Seven deadly make-up sins

Before I studied modelling and image consultancy, I was a victim and often committed these ‘sins’ that can spell disaster to one’s image.

1) Buying make-up without testing it

It does not matter if you ‘know’ your shade. You may be MC45 or SB50 but each formulation differs even if it is from the same brand. For instance, MAC liquid mineralise foundation oxidises differently on your skin and may appear slightly darker than the MAC cream to powder foundation. Just as you must try on a pair of jeans or shoes before purchasing, you have to try on your make-up.

2) Testing make-up on the back of your hand

Our hands and faces are different shades. There may even be a marked difference in the red or yellow undertones. Test make-up on your jawline, and be sure to do this in natural light. Do not trust the girls at the counter who tell you “this is your colour,” without confirming for yourself. Make sure she disinfects the sample for you with spirit, and use a clean cotton bud or sponge.

3) Not cleaning make-up brushes and sponges regularly

How bad can this be, right? After all, I don’t share my brushes — and my sponge stays in my powder compact all along. The price you pay for this negligence is make-up that looks dull and not ‘fresh,’ rashes and breakouts. Our faces have bacteria. Shampoo and rinse your brushes and sponges weekly.

4) Using the wrong concealer

Concealer is my favourite make-up item. However, a common blunder is using a shade that is much too light. When your under-eye concealer is two or three shades lighter, it actually draws attention to the bags and dark circles you are trying to hide. A colour corrector does the job much more discreetly. Choose concealer in the same shade or only one shade lighter than your foundation. Always set it with sheer powder.

5) Applying too much powder

Cakey, plastic-looking make-up is the result of this. If you have oily skin, don’t just shovel layers of powder into your face. First blot the excess oil, then swirl or press a small amount onto your T-zone area.

6) Colouring your eyebrows too dark

If you use a brow pencil that is as dark as your natural eyebrow colour, it looks artificial. Choose a shade slightly lighter and use feathery strokes when applying eyebrow pencil. Set it with a dark brown mat eye shadow or an eyebrow gel.

7) Putting make-up on dry skin

Applying foundation onto un-moisturised skin is never a good idea. Even if you have oily skin, putting make-up directly on it leads to flakiness. The make-up sits on your uneven skin and does not blend well. Instead, exfoliate weekly to remove flakes, and then use a moisturiser suited to your skin type. Prime your face and then apply make-up. The result is a much more natural, professional finish.

Photo: madamenoire.com