18 Makeup Rules You Should Know by the Time You’re 40

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Makeup trends come and go (blue eye shadow, anyone?), but these classic beauty techniques will help you radiate health and vitality at any age.

The world of makeup is always changing, with new trends gracing our screens and the covers of magazines all the time. But there are a few makeup tips that remain constant, despite the big trends. Whether you’re going for a more natural makeup look or an easy makeup look, these secrets from makeup artists should always stay in the back of your mind. And regardless of these makeup tips, make sure you’re up to date on the best foundations and best makeup brushes to get the most flawless look.

Remember that less is more

“We have all seen the woman who wears too much makeup. If you look in the mirror and see makeup rather than you, it may be too much,” says Cindy Joseph, a makeup artist turned supermodel who founded the makeup line BOOM! “Instead of trying to conceal what you believe are flaws, accent what you really love about your face. Others rarely see your brown spots, dark circles, or uneven skin,” she adds. Check your motivation for wearing makeup: Is it fear or fun? Go for fun, Joseph advises, and the joie de vivre will show in your face.

In addition to layering it on too thick, find out other makeup mistakes the pros wish you’d stop making.

Never skimp on primer

By the time you’ve celebrated 40 or more birthdays, you’re likely to have collected some souvenirs, like acne scars and other random uneven spots, and you may also have dry, flaking skin. Primers are like the spackle you’d use when repainting a wall—they create a smooth base that ensures all makeup stays put and doesn’t crack. Primers also help diminish the appearance of pronounced wrinkles and fine lines, leaving you with a silky smooth finish. Dr. Brandt Skincare Pores No More visibly minimizes pores and blurs imperfections for a flawless makeup application.