Just like you change your wardrobe with the seasons, your makeup routine needs adjustments too. Temperature, humidity, and lighting all affect how products perform and look on your skin.

Summer Makeup Challenges

  • Excess oil production
  • Makeup melting and sliding
  • Sweat and humidity
  • Stronger sun exposure
  • Casual, outdoor activities

Summer Makeup Strategy

Base Products

  • Switch to oil-free, lightweight formulas
  • Use mattifying primer
  • Consider tinted sunscreen or BB cream instead of foundation
  • Go sheer – heavy makeup looks unnatural in summer

Eyes

  • Waterproof mascara and liner mandatory
  • Use eyeshadow primer always
  • Opt for matte shadows (shimmer creases faster)
  • Brown liner looks more natural than black

Lips

  • Tinted lip balms with SPF
  • Lip stains for long-lasting color
  • Glosses for beach/pool days
  • Avoid dark, heavy lipsticks

Cheeks

  • Cream blush blends with summer glow
  • Bronzer for sun-kissed look
  • Skip heavy contour
  • Natural flush colors (coral, peach)

Winter Makeup Challenges

  • Dry, flaky skin
  • Dull, lifeless complexion
  • Chapped lips
  • Less natural light
  • Indoor heating drying skin

Winter Makeup Strategy

Base Products

  • Hydrating primer and foundation
  • Mix facial oil with foundation for glow
  • Use setting spray instead of powder
  • Cream formulas over powder

Eyes

  • Cream eyeshadows add moisture
  • Shimmer and glitter look festive
  • Rich jewel tones (burgundy, emerald, plum)
  • Black liner for drama

Lips

  • Exfoliate and moisturize before lipstick
  • Deep reds, berries, burgundy
  • Creamy formulas over matte (less drying)
  • Always carry lip balm

Cheeks

  • Cream blush for dewy finish
  • Highlighter for luminosity
  • Berry and mauve tones
  • Build color gradually (skin is paler)

Product Swaps: Summer to Winter

Summer Winter
Matte foundation Dewy/luminous foundation
Powder blush Cream blush
Oil-free primer Hydrating primer
Powder bronzer Cream bronzer
Matte lipstick Satin/cream lipstick
Waterproof mascara Regular volumizing mascara

Skincare Adjustments by Season

Summer Skincare

  • Gel cleansers
  • Lightweight serums
  • Oil-free moisturizer
  • SPF 50+ always
  • Clay masks for oil control

Winter Skincare

  • Cream or milk cleansers
  • Hydrating serums (hyaluronic acid)
  • Rich moisturizers
  • Facial oils
  • Hydrating masks

Color Palette Inspiration

Summer Colors

  • Coral, peach, pink
  • Bronze, gold
  • Nude and natural tones
  • Bright pops (orange, fuchsia)

Winter Colors

  • Deep red, burgundy, wine
  • Plum, berry, mauve
  • Emerald, forest green
  • Champagne, rose gold

Transition Season Tips (Spring & Autumn)

  • Start gradually adjusting products
  • Layer light and heavy formulas as needed
  • Keep both season staples accessible
  • Adjust based on daily weather

Listening to your skin and adapting your routine will keep you looking flawless year-round!

Madhawi

Written by Madhawi

VLCC Certified Makeup Artist with years of experience in bridal, party, and event makeup. Passionate about helping everyone look and feel their best.