Used correctly, makeup can conceal flaws and take years off your appearance. When used incorrectly, however, it can actually make you look older. Here are some common makeup mistakes and what you should do instead.
Some women use a lot of foundation in an attempt to conceal lines and wrinkles, but that can actually make them look worse. Excessive foundation settles into lines and draws attention to them. Use foundation in moderation.
If you use a foundation that is too light for your skin tone, it can settle into fine lines and exaggerate them. Use a foundation that is one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone.
Primer can give your skin a smooth, silky texture by filling in lines. It also helps makeup stay on. Always use a cream or liquid primer. Powder can make your skin look saggy.
Covering dark circles under your eyes with a heavy layer of concealer can add years to your appearance. Cover up circles with a light base of concealer applied with a brush.
Wearing makeup with too much shimmer can make lines on your face more noticeable and make your eyes look smaller. A matte eye shadow will make your eyes stand out.
Using a dark eyeliner or mascara under your eyes can bring out crow’s feet or under-eye circles, which can make your eyes look smaller. Use a soft, light pencil, not a liquid liner.
A dark or harsh shade of lipstick can make you look older. Avoid dark lipsticks and lip liners.
Putting blush on the apples of your cheeks can make you appear older than you are. It can make lines more prominent and cause your skin to appear droopy. Avoid powder blush because it can settle into lines. Use a liquid blush instead.