Beauty Blunders: What You're Doing Wrong & How to Fix it

Makeup is complicated. If it wasn't, there wouldn't be a ton of tutorials on blogs and vlogs trying to help you figure out what the heck you're doing. The good news is you don't need to be an expert for makeup work for you, but you do need to stop making these mistakes:

1. Not Throwing Out or Washing Products

Makeup is not meant to last forever, so if you can't remember when you last bought that mascara, you are probably overdue for a new one. Replace your mascara around every three months to avoid dipping your brush into a tube of bacteria and clumps. Brushes should also be washed once a week in gentle clarifying shampoo because oil, makeup and bacteria can get stuck in the bristles. After each use, you should also use a daily brush cleaner spray. Don't store your brushes in a dirty makeup bag. Opt for a separate container, like a vase.

2. Thinking Your Foundation is a Bronzer

Foundation smoothes and covers up any imperfections, so it should blend with your skin tone. It should not make you look tanner. To find your perfect shade, test it on your jawline instead of your hand.

3. Wearing Too much Foundation

While foundation is a useful tool, it shouldn't be abused. Too much foundation makes wrinkles and fine lines more noticeable.

4. The Wrong Blush

This applies to the color, the placement on your face and the amount. Your cheeks should look slightly kissed with color. Use your eye as a starting point and apply lightly along your cheekbone. As for finding the right color? Don't be afraid to ask for professional help, but keep this in mind: Rosy pinks and peaches work on women with fair skin tones. Those with darker complexions can wear rich bronzes, oranges and berries.

5. Bad Eyeliner

Applying eyeliner on only the lower lid drags down your face by making your eyes look small and bottom heavy. Smudgy eyeliner is another no-no. You can either use a brush to restribute the makeup and make it look smoky. Or if your lids are warmer, you should use a shadow base before you put on eyeliner.

6. Putting Foundation on Dry, Flaky Skin

With all the problems foundations can cause, it might seem more trouble than it's worth. (It's not!) Foundation won't hide your dry skin because it doesn't blend with the problem areas. Exfoliate regularly or use a moisturizing primer before you apply foundation.