9 common makeup mistakes that are making you look older

With beauty vloggers and Instagrammers sharing their inspired looks daily, makeup is more popular than ever. But if you haven’t changed your makeup routine or approach since you were in high school, chances are good that you’re making yourself look older than necessary.

Wearing makeup is a highly personal thing, so if you’re happy with your look, then keep doing what you’re doing. On the other hand, you might want to consider the following common mistakes that could be adding years to your look instead of taking them away.

1. Skipping primer
Before you paint any surface – be it car, house or face – you need to prep the surface. Primer offers moisture and even oil-blocking properties to keep your foundation from “breaking” during the day. An eye primer also creates a base and helps shadow adhere longer.

2. Using the wrong foundation
Mineral and powder foundations make your skin look dry, not dewy. The powder settles into fine lines, and no one wants that. Choose a lightweight foundation, and use it minimally. Remember, you don’t need to cover your entire face – just your imperfections.

3. Using the wrong shade concealer
This common mistake leaves the undereye area looking extra old. If you’re battling dark circles, pick a peachy concealer, and apply sparingly.

4. Forgetting to blend
Every makeup artist suggests that you blend thoroughly when contouring or applying eye shadow. Blending helps blur the edges. And nothing is more outdated than a racing stripe of blush or obvious contouring.

5. Wearing metallic or shimmer eye shadow
Despite its popularity, metallic eye shadow emphasizes skin texture, especially crepey skin. You can still use these, but limit them to just the center of the eyelid. Any higher and you'll look years beyond your years.

6. Using black eyeliner on your waterline
Black liner may be classic, but it can make your eyes look smaller and even older. Opt for a soft pink eyeliner for your lower waterline if you want to create a bright-eyed appearance.

7. Forgetting your brows
A natural part of aging includes reduced hair production. This includes eyebrows. Sparse or overplucked brows can easily be made more youthful-looking with brow powder or pencil. Again, remember to blend for the most natural look.

8. Using dark lip liner
Lip liner acts as a barrier and keeps lipstick and gloss in place, but choosing a color that is too dark makes you look outdated. Apply lip liner that matches your natural lip color.

9. Wearing dark lipstick
Youthful lips look plump and full, but dark lipstick makes your lips look smaller. Apply a glossy (not shimmery) top coat in a natural rosy color for the most natural effect.