What is Health Signalling? 8 Beauty Tips for Faking a Healthy Glow This Winter 

As the days get shorter and gloomier, the lack of sunshine and moisture in the air can leave skin dull, parched, and peaky. Don’t fear – we can’t control the changing of the seasons, but breathing life into lacklustre skin is surprisingly easy.

Enter, health signalling. This is the clever art of using skincare and makeup to fake sun-kissed luminescence, and it’s totally doable if you’ve got the right products. So, if your beauty goal for this winter is to look healthy and radiant, you’re in the right place! Try these eight beauty tips for fresh, golden skin all winter long.  

Use Products Sparingly   

Forgive us for stating the obvious – smearing thick foundation on your face and haphazardly layering product over product won’t get you that Insta-worthy result you’re after. The number one rule in heath signalling is to use products sparingly, with a gentle touch. Remember: it’s easy to intensify a look, but hard to take makeup away once it’s already in place. Makeup artist and beauty expert Mared Parry explains: “You want to use as little product as you can get away with. Health signalling is basically tricking people into thinking that you were born this way, rather than it being down to hardworking products.”   

Invest in Quality Brushes  

A simple way to make sure your makeup looks au naturel is to invest in some high-quality brushes. An artist is only as good as their tools, and the same goes when applying makeup. While some people swear by using their fingers to gently massage foundation into the skin, makeup brushes allow for a more precise application. For beautifully blended eyeshadow, blush and bronzer, try our Eco Artist Expert Blending Brush and Eco Artist Precision Face Brush.   

Don’t Forget Skincare Basics   

It’s no secret that the texture and condition of your skin will determine the finish and longevity of your makeup. According to Mared, “Creating a great base for your skin is key, and that starts with skincare. Opt for anything that makes your skin look clear and dewy." Not sure where to start? Follow our easy everyday routine! Use our Smoothing Cleanser Complexion Purifier to leave skin soft, hydrated and balanced. Then, spritz your face with our Morning Mist Soothing Toning Essence before applying Rainforest Dew Hydration Serum – trust us, thirsty skin will soak up this combination. Finally, follow up with Skin Feast Nourishing Moisturiser for a boost of hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants. Oh, and don’t forget to apply your Sun Day Facial UV Defence before stepping outside (yes, even if it’s not sunny)!   

Make Concealer Your BFF   

Less is definitely more when it comes to complexion products. Our Illuma Light-diffusing Concealer can be used in place of foundation. Tap this creamy formula under your eyes to detract from dark circles, and onto any blemishes to cover up redness. If you’re suffering from breakouts or dryness, this hydrating hero is laced with vitamin E and collagen-boosting algae to nourish and protect your skin. If you’d feel more confident with some extra coverage, try using our Beauty Booster Sheer Foundation as well – it’s light enough to look like bare skin, but has sensational staying power.  

Become a Bronzed Beauty  

Embracing your real skin tone is the goal, but there’s no harm in using a little bit of fake tan to boost your skin's warmth. Our Sun Drops Gradual Tanning Facial Serum uses clever technology to adjust to your skin tone, so you’ll be left with a natural result. These drops are a hybrid product, acting as tan and skincare in one. Packed with coconut water and aloe vera juice to keep the skin plump and dewy, you can use these drops in place of your regular serum. Or try Mared’s top tip: during your nightly routine, mix a few tanning drops into your moisturiser. You’re guaranteed to wake up looking radiant and refreshed!  

 Redden Those Cheeks 

Rosy cheeks suit everyone, and are synonymous with good health. For a subtly flushed look, Mared recommends choosing a blush with the same undertone as your skin. If you have a yellow or warm undertone, try a warm blush like our Blush Crush Cream Colour in Coral Bloom or Soft Heather. If you’ve got a pink undertone, try a cool shade like Blush Crush Pressed Colour in Pinch Me Pink or Very Berry.   

Shimmer with Highlighter  

The best way to replicate dewy holiday skin? The humble highlighter – especially in a cream texture. “I love pressed powder highlighters, but they’re better suited for a more dramatic look. Use a liquid or cream highlighter if you want a lit-from-within radiance,” Mared says. Try our Way To Glow Cream Highlighter in Sunrise or Sunset on brow bones, the bridge of the nose, cheekbones and cupid’s bow to enhance luminosity and accentuate bone structure.   

Fake Some Freckles  

If you’re lucky enough to have freckles, show them off! Freckles scream summer sun and natural glow, but they fade in the winter as the skin receives fewer UV rays. Don’t fret – you can use our Sun Drops with a Small Detailing Brush to accentuate your freckles or add a spattering of faux dots across the nose and cheeks. You’ll be the picture of health!