The holiday season is the perfect time to experiment with bold makeup looks—whether you’re getting ready for a festive party, a family gathering, or a cozy date night. However, with so many events and occasions, it’s easy to make a few makeup missteps along the way. To ensure you look your best all season long, here are three quick makeup mistakes to avoid this holiday season, along with tips for how to get your holiday glow on point.
1. Overdoing the Highlighter
It’s easy to get carried away with highlighter, especially when you’re aiming for a glowing, festive look. However, while the shimmering, dewy effect of highlighter is flattering when applied correctly, overdoing it can result in an overly shiny face. During the holidays, you may be tempted to layer on extra highlighter to match the sparkle of your holiday decorations, but this can lead to a greasy or unnatural appearance.
Why It’s a Mistake:
- Too Much Shine: Highlighter can easily catch the light in a way that emphasizes texture, pores, or fine lines on the skin if over-applied.
- Clashing with Holiday Lights: If you’re attending a party or gathering with bright lights, too much highlighter can make your skin appear overly shiny rather than naturally luminous.
How to Avoid It:
- Apply Strategically: Instead of applying highlighter to your entire face, focus on the high points where light naturally hits—such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the cupid’s bow. You can also lightly apply a bit to the bridge of your nose and the inner corners of your eyes for a more subtle glow.
- Choose the Right Formula: Go for a creamy or liquid highlighter that melts into the skin for a natural, skin-like finish. Powder highlighters can sometimes look too harsh and may settle into fine lines. A light hand and blending will give you a more flattering, radiant glow.
2. Skipping Setting Spray or Powder
With the busy holiday schedule, you don’t want your makeup melting or fading halfway through your evening. Unfortunately, skipping the final steps of setting your makeup—either with a setting powder or spray—can leave your foundation prone to creasing, fading, or transferring. This is especially problematic in colder weather, where your skin might become drier and more prone to uneven application.
Why It’s a Mistake:
- Smudging and Fading: Without a setting product, your makeup can slip off by the end of the day or night, leaving you looking less put-together.
- Holiday Photos: Holiday gatherings often mean plenty of photos with family and friends. Without proper setting, you might find your makeup looks uneven or patchy in pictures.
How to Avoid It:
- Use a Setting Powder: If you have oily or combination skin, a translucent setting powder will help mattify your complexion and keep your makeup in place for hours. Focus on areas where your skin tends to get oily, such as the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Be sure to use a light dusting so you don’t end up with a cakey appearance.
- Finish with a Setting Spray: For an extra layer of protection, use a long-lasting setting spray to lock in your makeup and add a fresh finish. Some setting sprays even offer additional benefits, such as hydration or oil control, depending on your skin type. Hold the spray about 6-8 inches away from your face and mist evenly to avoid any droplets settling into your makeup.
3. Choosing the Wrong Lip Color for Your Look
During the holidays, red lips are practically a signature look. However, while a bold red or deep berry shade can look stunning, choosing the wrong lip color can clash with your overall makeup look or outfit. Whether you’re opting for a classic red, a soft nude, or a vibrant pink, it’s important to match your lip color with the rest of your makeup and the occasion.
Why It’s a Mistake:
- Clashing Shades: A bold lip color can easily overpower the rest of your makeup if not balanced correctly. If you’re going for a heavy eye look or dramatic contouring, a bright lip might be too much.
- Dry or Cracked Lips: The colder winter months can leave your lips dry and cracked, and applying a bold lip color on top of dry skin can highlight imperfections.
How to Avoid It:
- Balance with Your Eyes: If you’re wearing a dramatic eye makeup look—such as a smoky eye or glitter—go for a more neutral lip shade to avoid overwhelming your face. For example, a soft nude, pink, or peachy tone would complement bold eyes.
- Hydrate First: Make sure to prep your lips before applying any lipstick. Exfoliate your lips gently with a lip scrub, and follow up with a moisturizing lip balm to create a smooth base. This will prevent your lipstick from clinging to any dry patches and ensure a more even application.
- Choose the Right Finish: If you want a bold lip color for your holiday look, opt for a matte lipstick with long-lasting formula. Matte finishes are less likely to transfer and will stay in place longer. If you’re after something more subtle, try a satin or gloss finish for a softer, more hydrated look.
BONUS TIP: Overlooking Skincare
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of holiday parties and makeup trends, but one major mistake to avoid is neglecting your skincare routine. Healthy, well-prepped skin creates a better base for makeup, leading to smoother application and a more flawless finish.
Why It’s a Mistake:
- Uneven Texture: Dry or dull skin will make your makeup appear uneven, cakey, or patchy. Skipping moisturizer or exfoliating regularly can result in your makeup not sitting properly.
- Foundation Longevity: If your skin isn’t hydrated or primed before applying makeup, your foundation might sink into fine lines or wear off throughout the day.
How to Avoid It:
- Pre-Party Skincare: Make sure to hydrate your skin with a good moisturizer and apply a primer that suits your skin type before starting your makeup. This will create a smooth canvas for makeup to glide on and help it last longer.
- Hydrating Masks: If you have a little extra time, consider using a hydrating face mask a few hours before getting ready to give your skin an added boost of moisture.
Conclusion
The holiday season is the perfect time to experiment with makeup and try out new looks, but avoiding these common makeup mistakes will help you look your best. Keep your highlighter subtle, make sure your makeup stays put with a setting spray or powder, and balance your lip color with the rest of your makeup. Don’t forget about your skincare routine to ensure a flawless canvas for your festive look. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays with confidence, knowing your makeup will stay fresh and glowing all season long. Happy holidays and happy makeup!
