Valentine’s Day isn’t just about being spoiled with flowers from a lover or a fancy dinner reservation (although, it’s a nice touch). It’s a celebration of love in all its forms, and whether you’re dressing up for that romantic dinner, heading out with your best friends, or staying home to indulge in some self-care, your makeup can be as versatile as the occasion. Here’s your guide to easy Valentine’s Day makeup looks that’ll make you feel confident and authentic – no matter what your plans are.
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Sultry Date Night Glam
If you’re planning a night with someone special, a sexy, glamorous look might be the way to go. Think sophistication and allure. Here’s how to achieve it.
Skin
As always, make sure your skin is clean and fresh. Start with a radiant, full-coverage foundation (Estee Lauder Double Wear or Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter are our faves) and a touch of cream contour to sculpt your features. Highlight the high points of your face with a shimmering champagne tone like the Mecca Max Skin Halo Powder Highlighter for that luminosity.
Eyes
Create a smokey eye using deep browns, charcoals, or a hint of burgundy with a smokey palette like the Kylie Cosmetics Kyshadow Palette. Add a touch of shimmer to the centre of the lid and inner corners for extra drama. Finish with a bold eyeliner and your favourite volumising mascara.
Kylie Cosmetics Kyshadow Palette, $58. Shop here.
Lips
Pair with a classic red lip or opt for a deep berry shade like the Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil, or MAC Cosmetics Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in the shade Lovers Only.
Final Touch
Set your makeup with a setting spray to keep everything flawless for hours. We love the Charlotte Tilbury Setting Spray!
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Soft Pastels for a Galentine’s Celebration
Heading out with your girls for Galentine’s Day? A soft pastel look can be the perfect way to keep it fresh and fun.
Skin
Keep it light and use a sheer or medium-coverage foundation such as the NARS Sheer Glow, ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint, or RMS Beauty SunCoverup Super Tint. Add a touch of cream blush in a peach or soft pink shade for a natural, rosy glow…blush blindness, who?
Eyes
Embrace the Y2K vibes with pastel eyeshadows in shades of lavender, baby pink, or mint green using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Sugar Palette. For a little bit extra, add a subtle touch of glitter over the top.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Sugar Palette, $55. Shop here.
Lips
Go for a glossy pink or nude lip to complement your eye look. Try the Kosas Wet Lip Oil Plumping Treatment Gloss, or the Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil.
Final Touch
Add some liquid highlighter to your cheekbones to finish. We suggest the Laura Mercier RoseGlow Liquid Highlighter!
Laura Mercier RoseGlow Liquid Highlighter, $70. Shop here.
Skincare-Focused Glow for a Night In
Spending Valentine’s Day with yourself is the ultimate act of self-love. Why not indulge in a skincare routine that will leave you feeling refreshed and glowing?
Prep
Start with a double cleanse using a cleanser such as the Tatcha Rice Wash, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, or Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser to remove any impurities. Follow this up with a hydrating face mask to plump and nourish your skin. We recommend the LOOPS Double Take Glow Hydrogel Face Mask or the Go-To Transformazing Sheet Masks.
Base
Use your favourite moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. If you don’t have a fave, may we suggest the Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream, Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème Riche, or Medik8 Advanced Night Restore. Your skin will thank you with any of these products!
Eyes
Pop an eye cream on if you’re feeling extra indulgent such as the Ole Henriksen Banana Bright+ Eye Crème.
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright+ Eye Crème, $64. Shop here.
Lips
Hydrate your lips with a nourishing balm or a tinted lip oil such as the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, REFY Lip Gloss, or the Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask.
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