What Does Bad Makeup Look Like?

Ainun December 31, 2023 03:12 . 12 min read

Photo by ‘Cobarzan Daiana’ on Unsplash.com

Makeup has become an essential part of many people’s daily routine. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to enhance one’s natural beauty, good makeup can make a world of difference. It has the power to boost confidence and make someone feel their best. On the other hand, bad makeup can have the opposite effect. It can make someone feel self-conscious and uncomfortable in their own skin. That’s why it’s important to know how to avoid common makeup mistakes and achieve a flawless look.

SHEGLAM Color Bloom Dayglow Liquid Blush Makeup for Cheeks Shimmer Finish – Risky Business

Maybelline Fit Me Liquid Concealer Makeup, Natural Coverage, Lightweight, Conceals, Covers Oil-Free, Vanilla (Packaging May Vary)

$7.49

50%

Makeup Brushes 22 Pcs Makeup Kit,Foundation Brush Eyeshadow Brush Make up Brushes Set (Green, 22 Piece Set)

$19.99

e.l.f. Clear Lash & Brow Mascara 2-Pack, Conditioning Clear Brow & Lash Gel For Grooming, Defining & Separating, Long-Lasting, Vegan & Cruelty-Free

8 Pieces Triangle Powder Puff Face Soft Triangle Makeup Puff Velour Cosmetic Foundation Blender Sponge Beauty Makeup Tools

e.l.f. Halo Glow Soft Focus Setting Powder, Silky Powder For Creating Without Shine, Smooths Pores & Lines, Light Pink

11%

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, All-in-1 Makeup Remover and Facial Cleanser, For All Skin Types, 3.4 Fl Oz (100mL), 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

$4.49 ($1.32 / Fl Oz)

30%

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara Makeup, Volumizing, Lengthening, Defining, Curling, Multiplying, Buildable Formula, Blackest Black, 1 Count

$12.99

Makeup: The Ultimate Guide

e.l.f., Hydrating Camo Concealer, Lightweight, Full Coverage, Long Lasting, Conceals, Corrects, Covers, Hydrates, Highlights, Fair Rose, Satin Finish, 25 Shades, All-Day Wear, 0.20 Fl Oz

Cakey Foundation: When Too Much is Too Much

Cakey foundation is a common makeup mistake that many people make. It refers to when the foundation appears thick and heavy on the skin, giving it a cake-like appearance. There are several causes of cakey foundation, including using too much product, not properly blending it into the skin, or using the wrong type of foundation for your skin type.

To avoid cakey foundation, start by using a small amount of product and building it up if needed. Use a damp beauty sponge or brush to blend the foundation into your skin, making sure to blend it out towards your hairline and neck for a seamless finish. Additionally, choose a foundation that is suitable for your skin type. If you have dry skin, opt for a hydrating or dewy foundation, while those with oily skin should look for oil-free or matte foundations.

Uneven Skin Tone: The Importance of Blending

Uneven skin tone is another common makeup mistake that can make your complexion look patchy and unnatural. It refers to when the foundation doesn’t blend seamlessly into the skin, resulting in visible lines or areas of different shades. Uneven skin tone can be caused by using the wrong shade of foundation, not properly blending it into the skin, or not using a primer to create a smooth base.

To achieve a natural-looking, even skin tone, start by choosing the right shade of foundation. Test the foundation on your jawline or wrist to find a shade that matches your skin tone. Once you have the right shade, use a beauty sponge or brush to blend the foundation into your skin, making sure to blend it out towards your hairline and neck. If you have areas of discoloration or hyperpigmentation, you can use a color corrector or concealer to even out the skin tone before applying foundation.

Overdrawn Lips: When Lip Liner Goes Wrong

Overdrawn lips are a makeup mistake that can make your lips look unnatural and disproportionate. It refers to when the lip liner is used to extend the natural lip line, resulting in lips that appear larger or uneven. Overdrawn lips can be caused by using a lip liner that is too dark or not properly blending it with the lipstick.

To avoid overdrawn lips, start by choosing a lip liner that matches your natural lip color or the shade of lipstick you will be using. Use the lip liner to define the natural shape of your lips, starting from the cupid’s bow and working towards the corners. Instead of extending the lip line, focus on enhancing the natural shape. Once you have lined your lips, fill them in with lipstick, making sure to blend the lip liner with the lipstick for a seamless finish.

Clumpy Mascara: The Importance of Proper Application

Clumpy mascara is a common makeup mistake that can make your lashes look spidery and unnatural. It refers to when the mascara appears thick and clumpy on the lashes, instead of creating a defined and voluminous look. Clumpy mascara can be caused by using an old or dried-out mascara, applying too many coats, or not properly separating the lashes.

To apply mascara properly and avoid clumps, start by using a fresh mascara that is not expired. Wipe off any excess product from the wand before applying it to your lashes. Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand back and forth as you move it towards the tips. This will help to separate the lashes and prevent clumps. If you notice any clumps, use a clean mascara wand or a lash comb to comb through the lashes and separate them.

Harsh Contouring: When It’s Too Obvious

Harsh contouring is a makeup mistake that can make your face look overly sculpted and unnatural. It refers to when the contour powder or cream is applied too heavily or in the wrong places, resulting in harsh lines and a muddy appearance. Harsh contouring can be caused by using a contour shade that is too dark or not properly blending it into the skin.

To achieve a natural-looking contour, start by choosing a contour shade that is only slightly darker than your natural skin tone. Use a small, fluffy brush to apply the contour powder or cream to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline. Blend it out using circular motions or a clean brush to create a seamless transition between the contour and your foundation. Remember, less is more when it comes to contouring, so start with a light hand and build up if needed.

Smudged Eyeliner: The Importance of Setting Products

Smudged eyeliner is a common makeup mistake that can make your eyes look messy and unkempt. It refers to when the eyeliner smudges or transfers onto the eyelids or under-eye area, instead of staying in place. Smudged eyeliner can be caused by using a creamy or oily eyeliner formula, not properly setting it with powder or eyeshadow, or rubbing your eyes throughout the day.

To prevent smudged eyeliner, start by using an eyeliner formula that is long-lasting and smudge-proof. Gel or liquid eyeliners tend to have better staying power than pencil eyeliners. After applying the eyeliner, set it with a matching eyeshadow or translucent powder using a small brush. This will help to lock the eyeliner in place and prevent it from smudging throughout the day. If you have oily eyelids, you can also use an eyeshadow primer before applying eyeliner to create a matte base and improve the longevity of your eye makeup.

Mismatched Foundation: When Your Shade is Off

Mismatched foundation is a makeup mistake that can make your complexion look unnatural and ashy. It refers to when the foundation shade doesn’t match your natural skin tone, resulting in a noticeable line of demarcation between your face and neck. Mismatched foundation can be caused by choosing the wrong shade or undertone, not properly blending it into the skin, or not testing the foundation in natural lighting.

To find the right foundation shade, start by testing different shades on your jawline or wrist in natural lighting. Look for a shade that disappears into your skin and matches your neck and chest. If you have warm undertones, choose a foundation with yellow or golden undertones. If you have cool undertones, choose a foundation with pink or blue undertones. Once you have found the right shade, blend it into your skin using a beauty sponge or brush, making sure to blend it out towards your hairline and neck for a seamless finish.

Glitter Overload: When Sparkle Becomes Overwhelming

Glitter overload is a makeup mistake that can make your look appear overdone and tacky. It refers to when glitter is applied too heavily or in the wrong places, resulting in an overwhelming amount of sparkle. Glitter overload can be caused by using too much glitter, not properly blending it with other eyeshadows, or not using a sticky base to adhere the glitter.

To use glitter for a subtle and sophisticated effect, start by choosing a fine glitter that is not too chunky or gritty. Apply a small amount of glitter to the center of your eyelid using a flat brush or your finger. Use a clean brush to blend the edges of the glitter with other eyeshadows for a seamless transition. If you want to intensify the glitter, you can apply a sticky base or glitter glue to the eyelid before applying the glitter. This will help the glitter adhere to the skin and prevent fallout throughout the day.

Overdone Brows: The Importance of Natural Looking Brows

Overdone brows are a makeup mistake that can make your face look harsh and unnatural. It refers to when the eyebrows are filled in too heavily or in the wrong shape, resulting in brows that appear drawn on or blocky. Overdone brows can be caused by using a brow product that is too dark or not properly blending it with the natural brow hairs.

To achieve natural-looking brows, start by choosing a brow product that matches your natural brow color or is one shade lighter. Use light, feathery strokes to fill in any sparse areas or gaps in your brows, following the natural shape of your arch. Avoid filling in the entire brow with product, as this can make them look too heavy. Instead, focus on enhancing the natural shape and creating a soft, defined look. Use a spoolie brush to comb through the brows and blend the product with the natural brow hairs for a seamless finish.

Tips for Avoiding Bad Makeup Looks

In conclusion, there are several tips and techniques that can help you avoid common makeup mistakes and achieve a flawless look. First and foremost, it’s important to use the right products for your skin type and tone. This includes choosing foundations, lip liners, eyeliners, and other makeup products that are suitable for your individual needs. Additionally, practicing proper application techniques is key. This includes blending foundation, contour, and eyeshadow for a seamless finish, as well as using the right tools and brushes for each step. Lastly, it’s important to not overdo it with trends and instead embrace your natural beauty. Remember, makeup should enhance your features, not mask them. By following these tips and embracing your natural beauty, you can avoid bad makeup looks and feel confident in your appearance.