Mornings can be very hectic trying to get out the door on time, and often we rush through our beauty routine without a thought. However, some of the things that you’ve taken for granted and assumed were giving you a healthy glow may actually be making you look older.
Every part of your makeup routine should be adding to your amazing, unique beauty, so here’s 10 things that could be causing you problems:
- Not cleaning or replacing makeup brushes: Over time bacteria begins to gather on your brushes, which can irritate your skin and add to the aging process. Also, the color of your makeup becomes distorted due to old makeup being on a brush. This gives you different coloring than you had anticipated, making makeup darker and giving you an older look. And finally, bristles can begin falling out and contaminating your makeup as well as sticking to your face.
- The wrong eye shadow: Not all eye shadows are created equal and all colors are not flattering. Find a quality shadow that goes on smoothly and doesn’t cake. Also, try for softer shades rather than the dramatic ones often shown in commercials. Darker colors can produce a very aging effect, so unless you’re going to be in the spotlight, stay away from them.
- Incorrectly using bronzer: Bronzer can be great for a sun-kissed look, but be sure to follow the directions on the package regarding how to best apply it. Otherwise you risk creating an unflattering look that ages you.
- The wrong foundation or improper application of it: Foundation can be a great way to even out skin tone, but if you’re using the wrong color or type, or if you’re using too much, you can actually be making yourself look older. Take time to research foundations and colors. Avoid mattes and use sparingly. You want enough to cover, but not so much that it cakes and looks unnatural.
- The wrong type of powder: If you use powder as a part of your routine, make sure it’s mineral based. Other types of powders can dry out your skin and as you mature they can also accentuate lines and wrinkles.
- No blush or the wrong color: Blush can be a great addition to your makeup routine, but be careful. You don’t want something too bright or too dark. Instead, look for something that brightens and adds a nice glow without drawing attention to itself. Use a neutral, soft, sheer blush. If you have a fair or medium skin tone you should look for rosy pinks and peaches. If you have a darker skin tone try coral and berry shades.
- Overusing concealer around your eyes: We all know how dark circles and lines around our eyes can age us, but don’t overreact. As always start with appreciating your beauty and then use a good eye moisturizer. Then sparingly use concealer around your eyes. Too much and you’ll have the exact opposite result from what you want. The concealer will end up highlighting wrinkles and lines.
- Ignoring your eyebrows: As we mature the hair in our eyebrows gets lighter. Taking just a few extra minutes to use an eyebrow pencil or gel can make a bigger difference than you expect.
- Dark eye liner: Black eyeliner can come across as harsh and make a person look older. Instead go for softer more natural colors such as brown.
- Skipping primer: It may seem like an unnecessary step, but primer helps to smooth skin and give foundation more staying power.
Breaking out of these habits can make a huge difference in how well your makeup serves you. After all, if you’re going to take the time to apply makeup, it should add to your fabulousness not take away from it.
