When it comes to makeup, it’s easy to feel like you need to buy a whole new set of products every season to keep up with the latest trends. But the truth is, you can easily transition your makeup from season to season without spending a dime.

Tip 1: Inventory Your Collection

What colors do you already own? What products do you use the most? Once you know what you have, you can start to plan how to use it to create different looks for different seasons.

1. Embrace the Power of Color:Take a look at your eyeshadow palettes, blushes, and lipsticks. Identify the shades that align with the upcoming new season. Spring is all about pastels, soft neutrals, and pops of vibrant hues. Incorporate these colors into your makeup looks to welcome the blooming season.
2. Declutter and Organize Your Collection:Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it applies to your makeup collection too. Sort through your products and get rid of anything that has expired or doesn’t work well for your skin anymore. Organize your remaining items in a way that makes them easily accessible. Read our “Spring Clean Your Makeup” post for more detailed tips on decluttering and organizing your beauty and makeup routine.

Tip 2: Transitioning your skincare for the season

Step 1: Make sure your skincare routine is using products formulated for your skin type. Not sure what your skin type is? Grab Natalie Setareh’s skin type guide here.

And if you don’t have a skincare routine, read this article, Skincare For Beginners.

As the seasons change, so do the environmental conditions, and your skin requires different care to adapt to the changing temperatures, humidity levels, and UV exposure.  

Winter to Spring 

To transition your skincare routine from winter to spring, for instance, you may swap out those from heavy, oil-based moisturizers to lighter, water-based ones to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. 

Spring to Summer

prioritize using sunscreen daily and reapply it frequently to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. 

Fall To Winter

Focus on repairing any sun damage from summer with products that contain antioxidants, like vitamin C or E. Make sure to get ready for the seasonal changes: in winter months, use a richer moisturizer and consider adding a hydrating serum to combat dryness caused by indoor heating. 

Remember, it’s important to listen to your skin and adjust your beauty routine as needed to keep it looking and feeling its best throughout the year. -Natalie Setareh

Tip 3: Manipulate Your Makeup To Fit Your Needs

For example, if you have a full coverage foundation but want a sheer, tinted moisturizer look — turn it into a tinted moisturizer by mixing your moisturizer into your foundation! Yes, it’s that easy. (If and only if your foundation and moisturizer are formulated for the same skin type). Read, oil and water don’t mix!

By customizing your foundation to suit the time of year and your skin’s needs, you can achieve a flawless complexion with a touch of radiance. Embrace the beauty of seasonal changes and let your natural glow shine through.

The same is true for lipsticks, stains, and glosses — you can sheer out that bold lip you haven’t worn into a mere tint! 

Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to experiment!

One of the best ways to transition your makeup from season to season is to experiment with different colors and techniques.

The bold lipstick you love during the fall? Try using it on your cheeks during the summer or spring.

Those fun pops of color living in your eyeshadow palettes that you don’t use, apply them on the center of the eyelid or as an eyeliner during the spring.

Those iridescent shades that look ‘too shiny’ make for perfect highlights during the cold winter months. 

Here are some more tips to help you make the most out of your existing makeup collection:

• Revive Unused Shades: We all have eyeshadow or blush palettes with shades that rarely see the light of day. Now’s the time to break free from the usual routine and experiment with those neglected colors. Dust off that vibrant blue or shimmery gold and give them a chance to shine.
• Multi-Purpose Products: Blushes and bronzers can double as eyeshadows, and vice versa. Take advantage of this versatility by using your favorite blush as an eyeshadow or a bronzer as a transition shade in your crease. This not only saves you money but also allows you to create unique and cohesive looks.
• Play with Placement: You don’t have to use the color all over your lid. Get creative and try applying a pop of color on the center of your eyelid or in the outer V for an eye-catching effect. This technique adds dimension and interest to your eye makeup, making it stand out.
• Hydrate Your Lips: As the seasons change, our lips may experience dryness and fine lines. Before applying any lip color, make sure to prep your lips by gently exfoliating and applying a hydrating lip balm. This creates a smooth canvas for your lip products and helps them last longer.
• Summer Glow with Berry Lips: In the summer, embrace a radiant and fresh-faced look by opting for a berry lip color. It adds a touch of vibrancy and complements the sun-kissed glow. Pair it with minimal eye makeup and a dewy complexion for a stunning summer look.

Check out this post about Color Theory and Makeup. If you haven’t already geeked out about color theory, this will be an incredibly insightful resource for you!

Tip 5: Get creative!

There are endless possibilities when it comes to makeup application. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things. You might be surprised at what you can create with the products you already have.

The worse case scenario is that you ‘messed up’. All you have to do is wash it off!

Another tip is to try something new and wear it for a few days — it takes time for us to feel comfortable in ‘new’ makeup techniques. 

 Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

1. Hyaluronic Acid Boost: If you have dry skin, summer months can be particularly challenging. Before applying your foundation, consider adding a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to your moisturizer. This will provide an extra hydration boost and help plump up your skin, creating a smooth canvas for your makeup.
2. Focus on Skincare: Remember, makeup looks its best when applied to healthy, well-nourished skin. Take this opportunity to prioritize your skincare routine. Cleanse your skin thoroughly, exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, and apply a lightweight moisturizer suitable for the warmer weather. By taking care of your skin, you’ll create a flawless base for your makeup and enhance its longevity.
3. Play with Colors: Summer is the perfect time to embrace vibrant and bold colors. Experiment with different eyeshadow shades to create stunning smokey eyes or opt for a pop of color on your lips with a bright and fun lipstick. Don’t be afraid to mix and match shades to create unique looks that reflect your personal style.
4. Use Different Textures: Incorporating different textures into your makeup can add depth and dimension to your overall look. Consider using cream-based products like blushes, highlighters, or eyeshadows for a natural and dewy finish. These textures work particularly well during the summer months as they blend seamlessly into the skin and give you a radiant and fresh appearance.
5. Don’t Forget SPF: While it’s important to protect your skin from the sun year-round, the summer months call for extra sun protection. Opt for a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer with SPF to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. This way, you can enjoy your makeup while ensuring your skin stays healthy and protected.

Remember, makeup is all about self-expression and having fun. Don’t limit yourself to traditional techniques or trends—get creative and let your imagination guide you. The products you already have in your collection hold immense potential for unique and beautiful looks. So, go ahead, experiment, and discover the magic you can create with makeup.

Tip 6: Take Care of Your Makeup

By taking good care of your makeup, you can make it last longer and reduce the need to replace it as often. This includes storing your makeup in a cool, dry place, cleaning your brushes regularly, and using a makeup remover at the end of the day.

This is especially important during seasonal changes when the dry air can affect the quality of your beauty products. Now is the perfect time to implement some helpful tips to ensure your makeup stays fresh and in the best condition possible.

1. Proper Storage: Storing your makeup in a cool, dry place is one of the easiest ways to prolong its shelf life. Avoid exposing your products to excessive heat or humidity, as it can lead to changes in texture, color, and even spoilage. Consider organizing your makeup in designated containers or drawers to keep everything neat and protected.
2. Regular Brush Cleaning: Cleaning your brushes regularly is essential for maintaining their performance and preventing the buildup of bacteria. Use a gentle cleanser or brush cleaner to remove makeup residue, oils, and dirt from your brushes. This not only helps with the application of your makeup but also promotes healthier skin by reducing the risk of breakouts.
3. Makeup Remover: At the end of the day, always make it a habit to remove your makeup using a gentle and effective makeup remover. Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores, contribute to breakouts, and lead to dull-looking skin. Choose a remover that suits your skin type and preferences, whether it’s micellar water, cleansing oil, or wipes. Ensure thorough cleansing to allow your skin to breathe and rejuvenate overnight.
4. Check Expiration Dates: Take this opportunity to go through your makeup collection and check for expiration dates. Beauty products, like skincare and makeup, have a limited shelf life. Using expired products not only compromises their effectiveness but can also lead to skin irritations or infections. Dispose of any expired items and make note of the expiration dates of your current products.
5. Rotate Products: Seasonal changes provide the perfect opportunity to switch up your makeup routine and incorporate different products. Rotate your makeup items to ensure they all get proper use and avoid neglecting any favorites. This also allows you to adapt your makeup to suit the changing weather and your evolving style.

By following these tips, you can transition your makeup from season to season without spending a dime. And you’ll be able to create beautiful looks that flatter your skin tone and style.

Working 1:1 with a makeup artist will save you so much time and frustration in the future! Makeup can almost instantly change your confidence in how you show up to any occasion.

Working with a makeup artist can save you so much time and frustration in the future. A makeup artist can teach you how to apply makeup in a way that flatters your features and enhances your natural beauty. They can also help you create a signature makeup look that you can recreate on your own. This means that you won’t have to spend hours watching makeup tutorials or trying out new products. You’ll also be less likely to make mistakes that will leave you feeling frustrated and self-conscious.

In addition to saving you time and money, working with a makeup artist can also make wearing makeup more fun and empowering. When you know how to apply makeup in a way that makes you feel confident, you’ll be more likely to wear it more often. This can have a positive impact on your self-esteem and your overall well-being.

If you’re looking for even more help, consider working with a makeup artist. A makeup artist can help you learn how to apply makeup in a way that flatters your features and enhances your natural beauty. They can also help you create a signature makeup look that you can recreate on your own.

Natalie Setareh is a makeup artist and educator who specializes in helping women create a signature makeup look that reflects their inner beauty. She is based in Amsterdam, but she also offers virtual makeup lessons. Natalie believes that everyone has a unique beauty, and she is passionate about helping women find their own personal beauty.

If you’re ready to stop feeling frustrated with your makeup and start feeling confident and beautiful, contact Natalie today. She can help you learn how to apply makeup in a way that makes you feel your best.