9 Makeup Tips Your Mother Taught You That Are Actually Wrong

We tend to hold dearly onto every little thing our mother figures teach us about, well, anything—whether it’s how to make a certain family recipe, how to write a thank you card, or how to mow the lawn. These lessons and musings often come from decades of experience, so who are we to question their infinite wisdom? However, even the mighty must fall every now and then.

Unlike heirloom recipes, one aspect that does tend to change from one generation to the next is our approach to beauty. What was trendy in the 1980s—blue eye shadow and teased perms?—might not be quite what we’re going for today. And so, even our mothers and grandmothers might stand corrected on their makeup techniques. 

Here are 9 makeup tips your mother taught you that are actually wrong. 

Using All Powder Products 

There was a time when powder was the prime choice for both face and eye makeup, resulting in a somewhat flat, dry look. Once liquid blushes, bronzers, and eye shadows came on the scene, many people learned just how dewy and radiant their skin could look when not totally dehydrated with a powder coating. Instead, opt for pore-minimizing setting powder on just your T-zone or oily areas at the end of your routine. 

Separating Your Lashes With A Safety Pin

It goes without saying that this one was never a good idea. Once a popular way to get long, separated, spidery lashes, using a safety pin is too dangerous to justify. Nowadays, there are lash-separating tools you can pick up at the drugstore that don’t risk poking your eye. 

Skipping Blush

Unless your mother was harkening back to the 1980s, odds are she didn’t apply too much blush. However, today, blush has easily become one of the all-time favorite makeup products, especially with the younger generation that wants to look extra sun-kissed and blushed. Choose a liquid blush for a pop of flattering pigment.

Curling Your Lashes After Applying Mascara

Not only does this outdated technique risk pulling out your lashes, it can also make them look crimped, which is decidedly not the end goal when curling your eyelashes. Curl before you apply to ensure safety and a seamless look. 

Choosing Overly Light Under-eye Concealer

There were many people who once thought that extra, extra fair concealer was the only thing that could combat dark circles, but it’s actually the quickest way to look washed-out or give a “gray cast.” Opt for a shade that’s one or two shades lighter than your skin tone, and those with dark circles can use color-correcting concealer to appear more awake. 

Covering Your Whole Face In Vaseline

As much as we love Vaseline, this is a classic case of “what works for your grandmother might not work for you.” Vaseline recently came back into the beauty world after the term “slugging” became popular, which means to slather Vaseline all over your face as many women used to do. However, Vaseline can be extremely pore-clogging for some, so it’s best to invest in a moisturizer that can get the job done. 

Lining Only Your Waterline 

This once seemed to be the primary way that people applied eyeliner, and it’s a shame—because it actually makes your eyes look smaller. To make your eyes appear bigger and more awake, line the outer half of the lash line, but avoid the waterline and inner corners. 

Not Blending Your Neck

It took awhile for people to realize that you can tell in person (and photos!) if the skin tones on your neck and face don’t match up, particularly due to foundation that’s too light or too dark. It’s always a good idea to bring your foundation or bronzer down onto your neck to blend the two areas together. 

Using Your Fingers To Apply

Not only can your fingers spread bacteria onto your face, but you won’t get as smooth and blended of a finish by just applying foundation with your fingertips. There are times when it works, such as to initially apply concealer or spread foundation, but it’s best to finish with a dampened makeup sponge for a truly flawless look that doesn’t sit on top of fine lines and texture.