How To Tell If You Wear Too Much Makeup And What To Do About It

When it comes to getting dolled up…or even heading out to the office, what is your makeup routine? Are you the more-is-better kind or a natural-is-better kind? Either way, there are tips for getting it right.


Face it, we all know women who overdo it… as in you-look-like-a-clown or like Christina Aguilera! And, when was the last time you thought, she’d be prettier without all the spackle? (C’mon, you can tell us.)
Now, look in the mirror. Does any of it sound a little too close to home?
In fact, I think many of us are excess makeup offenders and don’t even realize it! Not sure if your makeup look falls on the heavy-handed side? Take this quick test! If two out of your three answers is “yes,” you could be an over-applyer:
1.) Does your makeup make you look like a “prettier” version of yourself, or do you look like a completely different person when the makeup comes off? [If the latter, you might be wearing too much makeup.]
2.) Does your foundation tend to “cake” and settle into facial crevices, or do you only apply it to the needed areas (like the T-zone, or under the eyes)? [If the former, you might be wearing too much makeup.]
3.) Do you wear bold eye makeup and lipstick, or pick one or the other? [If the former, you might be wearing too much makeup.]

So, what’s the magical formula for applying the perfect amount of makeup? First, it’s important to note there’s not a “one-size-fits-all” rule when it comes to each woman’s specific makeup needs; however, there are some general rules that help ensure your makeup says “natural” and not “over-done”:
Foundation: Less is most definitely more when it comes to foundation! Many tend to apply it to the entire face when it should only be used as a spot-fixer. Only apply foundation and concealer on trouble areas (such as a blemish or uneven skin tone) and then blend thoroughly with a sponge. A sheer foundation is best as it helps avoid the “cakey” look. Lastly, determine if you even need foundation. Often you can cover a trouble area with concealer and then dust a sheer powder over your entire face, how to tell if you wear too much makeupskipping foundation altogether.
Blush: While blush is a key makeup must when it comes to looking radiant, it should appear soft and rosy — not china doll-esque. When applying blush, choose a natural color (think rose or peach colors versus fuschias and dark reds) and apply a modest dusting to the apples of your cheeks. Before applying blush, lightly tap the brush to avoid applying too much.
Lips: As mentioned above, don’t forget the “power of one” rule. If you go bold with lip color, keep your eye makeup super simple (neutral shadows and light-handed liner and mascara). If the eye makeup is your focus, then keep lips subtle: forgo the lip liner and pick a sheer or unclad shade that enhances your natural lip color.
And the Grand Poobah of beauty advice when it comes to makeup at any age? The more natural, the better! While it’s tempting to pile on the makeup when you’re feeling extra tired, dull-looking, or just out of sheer habit, studies show that a gal looks younger with less makeup and is perceived as more attractive, overall. Spending less time applying makeup on a daily basis? Now that’s a beauty task I’m confident I can embrace…

galtime.com