Sometimes it feels like we're all on a crazy race against our mortal enemy, time. We slather our faces with night creams and anti-wrinkle serums and dye our hair at the first signs of gray. It's as if appearing older is a curse we are desperately trying to dodge. Sometimes, however, we end up on enemy lines without even realizing it. This is especially true when it comes to our makeup routine. Yes, one wrong move or swipe of a brush and you could be tacking on 10 years to your face. Before you fall into a state of panic, read through these common mistakes and make sure you're avoiding them at all costs.

Too Much Powder

Going heavy-handed with powders can often lead to the dreaded "cake effect," which basically spotlights every smile line and wrinkle that we have. Instead, opt in for a lightweight, liquid-based foundation (like Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation), and if you want to mattify or set your makeup, lightly - emphasis on lightly - dust your face with translucent setting powder. This will keep your skin looking fresh and youthful.

Heavy Under-Eye Concealer

Dark under-eye circles and fine lines are a part of life, and we are fortunate enough to have genius concealers and treatments at our fingertips to hide these nasty little realities. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Going overboard on concealer can work against you and actually accentuate those lines and imperfections, especially if you're not properly blending! Keep your concealer application light and your blending game strong by following this quick tutorial.

Thin Brows

This one might be a surprising not-so-fun fact for you, but let us assure you, it's absolutely true. Razor thin brows with "disappearing tails" can cause your eyes to look droopy and tired. And we all know that "looking tired" often equates to "looking old." Avoid catastrophe and keep your brows full and defined by using the right filling and shaping tools. If you need some help in the grooming department, just follow a few of these brow tricks:

Applying Blush Too Low on the Face

Rosy, flushed cheeks should be a sign of vitality and youth. But, if you're applying below the apples of your cheeks, you're actually pulling the face downward and making it appear saggy. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when applying face makeup is to always use upward motions. This helps create a lifting effect that lends a more youthful look. So, when working with blush, start at the top of the apples of the cheeks and work the brush up toward the temple. For blending and application tips, refer to these tutorials:

Eyeliner on JUST the Lower Lash Line

Just like blush, eye makeup can also create the dreaded sagging effect. If you're addicted to lining the lower lash line only, please take our advice and try another approach. Heavy liner designated to the lower lid will cause the eyes to appear droopy and can also draw attention to fine lines and wrinkles in the area. Give your eyes some lift by taking that thick liner and applying it to the upper lash line. You can still give the lower lash line some love, but keep the line light and thin.

Highlighter on the Outer Eye Corners

Highlighter can be a great tool for creating a youthful, glowing look. However, just like concealer, it can work against you when misused. Applying highlighter on the outer corners of the eyes is just going to put your crow's feet on display. Draw attention away from those lines and brighten up your eyes by applying a bit of highlighter on the inner corners and on the brow bone instead.

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