Whether you're naturally gifted or not, some common hair and makeup mistakes are wreaking havoc across the field.
When it comes to your beauty and hair regimen, even the tiniest slip-up can ruin everything. We're exploring the kind of blunders that might be holding you back from achieving the look you want. A little research on the best practices according to hairstylists and makeup artists around the world goes a long way.
These practical tips can help you navigate these challenges and step up your hair and makeup routine.
1. Cakey Foundation
Makeup in general is supposed to help enhance your beauty, not completely change how you look as a person. Sometimes, regular people and makeup artists alike fall victim to applying way too much foundation.
Cakey foundation means you end up with a heavy, textured mess on your face. The fix? Less is more here. Use a lighter hand and blend well with a damp sponge. Trust us, your skin will thank you for it.
2. Overdrawn Eyebrows
The infatuation with dramatically drawn eyebrows is a subject matter for another day. We'll never understand the desire to color your eyebrows to the high heavens.
At any rate, when you go too heavy-handed with your brow pencil or pomade, it's easy to end up with a look that's more Instagram caricature than natural beauty. Don't press so hard, and follow the natural shape of your brows. Embrace your own unique arches—they're what make you, you.
3. Wrong Foundation Shade
From personal experience, this one can be a huge headache. Nothing screams "I'm wearing the wrong shade" louder than an obvious line where your foundation ends and your natural skin begins.
It's kind of cringe when someone is darker complected and the makeup is way too light, or vice versa. To avoid this, test shades on your jawline in natural light before buying. That way, you can find a match that seamlessly blends with your skin tone, leaving you with a flawless finish.
4. Harsh Contouring
Harsh contouring can make you look like a well sculpted statue—and that's not a good thing. When you apply contour too heavily or without blending properly, you risk ending up with unnatural-looking shadows on your face. The solution is to blend, blend, and blend some more.
Take your time to blend thoroughly and don't go too heavy with your contour products. This move will help create a more subtle and natural contour that enhances your features without looking overly outlining them.
5. Clumpy Mascara
When you apply mascara without removing excess product from the wand, you're practically asking for clumps. These clumps can leave your lashes looking like spider legs!
Before applying mascara, wipe off any excess product from the wand using a tissue or the edge of the tube. Then, use a lash comb to gently separate your lashes and remove any clumps for a smooth and voluminous look.
6. Too Much Bronzer
We tried to resist, but the analogies just keep coming to mind. Too much bronzer will absolutely have you looking like a honey glazed chicken. You want to go sun-kissed instead.
You can achieve this look with two simple steps; start with a small amount of bronzer and build it up gradually. Focus on areas where the sun naturally hits your face. Subtlety is key with bronzer.
7. Overlining Lips
Cue the harsh face wince. We're not fans of heavy lip liner (especially when using black), but to each his own. We'd say stick to your natural lip line or just trace slightly over for a fuller look.
By staying close to your natural lip shape, you'll get a more balanced and flattering appearance that amplifies your features without making you look overdone.
8. Visible Foundation Lines
Visible foundation lines are a dead giveaway that your makeup game could use some improvement.
When your foundation stops abruptly at your jawline, leaving a stark contrast between your face and neck, it's not a good look. Make sure to blend your foundation down your neck and onto your ears so that everything matches.
9. Overly Shiny Face
You want glowing, not greasy. Reach for blotting papers or mattifying powder to reduce shine.
Blotting papers help absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup, while mattifying powder helps set your foundation and control shine throughout the day. With these tools on hand, you can keep shine at bay and maintain a fresh, matte complexion all day long.
10. Using Old Makeup
It can be tempting to use old makeup, especially if you're short on cash. However, expired products can harbor bacteria, leading to irritation, breakouts, and even infections.
To avoid this, make it a habit to regularly replace your makeup products, specifically items like mascara and liquid products which have a shorter shelf life. Check the packaging for expiration dates or use-by symbols, and when in doubt, toss it out.
11. Skipping Primer
Primer smooths your skin's surface for makeup application but also helps your makeup last longer throughout the day.
If you create a barrier between your skin and makeup, primer helps prevent your foundation from slipping, sliding, or settling into fine lines. Adding primer into your makeup routine ensures a smooth canvas and long-lasting makeup look that stays put from morning to night.
12. Unblended Eyeshadow
Unblended eyeshadow can leave your eyes looking patchy and unfinished. Instead, use transition shades and blend thoroughly for a polished look. Transition shades help create a smooth gradient between colors, while blending gives a more uniform finish.
Take your time using windshield wiper and circular motions for best results. With the right techniques and patience, you'll get a stunning eyeshadow look that's ready to slay.
13. Incorrect Blush Placement
Few makeup mistakes are as bad as walking out of the house with way too much blush on, especially in the wrong zones of your face. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples.
This technique helps lift your face and creates a natural, flushed appearance. Use a fluffy blush brush and don't over apply to avoid depositing too much color at once.
14. Using Too Much Concealer
If you overuse your concealer, you'll end up getting opposite results than what you're looking for. Using too much concealer leaves apparent creases, highlighting rather than concealing imperfections.
You only need to apply concealer sparingly to areas that need coverage, such as under-eye circles, blemishes, and redness. Use a small amount of product and build up coverage as needed. Be sure to use a makeup sponge or brush to bring everything together.
15. Applying Makeup in Bad Lighting
For smooth makeup application, lighting is everything. Applying makeup in poor lighting can lead to uneven blending and mismatched shades. That's why you want to always use natural light or a well-lit makeup mirror.
Natural light provides the most accurate representation of colors, while good artificial lighting ensures you can see every detail clearly.
16. Ignoring Skincare
Skipping a solid skincare routine before applying makeup is a common mistake that can lead to disastrous results. It's no good to allow your skin to deteriorate and to continue covering it up. Start by prepping your skin with moisturizer to hydrate and create a smooth base for makeup.
Don't forget to apply SPF to protect your skin from sun damage and premature aging. When you prioritize skincare before makeup application, you'll improve the longevity and appearance of your makeup while maintaining the health and wellness of your skin in the long run.
17. Using the Wrong Makeup Brushes
Your brushes are essential tools. You can't do your best job with the wrong materials. Each makeup product requires specific brushes for optimal application.
Invest in a set of high-quality brushes suited for foundation, eyeshadow, blush, and more. You'll be able to apply your products with ease and precision when you use the correct brushes!
18. Not Cleaning Makeup Brushes Regularly
You absolutely have to clean your brushes in a reasonable amount of time after using them. If not, you're inviting bacteria to have a field day. Over time, makeup brushes accumulate dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can lead to breakouts and skin irritation.
Make it a habit to wash your brushes at least once a week using a gentle cleanser or brush shampoo. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry completely before using them again.
19. Applying Makeup in the Wrong Order
Believe it or not, there's an order to applying makeup that can make all the difference in your final look. Start with primer to create a smooth canvas and help your makeup last longer.
Next, apply foundation to even out your skin tone and provide a base for the rest of your makeup. Then, move on to other products like concealer, blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick. Following this order ensures that each product adheres properly and layers effortlessly.
20. Ignoring Your Skin Type
Pay attention to your skin type when selecting makeup products. If you have oily skin, opt for oil-free and mattifying products to control shine. For dry skin, choose hydrating formulas that provide moisture and luminosity.
This tip is super important because you may wonder why it seems like you can't find the right brand or product, when in reality, you just need to use the products that'll work for your particular skin situation.
21. Using Too Much Setting Powder
Don't overdo it with setting powder because you will, without a shadow of a doubt, look like Casper's cousin. Instead, apply a light dusting of setting powder only where needed to lock in your makeup and reduce shine.
Focus on areas prone to oiliness, such as the T-zone, and we know we’re beating a dead horse, but you HAVE to blend it well to avoid it being super heavy in the end.
22. Neglecting To Blend Foundation Into the Hairline
The hairline is often overlooked when it comes to blending foundation, but neglecting it can result in an obvious makeup line. Use a makeup sponge or brush to feather the foundation outwards, making sure there are no harsh edges.
When you blend the foundation into your hairline, you'll create a natural transition between your face and hair.
23. Too Much Eyeliner
We get wanting to go for the bold eye look, but go easy on the eyeliner. Honestly, what's supposed to be a seductive finish often resembles a raccoon when done improperly.
Use short, feathering strokes instead of a single heavy line and try a pencil or gel liner for more control. Also, opt for a color that's not too dark, especially if you have fair skin. Finally, blend the eyeliner well, particularly at the outer corners, to create a softer, more natural look
24. Not Setting Makeup
Not setting makeup can lead to a shorter wear time and makeup that fades or smudges throughout the day. To lock your makeup in place and prolong its wear, use setting spray.
After completing your makeup routine, hold the setting spray bottle about arm's length away from your face and spritz a few times for even coverage.
25. Over Plucking Eyebrows
Over plucking eyebrows can leave you with sparse and uneven brows that are difficult to shape. It's critical to understand your natural shape and invest in quality tweezers. Before tweezing, outline the desired shape and pluck in well-lit areas to make sure it's accurate.
Take breaks to assess progress and consider trimming instead of plucking excessively. Remember, eyebrows should complement, not match perfectly because natural eyebrows are not perfectly symmetrical. Embracing slight differences in shape and thickness adds character to your face and maintains a more natural appearance. Patience is key between shaping sessions.
26. Using Too Much Heat
Too much heat is amongst the biggest culprits of hair damage. There's no reason to flat iron or curl your hair everyday. Excessive heat styling can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends, leaving your hair looking dull and lifeless.
You should lower the temperature on your styling tools and use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage. It's tempting to crank up the temperature to the max because you want your hair “extra” straight or curly, but it's not worth it!
27. Skipping Regular Trims
Regular trims are the foundation of healthy hair. There is a balance between trimming as needed and over trimming, but regular manipulation requires you to keep your ends touched up.
Getting trims every 6-8 weeks helps prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, minimizing damage and breakage. Don't be so afraid to lose hair that you hold on to dead ends because it makes your hair appear longer.
28. Using the Wrong Hair Products
You can't approach hair products with a one-size-fits-all mentality. You'll only frustrate yourself and end up with lackluster results in the end if you use the wrong hair products.
It's important to choose products formulated specifically for your hair type, whether it's curly, straight, fine, or thick. Curly hair requires hydrating and defining products, while straight hair benefits from volumizing and smoothing formulas.
29. Overwashing Hair
Though hygiene is of the greatest importance, overwashing your hair is a real thing. Washing your hair too frequently, like every day, can strip away natural oils, leaving your locks dry and prone to breakage. You only need to wash your hair 2-3 times a week to maintain a healthy balance of oils.
If you have extremely curly hair, it may be even less than that, as curly hair is already very dry and washing it often could make it worse. With curly hair, once every 1 to 2 weeks is better, but make sure to moisturize your hair in between wash days.
30. Not Using Conditioner
Conditioner is a key aspect of your wash day routine. After shampooing, your hair will be very dry, and possibly even rough-feeling if you use a clarifying shampoo.
Conditioner replenishes moisture that gets lost when shampooing. It keeps your hair soft, smooth, and less likely to become susceptible to excess breakage. Focus on the mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. You'll be able to detangle easier, too.
31. Ignoring Scalp Health
Many people don't realize how vital scalp health is when they're trying to keep their hair healthy or grow it longer. An unhealthy scalp may show signs like dryness, flakiness, redness, or itching. Make sure that your scalp is clean and not clogged.
When you wash your hair, it's essential to effectively remove buildup, excess oil, and dead skin cells, leaving your scalp clean and refreshed. There are scalp treatments that specifically stimulate circulation, nourish hair follicles, and promote a healthy environment for hair growth.
32. Using Dirty Styling Tools
Just like with makeup, you should be using hair styling tools that have been cleaned. A dirty flat iron or curler, for example, really can ruin your results. After a while, styling tools accumulate product buildup, oils, and debris, which can transfer back onto your hair, leading to greasiness and dullness.
Make it a habit to clean your brushes, combs, heat styling tools, rollers, etc, regularly. Use warm water and mild shampoo to remove dirt, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry completely.
33. Incorrectly Using Hair Extensions
The results are cute, but at what costs? There are multiple ways to add extensions, like gluing, sewing, or taking them in, but it's crucial to exercise caution.
If you sew them in too tightly you can cause a ton of hair breakage, and too much glue is terrible for your hair and can cause hair loss when trying to remove it. Another factor to be aware of is constantly wearing hair extensions and not taking care of your actual hair underneath.
34. Ignoring Hair Health
You have to take care of your hair, which requires a bit of work, even in the midst of our busy lives. We’re not saying spend hours and hours, but even something as simple as a spritz of water while sealing it in with coconut or olive oil can do wonders.
Deep conditioning treatments are so necessary for your hair, as well as the occasional protein treatment to keep your hair strong. All of these factors lead to a shinier, stronger, well-hydrated mane.
35. Using Too Much Hairspray
Take it easy on the hairspray! It's one thing to have your hair firm; it's a whole other thing to have your hair appear like it's frozen in time. Using too much hairspray can leave your locks stiff and unnatural.
Select a light hold hairspray and apply it from a distance to avoid stiffness. This way, you'll achieve a flexible hold that keeps your hairstyle in place without sacrificing movement and bounce.
36. Skipping Heat Protection
Ohhhhh this one can be so costly. Skipping heat protection is risky business. Before using hot styling tools, you absolutely have to take some time to add a heat protectant to your hair to shield it from heat damage.
This step creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, minimizing the risk of breakage and split ends. With heat protection, you'll keep your hair healthy and strong, but you still shouldn’t overdo it with the heat.
37. Overdoing Hair Treatments
As with everything in life, there’s a balance. There are some people that are doing the most and it shows. Too many protein treatments will make your hair super crunchy and it’ll break off very easily.
Too many hair masks and conditioning treatments can make your hair too soft and mushy, and it won’t hold a style at all. You should NOT be relaxing, coloring, or perming your hair every month! Just space out your treatments and give your hair time to recover between sessions. By giving your hair a break, you'll prevent over-processing.
38. Ignoring Hair Texture
Hair texture is a critical factor to consider, especially for women with naturally curly hair. It can be unruly and feel like nothing works, but it may just be that your hair is more coily than curly, more coarse, or very dense.
It’s best to focus on hairstyles and products that enhance your natural texture. If you have curly hair, embrace those beautiful curls with products designed to define and moisturize curls. Products designed to work for looser curls won’t have the same effect on tight curls, and vice versa.
39. Overusing Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is supposed to be used as a substitute and not a complete replacement. It's great for freshening up between washes, but overusing it can irritate your scalp and make your hair feel pretty gunky.
So, use dry shampoo sparingly—focus on the roots and avoid going overboard. Plus, there’s nothing like the real thing!
40. Not Wrapping Your Hair At Night
Particularly important for textured hair that’s prone to frizz, it’s necessary to wrap your hair at night in a silk scarf, or cover it with a bonnet. The benefits include keeping frizz at bay, preserving hairstyles such as curls, braids, and twists, and preventing dryness.
You’ll quickly notice how much longer your hair stays looking good when you protect it from constantly rubbing against the pillowcase throughout the night.
41. Tight Ponytails or Braids
Ponytails are the go-to hairstyle for lazy girls, but you have to be careful that you're not wearing them too tightly. It's also important not to wear braids that are super tight. You're straining your hair and we'd imagine that it's quite painful.
Your braids can be cute without being so tight that they cause traction alopecia. Implement looser styles that give your locks some breathing room. Don't wrap your hair ties 4 or 5 times just to get a sleeker look. You’ll pay in the end, and it's not worth it.
42. Coloring Hair Incorrectly
Coloring your hair is so tricky, especially when you do it at home. If you're going to go at it alone, you need to make sure you do your research thoroughly beforehand. Get ammonia-free or gentle hair dyes to minimize damage.
Bleaching before you color your hair is really harmful, so it's essential that you moisturize your hair adequately after the fact, and don't leave the bleach or the hair dye on for too long.
43. Not Using a Wide-Tooth Comb on Wet Hair
When your hair is wet, it's vulnerable to breakage, so treat it with care! Instead of yanking a brush through your wet strands, use a wide-tooth comb and don't rush it. It takes time to detangle your hair without causing damage.
Another thing to consider is using your fingers to detangle if you have curly hair. It's VERY time consuming, but it makes a world of difference.
44. Constant Hair Manipulation
Trying new hairstyles is fun, but sometimes you just need to leave your hair alone. Constantly braiding, flat ironing, curling, blow drying, brushing, combing your hair is no good.
You're never giving it a chance to rest and recover from the styling. That can make your hair dry, brittle, limp, and dull. Plus, you could experience more shedding and tangling than usual. Allow yourself some time in between intricate styles before pulling and tugging on your strands so much.
45. Washing Your Hair With Hot Water
Using hot water to rinse your hair can actually strip away its natural oils and moisture. That leaves your scalp feeling dry, and it makes your hair frizzy and staticky after washing.
A lot of people think it's a good idea to wash your hair with hot water when you should actually be using lukewarm water and finishing off with a cold rinse. The cold water helps seal in the moisture, leaving your scalp feeling hydrated and your hair looking shinier.
46. Rubbing Hair With a Towel
After a shower it's common to throw a towel over your head and start rubbing your hair vigorously. It's also a ritual to wrap that towel around and keep it on for ages, trying to get every last drop of water out. However, all that rubbing and wrapping can actually do more harm than good.
After you wash your hair, gently pat it dry with a towel from the roots to the ends—no rough rubbing back and forth. Give your hair a few minutes in the towel to soak up some moisture, then let it loose to air dry. Whatever you do, don't leave your hair wet or tie it up while it's still damp.
47. Plucking Gray Hairs
It's very tempting to pluck out a gray hair or two. Nonetheless, it's not the best solution. When you pull out a gray hair, it tends to grow back even more unruly and coarse, making it more noticeable than before.
Those regrown strands can stick straight up, and no amount of product seems to tame them. It's better to leave the grays alone and look for a touch-up color spray for temporary coverage. It's a simpler and less damaging way to deal with those unwanted gray hairs.
48. Not Protecting Hair While Swimming
Do not forget to protect your hair when swimming in a pool or at the beach. Chlorine and saltwater can wreak havoc on your hair, and you need a swim cap to protect your hair from the harsh chemicals.
If that's not your style, rinse your hair with clean water before swimming to saturate it, minimizing the absorption of chlorine or saltwater. These are basic tips and they don't take much effort.
49. Unhealthy Diet
Equally important is making sure you eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Poor nutrient intake, crash diets, or fads aimed at quick results can result in significant hair loss.
Moreover, nutrient absorption relies on good gut health. Collagen, another vital protein for hair, may need supplementation to ensure optimal hair health.
50. Wearing Wigs Too Often
Wigs have become increasingly popular over the years, especially the lace front and clueless varieties. The problem with these cute wigs is that you need to constantly gel or glue your wig down around your hairline, which can rip your edges out.
It's not a good look to have a patchy hairline because you're constantly taking the wig on and off, adding and removing glue, tape, etc. It's also very easy to neglect your hair underneath.