If you’ve flipped through the latest issue of your favorite beauty magazine, you’ve likely noticed the November/December cover spotlighting the stunning Caitlin, our recent Cover Search winner. With her vibrant, fresh-faced look—rosy cheeks and a dewy glow—Caitlin captures the very essence of this season’s top beauty trends. Her effortlessly radiant style is catching attention not just in South Africa, but also here in Nigeria, Ghana, and across West Africa, where beauty trends are synced with both local flair and global inspiration. If you’re eager to recreate her look for the festive period, you’re in the right place. Think luminous, well-hydrated skin, a gentle flush of colour, and understated eye make-up that lets your personality shine through. We’ve curated a list of must-have products from the ever-popular Catrice and skin-loving Novexpert—perfect to help you achieve that signature “holiday glow,” whether you’re hitting the Lagos party circuit, Accra’s social scene, or keeping it chic at home.
Six Steps To A Glowing Make-Up Look
Every head-turning beauty look begins with a commitment to skincare. As many Nigerian beauty professionals agree, “good make-up starts with great skin.” In our climate—where the sun doesn’t take a holiday—hydration is essential, not just for comfort, but for flawless make-up application and longevity. A properly moisturised base prevents caking, cracking, or that dreaded midday shine that so many of us struggle with on humid days in Lagos, Abuja, or Accra.
To embody that ‘just-back-from-holiday’ radiance, opt for cream blushes that melt seamlessly into your skin. The Catrice Blush Affair Cream & Powder Palette is a standout, delivering a fresh, youthful flush. To polish off the look, swipe on Catrice Glossin’ Glow Tinted Lip Oil—a cult favourite that pampers your lips while serving up irresistible shine. These picks deliver universal appeal for women of all skin tones, from rich ebony to warm caramel and everything in between.
Step 1: Prime & Hydrate
Begin by setting your skin up for success. The Catrice The Vitamin C Fresh Glow Primer helps instantly brighten dull-looking skin—a common challenge in harmattan season. According to Make-up artist Nabila Bello in Lagos, “Vitamin C-based primers can help enhance natural glow and combat discoloration from sun exposure.” For puffy mornings, the Caffeine Kick Under Eye Serum is a quick remedy, waking up tired eyes. Finish your prep with a spritz of Hydro Hyaluronic Face Mist to lock in moisture. Proper priming is a gamechanger, especially in climates prone to dryness or excess oil.
Step 2: Foundation
Foundation in West Africa is as much about comfort as coverage. Lightweight options like Catrice Invisible Cover Foundation are perfect for our high temperatures; they even out skin tone while letting your skin breathe. Layer with Soft Glam Filter Fluid for a subtle “lit from within” boost—ideal for events, weddings, or everyday errands. Touch up dark spots or blemishes using the Allround Concealer. A soft, dewy finish works beautifully for Nigerian and Ghanaian complexions, affirming your natural beauty without feeling heavy or suffocating.
Step 3: Brows, Eyeshadow & Mascara
Brows frame your face—an essential step not to be overlooked, especially in West African beauty culture where bold brows are celebrated. Catrice’s Brow Fix Shaping Wax tames and defines, letting your eyes take centre stage. Sweep on subtle, warming tones from the Cozy Glow Eye & Cheek Palette. For lashes, the Glam & Doll Endless Lash Mascara delivers that defined yet fluttery finish—effortlessly suitable for both daytime gatherings and night outings that are so popular during festive months.
Step 4: Bronzer, Blush & Contour
To create that signature sculpted and sun-kissed complexion seen on both international runways and in African beauty pages, bronzer and contouring are key. These products, like the Bronze & Glow Palette or Sun Glow Matt Bronzing Powder, help define cheekbones and give warmth to deeper skin tones—common throughout the region. The Blush Affair palette blends beautifully, complimenting a variety of undertones. Local content creator, Chidera Nwoke, points out, “Perfectly placed bronzer and blush pay tribute to our vibrant, expressive beauty culture that loves a healthy, glowing complexion.”
Step 5: Lippies
Lips are the finishing touch to any look. For everyday wear, Novexpert Lip’Up keeps lips hydrated—an asset for warding off the dry, dusty air of the harmattan. The Catrice Creamy Nudes Lip Pen gives a natural, understated finish, while Scandalous Matte Lipstick offers a bolder statement if you’re in the mood for drama. Versatility in lip products is always appreciated by Nigerian and Ghanaian beauty lovers, who enjoy switching between understated glam and head-turning confidence for different occasions.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Set your look with a finishing spray suited to your skin’s needs. Those prone to shine can benefit from Oil-Control Matt Fixing Spray, while the Shake Fix Glow Spray locks in radiance. For anyone whose skin battles humidity or pollution—realities in many West African cities—the Novexpert Trio-Zinc Mist helps to soothe and protect. This last step is particularly important for make-up longevity, as noted by Abuja-based beautician Udochi Mba, who says, “Finishing sprays are a modern essential, especially with the unpredictable African weather and long event days.”
Sun Kissed and Summer-Ready Tips by Catrice
Insider tricks for flawless summer make-up
“To keep your make-up fresh and flawless in the summer heat, we recommend using a light loose powder and a setting spray. The Catrice Bright & Blur Loose Powder and Catrice Ultra Last2 Fixing Spray are perfect for setting your make-up and keeping it looking fresh all day long.” — Catrice Cosmetics
How do you achieve that extra pop of glow?
Want to amplify your look for an upcoming event or holiday groove? Multitasking products are your best friend. Mix a few drops of Catrice All Over Glow Tint into your foundation or daily moisturizer for an instant radiance boost, ideal for both casual outings and Owambe celebrations. The Soft Glam Filter Fluid also works as an independent glow booster—try it under your foundation or alone for a natural, illuminated finish that pops in sunlight and photos alike.
For many women in Nigeria, Ghana, and beyond, adapting global trends such as these gives room for self-expression, affordability, and easy adaptation to local beauty standards. Whether you’re preparing for a flashy social gathering or an intimate family brunch, these steps empower you to create a look that feels both international and delightfully unique to West Africa.
As always, consistency and ongoing care are key. Listen to your skin’s changing needs—harmattan and heavy rain can both demand different routines—and don’t be afraid to play with colour and texture to celebrate your own individuality.
If you have a beauty story to tell or want to share your tips, get in touch at story@nowahalazone.com. For questions and general support, reach out at support@nowahalazone.com.
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