1. Applying Makeup on Dry, Unprepped Skin
One of the biggest winter makeup mistakes happens before foundation even touches the face. Dry, flaky skin creates an uneven surface that causes makeup to cling in all the wrong places, emphasizing texture instead of smoothing it.
“I think the most important thing to do to avoid a dull, unflattering makeup look in the winter is to make sure to exfoliate and moisturize the skin,” says Fuller. “Layering makeup on top of dry, flaky skin will only cause the makeup to cling to dry, flaky spots.”
She explains that exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, healthier complexion underneath. Proper moisturizing is just as crucial. “Apply moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to keep skin supple and smooth,” Fuller advises.
She also stresses patience: “Let the moisturizer sink into the skin for about 15 minutes before applying makeup.”
2. Using Too Much Bronzer to “Warm Up” the Skin
As skin naturally looks paler in winter, many people reach for bronzer to bring back warmth—but using too much can backfire, making the complexion look muddy instead of sun-kissed.
“Many people think they’re too pale in the winter, so they want to warm their skin tone up,” says Fuller. “But too much bronzer will only cause skin to look muddy and dull.”
Her advice is to scale back and use a lighter hand. “Using very little product will result in a slightly warmer tone but won’t cause the skin to look dirty and flat,” she explains.
In winter, subtle warmth paired with glow tends to look fresher than heavy contouring or overly matte bronzing.
3. Overusing Powder (or Using It at All)
Powder can be especially unforgiving during colder months, when skin is already prone to dryness. According to Fuller, this is one step many people should reconsider altogether.
“Applying powder in the winter will only make the skin look drier,” she says. “It will settle into fine lines and wrinkles.”
Instead, she recommends embracing a more luminous finish. “Let the skin look glowy and dewy during the winter months,” Fuller says, adding that setting spray can help makeup last without sacrificing hydration.
For those with oily skin, she advises restraint: “A very light dusting of powder only where you are oily is ok, but don’t over-powder.”
She also warns that excess powder can oxidize. “Sometimes too much powder can oxidize on oily skin and clump up… The result will be darker spots with a noticeable amount of powder.” Rather than reapplying powder throughout the day, Fuller suggests using blotting sheets to absorb excess oil.
The Bottom Line
Winter makeup should work with the skin—not against it. According to Liz Fuller, proper exfoliation, thoughtful moisturizing, a lighter hand with bronzer, and skipping heavy powder can make all the difference between a dull, tired look and a fresh, radiant one. In colder months, glow, hydration, and subtlety are key to keeping skin looking healthy and awake.