Most years, my holiday makeup mantra is “just add a red lip.” This year, however, mask-wearing means my lipsticks have been rolling around in my makeup drawer for months. While I won’t hesitate to swipe on my favorite red for socially distanced hangouts or family Zoom calls, I’ve been eager to experiment with some other festive makeup options. I always look forward to Beautycounter’s holiday collection launch and this year’s did not disappoint! When I was deciding which sets to pick up, I focused on products that I think will look great in any holiday scenario 2020 throws our way. Even though I’m not 100 percent sure how the next two months will play out, I’m looking forward to embracing any excuse I can to add a little sparkle :) Sharing the three sets I chose and my thoughts on each below!

Luminous Lids Cream Shadows

This is the set I was most excited about! I have never had great luck with cream shadows staying crease-free for long, but since I love Beautycounter’s powder eyeshadows, I wanted to give these a try. As you may have noticed if you’ve been watching my daily Instagram Stories, I’ve been wearing them almost daily since I got them! I love them for three reasons:

1. The colors are so pretty! It goes on more subtly than it looks in the tube and has just the right amount of shimmer.
2. Application is foolproof. Truly, so much easier to apply and blend than powder eyeshadow. I’m not sure I’m going to go back!
3. ZERO creasing and great staying powder. I actually have to wash it off in the evening (most eyeshadows seem to disappear well before then).

Tip: This is one of my favorite gift ideas in the holiday collection since you can split up the pack for stocking stuffers!

Winter Warmth Duo

If you’re looking for one easy way to take your makeup up a notch for the holiday season, this set is for you. It comes with a highlighting powder and a cream eyeshadow in pretty, rosy gold tones that are universally flattering. In these photos, I did my everyday makeup routine and then added these two products and a touch of lip gloss, and I love the subtle, but glowy, results.

Polish & Protect Lip Duo

On a more practical note, I picked up this set in the hopes of combatting how dry my lips get in the winter. I really hope they make the lip balm a regular product–it has been working beautifully and I much prefer the stick applicator to their lip conditioner pots. This is the first lip polish I’ve ever used, and although I can’t tell if it’s making a difference yet, it has been a fun little luxury.

Find more of the holiday sets here! As always, if you have any questions about these or any other Beautycounter products, don’t hesitate to leave a comment, DM me, or shoot me an email. I always welcome the excuse to chat makeup and clean beauty with friends!