Ever spent an hour doing your makeup just to end up looking like an exhausted Barbie rather than a glam goddess? Yep, we’ve all been there, and sometimes, it’s not the product. From application technique to skipping steps in between, you could be overlooking some major things that make your skin look tired and patchy. So, before you question your products, read these common makeup mistakes that make you look older, and how to fix them.

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1. Too much foundation

When it comes to foundation, more isn’t always better. If you’re using something with buildable coverage, you can go for a little more. But when you’re using full coverage products, a tiny drop can do the job. Don’t keep layering your foundation without knowing its coverage because that will only make your makeup look overdone and patchy. Opt for lightweight tinted moisturisers for daily use and high-coverage foundations for occasions when you need your makeup to last longer.

2. Skipping primer

Think you’re saving time by directly using the foundation? Well, skipping the primer only creates dry patches, making the foundation sink into the pores and exaggerating uneven texture. A good primer will smooth out your skin, creating a base that will make your makeup last longer. You can use hydrating primers that also double up as moisturisers for that flawless, healthy, and glowy base.

3. Thick, dense eyeliner

A nicely done winged liner can instantly enhance your whole look and make your eyes look bigger. But if you’re still opting for an extremely thick eyeliner look, you’re doing it wrong. Instead of going heavy on the eyeliner, create a smoked, soft, or sleek wing for a clean finish. Start from the inner corner and draw it all the way upwards, and finish off with a sharp flick. Clean up with an earbud once it dries to remove any uneven spots.

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4. Not blending the contour properly

No one likes a badly done contour job, as it instantly adds a shadow and heaviness, making your features look dull. Excessive contouring with visible harsh lines is a huge mistake, as it ruins your makeup. The easiest hack to contour your face for that chiselled look is to go for just one or two shades darker than your skin tone. Then take a small amount and warm it on the back of your hand before applying it instead of applying it directly. This will give you a more natural, warm, and blended contour.

5. Applying excessive concealer

Don’t we all feel tempted to cake on concealer to hide our panda eyes? But using excessive concealer only highlights the uneven tone of your under-eyes. So, the first step is to hydrate your under-eyes with a rich moisturiser and then go for a colour corrector. Then apply just a small amount on the back of your hand, and in swift strokes, apply it on the inner and outer corners. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes and then blend it with a damp sponge, angled brush, or your ring finger. To finish off, apply some setting powder, let it sit, and dust it off for that bright undereye look.

6. Blush blindness

Ever since blush has entered the makeup chat, many of us have gone overboard with it. Using too much product or applying it in the wrong spot is one of the most common makeup mistakes that makes you look older. So, avoid using blush all over your cheeks, nose, and temples. Simply dab it on the high points of your cheeks and sweep upwards towards your temples for a subtle lift. Also, choose lighter shades that complement your skin tone.

7. Unflattering lipstick shades

A lipstick has the power to make or break your look. Going for a nude makeup look and an equally nude lipstick is often a mistake that might make you darker. So, choose a shade that complements your skintone, instead of going for the lightest shade in your vanity. Go for hydrating formulas that decrease the appearance of fine lines and chapped or dry lips.

Related: Lip Basting 101: The Secret To Glazed, Glossy, And Plump Lips

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