When it comes to feeling sexy and confident, makeup is one of our best tools. But let’s face it: Mastering the art of makeup is no walk in the park. You might have used certain techniques that have ruined your look for years. Here are some everyday makeup mistakes to avoid and how to perfect the job.
1. Rethink Your Eyeliner Approach
Winged eyeliner is a total vibe right now. But it’s not easy to pull off and is a bit of a younger woman’s game. The skin around the eyes loses elasticity as we age, making this dramatic look less flattering. If you want a hint of a wing, switch to a liquid liner for a thinner, more refined flick that lifts the eyes without overdoing it.
2. Put Down the Makeup Sponge
Makeup sponges can soak up too much foundation, creating a patchy application. They also harbor bacteria that can upset your skin and cause congestion, irritation, and sensitivity. Apply your foundation with clean fingers or a quality brush for a more even, flawless, and hygienic finish.
3. Make Time To Prime
Skipping primer is like building a house without a foundation. Priming your skin after moisturizing creates a smooth canvas, fills in fine lines, and helps makeup last longer. It’s an easy step that will keep your look fresh all day.
4. Don’t Forget the Lower Lashes
Only applying mascara to your top lashes can make your eyes appear unbalanced. Apply a light coat to your bottom lashes to brighten and enlarge your eyes for a more open, youthful look.
5. Enough with the Overlining
Overlining your lips can give you that plumped look, but overdoing it can make your lips look unnatural. Stick to lining just outside your natural lip line, and blend the edges with a lip brush for a fuller yet seamless pout.
6. Pay Attention to the Order
Applying cream products over powder can cause cakiness. Always layer cream products first, followed by powder to set and blend everything smoothly. This prevents that dreaded heavy look and ensures a more natural finish.
7. Don’t Ruin Your Hard Work
After putting in the work, don’t let it all slide away by skipping setting spray or powder. Setting your makeup ensures it stays in place, controls shine and keeps your look fresh for hours.
8. Get the Placement Right
Applying blush too high or low on your cheeks can mess with your face’s natural shape. For the best effect, apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples. Cream blushes are your friend—they’re more forgiving and youthful than powders.
9. Adopt a Less is More Attitude
More layers of foundation don’t mean better coverage—it just means a heavier, cakier look. Use a hydrating foundation for a dewy, natural finish, and only build coverage where necessary. Let your skin breathe.
10. Blend and Then Blend Again
Nothing ruins a great eye look faster than unblended eyeshadow. Harsh lines can make your makeup look sloppy. Take the time to blend your shadows well for a smooth transition of colors that enhance your eyes beautifully.
11. Avoid Overdoing Your Brows
Thick, overly dark brows can overpower your face. Blend your eyebrow product with a spoolie and use a light hand to keep them looking natural. Well-groomed, natural-looking brows frame your face perfectly.
12. Retire Matte Lipsticks
Matte lipsticks, especially dark shades, can settle into lines and emphasize dryness. Opt for a hydrating satin formula in a shade that complements your skin tone for a fresher, more youthful look.
13. Tread Lightly with Concealer
While concealer can be your best friend, too much can do more harm than good. Instead of layering it on, use a small amount and blend well under your eyes. This brightens your look without making your skin look cakey or heavy.
14. Match Your Foundation Properly
Wearing the wrong foundation shade is one of the biggest makeup mistakes. To find your shade, test it on your inside wrist, and always match your foundation to your neck, not just your face. This ensures a seamless, natural-looking finish.