Glow like a ski bunny, without freezing your budget.
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You’ve probably seen it: that effortlessly glamorous, fresh-off-the-slopes look that’s all over social media and celeb Instagram feeds. Soft flushed cheeks, glowing skin, and a hint of rosy warmth that screams “I just had the best winter getaway.” It’s often called the “après-ski” or “ski bunny” face. But here’s the catch — some people are spending a fortune to achieve it.
Don’t worry though, you don’t need a $12,000 beauty treatment to get this look. You can create that cozy, radiant vibe at home with smart, affordable beauty hacks and products. Here’s how to get that glow, ski-trip chic without emptying your wallet.
1. Start with a Dewy, Hydrated Base
Winter air can be rough on your skin, making it dry and dull. The key to that après-ski glow is a well-moisturized face that looks fresh and plump. Look for a hydrating moisturizer or a lightweight facial oil that locks in moisture without feeling heavy.
Try: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid — A cult favorite for intense hydration and plumping effect.
2. Rosy Cheeks, Naturally
That flushed look is a signature of the ski bunny style. Instead of heavy contouring, go for a blush that mimics a natural flush. Cream blushes work especially well because they blend seamlessly and add a subtle sheen.
Try: Maybelline Cheek Heat Gel-Cream Blush, Rose Flush — Affordable, easy to blend, and gives that perfect rosy glow.
3. Soft, Fluffy Brows
Brows frame your face and give you that polished, put-together vibe. Keep them looking natural but defined with a tinted brow gel or a soft pencil that fills in sparse areas.
Try: Glossier Boy Brow Tinted Brow Gel — Lightweight, natural-looking hold with a soft tint.
4. Subtle Glow Highlight
To mimic that fresh, sun-kissed glow from snowy mountains, add a touch of highlighter to the high points of your face — think cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
Try: L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glow Amour Glow Boosting Drops — Liquid highlighter that blends beautifully for a natural dewy finish.
5. Keep Lips Lush and Kissable
Winter can dry out your lips, but a healthy, plump pout is essential for the ski bunny look. Use a lip balm that hydrates deeply and adds a hint of color.
Try: Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm, Hibiscus — Nourishing with a soft rosy tint for a fresh, natural look.
6. Plump It Up: Face and Lips
For an extra boost, why not try popular Korean-inspired plumping tools? These help stimulate circulation, giving your face and lips a fuller, lifted appearance naturally.
Try:
- Nurse Jamie Uplift Massaging Beauty Roller — A sleek, handheld tool that gently massages your face to promote plumpness and glow.
- Jade Roller and Gua Sha Set — Helps improve blood flow and reduce puffiness for a natural lift.
- Lip Plumper Gloss (e.g., Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Cream) — Adds shine and a subtle tingle that enhances lip fullness.
- Shark FacialPro Glow at-Home Hydro-Powered Facial System with DePuffi Hot & Cold — This device combines hydro power with hot and cold therapy to enhance skin glow and reduce puffiness, bringing spa-like treatment to your bathroom.
- Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand – Cold and Heat Skincare Treatment — A popular tool for soothing and lifting skin with alternating temperatures.
- OneSkin FACE OS-01 Peptide Topical Supplement — A peptide-rich topical that promotes skin longevity and youthful plumpness.
- Seranova Infusion Hyaluronic Acid Smoother — Hydrates deeply while smoothing skin texture for that flawless finish.
Bonus Glow Boost: Infrared Light Therapy
For an extra layer of skin rejuvenation, consider adding infrared light therapy to your routine. This gentle treatment penetrates deep into the skin, promoting collagen production and improving blood flow, which helps reduce fine lines and enhance that natural glow.
7. Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Snow reflects sunlight, so protecting your skin is key to staying glowing and healthy. A lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen is a must-have, even if you’re not actually on the slopes.
Try: EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 — Loved by skincare pros for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Bonus: Tools that Make It Easier (if it already isn’t part of your regular skincare routine)
- Facial roller or gua sha: These can help boost circulation and reduce puffiness, enhancing your natural glow.
- Hydrating face masks: Use them regularly to keep your skin soft and radiant.
- Makeup setting spray with a dewy finish: Keeps your glow intact all day.
You Just Saved Big — Now Go Ski!
By skipping those $12K treatments and opting for budget-friendly beauty picks, you saved a ton of cash—money you can actually spend on the fun stuff, like hitting the slopes!
If you’re planning your winter getaway, here are some essentials you might want to grab next:
- Thermal Base Layer Set — Keeps you warm and cozy under your gear.
- OZERO Heated Gloves — Battery-powered warmth to keep your hands toasty.
- Columbia Women’s Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket — Stylish, waterproof, and insulated for mountain days.
Look good, feel warm, and enjoy your winter trip without breaking the bank!
