Boo-Boos

I've had these "Make up Tips" for "mature" women in a word document sitting on my computer desktop for a long time now and was meaning to share them.  Since I was busy Sunday night watching the SAG Awards, I thought this would be a good time.  I thought it was all very good advice.  I added a few of my favorite products.


Mistake #1: Using Too Much Foundation

A foundation that's too thick will settle into fine lines and sap the luminosity from your skin. Only use foundation where you need it to even out discoloration.  You don't have to cover every inch of your skin.  When buying a foundation, avoid those described as "matte," "velvet," and "long-wearing"; look for sheer liquid formulas with light-diffusing pigments. If you have dry skin, foundation can look patchy and accentuate discoloration, so exfoliate two to three times a week and always apply a moisturizer after cleansing.  I skip a foundation altogether and use a tinted moisturizer by Laura Mercier.  I buy the oil-free version.

Mistake #2: Over-Concealing Your Under-Eye Circles

A thick concealer that comes in a stick or pot will eradicate the shadows under your eyes, but it will also draw attention to the crepiness and fine lines that usually show up in that area first (because the skin there is thin). A better option: A brush-on highlighter pen (like Neutrogena Healthy Skin Brightening Eye Perfector $11.99; drugstores) that uses illuminating particles, not opaque color, to camouflage dark circles. Apply it only near the inner corners of your under-eye area, where shadows are most prominent (and lines least).  I'm going to try this product.

Mistake #3: Wearing Deep, Dark Lip Colors

A dark color makes any surface look smaller--a welcome illusion perhaps on your hips but not your lips. To make your mouth look fuller (one hallmark of a youthful face), choose bright lipsticks and glosses (peaches, pinks, vibrant reds) over deep shades (burgundies, wines, browns). Makeup artists use another trick to create the illusion of luscious lips: Before applying color, trace a highlighter pencil along your upper lip line, then buff it out with your finger.  I don't wear lipstick at all... just a gloss occasionally.

Mistake #4: Finishing with Powder
Youthful skin reflects light. Powders prevent light reflection and tend to magnify lines in the skin. If powder has been the final step of your makeup routine since high school, it can be difficult to quit cold-turkey. Here's a three-step program: First, switch to a very sheer translucent powder (like Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder, $35; lauramercier.com). Then, start using it only on your nose and chin. Finally, trade the powder for a packet of blotting tissues--use one, only on the T-zone (nose, chin, and forehead), if you're shiny midday.

Mistake #5: Wearing Black Eyeliner

Don't skip eyeliner altogether--it's a great way to make your eyes look more open--but choose brown over black, which can be harsh. And keep the color diffuse. You want to define the eyes with softness and blending, not strict lines.  A thick liner can leave the upper lids looking heavier than they are.  The best technique: Trace a brown pencil liner along the upper lash line (into the roots of the lashes), focusing on the outer corners; smudge it with a Q-tip.

Mistake #6: Going Overboard with Lip Liner

A lip liner can define your lips and prevent color from feathering into any lines around the mouth--but choose one very carefully. If you line your lips too heavily, or with a color that's too dark, they'll look tight and pursed. For the most natural effect, your lip liner should match the color of your lips, not the color of your lipstick. Choose a creamy formula that won't adhere to any dry patches, and use it to fill in your lips entirely, so it wears evenly.

Mistake #7: Using Liner and Mascara on Your Lower Lashes

Playing up your lower lashes can make your eyes look droopy and draw attention to dark circles. Instead, curl your upper lashes and wiggle a volumizing mascara into their roots and slowly through the ends for the most uplifting effect.  Try Maybelline Volum' Express MegaPlush Washable Mascara- it's new and getting great reviews.  I prefer a washable mascara!  Also don't forget an eyelash curler which also helps open your eyes and shows off your lashes.

Mistake #8: Skipping Blush

A rosy flush on your cheeks brings instant life to your face. And, if applied correctly, blush can offer a little lift. Smile, find the fleshiest part of your cheek and apply color just slightly above it. Blend the color out toward your temples in circles, not a line, using a big fluffy brush. You want to avoid a stripe of color that stretches along your cheekbones, which can make you look drawn and hollow.  Just be careful you don't look like a lot of old ladies with those Raggedy Ann cheeks!