The Winter Makeup Mistakes That Can Emphasize Fine Lines And Make Skin Look Older, According To Pros

January 31, 2026 by Lisa Cupido

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Makeup mistakes are easy to make—especially when you’re doing the same routine on autopilot. But the wrong choice can instantly change your look, and not in a good way. A heavy hand here or the wrong formula there can dull your glow, exaggerate fine lines, or leave your makeup looking flat and tired. And while these slip-ups can happen any time of year, winter has a way of making them show up even faster.

As temperatures drop, skin naturally loses moisture, which means your makeup needs a little extra care to work with it, not against it. Products that looked flawless in warmer months can suddenly feel drying and cakey.

According to makeup artists, a few common winter habits may be ruining your look without you even realizing it. Here are some of the most frequent winter makeup mistakes pros say you’re probably making.

1. Skipping Moisturizer

Think your skin doesn’t need moisturizer in winter? Think again. Cold air and indoor heaters are basically a moisture-sucking tag team, leaving your skin dry and flaky. Skip the cream, and your foundation will cling to every flake on your face. A good moisturizer smooths things out and gives your makeup something to actually stick to—a flawless finish.

2. Not applying SPF

Yes, the sun is weaker in winter, but UV rays don’t take a holiday. Skipping SPF is like leaving your face unguarded in a snowstorm—harmless in the moment, but eventually, you’ll see the damage in dark spots and uneven tone. A little sunscreen under your makeup keeps your skin happy, protected, and glowing, even when it feels like the sky is just gray all day.

3. Using Powder

During the winter months, powder can be a sneaky enemy. When your skin is already dry, powder can accentuate every fine line, flake, and dry patch you never noticed before. Instead, swap in cream or hydrating formulas to set your makeup—they’ll keep you looking soft, dewy, and “I just woke up like this” instead of “I live in the desert.”

4. Using the Wrong Foundation Shade

Winter skin can look paler, so wearing your summer tan foundation is like putting your face in a spotlight that doesn’t flatter. When foundation is too dark or warm, your makeup looks heavy and mismatched. Opt for a shade that matches your current winter glow—or mix a lighter touch in—to keep your complexion looking natural, bright, and totally on point.

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