The COVID-19 pandemic redefined our wellness and beauty routines; like most people before COVID, I worked out of an office and wore makeup daily. This habit was in anticipation of potential networking events after work or impromptu nights out, which were frequent. But since the pandemic, I've opted to wear less foundation and concealer because what was the point? Especially while wearing a mask, heavy formulas tended to cause congestion in my skin, leading to breakouts and making the effort seem even less worthwhile.
Since then, I've noticed less desire to wear makeup, especially in winter. I wondered what the cause was: maybe it was because I was getting older or a beauty trend I inadvertently fell into. The no-makeup makeup look flooded social media feeds, all driven by a preference for a low-maintenance makeup approach by ditching heavy foundations and emphasizing glowy skin. There was also a surge of more makeup brands like Merit, Westman Atelier, Jones Road Beauty, and Tower 28, emphasizing an elevated, streamlined routine through simplified, multi-tasking products.
I decided to tap into three experts to get their POV on whether this shift in beauty routines is a broader trend and how to properly prep your skin for makeup (if you choose to wear it) during the winter. Here's what they said.
"These days, there is more of an investment in ‘health’ as a whole and health in terms of the skin,” said Kristyn Smith, esthetician and founder of Practise NYC. There's pride in taking care of your skin that gives people confidence. She also explained that consumers nowadays prioritize skincare and makeup products that serve a specific purpose and can help contribute to overall skin health. This makes sense to me because I have super dry skin and don't want my skin to look dry and flaky with foundation, so I'd rather opt for a tinted moisturizer. "There is more awareness around ‘wear time’ and a greater desire for choosing makeup that ‘gives back’ to the skin; no more pointless, occlusive layers that don't help the skin,” she adds.
Especially in the wintertime, celebrity makeup artists Emilio Uribe and Tobi Henney both share the importance of clean skin and hydration for proper skin prep for winter. "During the winter, it is of utmost importance to opt for products that give you your desired coverage and keep you hydrated—for prepping your skin and applying makeup. I always suggest opting for a tinted moisturizer or lightweight foundation that's a hydrating powerhouse for the colder months," suggests Uribe.
SPF is also a non-negotiable skincare essential, even on dark winter days, and if you do choose to wear makeup, consider products that also have SPF in them. "I love to choose a foundation with SPF built in; I love Shiseido Revitalessence Foundation with SPF30. It is very luminous on the skin and creates a healthy glow. I also like any formulas that nourish the skin and have hyaluronic acid. Chanel Les Beiges is a great choice with added skincare benefits to the foundation," Henney suggests.
Ultimately, whether you opt for a light or heavy makeup routine is a personal choice, irrespective of age or environmental factors. However, during challenging weather conditions, it's worthwhile to give extra consideration to your skincare routine. Adapting by selecting products that provide hydration and long-term benefits for your skin can make a significant difference.
