Must-Know Winter Makeup Tips

If you live where winters are harsh, you know the drill: You bundle up in your puffer jacket, scarf, gloves and hat just to take the garbage to the end of the driveway. But, no matter how covered up you are, it’s difficult to shield your skin from the harsh winter elements winter's harsh conditions and prevent it from looking washed out and dull.

And then you're stuck dealing with a dry, flaky and irritated complexion as you try to put your best face forward.

Fortunately, there are a few easy solutions.

Here are some winter makeup tips and tricks that will make you look radiant and cheery even in the depths of winter.

Apply a face mask. For once, we’re not talking about the N95. It's easier to apply foundation over skin that's well moisturized. To fight flakes, try a powerful creamy hydrating mask made with nourishing ingredients that provide intense and deep hydration. Start by using one once a week at night for five to 15 minutes.

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Before you put on your makeup, apply a good moisturizer. Look for one with anti-inflammatory ingredients that combat irritation and flakiness. Put on moisturizers immediately (and generously) after you cleanse to help lock in the moisture you got when you washed your skin. Be sure the moisturizer has been absorbed into your skin before applying your makeup.

Prep your eyes. Your eyes can tear in the winter, thanks to the harsh winds, sleet and snow. And that can lead to runny mascara and eyeshadow. Prime eyelids with face powder to help absorb excess oil, which can cause makeup to smudge. Use waterproof mascara to prevent smudges and smears. Apply eyeshadow and eyeliner only to the upper lids to prevent these products from moving elsewhere.

Use the right cleanser. If you use a cleanser that's too harsh, skin can get irritated, red or tight. And if it's too gentle, you'll have to wash hard or twice just to get a thorough cleaning. The right cleanser won't strip away too much of the skin's healthy cells or natural oils. And it will get rid of makeup, grime, excess oils and dirt completely. Typically, you want a creamy wash or hydrating cleansing lotion (which has less skin-stripping ingredients) if you have dry to normal skin to help keep it moisturized. Use a gel or foaming cleanser if you have skin that is a combination or oily. If you have acne-prone skin, opt for a wash with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which helps treat skin conditions. Also, look for a cleanser that's sulfate-free; otherwise, it might be too harsh on the skin. Speak to your dermatologist to help find one that's right for you.

Say goodbye to dry lips. Lips dry out easily since they lack oil glands, and they flake when abused by bad weather, which can make lipstick look blotchy. That's why it's important to exfoliate your lips to remove dead, dry skin and improve their tone and texture. Exfoliate gently with a damp washcloth. Then, apply cream lipsticks, which are more hydrating than matte or long-lasting formulas, or try a tinted lip balm with sunscreen.

Take advantage of blush. Blush can instantly wake up your complexion and revive a washed-out face. Try a soft, peachy color if you have fair skin or a warm, terra cotta one if you have darker skin. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend toward your cheekbones.

Adjust your foundation. Your summer sun-kissed glow is sadly gone, and your skin appears duller in the season's dimmer daylight. So, choose a base that's at least one shade lighter than you usually wear. Try a hydrating formula that contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin because skin tends to be drier in the winter.

Keep makeup in place. If your makeup often rubs off onto your scarf, hat or coat, try this trick to help it stay put: Apply a layer of translucent pressed powder, which is less messy than loose powder. It will help keep makeup on your face, which is where you want it. A spritz of setting spray can also do the trick.

Eat well and stay hydrated. Remember that your skin is an organ, so healthy skin starts with what you put into your body. Try these 10 foods for healthy, beautiful skin.