4 Winter makeup tips, according to professional South African makeup artist

As the temperature drops, your skincare and makeup routine should adapt accordingly. Award-winning makeup artist and accredited makeup educator Precious Xaba explains that winter demands a complete seasonal shift in how we prep and transform our faces with beauty products. Here, she shares her winter beauty secrets on how to keep your glow going all winter long.

Skin prep is the game changer

Many people make the mistake of using their summer skincare routine and skipping primer altogether. “Prep is what makes makeup smooth and long lasting,” Precious says. She recommends a glowing, hydrating primer (look for ingredients like squalene) and letting your skincare sit for 5–10 minutes before applying foundation.

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Hydration is everything

Winter brings with it dry air, indoor heating and skin that feels tight and flaky. The fix? “Layer your hydration,” says Precious. Start with a hydrating cleanser, like Neutrogena Hydro Boost, followed by a serum with hyaluronic acid (she swears by The Ordinary’s), then seal it all in with a rich moisturiser such as CeraVe or La Roche-Posay Ultra Soothing Balm. Precious also says to consider facial oils — a few drops of rosehip or jojoba oil can do wonders.

Switch up your foundation

Winter is not the time for matte, full coverage foundations — especially on dry skin. We want that glow! Because your skin is generally on the drier side during winter, you need to account for the lack of moisture through product. Precious suggests cream or luminous liquid foundations with skin-loving ingredients. BB creams and skin tints are also great daily options, offering hydration with a healthy finish. “Avoid heavy, full coverage matte foundations unless you have oily skin,” she says.

Professional makeup artist Precious Xaba, Image: Supplied

A simple winter routine for beginners

Not sure where to start? Precious’ beginner-friendly routine is as simple as it gets: prep the skin, apply a hydrating base, add a cream blush for glow, define brows and lashes, finish with a hydrating lip balm. Brows and lashes instantly lift your look — even if the rest is minimal. Precious’ winter beauty must-haves:

Hydrating cleanser: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser.
Rich moisturiser: CeraVe Moisturising Cream, La Roche-Posay Ultra Repairing Soothing Balm.
Hydrating serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid +B5
Facial oils: Organic castor oil
Luminous foundation: Georgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
Hydrating setting spray: MAC Hydra Mist, Lelive Hydrate Mist

PRO ADVICE:

Avoid alcohol-based toners: They can worsen winter dryness and irritation. Choose hydrating, alcohol-free options.
Use cream blush for a winter glow: It mimics a natural flush better than powder and blends beautifully on dry skin.
Cut down long, hot showers: They strip your skin’s natural oils. Opt for shorter, lukewarm showers instead.
Moisturise immediately after cleansing: Lock in hydration by applying moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp.