2024 WINTER MAKEUP TRENDS: FROM FROSTY EYES TO BLURRED LIPS

Now that the holiday festivities have faded, it’s easy to feel a bit lost. But don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits (or your makeup game)! Winter is the perfect time to unleash your inner artist and experiment with bold, beautiful looks.

As J. Brandon Correa, national makeup artist for YSL Beauté, puts it, “Winter beauty is all about playing with textures and making a statement.” So, let’s dive into the hottest winter makeup trends and discover how to create stunning looks that will brighten even the darkest days.

BOLD LIPS

If your winter wardrobe leans heavily on black and gray (guilty as charged), elevate your look with a pop of color on your lips. “A bold lip is a fantastic way to stand out during the winter, when fashion and weather often feel more subdued,” says Lobell. “Bright lips are perfect for the season, as they create a striking contrast against the pale or dull skin tones many experience in colder months. This contrast can enhance the complexion and bring a fresh, lively energy to your appearance.” Think crimson, deep berry, or vibrant Barbie fuchsia, paired with subtle, minimal makeup. “It’s a bold yet refined look, perfect for making a strong style statement during winter.”

SNOWLIT SHINE

Minimal makeup doesn’t have to be dull; it can dazzle just as much as a full face of blush, contour, and liner. “This trend allows your skin to ‘rest’ from heavy makeup routines,” says Correa. “It’s perfect for this season because it combines a snowy, luminous vibe with a radiant glow.” Inspired by the way sunlight reflects off snow, Correa brings that same shimmering brightness to the face. “Think clean, minimalist skin, translucent sparkles on the eyes, full lashes, and glowing lips.”

Since this look emphasizes glowing skin, Correa suggests using the YSL Touche Éclat All-Over Brightening Concealer Pen to conceal and brighten. Skip the contour and bronzer, focusing instead on your eyes by adding a shimmery topper to the center of the lids. “You can either do a light eye contour or let the shimmer stand on its own,” he says. Complete the look with mascara and a sheer, plumping lip balm like Candy Glaze.

STATEMENT EYELINER

Jillian Dempsey, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jillian Dempsey, was recently inspired by the UK’s colder weather and bold color palettes. One standout trend she noticed was statement eyeliner. “Eyes are big this winter. Expect eyeliners to make a major statement,” she shares. “The power of this look comes from lining both the upper and lower lids and creating a shape that suits your eyes.” Dempsey favors shades like blackberry, muted black, and deep mahogany for a fresh twist on classic browns and blacks. Think thick wings, waterlining, and exaggerated cat eyes—anything goes. “My Flyk Trick Mascara doubles as a 2-in-1 mascara and liquid liner, perfect for crafting your bold, personalized eyeliner look to match your winter plans,” says Dempsey.

JEWEL TONED EYES

If frosty finishes aren’t your style, opt for rich, vibrant jewel tones instead. Shades like sapphire, emerald, and ruby complement the icy whites and grays of your winter wardrobe beautifully. “I’m seeing a lot of brands pairing their burgundy collections with emerald and midnight blue mascaras and eyeliners,” says Spickard. “It’s a fun and easy way to add some variety to your makeup during these dark, cold months.” He recommends Lancôme’s colored mascaras, especially the emerald green Noir Malachite, for a subtle pop of unexpected color. For the lids, try the Pat McGrath Dark Star Eye Duo, which Spickard describes as “an opulent blue sapphire shimmer.” Add a gloss topper over the shadow to really enhance the sparkle and make the look shine.

DEWY GOLD

Feeling the winter chill? Warm up your look with glowing shades of gold. “Gold tones bring much-needed warmth to the skin, which can often appear dull in winter due to the lack of sunlight,” says Lobell. “The dewy finish of this trend helps counter the dryness that comes with cold weather, giving your skin a hydrated, healthy glow.” Even if you’re not escaping to a tropical paradise, your makeup can make you feel like you are.

“Think warm, golden hues that create a radiant, sun-kissed glow,” Lobell explains. “This look focuses on dewy skin, using gold-toned highlighters and eyeshadows to enhance your natural luminosity. Be the glowing goddess you’re meant to be.” Her recommendations include Neen’s Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in Metta for the cheekbones, and Pretty Shady Pressed Pigments in Flash, Fade, and Faint—gold and rose gold shades that shimmer beautifully on the eyes. Complete the look with a brown or nude lip for a perfect finish.

SOFT OMBRÉ LIPS

The ombré lip look has been making waves on TikTok this season, and Carolina Gonzalez, celebrity makeup artist and Armani Beauty Collective member, is a fan of a soft, diffused version that’s easy to achieve with a bit of practice. “Start with the deepest color in the inner part of the lip, then blend it out toward the edges,” she explains. “I love this look because it’s dreamy and gives the lips a full appearance.”

Gonzalez suggests beginning with Armani Beauty’s Lip Power Long-Lasting Matte Lipstick in shade 407. “Pucker your lips and apply the lipstick generously to the center of both the top and bottom lips using the bullet-tip. Then, use a small brush to blend the outer edges slightly beyond the lip line.” For extra drama, add Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Glow Blush in shade 61—a raspberry pink—to the outer lips up to the lip line with a full crease brush. “Avoid touching the inner part where the color is dense,” Gonzalez advises. “This silk powder blush adds a velvet-like finish and makes the lips appear fuller and fluffier.”

PINK FROST

If you embraced the TikTok “I’m cold” blush trend last year, you’ll love this 2024 update. “This trend takes the ‘cold girl’ look to the next level by adding black to define shape and structure,” explains Correa. Start by prepping your skin with foundation, concealer, and contour. Next, apply YSL’s Nu Lip and Cheek Balmy Tint in NuChills to your cheeks for a translucent, balmy finish. Dab any leftover product on the tip of your nose for that frostbitten “just came in from the cold” effect.

For your eyes, Correa suggests using YSL’s Couture Mini Clutch palette in Babylone Roses. “Blend the midtone shade to contour your eye shape, apply the midtone shimmer on the lid, and add depth with the deepest shade along the upper and lower lash lines,” he advises. “Finish with a touch of the topper shade from the top left in the inner corners for an icy pop.” Complete the look with mascara and liner, and finish with a combination of the Balmy Tint and Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick in Sweet Pink.

MOOD MAKEUP

Donni Davy, co-founder of Half Magic and head makeup artist for Euphoria, uses makeup to create her own winter mood despite living in California’s year-round sun. “A dark lip instantly transforms me into a sort of witchier version of myself, and adding sparkle to my eyes brings a joyful balance to the look,” she says. “It’s fun to embrace a darker, more introspective vibe during the winter.”

Her “joyfully moody” look features dewy skin, glittery eyes with plenty of mascara, and a vampy dark lip. To achieve this, Davy recommends using Half-Magic’s Glitterpill Eye Paint + Liner in Holy Goldie or Microcosm for the “perfect winter sparkles.” Apply these on bare lids for a snowy effect, then layer on the Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara to highlight the sparkle. For the lips, Davy favors the Mouth Cloud Soft Matte Lip Cream in Edward’s Fantasy, enhancing the shade with Sculptitude 2-in-1 Longwear Lip Liner in Sugar Plum B*itch.

LADY IN RED

Whether it’s in your wardrobe, accessories, or makeup bag, red remains the top accent color for 2024, especially leading up to Valentine’s Day. Swap out your usual lip gloss for a bold, vibrant red lipstick. “Now is the perfect time to opt for a kissable red,” says celebrity makeup artist Kasey Spickard. He highlights Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl in Red Hot as a standout choice, known for its high shine and warm tone. “It has a vibrant hue and stays put once it dries, giving you long-lasting shine,” he explains. Another favorite of Spickard’s is the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Chili Pepper, a matte red-orange that provides all-day wear.

FROSTY FACE

For makeup inspiration this season, look outside your window and get creative with textures and colors reminiscent of frosty winter mornings. “It’s cold and frosty outside, so embracing themes like snow, ice, and sparkles is perfect,” says Jeanine Lobell, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen. “This trend is all about capturing the cool, crisp tones of winter, with icy colors like silvers, pale blues, and frosty pinks.”

The Frosty Face look centers around highlighter, with Lobell recommending her Neen Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in the aptly named Frosty shade. For cheeks, aim for a “post-blizzard glow” reminiscent of the TikTok “I’m cold” trend—Lobell favors her Get it All Done Cream Cheek & Lip for this effect. “A vibrant pink will give you that ‘caught in a storm’ look,” she says. Add a frosty touch to your eyes with the Side Eye Liner in Minty and finish with Neen’s Glisten Up Lip Gloss in Bye, a shimmering pink, for a perfect winter finish.

16 BEST LIP BALM FOR DRY LIPS TO REVIVE DRY WINTER LIPS

To shield your lips from the harsh winter weather, finding an effective and user-friendly lip balm can be quite a challenge. In recent years, the diversity and convenience of lip care products have sparked a revolution in lip beauty. No longer confined to tiny tin boxes or twist-up magnetic sticks, today there are various new lip balms that provide a lighter and more luxurious feel for delicate lip skin. Here is a compilation of 16 top-rated lip balms designed to prevent and heal dry and chapped lips, simplifying the selection process for you.

WHAT IS THE BEST LIP BALM?

Determining the best lip balm often boils down to personal preferences and specific needs. Different individuals may prioritize factors such as intense hydration, sun protection, or additional skincare benefits. Some popular choices in the realm of lip care include Aquaphor Healing Ointment, known for its versatility and effectiveness in treating severe dryness, and Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm, praised for its hydrating properties. For those seeking a balance of sun protection and moisturization, Supergoop’s Play Lip Balm with SPF 30+++ is a notable option. Ultimately, the ideal lip balm varies from person to person, and the best choice is one that aligns with individual preferences and addresses specific lip care needs.

COCONUT OIL LIP BALM

Palmer’s Coconut Oil SPF 15 Lip Balm often known as best drugstore lip balm and provides moisture and nourishment to the lips, crafted from pure Coconut Oil rich in antioxidant properties. It shields the lips from cracking, dryness, and environmental factors such as sun and wind. Sustainably harvested, raw coconut is exceptionally rich in natural fats and proteins, delivering superior moisturization. The lip balm features organic Extra Virgin Fair Trade Certified Coconut Oil. The active ingredient in Palmer’s Coconut Oil SPF 15 Lip Balm is Zinc Oxide (11%). The purpose of using this lip balm is primarily for its effective sun protection properties.

Lanolips Tinted Balm

Lanolips lip balms utilize lanolin, a natural oil derived from sheep’s wool. The production process is humane, ensuring no harm to the sheep involved, and lanolin closely resembles the oils found in human skin. I’ve been a loyal user of Lanolips products for years, and whenever I’m facing extended exposure to cold weather, the original 101 Multipurpose Ointment is my top choice. The brand offers unflavored and unscented options, as well as sheer flavored balms and lightly tinted varieties, providing a diverse range to suit various preferences. However, Lanolin lip balms, with their thicker texture, might be too heavy for those who prefer lighter formulations. Vegetarian should choose plant-based alternatives, as lanolin lip balms are not suitable for them.

LE BAUME PARFUM VIOLETTE

Keeping Féret’s Le Baume on my desk brings a satisfying experience with its chic French aesthetic. Its dense, waxy formula effectively addresses dry lips and doubles as a remedy for cuticles and hands post-dishwashing. Packed with natural ingredients like honey, shea butter, and sea buckthorn oil, this solid balm has a delightful fragrance from rose and rosemary extracts. For those who prefer lighter skincare textures, especially for lips, the dense, waxy formula of this product may be less ideal. Its solid consistency might necessitate warming up on the skin, potentially impacting ease of use.

HANALEI SUGAR LIP SCURB

Hanalei’s lip treatments, certified by Leaping Bunny, showcase Hawaiian Kukui nut oil known for its vitamin-rich properties. After experimenting with various lip balms, this one distinguishes itself for its remarkable effectiveness against dry lips. It is available in both clear and tinted variations. Hanalei also provides an all-natural lip scrub, ideal for recovery from chapped lips. However, premium paraben-free products may have a higher cost, a factor to consider for budget-conscious individuals.

SUPERGOOP PLAY LIP BALM

During winter outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding, it’s crucial to apply SPF on your lips. For effective sun and wind protection, consider using Supergoop’s Play lip balm with SPF 30+++ broad spectrum. Enriched with shea butter, acai, and sunflower oil, it not only shields your lips but also ensures they stay moisturized—ideal for post-ski indulgences. However, be mindful that SPF lip balms may require frequent reapplication, which can be inconvenient, and some formulations may leave an unappealing white residue, particularly for those with darker skin tones.

TOWER 28

Many tinted lip balms act more like lipsticks, requiring an additional hydrating balm, especially in winter. Yet, Tower28’s Juicebalm breaks from this pattern as a remarkable exception. Its stick formula allows for buildable color, distinct from some overly sheer tinted balms. The combination of shea butter and marula oil contributes effective moisturization. However, the creamy nature of these tinted balms may lead to transfer onto surfaces, and in warmer climates, their soft consistency may result in melting, affecting on-the-go convenience.

FENTY BEAUTY PRO KISS’R LIP-LOVING SCRUBSTICK

Fenty Beauty’s lip scrub cleverly comes in a chapstick format, making it easy to exfoliate dry lips with a single swipe. Formulated with plant seeds for a gentle polish and enriched with nourishing coconut oil, it leaves your lips smooth, soft, and kissable—or, at the very least, perfectly prepped for lipstick. Before trying other great lip balms in this collection, consider adding this one to your cart for optimal results. However, the stick format’s convenience may have limitations in reaching certain lip angles, potentially hindering a thorough exfoliation. Some users may prefer traditional lip scrubs with a granulated texture for a more tactile exfoliation experience, which the smooth stick format may not fully replicate.

RHODE PEPTIDE LIP TREATMENT

If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on Hailey Bieber’s coveted lip treatment, consider stocking up and keeping a few in each of your bags. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, the formula itself acts like a rich glaze, forming a lasting barrier that locks in moisture. Packed with vitamin E and peptides, it not only enhances the lips’ appearance but also plumps and softens lines. However, for individuals with severe lip dryness, the effectiveness of the Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment may vary, and those favoring a matte finish might find the lacquered shine less appealing, potenti

MAKEUP BY MARIO MOISTUREGLOW™ PLUMPING LIP SERUM

Masterfully fusing color cosmetics with advanced skincare, Makeup by Mario’s serum stands out as one of the premier lip products ever crafted. The opulent formula effortlessly glides over lips, rapidly elevating moisture levels, and the sheer pigments provide an appealing tint in any chosen shade. Enhanced with peppermint for a subtle plumping effect, it doesn’t dramatically enlarge the lips but significantly improves their condition and appearance, leaving behind a lustrous blend of botanical oils. The serum’s availability may pose challenges due to high demand, potentially making it challenging for some consumers to obtain. Additionally, for those favoring a non-glossy or matte lip look, the shiny finish may be less desirable.

LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK

Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask is a standout product in K Beauty, serving as the lip equivalent to the “slugging” trend. This balm envelops dry lips in fruit extracts and nourishing oils overnight, ensuring pillow-soft lips by morning. Enriched with vitamin C to boost collagen production and support skin repair, it’s a dependable option for a comprehensive transformation of chapped lips. However, the jar packaging may raise concerns about hygiene compared to tube packaging, and some users may find the application process less convenient, especially when on-the-go. Additionally, individuals with a preference for specific lip balm textures might find the mask’s more substantial consistency less appealing than traditional balms.

ULTRA VIOLETTE SHEEN SCREEN HYDRATING LIP BALM SPF 50

Protecting chapped lips from further damage and sunburn is crucial, and Ultra Violette’s smooth lip balm is a reliable solution. With factor 50 sun protection, along with the inclusion of lanolin and plant butters, it ensures deep hydration and seals in moisture for the lips. However, it’s worth noting that the product’s availability may be influenced by demand, posing potential challenges in obtaining it. Additionally, some individuals may find that lip balms with SPF have a taste or scent that is not to their liking.

DIOR LIP GLOW OIL

Dior’s acclaimed lip oil offers a range of advantages, including its lightweight consistency that deeply nourishes dry lips and the plush doe foot wand that saturates and smooths. Enriched with nutrient-rich cherry oil extract, the moisture-activated formula reacts with your lips, creating a personalized rosy glow. With a spectrum of eight shades, from Clear to Mahogany, trying just one may spark the desire to collect them in every color. It’s important for users with specific sensitivities to ingredients to exercise caution and perform a patch test before integrating Dior Lip Glow Oil into their regular routine. Additionally, individuals with specific color preferences may find the range of eight shades somewhat limited, especially if they are seeking more diverse or unique options.

NATURIUM PHYTO GLOW LIP BALM

This vegan-friendly lip balm is free from fragrance and parabens, catering to individuals with sore or sensitive lips. Infused with healing shea butter, plant-derived squalane, and conditioning esters, it imparts a glossy layer of moisture to the lips. The Petal pink tint is favored for revitalizing dull lips with a natural, healthy color, while clear and various shades of pinks and reds offer options for a vibrant flush. Despite being fragrance-free and paraben-free, users with specific sensitivities or allergies to other ingredients in the formulation should exercise caution and may consider patch-testing before regular use. Additionally, the product’s availability may be influenced by factors such as demand, potentially posing challenges in obtaining it.

EUCERIN AQUAPHOR SKIN SOOTHING BALM

A well-established essential for your bathroom cabinet, Eucerin’s Aquaphor ointment proves to be a versatile balm, especially effective in addressing severely dry lips. Its irritant-free formulation, free from colorants and fragrance, is particularly advantageous for treating dry lips prone to splitting. Suitable for use on infants, this ointment creates a protective barrier over cracked skin, fostering regeneration. However, its thicker consistency may demand a bit more effort in application, potentially making it less convenient for quick, on-the-go use. Additionally, for users who prefer visually appealing lip products, the ointment may lack the aesthetic charm found in tinted or flavored balms.

GISOU HONEY INFUSED LIP OIL

With its lightweight and non-sticky texture, Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil offers a gentle layer of lip protection without any gunky or uncomfortable sensation on the skin. Featuring honey as its hero ingredient, known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, this lip oil from the Gisou range contributes to the softening and smoothing of lips over time. Ideal for those who prefer lip salves with a light consistency, this weightless formula is tailored to meet such preferences. However, it’s important to note that the product may have a specific fragrance due to the honey content, which could be a consideration for individuals sensitive to scents. Additionally, the price and accessibility of the product may vary depending on factors such as demand and availability.

FRESH SUGAR LIP BALM

Fresh’s sugar lip treatments have gained iconic status in the beauty industry, often deemed a beauty essential. Enthusiasts tend to collect them in various flavors due to their hydrating and nourishing properties, complemented by a subtle hint of color that rejuvenates lackluster lips. Formulated with a meticulous blend of fatty acids, vitamins, and sugars from beetroot—acknowledged by experts as essential for hydration—this classic swipe-on stick ensures convenient on-the-go moisture. While many appreciate the pleasant sweet scent, it may be a drawback for those favoring unscented or less fragrant lip products. Additionally, the product includes beeswax, rendering it non-vegan, which may lead individuals adhering to a vegan lifestyle to seek alternatives without animal-derived ingredients.

CONCLUSION

In our quest for the best lip balm for dry lips, we have presented a diverse range of options to cater to various preferences and individual needs. The best lip balm is a personal choice that aligns with one’s lifestyle, preferences, and specific skincare requirements. Whether you desire a deeply moisturizing product, sun protection, or simply a touch of color, the variety of lip balms ensures that everyone can find the most suitable product for soft, smooth, and vibrant lips.