush to the cheeks but its hydrating properties will keep your makeup looking plump, dewy, and stunning.
**Shop Cream Blushers:**
- **Westman Atelier Petite Baby Cheeks Blush Stick**: My all-time favorite cream blush.
- **Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick**: This cream formula can be utilized on both lips and cheeks for a cohesive look.
5. **Liquid Eyeliner < Creamy Eye Pencil**
Waterproof liquid eyeliners are my go-to for statement eyes in summer since they last all day, even in the heat. However, I’ve found they don’t apply as well on my skin in winter and can often crease or flake. As a result, I prefer creamy eye pencils that meld into the skin and can be smudged
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As a Beauty Editor, I have decided to forgo these 6 makeup products this winter.
Confidential information.