How to wear glitter makeup without emphasising texture

Few things feel as festive as sparkle and glittery makeup. “Glitter is shiny, colourful and evokes happiness—much like the dazzling lights and joyful ambience of the holiday season,” says celebrity makeup artist Zhou Aiyi, who has worked with stars such as Desmond Tan, Janice Koh and Ross Butler. While there are countless ways to play with shimmer this time of year, the easiest way to embrace glitzy makeup is by adding a touch of shine to the inner corners of the eyes or the centre of the lids using a finely milled glitter or metallic shadow.

“A special primer is a must for chunkier glitter. Alternatively, opt for creamier formulas—they’re easy to apply and last well, even in our humid weather,” advises Aiyi. One of the best things about iridescent makeup is its versatility—it comes in all textures, finishes and product types, from velvety creams to shimmering liquids and iridescent powders, so there’s something for every preference.

If you’re worried that high-shine makeup might accentuate texture, Aiyi recommends reaching for  ultra-fine powders like her go-to Gucci Glow Highlighter Multi-Use Silky Illuminating Powder, which she uses daily to subtly enhance her makeup. “I dust it under my eye bags, blur my laugh lines and highlight areas like my brow bone and nose,” she shares.

Another pro tip? Add dimension by mixing and matching glitters with different finishes in one look. For extra longevity, “start with a tacky or creamy shimmer as a base, then layer on top,” says Aiyi. “Glitter and shimmer need a base colour for the sparkles to pop—so experiment with different shades and you’ll be surprised by the results!” 

YSL Loveshine Lipstick in #218 Vibrant Raspberry, $63 

This is the ultimate one-and-done product for when you don’t want to fuss with brushes. Its lipstick-to-oil formula delivers a buildable, high-shine berry stain, enriched with fig pulp and nourishing oils. The limited-edition shade #218 Vibrant Raspberry adds an extra festive touch with delicate gold glitter specks.

Cle De Peau Beaute The Luminizing Face Enhancer in #110 Radiant Peafowl, $150

This luxurious formula uses light-directing technology to create a soft, radiant glow without looking greasy or overly shiny. Infused with premium argan oil, it also smooths the complexion while keeping your skin naturally luminous.

Dior Rouge Dior Sequin Liquid Duo, $73

This coveted dual-ended duo features a pigmented, transfer-proof glitter liquid lip that comes to life when you purse your lips, paired with a glossy lacquer to finish. Consider it your must-have mistletoe-kiss essential. Available in 10 festive shades.

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Look In A Palette, $115 

Glow-giving rosy blushes are paired with megawatt shimmer shadows and matte neutrals that bring the glitter shades to life. With colours for eyes, cheeks, and face, this seven-quad palette has everything you need to craft a wearable yet show-stopping party look.

Chanel Le Liner De Chanel Écarlate, $60

Perfect for achieving a flawless iridescent glitter eye without fallout—or the need for adhesive—this bejewelled red eyeliner features a precision brush, making sharp strokes and graphic looks effortless.

NARS Aura Illuminating Face & Body Powder in Skyrocket, $75

Sweep it across the high planes of the face or swirl it onto the décolletage, shoulders, and legs for a light-catching glow that’s subtle and universally flattering. Pearlescent pigments reflect light with every movement, leaving a gentle shimmer without any chunky glitter.

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stackz in Unicorn Blizzard, $40

This lippie shines as much on the lips as it does in the tube. Featuring three twinkling shades—iridescent opal, lavender, and icy blue—it glides on to create a glossy, periwinkle-hued pout. Enriched with shea butter, it leaves lips soft, moisturised, and holiday-ready.