10 Makeup Myths Revealed

Many makeup tips and tricks have been around for years. Some tips are always helpful, while others are just plain false. To help you get the best our of your makeup, we’re revealing these myths and giving you our professional recommendations.

Myth 1: To find your correct shade, you should always match your foundation to your wrist

You'll get better results if you match your foundation to your neck.  This area shows off your natural coloring better and is a great guide for blending.  For more help, check out How to Determine Your Undertones.

Myth 2: If you want to look tanner, you should wear a darker foundation shade

Wearing a foundation that doesn't match your skin tone will just leave you looking silly.  If you really want a tan or bronzed glow, try a bronzer.

Myth 3: You shouldn't wear powder foundation

Many women, especially those with oily skin, prefer the coverage and finish of a powder foundation.  As with all makeup, use in moderation to avoid that powdery or flaky look.  Also, powder will enhance fine lines or wrinkles, so be careful with application.

Myth 4: Your concealer should be a lighter shade than your foundation

As with your foundation, you should try to match your concealer to your skin tone.  If you use a lighter or darker concealer shade, you're likely to only draw attention to whatever you're trying to conceal.

Myth 5:  You should apply your concealer before your foundation

Actually, you should apply your foundation first.  This helps give an overall coverage, then you can go back with your concealer to cover up any imperfections.

Myth 6: You shouldn't wear eyeshadow shades that are the same color as your eyes

While contrasting shades will make your eye color pop, you can wear whatever eyeshadow colors you like.

Myth 7: To avoid clumps in your mascara, you should "pump" it.

Pumping your mascara wand in the tube is actually the worst thing you can do with it.  Pumping forces extra air into the tube, drying it out faster and allowing bacteria inside.  To avoid clumps, you should gently twist the wand out of the tube, brush your lashes out with a spoolie brush before application and look for clump-resistant mascara formulas.

Myth 8: Not everyone can wear red lipstick

Anyone can wear red lipstick!  The key is finding the shade that works best for you.  For example, if your skin has yellow undertones, try an orange or brown-based red lipstick.  If you're more of a blue undertone, try a blue-based or true red lipstick.

Myth 9: You should only wear products from one brand

It's okay to wear only one brand if it's your favorite but don't be afraid to branch out.  You might find that you prefer the foundations of one brand and eye products from another.  Find what works best for your skin, concerns and budget and go from there.

Myth 10: Makeup causes acne and breakouts

While you may have a reaction to some makeup products, proper hygiene and quality formulas will not cause breakouts.  Look for non-comedogenic formulas which won't clog your pores, always wash off your makeup at night and clean your makeup brushes regularly.  It's also important to know when to throw out or replace your makeup.