In the quest for eternal youth, many of us might unknowingly sabotage our efforts with certain makeup blunders. Makeup, an essential tool for both self-expression and enhancing our natural beauty, can sometimes have the opposite effect when used incorrectly. With valuable insights from expert makeup artists, we delve into some common mistakes that can inadvertently add years to your look and how to steer clear of them.
1. **Neglecting Lip Preparation**: One of the most overlooked steps in makeup application is preparing the lips. Skipping the essential lip care routine of moisturizing and exfoliating can lead to dry and flaky lips, especially in colder months. According to Natasha Moor, a renowned makeup artist, applying lipstick on dry lips can exacerbate their appearance, making them look ‘smaller’ and ‘older.’ She suggests incorporating products rich in hyaluronic acid to maintain plump and hydrated lips.
Taking the time to exfoliate with a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush can remove dead skin cells, allowing moisturizing products to penetrate better. This small step can make a substantial difference in how lip colors appear, ensuring they enhance rather than age your look.
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2. **Choosing the Wrong Lipstick Finish**: Lipstick is a fantastic way to add color and personality to your makeup look. However, choosing the wrong finish can have unintended effects. Gabriela Soares, a makeup artist, warns against the use of matte lipsticks, especially for mature women. While they offer intense pigmentation and long wear, matte finishes can be drying and accentuate fine lines, making lips appear thinner and older.
Instead, opting for cream or gloss finishes can add a youthful, moist appearance that draws attention forward, giving the impression of fuller lips. These finishes also provide a more comfortable wear, suitable for all-day application without the drying effects of matte formulas.
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3. **Picking Unsuitable Lip Shades**: Selecting a lipstick shade that complements your skin tone is crucial. Natasha Moor emphasizes that shades that once worked may not be suitable as your skin’s undertone changes with age. Dark or overly bright shades can draw unwanted attention to signs of aging around the mouth.
The key is to find shades that enhance your natural complexion. For instance, if your skin has become ruddier with age, opting for softer, more neutral tones can harmonize with your current complexion, avoiding the harsh contrast that can age your appearance.
4. **Misusing Eyeliner**: Eyeliner is a staple in many makeup routines, providing definition and shaping the eyes. However, as we age, the way we use eyeliner should adapt. Ariane Poole, a makeup expert, advises against heavy black lines which can look harsh on aging skin. Instead, she recommends softer shades like charcoal gray or navy to maintain definition without the starkness of black.
Applying eyeliner at the base of the top lashes and stopping before the eye’s end can open up the eyes, preventing them from appearing downturned. This subtle adjustment can give a lift to the eyes, contributing to a more youthful look.
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5. **Inappropriate Use of Concealer**: Concealers are often used to hide imperfections, but incorrect application can highlight the very issues you wish to hide. Alison Gay suggests using concealer sparingly, focusing on the inner and outer corners of the eyes to avoid emphasizing bags and fine lines.
Applying concealer over foundation can prevent the product from looking cakey or settling into wrinkles. Lightweight formulas paired with hydrating primers can ensure the concealer blends seamlessly, enhancing your complexion rather than detracting from it.
6. **Misplaced Contour**: Contouring can sculpt and define the face, but placement is key. Alison Gay notes that contouring too low can drag down the face. Instead, placing contour above the natural cheekbone can lift the face, creating a more youthful appearance.
Understanding your face’s structure is crucial when contouring. By accentuating the natural high points of the face, you can create balance and lift, counteracting the sagging that often comes with age.
7. **Forgetting Primer**: Foundation can behave differently on aging skin, and using a primer can be transformative. Tricia Cusden highlights the importance of primers in keeping makeup intact and smooth. They help fill in fine lines and create a smooth canvas for foundation, preventing it from settling into wrinkles.
Primers also come in various formulations, catering to different skin concerns such as hydration, mattifying, or color correcting. Incorporating a primer can enhance the longevity and finish of your makeup, ensuring a fresh look throughout the day.
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8. **Ignoring Eyebrows**: Eyebrows frame the face and a lack of attention to them can subtly age your appearance. As hair thins with age, adjusting the color and shape of your brows can be beneficial. Tricia Cusden suggests opting for softer hues rather than trying to match the original hair color, which can appear harsh.
Using brow pomades or mascaras to fill in sparse areas while ensuring the brows have an upward tail can lift the face. Tailoring your brow routine to your current hair color and face shape ensures they enhance rather than age your look.
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