Glowing skin transcends age and season, but is harder to achieve in winter than summer, when skin is naturally better hydrated and less flat in appearance. At this time of year, freezing weather and central heating irritate and dull the skin. With constant temperature changes and perpetual blowing and wiping of (pink) runny noses, beautifully glowing skin is still achievable, but a good dose of artificial embellishment is required. I will methodically layer up illuminating products both under and over makeup to achieve this look. When it comes to winter glow, less is never more – be decidedly indelicate with application, opting for lots of thin layers rather than heavy applications. The exception to this is with illuminating moisturisers, which you should use as liberally as your particular skin requires.
NARS Overexposed Highlighter (€39)
A beautiful Man Ray inspired limited edition powder highlighter from NARS. It applies with a golden hue, and consequently will not suit the palest skins, but if you have any natural warmth to your skin tone, this will make it sing songs of summer in the depths of December.
Glam Glow Glowstarter Mega Illuminating Moisturizer (€42 from Boots)
There is no polite way to say the following, so I’ll be frank. I horse this liberally all over my face on dull skin days. After application, my face looks as though it has been crafted out of some sort of iridescent vinyl, and the look is a bit much. However, as soon as I apply foundation over the top, skin looks internally glowing and healthy. There are three shades to choose from.
Botanics All Bright Radiance Balm (€9.99 from Boots)
An affordable alternative to the Glam Glow offering. This is slightly less intensely glowy, but still very noticeably brightens the skin. Apply under makeup or mix it into foundation to add instant life to a grey December pallor.
Huda Beauty 3D Highlighter Palette in Gold (€45 from Brown Thomas Beauty Lounge)
Not for the faint of heart, Huda Beauty Highlighters are for those who like a highlight so intensely glossy that skin looks almost plastic. These highlighters are heavy hitters and multi-use – try blending a thin seam up your shin and dusting on shoulders and collar bones for Christmas party looks and going ‘out out’.
Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow (€49)
Wonderglow is a gently blurring complexion enhancer as well as a highlighting fluid. It catches light beautifully and looks like sun on the skin. Mix with makeup or apply underneath it for that classic Tilbury film star skin.
Catrice Limited Edition Edition Kaviar Gauche Highlighter (€6.75 from selected Penneys and pharmacies nationwide)
There is no better value highlighter anywhere this winter. This powder compact is of monster proportions, good quality, and less than seven Euro. Use it liberally on face and body for expensive candlelit skin on a budget.
Tom Ford Radiant Moisture Soufflé (€85)
This is the champagne of highlighters, which is convenient given its softly golden champagne hue. A super-rich moisturiser embedded with entirely sparkle-free but incredibly intense highlight, it is frankly sumptuous. Skin is deeply moisturised and prepped for makeup. The glow is astonishing.
Mac Strobe Cream (€34)
A classic, and, in my opinion, still unbeaten in its category. Strobe Cream is available in different undertones if that’s your preference, but the classic pearl is still my favourite, and suits every skin tone and type.
