Glow All Winter: 7 Expert Makeup Tips for Radiant Skin!

Hey there, winter warriors! If your idea of a winter glow doesn’t involve sun-soaked beaches, don’t worry—there’s still hope for radiant skin right here at home! The cold air and relentless indoor heating can turn our skin into a desert landscape, leaving us with flaky, irritated patches that are anything but cute. But fear not! We’ve got the ultimate guide to transforming your makeup routine into a winter wonderland of glowing beauty (and spoiler alert: bronzer is *not* on the list). We’ve gathered secrets straight from the pros to help you look like a celestial being—even in the depths of winter.

1. Moisturizer is Your Best Friend.

Let’s kick things off with a skincare essential—you need to treat moisturizer like the magic potion it is before applying any makeup. “Take your time to massage [moisturizer] into your skin for that extra glow,” suggests makeup maestro Nick Barose. And remember, be generous! Don’t neglect your neck either! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect moisturizer, check out our vetted list of Best of Beauty winners to keep your skin hydrated and happy.

2. Time Your Moisturizer Right.

Hydration is crucial, but timing is everything! Makeup artist Erwin Gomez recommends applying moisturizer while your skin is still damp from the shower. “This is the prime time to give your skin that essential hydration,” he shares. For an added glow, reach for something like Fresh’s Vitamin Nectar Glow Juice Antioxidant Face Serum, packed with vitamins C and E.

3. Say No to Powder.

Powder can be a winter enemy, especially if you have fair skin. Barose recommends ditching it for a moisturizing CC cream that’s just a shade warmer than your complexion. Try the fabulous Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminessence CC Color Control Brighten Moisturizer SPF 35, as it gives off a subtle glow that’s perfect for the season.

4. Swap Your Primer.

It’s time to shake things up with your primer! Gomez suggests opting for a luminous primer instead of the usual matte one. “The shimmering effect will create that gorgeous, lit-from-within glow,” he explains. Plus, it helps keep your skin hydrated amid those winter winds. Check out the glass skin game-changer VDL Lumilayer Primer or Flesh Beauty’s Illuminating Primer.

5. Stick with Liquid and Cream Foundations.

Flakes be gone! Creamier foundations glide smoothly on the skin and don’t emphasize dry patches. Avoid matte formulas as they can cling to flakes and leave your skin looking uneven. Instead, go for any of these 17 foundations designed specifically for dry skin. And hey, if you prefer less shine, feel free to set it with powder only in the areas that need it!

6. Liquid Highlighter is a Must!

For that stunning, natural glow, Barose recommends applying a liquid highlighter using a damp Beautyblender. He loves using Giorgio Armani Beauty Fluid Sheer for its warm nude tones that boost glow without dryness. You can also try the award-winning Nyx Away We Glow Liquid Highlighter or L’Oréal Paris’s True Match Lumi Glotion.

7. Keep the Moisture Flowing.

Notice your skin feeling parched or your makeup looking cakey? Keep a facial mist close by for a quick hydrating refresh throughout the day. “A light mist can set your makeup and add a touch more moisture,” advises Gomez. Any one of these face mists will do the trick beautifully.

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Ready for more winter beauty magic?