Winter Makeup 2026: how to make it long-lasting and hydrating — tips from Leo Beauty Club makeup artist
Makeup, as an integral part of style, requires special attention to facial skincare during the winter period. What trends will form the basis of winter makeup in 2026? How can you create a glowing look centred on the natural radiance of the skin, giving the face freshness and a hydrated effect, as if it were emitting light from within? Makeup artist of the Leo Beauty Club beauty salon in Warsaw, Olha Zehreb, shares her recommendations.
Common mistakes in skin preparation that lead to dryness and makeup pilling
In winter, I most often see several systemic mistakes that can ruin even very high-quality makeup.
The first is overly aggressive cleansing. During the cold season, the skin already loses moisture, and the use of harsh foams, acids, or cleansing “until it squeaks” destroys the protective barrier. As a result, the skin becomes dehydrated, dryness and flaking appear, and foundation only emphasises this.
The second mistake is moisturising. Either there is not enough of it, or the products are not suitable for the season. Lightweight gel textures that work well in summer often do not provide enough comfort in winter, while an overly rich cream applied without a pause does not have time to “settle” into the skin and conflicts with makeup. It is important to give skincare at least 10–15 minutes before applying foundation.
The third is chaotic layering of products. Serum, cream, SPF, primer, and foundation with different bases and textures are one of the most common causes of pilling. In winter, it is better either to simplify the skincare routine or to select products that work according to the same logic and do not “argue” with each other.
Proper morning skincare before winter makeup: step by step
Proper morning skincare before winter makeup in 2026 looks as thoughtful as possible, but without overload.
1. Gentle cleansing
In winter, aggressive products should be avoided. It is better to choose delicate creamy or milky textures that do not disrupt the skin’s protective barrier.
2. Moisturising serum
The focus is on maintaining the hydrobalance: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol. This helps to avoid dryness and foundation pilling.
3. Season-appropriate cream
The cream should be more nourishing, yet comfortable. It is important to give it 10–15 minutes to absorb before makeup.
4. SPF when needed
Even in winter, sun protection remains relevant, especially for an urban lifestyle.
This is the type of skincare that gives makeup the look of “clean skin” rather than a mask.
Which foundation and base textures work best in winter
In winter, moisturising, creamy and fluid textures with a natural or radiant finish work best. They do not emphasise dryness and create the effect of living skin. For bases, it is worth choosing moisturising or light luminous primers that support comfort and do not conflict with the foundation. Overly matte and powdery formulas, however, are better set aside in winter — they quickly “eat up” the freshness of the face.
How to set makeup in the cold season without drying out the skin
In winter, makeup is set with a moisturising spray, dry powders are used minimally, and preference is given to cream textures so that the skin remains alive and does not flake.
Skin preparation is visible in the final look
It is important to consider that proper winter skin preparation and professionally applied makeup can play a decisive role during photo shoots and video filming. In photos, it is always visible: the skin looks fresh, hydrated and supple, the complexion is even, flaking and dry areas are smoothed out, and the makeup lies evenly and has a natural glow.
You can visit the LBC salon at the address:
WARSZAWA. ul. Ogrodowa, 58
Book via direct messages or through the administrator.
LEO BEAUTY CLUB is an international network of premium-segment beauty salons and clinics, represented in Kyiv, Warsaw, and Dubai. In the LBC beauty space, world-class luxury brands are always used. Exceptional care is also guaranteed by advanced beauty methodologies, which are widely represented within the network. Refined design and care for comfort turn all cosmetic procedures at LBC into your favourite moments.
