In the world of beauty, not every tip you come across is helpful. Some advice, though widely shared, can be more harmful than helpful when it comes to perfecting your makeup routine. In this article, we’ll debunk popular makeup tips that don’t actually work and explain why you should avoid them.
Using Hairspray to Set Your Makeup
Some claim that spraying hairspray on your face sets your makeup in place. But hairspray contains harsh chemicals that can dry out your skin and cause irritation. Instead of keeping your look intact, it may lead to breakouts or leave your face feeling sticky. Stick with setting sprays made for your skin.
Applying Concealer Before Foundation
You may have heard that applying concealer first is the best way to cover up blemishes, but this method often causes cakey-looking makeup. Foundation tends to blend better when applied directly to the skin first. Concealer is best used after foundation to brighten and cover specific areas without looking heavy.
Over-Lining Lips with Dark Lip Liner for Fuller Lips
The trend of using dark lip liner outside your natural lip line to create fullness often leads to an unnatural, harsh look. Dark lines around your lips can draw more attention to the outline rather than making them look plumper. For a fuller pout, try using a liner close to your lipstick color and a dab of gloss in the center.
Using Coconut Oil as a Makeup Primer
Coconut oil is praised for its many benefits, but using it as a primer isn’t one of them. It can clog pores and leave your skin feeling greasy, making makeup slip off quickly. There are plenty of non-comedogenic primers specifically designed to keep your makeup intact without causing breakouts.
Applying Foundation with Your Fingers for a Flawless Finish
While it may seem convenient, applying foundation with your fingers doesn’t provide an even or airbrushed look. Fingers tend to deposit too much product in some areas and not enough in others. For a smoother, more polished finish, use a sponge or a brush to distribute the foundation evenly across your skin.
Skipping Powder for a Dewy Look
Skipping powder for a “dewy” finish may sound appealing, but it can actually lead to a greasy, shiny appearance. Powder helps set your makeup and control oil, ensuring your skin stays fresh throughout the day. If you still want a glow, try a finishing spray or highlighter on your high points instead.
Baking Your Entire Face
Baking or leaving setting powder on your face for several minutes is a popular makeup trend. However, applying it all over your face can make your skin look dry and creased. This method is best reserved for small areas like under the eyes where you need a bit more staying power.
Using Black Eyeliner to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger
Many believe that applying black eyeliner on the waterline makes your eyes appear larger, but it actually does the opposite. Dark liner can make your eyes look smaller and more closed in. For a more open, wide-eyed look, opt for a white or nude eyeliner on your waterline.
Using Lip Gloss as a Highlighter
It’s been suggested that dabbing lip gloss on your cheeks can act as a makeshift highlighter. While it might give a temporary shine, gloss is sticky and not designed for your face. It can also clog your pores and attract dirt. Stick with products formulated specifically for highlighting.
Layering Mascara for Thicker Lashes
While it might seem like the more mascara, the better, layering too much can actually result in clumpy, spider-like lashes. Adding coat after coat makes your lashes stick together rather than fanning them out for volume. Instead, opt for a volumizing mascara or try a lash primer for added thickness.
Using Too Much Concealer to Cover Dark Circles
The common advice to pile on concealer for dark circles doesn’t really work. Too much product under your eyes can settle into fine lines, making them more noticeable. A thin layer of brightening concealer and a color corrector underneath is a better approach to cover darkness without the heaviness.
Applying Blush in a Straight Line Across the Cheeks
Some tips suggest applying blush in a straight line from the nose to the ear for definition, but this can make your face look unnatural and flat. Blush is meant to add warmth and color to your cheeks, so apply it to the apples of your cheeks in circular motions for a soft, healthy glow.
Using Foundation as an Eyeshadow Base
Foundation may seem like a multi-use product, but using it as an eyeshadow base often leads to creasing and fading. Foundation isn’t designed to hold eyeshadow pigments in place for long periods. Instead, use an eyeshadow primer, which is formulated to lock in color and prevent creasing.
Applying Foundation to Lips for Longer Lipstick Wear
A common tip is to apply foundation to your lips before lipstick to make it last longer. However, this can dry out your lips and cause the lipstick to crack or look cakey. Instead, use a lip primer or a bit of balm to prep your lips for a smooth and long-lasting finish.
Rubbing Your Eyeshadow Brush to Blend Colors
Vigorous rubbing to blend eyeshadow may seem like the right technique, but it often just wipes the color away. Instead, use gentle, circular motions to blend the shades without losing their intensity. A light hand creates a seamless gradient without making your eyeshadow look patchy.
Using a Very Light Shade of Concealer to Cover Blemishes
Many believe that using a much lighter concealer will better hide blemishes, but it can actually draw more attention to them. A lighter shade highlights the area instead of blending it into your skin. It’s best to use a concealer that matches your skin tone for seamless coverage.
Over-Exfoliating Lips Before Lipstick
Some makeup guides recommend aggressively exfoliating your lips before applying lipstick, but over-exfoliation can leave them chapped and irritated. A gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is plenty. Applying a hydrating lip balm before lipstick will help your lips look smooth without the need for excessive scrubbing.
Relying on Makeup Wipes as Your Only Cleanser
Makeup wipes are often marketed as a quick solution to remove makeup, but they don’t fully cleanse your skin. They can leave behind residue and even clog your pores if used alone. Always follow up with a proper cleanser to ensure your skin is clean and ready for your skincare routine.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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