Why foundation makes you look older: common makeup mistakes

Foundation can become your best ally in makeup — or, on the contrary, work against you. When applied correctly, it evens out skin tone, refreshes the face, and makes your look more youthful. However, even small mistakes can subtly add a few extra years. Read on Joy-pup about the mistakes you should avoid when using foundation.

Matte Finish

Highly matte foundations may look beautiful in the packaging, but on the skin they often appear heavy and emphasize fine lines. When the face loses its natural glow and looks “flat,” age becomes much more noticeable. If you don’t have pronounced oiliness, opt for satin or radiant textures — they look lighter and fresher.

Too Much Foundation

Foundation should not sit on the skin like a dense mask. The more product you apply, the higher the risk that it will settle into pores, creases, and dry patches. As a result, the skin looks more mature than it actually is. Start with a small amount and add it only where needed — most often around the nose, on the chin, and lightly on the cheeks.

Applying to Dry Skin

Even the most expensive foundation won’t look good if the skin is dry, dehydrated, or uneven. Without proper preparation, the product applies in patches and highlights imperfections. Before applying makeup, be sure to use a moisturizer and let it absorb for at least a minute. In colder seasons, choose a more nourishing base — this will make your makeup look truly youthful.

Too Much Powder

Setting the makeup is important, but balance is key. Too much powder makes the face look dull and emphasizes fine lines, especially around the eyes. At the same time, if you don’t set the foundation at all, it may start to “slide” during the day. It’s best to powder only the areas that really need it, primarily the T-zone. Use a translucent or very finely milled powder and apply a minimal amount.

Wrong Shade

A foundation that is too light or too dark makes the look heavy and unnatural. Light shades can give the face a sickly pallor, while dark ones weigh it down and add harshness. Choose your shade based on the neck and décolletage area, not the inside of your arm. When the foundation truly blends with the skin, the face looks fresher and younger.

Read also: Eye makeup with a rejuvenating effect: makeup artists’ secrets