14 Must-Have Beauty Products To Prep for Holiday Season

The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about how you want to look and feel for all the special moments. With so many events lined up, having the right beauty products at your fingertips can make getting ready a breeze. Whether you’re focused on skincare or makeup, there are a few things you’ll definitely want in your routine. These beauty essentials will ensure you’re looking your best all season long.

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Hydrating Facial Mist

A hydrating facial mist is a great way to keep your skin refreshed and glowing during the dry winter months. It’s perfect for giving your skin a quick boost of moisture, especially after a long day or during holiday travel. The refreshing mist helps to revive tired skin and set your makeup, ensuring you look your best throughout the day. Many mists are packed with ingredients like aloe vera or rose water, which soothe and hydrate. Keep a bottle in your bag to stay fresh and radiant no matter where you are.

A good facial mist can also work as a primer before applying makeup, creating a smooth surface. It’s also ideal for a mid-day pick-me-up when you need an instant refresh. The portability of the product makes it easy to carry around, and it provides instant hydration whenever you need it. Whether you’re attending a holiday party or running errands, this simple product can make a big difference. Choose a mist that’s lightweight and packed with beneficial ingredients for ultimate hydration.

Rich Moisturizer

Cold air can leave your skin feeling tight and dry, making a rich moisturizer an essential during the holiday season. Look for one that contains ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides to deeply nourish and lock in moisture. Applying a thick layer before bed can leave your skin feeling soft and supple by morning. A good moisturizer ensures your skin stays hydrated and radiant, especially when you’re prepping for long nights out. Use it daily to maintain healthy, glowing skin throughout the colder months.

For a more luxurious experience, opt for a moisturizer with a calming scent like lavender or chamomile to add an extra touch of relaxation. A moisturizer that’s suitable for both day and night can simplify your skincare routine while keeping your skin protected. Be sure to apply it after cleansing and before makeup to keep your skin smooth and well-moisturized. This step is especially important during the holiday season when your skin may be exposed to drying indoor heat. With the right moisturizer, your skin will be ready for whatever the holidays bring.

Shimmering Body Lotion

A shimmering body lotion is a must-have for adding a festive touch to your skin during the holiday season. Whether you’re attending a holiday party or simply want to add a bit of glow to your everyday look, this product will leave you shining. It’s perfect for giving your skin a healthy, luminous finish, with a hint of sparkle that catches the light beautifully. Apply it to your arms, legs, or collarbones for an elegant, glowing look. The lightweight formula makes it easy to blend and leaves your skin soft and smooth.

For added hydration, many shimmering body lotions also contain moisturizers like vitamin E or almond oil. This gives you the glow you want while nourishing your skin at the same time. If you’re looking to create a more dramatic look, layer it over a bronzer or body oil to enhance the effect. It’s a great product for special occasions or when you want to feel extra glamorous. Be sure to choose a lotion with a subtle shimmer, so it enhances your look without being too overpowering.

Velvet Lipstick

A velvet lipstick is perfect for the holiday season when you want to add a pop of color to your look. Its soft, matte finish gives a sophisticated and timeless feel, making it ideal for both day and evening wear. Whether you prefer a classic red, deep berry, or nude, velvet lipsticks provide rich, lasting color without the dryness of traditional matte formulas. These lipsticks are designed to glide on smoothly, creating a flawless finish that won’t budge throughout your holiday celebrations. Choose a long-lasting formula so you can focus on enjoying the festivities instead of worrying about touch-ups.

For added volume and definition, line your lips with a matching lip liner before applying the lipstick. A velvet lipstick can also be paired with a glossy topcoat for a more hydrated look if desired. The creamy texture makes it a perfect choice for those with dry lips, as it provides moisture while still delivering vibrant color. Plus, the elegant, smooth finish adds a luxurious touch to your overall makeup. With the right shade, this lipstick will elevate your look for any holiday occasion.

Illuminating Primer

An illuminating primer is a great way to create a glowing base for your holiday makeup. It helps smooth out imperfections while providing a radiant glow that lasts all day. This product is perfect for those who want to achieve that lit-from-within look without using heavy foundations. Simply apply it before your makeup to enhance your skin’s natural radiance and keep your makeup looking fresh and luminous. It’s ideal for the holiday season when you want to look glowing under all the holiday lights.

Look for a primer that contains light-reflecting particles to enhance the glow without making your skin look shiny. Many illuminating primers also have skincare benefits, like hydration or pore minimizing, which can improve your skin’s appearance over time. The best primers can act as a lightweight moisturizer while creating a smooth canvas for your foundation. Since it’s buildable, you can adjust the amount depending on how much radiance you want to add. For holiday parties, an illuminating primer will help you stand out in the best way possible.

Festive Nail Polish Set

A festive nail polish set is an easy way to get into the holiday spirit without much effort. Choose a set that includes rich reds, golds, silvers, or deep greens to complement your holiday wardrobe. Nail polish is a quick and fun way to add color and sparkle, and it’s a great way to express yourself during this time of year. Many festive nail polish sets include glitter or metallic finishes, giving your nails a little extra sparkle for parties or gatherings. It’s an affordable way to elevate your overall look.

These sets are perfect for creating DIY holiday manicures, whether you prefer a classic red or want to experiment with fun designs. Look for nail polishes that are long-lasting and chip-resistant to keep your nails looking fresh throughout the season. The festive colors also make for a fun gift idea, as they add a personal touch to any holiday present. Nail polish is a simple yet impactful way to add cheer to your holiday preparations. Whether you’re hosting or attending parties, a festive nail polish set ensures your hands look just as beautiful as your face.

Hydrating Eye Cream

During the holiday season, late nights and busy schedules can leave your eyes looking tired and puffy. A hydrating eye cream is essential for refreshing the delicate skin around your eyes and reducing the appearance of dark circles. Look for eye creams that contain ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or peptides to help reduce puffiness and hydrate the skin. A good eye cream can also work as a primer for your concealer, giving you a smooth base for makeup. Use it daily to maintain a well-rested and bright-eyed appearance throughout the holiday season.

Eye creams are designed to be lightweight and gentle, so they absorb quickly without leaving any greasy residue. Many eye creams also provide anti-aging benefits, helping to firm and smooth the skin. With the right eye cream, you can combat tired eyes and ensure you look fresh no matter how busy the season gets. Apply it in the morning and at night for the best results, and you’ll notice a more vibrant and youthful appearance. Whether preparing for holiday photos or a big event, this product helps you put your best face forward.

Exfoliating Scrub

Exfoliating scrubs are a must-have for prepping your skin before applying makeup, especially in the colder months when skin can become dull and flaky. These scrubs help to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and ready to absorb moisturizers and makeup. The right exfoliating scrub will reveal brighter, more radiant skin without being harsh or abrasive. Regular exfoliation helps your skin look fresh and healthy, especially during the busy holiday season. It’s an essential step in your skincare routine to ensure your skin looks its best.

Exfoliating scrubs come in various formulas, with some offering physical exfoliants like sugar or salt, while others use chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. Choose one that fits your skin type and needs, whether you’re looking for a gentle scrub for sensitive skin or something more invigorating for tougher areas. Use it once or twice a week to maintain a smooth and glowing complexion. Exfoliation also helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts, which can be especially important during the colder months. With regular use, your skin will look bright and refreshed all season long.

Setting Spray

A setting spray is essential to lock in your makeup and keep it looking fresh throughout the day, especially during the busy holiday season. This product helps your makeup stay in place, no matter how long your holiday celebrations last. Setting sprays come in a variety of formulas, with some offering matte finishes and others providing a dewy glow. They help control oil and prevent makeup from smudging or fading, ensuring your face stays flawless. Spritz it on after finishing your makeup for a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Setting sprays can also hydrate and refresh your skin, making them an ideal choice for winter when skin tends to get dry. Many sprays are lightweight and can be easily carried in your bag for quick touch-ups. For those with oily skin, a mattifying setting spray helps control shine, while dewy sprays are perfect for adding radiance to your complexion. This product is a game-changer for anyone looking to extend the wear of their makeup during the holiday season. Whether you’re going to a party or just enjoying a dinner, a setting spray will keep your makeup intact.

Holiday Fragrance

A signature fragrance can make you feel festive and set the mood for the holiday season. Whether you prefer warm and spicy notes or fresh and floral scents, there’s a holiday fragrance for everyone. Spritzing on your favorite scent can instantly boost your mood and make you feel more confident. The right fragrance can also become a signature scent for your holiday memories, adding a personal touch to your seasonal look. Choose one that reflects your style and adds to the magic of the season.

Holiday fragrances are often more intense, with rich notes of cinnamon, pine, and vanilla, making them perfect for colder months. Some perfumes come in limited-edition holiday packaging, making them even more special. A beautiful fragrance can be a wonderful gift, or a treat for yourself as you prepare for the holidays. Apply it to pulse points for the longest-lasting effect and enjoy the festive aroma all season long. With a signature fragrance, you’ll add an extra layer of charm to your holiday experience.

Highlighter

A highlighter is a must-have for creating a luminous look during the holiday season. This product helps add a healthy, radiant glow to your cheekbones, cupid’s bow, or down the bridge of your nose. Whether you prefer a subtle glow or a dramatic shine, highlighters come in various shades and formulations to suit every skin tone. They’re perfect for adding a festive touch to your makeup, especially for evening events and holiday parties. Apply it to the high points of your face for an instant lift and glow.

Choose a highlighter that complements your skin tone for the most natural effect. Powder, cream, and liquid highlighters are all great options, and you can even layer them for a more intense effect. For a more polished look, consider applying your highlighter after setting your makeup with powder or spray. Highlighter is the perfect way to achieve a radiant, glowing finish, no matter the occasion. Whether you prefer a soft shimmer or a blinding highlight, this product will help you shine bright during the holiday season.

Hair Treatment Oil

Dry winter air can cause hair to lose its shine and moisture, which is why a good hair treatment oil is essential for the holiday season. This product helps to nourish and hydrate your hair, making it look smooth and glossy. Apply a few drops to the ends of your hair to prevent split ends, or use it as an overnight treatment for deep conditioning. A good hair oil adds shine, reduces frizz, and ensures your hair looks healthy and beautiful throughout the colder months. It’s a great way to maintain shiny, healthy hair when you’re styling for all your holiday parties.

Choose a lightweight hair oil for finer hair, or a richer oil for thicker, coarser hair. The right oil will provide moisture without weighing your hair down, keeping it soft and smooth. Many hair oils also offer heat protection, so you can safely style your hair without causing damage. With regular use, your hair will stay hydrated, glossy, and full of life all season long. A good hair treatment oil is the perfect addition to your beauty routine before any holiday event.

Makeup Remover Wipes

Makeup remover wipes are a quick and easy way to remove makeup at the end of a long holiday day. These wipes gently cleanse your face, taking off makeup and dirt in one simple step. They’re especially handy when you’re traveling or need to freshen up after a busy day. Wipes are convenient and easy to carry, making them a must-have for anyone on the go. Choose one that’s gentle on the skin but effective at removing even long-lasting makeup.

Most makeup remover wipes are infused with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to leave your skin feeling soft. They’re great for sensitive skin and are an essential part of a nighttime routine. Plus, you don’t need to rinse your face afterward, which makes them ideal for quick, easy cleansing. Whether you’re getting ready for bed or need a fast cleanup after a holiday event, makeup remover wipes are a lifesaver. Keep them in your bag or by your bedside for ultimate convenience.

Eye Shadow Palette

An eye shadow palette is essential for creating a variety of looks during the holiday season. Whether you’re going for a bold, smokey eye or a more neutral, everyday look, a palette offers endless possibilities. Choose one with a mix of matte, shimmer, and metallic shades to create the perfect holiday look. Eye shadows in jewel tones like gold, emerald, and ruby are perfect for adding a festive touch to your makeup. A good palette will take you from daytime to evening with ease.

The right palette can transform your look, allowing you to experiment with different styles throughout the season. Look for one with highly pigmented formulas that blend easily for a smooth finish. Multi-use palettes are great for packing everything you need into one compact case, making them ideal for travel. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or just want to try a fun new look, an eye shadow palette will help you create a dazzling holiday makeup look.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.