Makeup can be a lot of fun, but it’s surprisingly easy to make small mistakes that throw off your entire look. Sometimes it’s as simple as lining your eyes too heavily, using the wrong foundation finish, or skipping steps that your skin actually needs. Even subtle missteps can age your appearance, make your features look less defined, or leave your complexion looking dull instead of radiant.
Thankfully, most makeup mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to look out for. By paying attention to the little details and choosing techniques that flatter your unique features and skin type, you can make your makeup work for you instead of against you. To help you put your best face forward every time, here are six common makeup mistakes to avoid, and tips on how to do it better.
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1. Wearing Too Much Foundation
Heavy foundation can make skin look cakey, settle into fine lines, and emphasize texture rather than hiding it. Wearing a matte foundation when your skin is dry or combination can also put the spotlight on things you'd rather conceal. To fix this, use a lightweight, hydrating foundation or a tinted moisturizer and build coverage only where needed, blending well with a sponge or brush.
2. Applying Too Much Powder
Too much powder can dry out your skin and make your makeup look flat or chalky, highlighting wrinkles and imperfections. Instead, lightly set only areas that need it (like the T-zone) with a lightweight translucent powder.
3. Skipping Blush
Skipping blush can leave your face looking flat and washed out, especially if your foundation is medium or full coverage. Adding a soft, natural blush on the apples of your cheeks instantly lifts your complexion and adds healthy warmth.
4. Overly Dark Eyebrows
Overly dark eyebrows can overpower your features and make your face look harsher or older than it is. Choose a brow shade that is one to two shades lighter than your natural hair color and softly fill in sparse areas for a more natural, flattering effect.
5. Applying Eyeliner to the Waterline
Heavy eyeliner on the bottom waterline can make your eyes appear smaller and more tired, emphasizing darkness or puffiness. Swap it for a softer pencil or tightline your upper lash line, and use nude or white liner on the waterline to open and brighten the eyes.
6. Dark Matte Lipstick
Dark matte lips can age your look, especially if your lips are naturally thin or dry, as the matte formula emphasizes lines and texture. For a modern look, try a creamy or satin finish in a shade close to your natural lip tone or a softer, slightly brighter hue.