Makeup trends come and go, so if you haven’t changed your approach or upgraded your products forever, you can look stuck in a time warp. Whether it’s clinging to outdated looks or techniques that have long since been replaced, your makeup might make you look more vintage than vogue. Here are some common culprits and what to do instead.
1. Contouring Fails
Attempting to contour when you don’t know what you’re doing can create an unnatural and older appearance. Contouring is a trick to make your face look chiseled, but if you get it wrong, it will be harsh. Swap out the dramatic contour for a dust of subtle bronzer, illuminating highlighter or cream contour. Blend it well to create more of a soft, natural shadow that enhances your features and makes your skin look glowy without looking overdone.
2. Overdrawn Lip Liner
Overdrawing your lips looks harsh and dated. Instead, opt for a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade and blends seamlessly. This approach naturally enhances your lips and makes your overall look more contemporary.
3. Matte Foundation Overload
Matte foundation might have been your go-to in the early 2000s, but nowadays, it can make you look more like a porcelain doll than a radiant beauty. Heavy, matte formulas can settle into fine lines and wrinkles, drawing attention to imperfections rather than concealing them. Switch to a lightweight, dewy foundation or a BB cream that allows your skin to breathe and delivers a youthful, glowing finish.
4. Powder Blush Applied Too Heavily
Applying blush like it’s still the 80s? Not a good look. That heavy powder blush applied straight across your cheeks can give off serious grandma vibes. For a more modern touch, use a cream blush. Dab it lightly onto the apples of your cheeks and blend for a natural, flushed look. Remember, blending is key—less is definitely more.
5. Still Wearing Frosted Eyeshadow
Frosted eyeshadow might have given you that “ice princess” look back in the day, but now it’s aging and accentuates creases. Replace frosty shades with matte or satin finishes in neutral tones. These options are far more flattering and keep your eyes looking fresh and modern rather than stuck in a time capsule.
6. Over-Plucked Eyebrows
Thin, over-plucked eyebrows were a trend in the 90s, but they now look dated and unflattering. Sparse, pencil-thin brows can make your face appear older and less defined. Embrace fuller, natural brows instead. Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in gaps and create a more youthful, well-groomed appearance.
7. Heavy Black Eyeliner All-Around
Lining your eyes completely in heavy black eyeliner is a surefire way to look like you’re still in the early 2000s. This method can make your eyes appear smaller and your look more severe. Switch to a softer approach with a smudged brown or taupe liner. Focus on the outer corners to create a lifted, more modern look.
8. Clumpy, Spider-Like Mascara
If your mascara clumps your lashes into spider legs, it’s time for a makeover. Clumpy mascara not only looks outdated but can drag down your entire look. Opt for a lengthening mascara that defines each lash individually for a wide-eyed, fresh appearance.
9. Using the Same Lipstick Shade for Decades
Your deep mauve or brick red lipstick may have been your signature shade once, but holding onto it can make you look stuck in the past. Experiment with modern shades like soft nudes, rosy pinks, or fresh corals to brighten your complexion and update your look. Remember, your hair and face coloring change with age, so it’s essential to adapt.
10. Using Powder to Set Everything
While powder might have been your best friend to combat shine, heavy matte formulations now make your skin look dry and accentuate wrinkles. Modern trends favor a natural, dewy finish. Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup while maintaining a fresh, hydrated appearance.
11. Ignoring Highlighter
Skipping highlighter is a big mistake if you want a youthful, vibrant look. Matte skin can appear flat and dull. A subtle swipe of highlighter on your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose adds dimension and creates a healthy glow that keeps you looking modern and radiant.
12. Wearing Dark, Flat Lipstick
Dark, flat lipsticks can drain the life out of your face and make your lips look thinner. Instead, opt for lipsticks with a bit of shine or gloss, or choose shades with a pop of color—think berry, pink, or soft red. These will brighten your smile and give your look a more youthful vibe.
13. Applying Eyeliner in Your Waterline
Lining your waterline with black eyeliner can make your eyes look smaller and more closed off. Try using a neutral or white eyeliner on your waterline for a more open and awake appearance. This trick makes your eyes look bigger, brighter, and more youthful.
14. Using Blue Eyeshadow
Blue eyeshadow is best left in the past unless you’re going for a retro theme. This bold, statement color can quickly look outdated. Opt for softer, more modern shades like taupe, peach, or a subtle rose gold that complements your skin tone and adds a sophisticated touch.
15. Too Much Lip Gloss
Glossy lips are back, but there’s a fine line between a youthful sheen and an over-the-top mess. If you’re piling on gloss to the point where it’s dripping, you’re overdoing it. Choose a tinted lip balm or a gloss with a modern, subtle shine—enough to catch the light without looking like you’re trying too hard or stuck in the past.