Makeup and skincare can boost our confidence and enhance our natural beauty, but too many people are using products the wrong way! In fact, even the most seasoned beauty enthusiasts can fall into common traps. Here are 30 cosmetics you might be using incorrectly.
Putting Your Fingers Into Jars
You might have just washed your hands, but bacteria could still be on them. Then you dip them into your makeup jar, which gives the bacteria home in the jar. It is best to use a spatula or literally anything else except your fingers to get something out of a container.
Not Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes
Oh, another place that bacteria calls home! Make sure you wash your makeup brushes regularly. This will help prevent bacteria growth – bacteria you could put on your face!
Not Removing Makeup Before Bed
Sleeping in your makeup is an extremely bad idea. You could clog your pores and cause yourself to get blemishes. It also is just better to wash your face after the day is over because you don’t know what it has come in contact with.
Rubbing Your Skin When Applying Skincare
Rubbing your face will harm your skin. You will lose elasticity and cause yourself to get wrinkles in the long run. When applying skincare, try to pat it in and not rub it in.
Not Prepping Your Skin
It is important to do a skincare routine before applying makeup. This will get your skin ready and prepped, which could cause your makeup to lay better on your face.
Not Changing Your Foundation As You Get Older
Skin changes as we age. So if you keep using the same foundation for years and years, chances are that it won’t look the same on your skin. As you age, it is important to make sure you find the right foundation for your skin type.
Using Too Much Concealer
Concealer, well, conceals. But if you use too much of it, it does the exact opposite. Too much concealer can make your fine lines and wrinkles stand out. Or you can just get the dreaded cakey look.
Having Too Many Mascara Layers
The more mascara, the better, right? Wrong! If you wear too much mascara then you are taking a risk for your eyelashes to become clumpy. No one wants their eyelashes to look chunky!
Not Applying Blush
Not wearing blush could make you look pale, especially if you put foundation on. Don’t ever skip the blush! However, it is important to make sure that the blush is right for your skin tone.
Not Setting Your Makeup
If you aren’t setting your makeup, then what are you doing? You should be using setting powder or a setting spray to lock in your makeup and help it last longer. Everyone wants their hard work to last!
Applying Foundation to Bare Skin
Always start with a primer to create a smooth base and help your foundation last longer. This step will ensure an even application and prevent the foundation from settling into fine lines.
Applying Concealer Before Foundation
Apply foundation first, then use concealer to cover any remaining imperfections or discoloration. This method prevents a cakey appearance and will give you a more natural finish.
Pumping the Mascara Wand
Twisting the wand inside the tube prevents air from entering, which can dry out the mascara and introduce bacteria.
Pulling the Eyelid While Applying Eyeliner
Instead of pulling your eye, gently rest your finger on your eyelid to keep it steady. Pulling the skin can cause wrinkles over time and lead to uneven lines.
Applying Blush Only to the Apples of Your Cheeks
Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, then blend upwards towards your temples for a more natural and youthful look.
Skipping Lip Liner
Want your lipstick to last longer? Outline your lips with a lip liner to prevent feathering and ensure your lipstick stays in place.
Using Too Much Highlighter
Apply a small amount to the high points of your face, like the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow. Less is more to achieve a subtle, glowing look.
Not Using an Eyeshadow Primer
An eyeshadow primer prevents creasing and will make sure your eyeshadow lasts longer.
Applying Setting Powder All Over
Focus the powder on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), which is where oil tends to accumulate. This technique prevents your makeup from looking cakey.
Drawing Harsh Eyebrows
You don’t have to color in your eyebrows like a coloring book! Use light, feathery strokes to mimic real hair, filling in sparse areas for a more natural look.
Applying Conditioner to Your Scalp
Apply conditioner from mid-length to the ends of your hair to avoid weighing down your roots and making them greasy.
Using Dry Shampoo on Already Very Oily Hair
Use dry shampoo before your hair gets oily to prevent the oil buildup and extend the time between washes.
Leaving Face Masks on For Too Long
Leaving masks on for too long can lead to dryness or irritation. Make sure to only have them on for the recommended amount of time!
Skipping Toner
Use toner after cleansing to remove any remaining impurities and prep your skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers.
Applying Too Much Serum
A few drops are plenty! Patting the serum into your skin helps it absorb better and ensures you don’t waste the product.
Only Applying Sunscreen in the Morning
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors, to maintain protection throughout the day.
Skipping a Base Coat
Use a base coat to protect your nails from staining and to provide a smooth surface for the polish, which will help it last longer.
Over-Exfoliating
Limit exfoliation to two to three times a week to avoid irritating and damaging your skin.
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Constantly Applying Lip Balm
Apply lip balm only when your lips are genuinely dry. Overuse can lead to dependency, causing your lips to become drier over time.
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Rubbing Wrists Together After Applying Perfume
Spray perfume on your pulse points and let it dry naturally. Rubbing can break down the fragrance and alter its scent.
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