Beauty Tips for Looking Stunning in Holiday Photos

Couple embracing wrapped in Christmas lights

The holidays are all about marking another year gone by and the blessings that came with it. One of the ways we do that is by taking holiday photos and professional family portraits. But the thought of getting camera-ready can cause anxiety for some. If that’s the case with you, we’re here to help. Take a look at these simple beauty tips that will have you glowing and looking gorgeous for all your photo ops. This complete holiday beauty guide will give you the skinny on what you need and how to get it with Cash Back at Ebates.

Hydration First

You may think skipping the moisturizer will help you keep your face on longer, but remember: We’re approaching winter, and the cold air is harsh. Protect your skin by always starting the day with a moisturizer. Stick with non-SPF moisturizer (it photographs better) and keep it light. A sensitive-skin formula should do the trick.

The POREfessional: Matte Rescue Invisible-Finish Mattifying GelGet Matte, Then Get Even

Applying a pore-reducing, matte primer is your next step. We recommend Benefit’s The POREfessional: Matte Rescue Invisible-Finish Mattifying Gel. It will give you an instant glow, and your foundation will glide on like butter. Speaking of foundation, you’re going to want to go heavier than normal for full-on coverage. Then, even out your skin tone with a concealer that blends easily with your foundation. Finish it off with powder, and you’ve got the perfect canvas. Pro Tip: If dry spots pop up while you apply your foundation, mix it with your moisturizer and reapply to only the dry areas.

Brows That Wow

Filling in your brows is a must for photos, even if they’re naturally full. Harsh light can wash them out, leaving your eyes looking frameless. The key to keeping the look natural is filling with hair-like strokes. This Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer does just that with a push-up, angled tip.

Pretty woman making selfie with mobileStop. Selfie Time.

Now that you have your face and brows done (the foundation of your makeup look) take a selfie. Mirrors will only deceive you. Make sure to do it in bright, natural light to make sure everything looks even, and angle the shot so that your brows look as symmetrical as possible.

Primp Those Peepers

Believe it or not, you’re now past the hardest part, and highlighting your eyes will be a breeze. All you need is neutral shadow at the crease, light-yet-matte shadow at the brow bone, a little dark shadow on your lash line at the outer corners (top and bottom) and a touch of shimmer at the inner corners. Before you finish it all off with your normal mascara, sweep on some Lancôme CILS BOOSTER XL Mascara Base to create the look of thick, long lashes. No falsies required!

Pucker Up

You may not normally wear lip liner, but it’s absolutely essential for photos. Start with your liner, then apply lipstick (preferably matte, for staying power) with a lip brush. You’ll be amazed how much longer lipstick lasts this way, as opposed to when you apply it straight from the tube.

NYX COSMETICS Matte Finish Makeup Setting SprayNow Freeze!

Once everything is applied perfectly and you’re full-on feeling yourself, spray on some NYX Cosmetics Makeup Setting Spray. Don’t worry — it may feel wet, but it’s really like hairspray for your face, and will make everything sweat- and element-proof for the whole day. Be sure to keep blotting papers and translucent finishing powder on hand in case your skin starts to get shiny. Pro Tip: Ripped-up pieces of toilet seat covers actually work wonders for absorbing oils when you’re in a pinch.

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List 10

So you’re done shopping for big items and now just need a few stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. Congrats! You’re most of the way there. Allow us to make your shopping experience easier with this go-to guide for stocking stuffers and great ways to earn Cash Back at Ebates.

Zippo Hand Warmer, Chrome, $20.99 (Walmart)

Zippo Hand Warmer, Chrome

Fitting neatly in a pocket, this chic hand warmer provides up to 12 hours of warmth.

Corkcicle Wine Chiller, $17.99 (Wine.com)

Corkcicle Wine Chiller

Chill wine from the inside and get the perfect glass every time. For the wine enthusiast on your list, this fits perfectly in a stocking and is sure to bring a smile.

 Panasonic ErgoFit In-Ear Earbud Headphones with Mic + Controller, $14.99 (Panasonic)

 Panasonic ErgoFit In-Ear Earbud Headphones with Mic + Controller

Friends and family will love listening to sweet tunes with these budget-friendly earbuds in the colors they love the most.

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm, $4.99 (Macy’s)

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm

This cute lip balm contains natural ingredients and a subtle tint that provides moisture and color in one swift move.

Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak 3 Piece Stocking Stuffer, $5.99 (Ulta)

Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak 3 Piece Stocking Stuffer

The perfect travel-size hair products without harsh chemicals. They’ll love this set of shampoo, conditioner and dry shampoo, great for that salon finish any day of the week.

Magic Razorless Cream Shave, $4.90 (Soap)

Magic Razorless Cream Shave

Help your man maintain a smooth, soft face with this magic razorless shave cream. His skin will be bump-free and moisturized for days on end.

Kikkerland Hedgehog Dryer Balls (Set of 2), $6.99 (BuyBuy Baby)

Kikkerland Hedgehog Dryer Balls (Set of 2)

Toss these cute little critters into the dryer to naturally soften your load and cut down on static.

Sheffield 14-in-1 Hammer Multitool, $9.79 (Walmart)

Sheffield 14-in-1 Hammer Multitool

This stainless steel multitool with polished hardwood handles is perfect for tiny apartments or keeping in your car.

Square Slate Coasters, $8 (Home Decorator’s Collection)

Square Slate Coasters

Perfect for the new homeowner. You can even use the enclosed chalk to scribble a cute message on the coasters before gifting.

Diving Whale Loose Tea Infuser, $12.19 (Overstock)

Diving Whale Loose Tea Infuser

Fill this cute little whale with loose tea and submerge for a delightful and eco-friendly tea time.