The 7 Biggest Makeup Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Whether you have experience in makeup or are just starting out, mistakes can happen to anyone. With 17 years of experience as a beauty editor and makeup and skincare consultant, I have seen various makeup blunders, including some of my own, and provided advice on correcting them swiftly.

It’s important to remember that nobody is perfect, and learning from past mistakes is essential for improvement. So, here are the top 7 makeup mistakes I have encountered over the years, along with expert tips on rectifying them. From visible foundation lines to improper eye makeup application, continue reading to correct your makeup mishaps.

Common Error #1: Neglecting to Extend Foundation Blending to the Neck Area

To achieve a flawless makeup look, it is crucial to focus on blending your foundation thoroughly. Improper blending can result in an artificial and cakey appearance.

The lack of proper blending is especially evident along the jawline and neck. While many individuals choose the correct foundation shade for their facial skin tone, the neck area tends to be slightly lighter. Therefore, it is essential to extend the foundation application downwards for a seamless transition.

Instead of ending the foundation application at the jawline, ensure to blend the excess product down to your neck using a brush or fingers. This technique eliminates any harsh lines between the face and neck, ensuring a harmonious and well-blended finish.

Common Error #2: Selecting an Incorrect Base Color

When it comes to selecting a base color, picking the wrong shade is a significant mistake. Regardless of whether you prefer a tan or pale appearance, your natural skin tone is the ultimate indicator. Opt for a shade that precisely matches your skin tone, and then you can adjust its warmth or coolness with other products as needed.

To determine the ideal base shade, test a selection of three or four shades that complement your undertone along your jawline. The perfect shade is one that seamlessly blends in with your natural skin tone, becoming imperceptible. This method will help you find your ideal match effortlessly!

Mistake #3: Neglecting Eye Makeup Primer

While skipping an eyeshadow primer may not seem like a big deal, it can impact the longevity of your makeup. An eyeshadow primer functions similar to a skin primer, helping your makeup stay put for longer and enhancing the vibrancy of your eyeshadow.

Since eyelids are oilier and more prone to movement, especially as you age and gravity takes its toll, using an eye primer becomes essential to prevent smudging and creasing throughout the day.

For a reliable option, consider the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, which retails for £15 / $18. This product effectively locks in eyeshadow and liner, ensuring they stay in place comfortably all day long.

Urban Decay Launches New Makeup Collection

Urban Decay, a renowned cosmetics brand, recently unveiled its latest makeup collection. The new line includes a variety of products designed to cater to diverse customer needs and preferences. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative formulas, the collection aims to provide beauty enthusiasts with top-notch cosmetics that enhance their natural features.

Quality Ingredients and Innovative Formulas

The new makeup collection from Urban Decay stands out for its use of premium ingredients and cutting-edge formulas. By incorporating high-quality components into their products, the brand ensures that customers receive effective and long-lasting cosmetics that deliver exceptional results.

Diverse Product Range

Urban Decay’s latest collection features a wide range of products, including foundations, eyeshadows, lipsticks, and more. From everyday essentials to bold statement pieces, the brand offers options for every occasion and personal style. With an emphasis on inclusivity, Urban Decay has developed shades and finishes that cater to various skin tones and preferences.

Enhancing Natural Beauty

The primary goal of Urban Decay’s new makeup collection is to enhance the natural beauty of its users. By creating products that accentuate individual features and empower self-expression, the brand encourages customers to embrace their unique look and celebrate their personal style. With versatile and easy-to-use cosmetics, Urban Decay aims to make beauty accessible to everyone.

Mistake #4: Applying makeup on top of un-prepped skin

Skipping skincare prep in the morning might seem like a time-saver, but it can actually cause more issues later in the day. Applying makeup onto uncleansed skin can lead to an uneven and patchy application as it sits on top of dead skin cells.

As a result, your makeup may wear off quicker, requiring more touch-ups throughout the day. Additionally, your skin may appear oilier than usual, missing out on the benefits of your skincare products. To avoid this, start your day by cleansing with water, hydrating with a serum, and moisturizing with SPF included.

Although this skin prep routine may extend your morning routine slightly, the payoff is worth it when your makeup still looks fresh and doesn’t need constant fixing hours later.

Common Mistake #5: Not Layering Lipstick Properly

Many people wonder why their lipstick fades quickly, even with long-lasting formulas and smooth, prepped lips. The key is to apply multiple layers rather than just one.

Simply purchasing high-tech lipstick formulas won’t guarantee lasting color. To ensure your lipstick stays put, start by applying a base coat, blotting it with a tissue, and then adding a second layer. This layering technique creates a foundation that helps the color last much longer, even through meals and drinks.

Avoid This Mistake: Repeatedly Pumping Mascara Wand in and out of the Tube

Let’s address this common faux pas! It’s time to break the habit of pumping your mascara wand in and out of the tube. The main issue with this action is that it introduces unnecessary air into the product, causing it to dry out quickly.

Continuously pumping the wand accelerates the deterioration of your prized mascara. Simply taking the wand out once before application should suffice. The brush typically holds enough product for use without requiring multiple dips back into the tube.

Common Error #7: Using Bronzer that is Too Dark

In the past, there was a trend of ‘the darker, the better’ back around 2008. While a sun-kissed look is desirable (*raises hands in agreement*), there’s a fine line between a healthy tan and an unnatural, orange appearance that can result from excessive bronzer use.

The purpose of bronzer is simply to enhance your natural skin tone, not completely alter its color. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for a bronzer that is only one or two shades darker than your skin tone. By selecting a lighter shade, you can gradually build up the product to achieve your desired level of warmth without the risk of appearing overly artificial.

Key Points to Remember

It’s essential to understand that everybody makes mistakes, and most of us have probably made at least half of the errors mentioned above in our makeup routines. However, by implementing the simple adjustments outlined, you can quickly elevate your makeup skills to a professional level.