Has anyone ever told you, ‘You look better without makeup!’ It’s a backhanded compliment: on the one hand, you can go bare-faced without fear of looking like a troll, but on the other hand, it means you’re not using makeup properly. Here are some makeup mistakes that can make you look older and more tired.
You’re using too much foundation
Foundation can cake into lines and look streaky and pasty. You may be using the wrong formula (go for something that’s more sheer) or the wrong tool. Try using a foundation brush or a Beauty Blender, which will apply makeup more evenly than a fingers or a cheap sponge.
If you have fine lines, invest in foundation that has light-reflecting pigments and avoid very matte foundations. You can also mix a heavier formula with moisturizer so it goes on lighter.
The same thing goes for concealer: apply lightly, so it doesn’t settle into fine lines, and pick brush-on highlighters.
Pick brighter lipsticks
Dark colors can make lips look thinner and your mouth more severe. Try more natural peaches and pinks or brighter apple reds versus wines and burgundies. Go for cream formulas instead of mattes. You can also apply highlighting powder on your cupid’s bow, or gloss in the center of your lips, to make lips look fuller.
You’re using too much powder
Overpowering your face will remove the luminosity and magnify lines. Use sheer translucent powders only on the T-zone, leaving cheeks glowing. You can also use very subtle illuminizers or gel blushes that can help mimic the look of being ‘lit from within.’
Your eyeliner’s too harsh
Go for a softer effect, by smudging out the eyeliner and blending it so you don’t see any harsh pencil lines. You may also want to use a dark navy, plum or brown instead of black. Bear in mind, too, that applying liner or mascara on the lower lashes will only make your dark circles more prominent. Bring attention up to the upper eyelid, and concentrate on making your upper lashes look fuller by using a curler and double coats of a volumizing mascara.
Your eyebrows are too thin and severe
Keep eyebrows defined, but pick a color that’s close to your natural brow color and apply with a brush or with many thin, upward strokes. Then tame any wild hairs with a clear brow gel.
Try these other anti-aging makeup tips.
Photo from mystylistlondon.com