Valentine’s Day is all about the love, the romance, and, let’s be honest, looking cute through it all—from dinner dates to spontaneous make-outs in dimly lit corners. But we know how it goes. You leave the house looking like a goddess, and by dessert, your lipstick’s gone AWOL, and your foundation is clinging to dear life. So how do you create a flawless look that stays put through all the action? I’ve got you covered with these six hacks for makeup that won’t quit.
1. Start with a Flawless Base
A long-lasting look starts way before the first swipe of foundation. Proper skin prep is non-negotiable. Cleanse, exfoliate lightly, and moisturise to create a smooth canvas. Then, go in with a gripping primer that will hold onto your makeup like your clingiest ex. For foundation, reach for something long-wearing and sweat-proof. The goal is to stay radiant, not greasy. A light dusting of translucent powder will help set everything, but don’t go overboard—you’re glowing, not baking a cake.
Product picks:
Benefit POREfessional Primer for a poreless base that won’t quit
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• Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation for all-day (and all-night) coverage
• Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder for a soft, blurred finish
2. Bulletproof Brows
Never underestimate the power of a strong brow. Your eyes could be serving bedroom realness, but if your brows are smudged or faded, the whole look falls apart. Choose a waterproof brow pencil or gel for definition that stays put through sweat, kisses, and whatever else the night brings. Brush the product through with a spoolie to keep things natural yet polished—because nobody likes an overly drawn-on brow.
Product picks:
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil for hair-like strokes and a natural finish
• Maybelline Tattoo Brow Gel for serious hold and definition
3. Go for a Soft Smokey Eye
There’s something undeniably sexy about a soft, smudgy eye that whispers “I woke up like this” (but we all know you didn’t). Trade in harsh black for warm browns, bronzes, and taupes that complement every skin tone. Layering is key—start with a cream shadow as a base, then top it with a powder shadow to lock it in place. Finish with a waterproof mascara that won’t budge, no matter how many times you bat your lashes.
Product picks:
• MAC Paint Pot in Groundwork as a long-wearing base
• Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette in Pillow Talk for dreamy, romantic tones
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara for fluttery, drama-proof lashes
4. Kiss-Proof Lips
Lipstick is often the first to betray you, but not on my watch. For lips that survive dinner, drinks, and a little Valentine’s magic, a matte liquid lipstick is your best bet. Start with a matching lip liner to outline and fill in your lips—this helps your lipstick cling better. Apply your lipstick in thin layers, blotting with a tissue in between. Matte formulas are less likely to transfer, but if you’re feeling extra, top it with a thin layer of setting powder to lock it in.
Product picks:
• MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolour for serious staying power
• NYX Professional Makeup Lip Liner to perfect your pout
• L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24HR Matte Lipstick for a budget-friendly option that lasts
5. Blush That’ll Make You Blush
The right blush can take you from “cute” to “I’m living my best life,” and on Valentine’s Day, that natural, flushed look is the move. Cream blushes are the way to go—they blend into the skin like a dream and give you that dewy, fresh-faced glow. Dab a little onto the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards for a lifted effect. Pro tip: use a bit on your lips for a monochromatic vibe that looks effortlessly chic.
Product picks:
• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush for an instant glow-up
• Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm for foolproof application
6. Set It and Forget It
If setting spray isn’t part of your routine, we need to talk. A few spritzes of the right spray can be the difference between “flawless all night” and “what happened to my face?” Look for a spray that locks everything in while keeping your skin hydrated and luminous. Bonus: it helps blend all your powders together, making your makeup look more natural. Don’t be afraid to carry it in your bag for a quick refresh between cocktails.
Product pick:
• Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray for makeup that stays through it all
And there you have it! With these hacks, you can rest easy knowing your makeup will stay flawless through every romantic moment—whether it’s a dinner date, dancing under the stars, or a cheeky kiss (or three). Now go be the heartbreaker you were born to be.