Makeup can take years off your age or add them on, depending on how you apply it.
According to one makeup artist, there are several mistakes women make that age them before their time.
Kirsten from The Beauty Blotter claimed that “heavy, thick foundation” can make “age you quickly”.
The makeup artist said: “It is a common misconception that you need to wear more makeup as you age.
“I find the opposite to be true. I think that less is more and a few strategically placed makeup products can really help you look more youthful.”
When it comes to foundation, caking it on might not be the answer. While you might think a heavy base will cover up your imperfections, it can actually cause the face to look aged, according to the expert.
What’s more, using a lot of product can lead to “that dreaded line of demarcation on your jawline”, which won’t look natural.
She claimed that those with “dry and mature skin” in particular should avoid heavy foundation because it can “look mask-like and really add on the years”.
Kristen cleared up a common misconception about the purpose of foundation. She said: “Remember, foundation serves to even out your skin tone, NOT to cover flaws.”
A “luminous”, natural-finish foundation is better than a heavy one. To cover up imperfections, go back in with concealer after your foundation application.
The makeup artist shared a top tip for women with drier skin. For added “hydration and glow”, ladies can apply an illuminating primer ahead of their foundation.
According to Kristen, another ageing makeup mistake is too much concealer, in too light a shade.
She said: “Concealer is so tricky to get right, but when you do, it is magical and can take hours of sleepless nights off your face.”
For optimal concealer use, the expert told women to pick the shade that matches their skin tone and to use the product sparingly.
As for application, it’s best to focus the product only on the inner corner and the dark area under the eyes, rather than under the eye and the outer corner, as the latter will “settle in fine lines and enhance wrinkles”.
