Winter 2022 Makeup Trends: Bold, Bright, and Beautiful

The winter season of 2022 brings an exciting revival to the world of beauty, spotlighting makeup looks that are bolder, more playful, and brimming with confidence. From the biggest runways to viral TikTok moments, Winter 2022 makeup trends urge everyone to break from the ordinary—whether you love a glazed lip, daring eye, or luminous skin, there’s a trend for every mood and skill level.

Read on to discover the must-try looks, how to achieve them, and the products that help you DIY these stunning trends.

1. Bold Blush: The Winter Statement

This winter is all about

showing off your blush

in a big way. Say goodbye to subtle hints and embrace bold, powerful cheeks that bring warmth and energy to even the chilliest days. Trending techniques include:

• Applying blush high near the temples
• Extending color over the apples of the cheeks and along cheekbones
• Layering blush up to the brow bones for a windswept look

Don’t be afraid to play with vibrant pinks, cool berries, or deep terra-cotta—this season it’s all about a healthy flush that commands attention.

2. Blue Eye Makeup: Playful and Modern

Inspired by the most memorable Fall/Winter 2022 runway looks, blue eye makeup is having a major moment. This isn’t the powder blue of the early 2000s—instead, think of sheer, iridescent washes and smoky navy for a contemporary twist.

• Try periwinkle or chrome-finish gels for a subtle shimmer
• Use blue shadow as a pop in the outer corner, or swept all over the lid
• For a daring effect, blend different blue hues, pairing icy liners with metallic shadows

Layer an iridescent gel shadow over a cream base to create depth and luminosity. This effortless approach makes the trend wearable for everyday or statement looks alike.

3. Soft Contour: Natural and Effortless

Winter 2022’s approach to contour is softer and more seamless than sharp, sculpted lines of the past. The goal: undetectable definition that enhances your bone structure while allowing skin to look fresh and radiant.

• Replace harsh bronzers with a concealer or contour a shade close to your foundation
• Target strategic areas: under cheekbones, along the jawline, and around the temples
• Blend with a damp sponge or fluffy brush for a diffused finish

Hydrating formulas are a top choice—products made with ingredients like hyaluronic acid help maintain a plump, glowing complexion through the dry winter months.

4. Graphic Liner: Eyes and Lips Both Get Artsy

Graphic liner is expanding beyond just the eyes—Winter 2022 sees crisp, creative lines gracing both lids and lips. On eyes, winged shapes get more dramatic with negative space or doubled wings; on lips, defined outlines and softly blended centers create a blurred effect that’s striking yet wearable.

• Experiment with bold wings, floating liner, or geometric shapes on the eyes
• Outline lips with a creamy pencil, then softly diffuse the edges towards the center
• Use a matte lipstick to blend the liner, focusing color on the “pillows” of the lips

Trend	Eyes	Lips
Graphic Liner	Cat-eye, negative space, colored shapes	Defined outline with blurred center

5. Brick Lips: The New Take on Red

Forget the classic blue-red—this winter’s iconic lip is

deep, brick-hued, and sultry

. Rich, warm reds spanning from russet to brownish crimson are taking center stage, lending sophistication to any makeup look. If you want something different than the classic holiday red, swap for a brick tone for instant modernity.

• Pair brick lips with barely-there eyes for a chic contrast
• Top with gloss for shine, or choose a satin-finish lipstick for a plush effect
• Use a matching liner for a defined, long-lasting finish

6. Glazed and Glossy Lips: Shine On

High-gloss lips are making a bold comeback, inspired by the popularity of “glazed donut” skin and lips seen across social platforms. Think vinyl shine, lightweight formulas, and comfortable hydrators that give your pout a healthy, plump effect.

• Layer gloss over your favorite nude or color lipstick
• Try a gloss with shimmer for extra dimension
• Stick to clear gloss for an understated, glowing vibe

The trick is to keep the rest of the face balanced—pair glossy lips with softly-defined eyes and blush to avoid looking overdone.

7. Dewy, Radiant Complexion: Skin That Glows

For Winter 2022, radiant skin takes center stage. This trend pairs luminous finishes with skincare-infused makeup that looks and feels hydrating. Even as temperatures drop, achieving a plump, healthy glow is possible with strategic products and application.

• Use lightweight, radiant-finish foundations or tinted moisturizers
• Apply liquid or cream highlighters to the high points of the face
• Mist the skin before and after makeup for extra glow

Keep powder to a minimum, using it only in the T-zone if necessary, so radiance isn’t masked by a matte finish. A subtle, gleaming complexion is the goal this season.

8. Soft Smoky Eyes: Sultry, Yet Approachable

Classic smoky eyes have been reimagined for Winter 2022 in softer, earthier tones—think browns, taupes, and charcoals, blended for a diffused look that works for both day and night. For a fresh spin, swap out black for brown or add a hint of shimmer in the inner corner.

• Start with a cream or pencil base, blend with a brush for seamless edges
• Add shimmer or metallic shadow to the lid for a subtle glow
• Finish with mascara or a thin strip of lashes to emphasize the eyes

9. Faux Freckles & Sunburn Blush: Whimsical and Youthful

Whimsical touches like

faux freckles and sunburn-inspired blush

continue to trend. Achieve the look with a light hand and a dotting technique for freckles, while blending blush across the nose to mimic a sun-kissed effect—even in the dead of winter.

• Use a fine-tipped brow pen or liner for natural-looking freckles
• Apply blush from cheek to cheek in a “W” shape crossing the bridge of the nose
• Layer cream and powder blush for longevity

10. Moisturized, Plump Skin: Hydration Is Key

With frigid air and indoor heating, winter skin can suffer—but this season’s makeup emphasis is on moisturized, healthy complexions. Prep with lightweight oils, hydrating mists, and serums rich in hyaluronic acid before makeup to protect and rejuvenate the skin.

• Choose foundations and concealers with skincare benefits
• Apply a dewy primer or moisturizer before your base
• Refresh makeup midday with a mist or cream highlighter

11. Multichrome and Metallic Accents: Shine Everywhere

Finish your winter glam with flashes of metallic or multichrome on lids, lips, or even cheeks. Multichrome gels and shadows add instant dimension, shifting color with every angle and lighting. This playful trend encourages creativity and self-expression.

• Dab metallic cream on the center of the eyelid
• Add a shimmer highlighter above cheekbones or in the tear duct
• Pair metallic with matte shades for a sophisticated contrast

Key Products & Pro Tips for Winter 2022 Trends

• Hydrating Concealers: Look for radiant-finish, hyaluronic acid-infused formulas to prevent cakiness.
• Multichrome Shadows: Use gel textures for intense, easy-to-blend color payoff in a single swipe.
• Glossy Lip Products: Choose non-sticky glosses with nourishing oils for comfort and shine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which winter 2022 makeup trend is easiest for beginners?

A: Glossy lips and bold blush are extremely beginner-friendly—simply swipe on color and blend as desired. For extra dimension, layer cream textures underneath powder formulas.

Q: How can I prevent makeup from drying out my skin in winter?

A: Prep with hydrating skincare, use minimal powders, and select creamy, dewy-finish makeup products. Always finish with a hydrating mist to lock in moisture.

Q: Is blue eyeshadow wearable for daily looks?

A: Absolutely—choose a sheer, pastel blue for a subtle wash or try a navy liner for a hint of color. Blend thoroughly for a soft, modern effect.

Q: What’s the best way to make bold blush last all day?

A: Layer a cream or liquid blush under a powder blush, and use a setting spray as the final step. This technique offers vibrant color and long-lasting wear.

Q: How do I avoid harsh contour lines?

A: Use a damp sponge to blend cream or stick contour into the skin, and opt for products just a shade or two darker than your natural complexion for a seamless, natural finish.

Ready to embrace winter’s statement makeup? With radiant skin, bold cheeks, and playful eyes, Winter 2022 is about self-expression and fun—no matter the temperature outside.