Makeup products: How to choose the best hydrating lipsticks for a flawless winter look

How to buy lipsticks: It's important to balance bold colours with formulas that provide lasting hydration. A good lipstick not only amps up your look but also protects your lips from the harsh winter element (Image: Canva)

Winter calls for a thoughtful skincare routine and a more careful selection of makeup products, especially when it comes to your lipstick. For many, lipstick is like a second skin but the winter can dry out your skin, particularly your lips. Therefore it's important to choose lip products that offer hydration along with colour. Lipsticks formulated with nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid help lock in moisture and prevent cracking, keeping your lips soft and healthy.

Winter calls for a thoughtful skincare routine and a more careful selection of makeup products, especially when it comes to your lipstick, says Paridhi Goel, Co-Founder, Love Earth. “For many, lipstick is like a second skin. However, some lipsticks, while trendy, can dry out lips. It's important to balance bold colours with formulas that provide lasting hydration. A good lipstick not only amps up your look but also protects your lips from the harsh winter elements,” she says.

Also read | Lip-licking dermatitis: Avoid dry, flaky skin on the lips with these home remedies

Goel shares tips on how to choose the right colour and style of your lipstick to complement your look during the colder months:

• Berry and plum: Deep berry shades, from rich plums to dark cherries, are the standout shades this winter. These bold hues pair perfectly with the season’s muted colors and add a sophisticated touch to any outfit. Keep your eye makeup simple to allow your lips to take center stage.

• Velvet matte finishes: Matte lipsticks are a staple in winter, but the key is to find a formula that doesn’t dry out your lips. Velvet matte finishes in shades like burgundy, cocoa, and deep red offer the perfect balance of long-lasting wear and smooth texture, making them ideal for everything from holiday parties to everyday looks.

• Classic reds, and a twist: Red lips are timeless, but this winter, it’s all about modern takes on the classic red. Think burnt orange-reds and deep crimson for a fresh twist that adds warmth to the colder days. These hues are perfect for brightening up your complexion and complementing both pale and deeper skin tones.

• Nude browns and mocha shades: For those who prefer a more subtle look, nude browns and mocha shades are the go-to choice. These versatile, earthy tones flatter every skin tone and work for both day and night, making them a must-have for anyone looking for understated elegance.

• Glossy finish: While matte formulas dominate, glossy lips are making a comeback this season. A hint of gloss over your lipstick or a tinted lip oil provides a fresh, dewy finish while keeping your lips hydrated in the dry winter air. It’s the perfect way to add a youthful, plump effect.