Wrong Shade
Choosing the wrong shade of foundation can draw attention to any imperfections in your complexion, enhancing your age instead of minimizing it. “The chest and neck and face all receive different amounts of sun exposure, so as we age, they can turn very different shades, especially if you wear daily sunscreen. The result is often too light on the face, which doesn't match the chest or neck. This look can often age you by creating a pallid complexion,” explains NYC based makeup artist Kelli Bartlett. “When shopping for foundation, wear a v-neck tshirt to ensure that you are properly matched.”
Skimping On Primer
Primer is vital to your makeup routine particularly as you grow older as it evens skin texture and sets the stage for a cleaner foundation application. “As we age, our skin tends to lose moisture and elasticity, leading to increased texture and dryness; if we don’t prep our skin properly with adequate hydration and a great, smoothing primer, we can often create the appearance of dryer, more textured skin,” says Megan Curtin, Cover FX Lead Makeup Artist. “Always start with a great moisturizer, like Cover FX’s Custom Blending Moisturizer, which hydrates the skin deeply with shea butter and hyaluronic acid, and follow with a smoothing primer to decrease the appearance of texture, like their Blurring Primer, which gives an instant soft-focus effect to the skin.”
Wrong Formula
Choosing the wrong formula for your foundation can dry out your skin, adhering to fine lines and drawing further attention to wrinkles. “Cream-based foundations never ‘set’ or ‘dry down’ without powder, so they have a tendency to settle into fine lines, wrinkles and pores, emphasizing skin's texture. Additionally, if you powder on top, the end result can be heavy and cakey.” says Bartlett. “Instead, opt for lightweight liquid foundations that have a radiant quality.” Combining a good prep routine with the correct shade and formula will allow the foundation to glide over your skin, promoting that ageless look we’re all seeking.