When it comes to makeup, even the most seasoned beauty lovers can fall into bad habits. Some techniques we’ve picked up over the years might actually be doing more harm than good, causing our skin to break out, our makeup to look patchy, or even making us appear older.
Luckily, a few small adjustments can completely change your makeup game. Here are the most common makeup mistakes to steer clear of and what to do instead.
Skipping skin preparation:
Makeup only looks as good as the skin underneath. Applying foundation on dry, flaky, or oily skin can lead to uneven texture and fading. Always start with clean, moisturised skin and a primer suited to your skin type. This can create a smooth canvas and help your makeup last longer.
Using the wrong foundation shade:
We’ve all been there – foundation that looks perfect indoors but turns orange or ashy in daylight. The key is to test shades on your jawline, not your wrist, and check them in natural light. Also, remember that your skin tone can change slightly with the seasons, so updating your shade once or twice a year is worth it.
Overdoing the brows:
Bold brows are in but going too dark or too defined can make your face look harsh. So, instead of heavily filling them in, use a fine pencil or brow powder to mimic natural hair strokes. Always brush them through for a softer, lifted finish.
Too much concealer:
It’s tempting to pile on concealer to hide dark circles or blemishes, but heavy layers can crease or draw more attention to the area. A thin layer of colour corrector under a lightweight concealer can work wonders without looking cakey.
Skipping blending:
Whether it’s foundation lines near your jaw or unblended eyeshadow edges, harsh lines are one of the quickest ways to ruin a look. Use a damp makeup sponge or blending brush to seamlessly diffuse product into your skin. Blending is the secret to a natural, professional finish.
Applying too much powder:
Powder can help set your makeup, but too much can make your face look flat and dry. So, instead lightly dust powder on areas that tend to get oily only, like the T-zone. For a dewy finish, mist your face with a setting spray afterwards.
Ignoring lip preparation:
Bold lipstick can be stunning, but if lips are dry or chapped, the colour settles into lines and flakes. Skipping lip balm or exfoliation is a common mistake. So, gently scrub your lips with a sugar scrub or a damp toothbrush and then apply a nourishing balm before lipstick. This can make any shade look smoother and more vibrant.
Choosing yellow concealer:
Never use a concealer under your eyes that has a yellow undertone to correct darkness. Instead, opt for a pink undertone for brighter, well-rested eyes.
Layering cream over powder:
Layering cream products on top of powder is a no-go. Powder products are designed to control oils and set your makeup in place. If you put something cream-based on top, the powder will lift right off your face, leaving holes in your makeup.
Ignoring expiration dates:
Yes, makeup goes bad. Using old mascara or foundation can irritate your skin and eyes. As a rule of thumb, replace mascara every three months, foundation every year, and lipstick every 18 months. Clean your brushes regularly to avoid bacterial buildup.
Sleeping with makeup on:
This one’s non-negotiable. No matter how tired you are, never go to bed without removing your makeup. It can clog pores, accelerate aging, and cause breakouts. A gentle micellar water or cleansing balm can make the process quick and easy.
Ultimately, makeup should enhance your natural beauty, not mask it. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll not only achieve a more flawless look but also keep your skin happy and healthy. Remember, good makeup starts with good habits.
* A version of this article appears in print in the 16 October, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly
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