4 Ways to Avoid Makeup Mistakes That Age You

If you’re like us, then you fondly remember sneaking into your mom’s makeup bag and swiping on the brightest blush or lipstick in order to look older. Now that we are older, though, we’re trying anything and everything to make ourselves look younger — pretty ironic, huh? While skincare can work wonders for evening tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, there’s nothing like a few makeup hacks to really knock it out of the park. Keep scrolling for five tips to avoid common makeup mistakes that can age you.

DEFINE YOUR BROWS

Although it may feel odd to start with something other than foundation, Alexa Chung’s go-to makeup artist Tamah Krinsky recommends beginning your makeup routine with your brows. By defining your arches first, you’re less likely to cake on products (since you’ll have to work around them), which is usually the cause of an older-looking complexion. “The shape of your brows are the frame to your face, so you want to make sure they are flattering for your [bone structure],” she explains. Once you have the shape down, it’s all about definition. “Giving brows a little structure will add lift to the eye area, ” explains Marc Reagan, the director of artistry and education for Hourglass Cosmetics, noting how that can help turn back that clock on your appearance. (Photo via I love Images/Getty)

PREP WITH MOISTURE

While we already know that drinking water is important for healthy skin, a hydrating skincare routine is vital for a complexion that screams eternal youth. “In my opinion, the key [to younger looking skin] is exfoliation and hydration. A regimen of hyaluronic acid, a hydrating oil, moisturizer, and SPF are my go-tos for locking in moisture for the daytime,” explains Krinsky. Starting with a moisturized canvas prevents your concealer and foundation from clinging onto dry patches — a common culprit for an older-looking appearance. (Photo via Svetikd/Getty)

FOCUS ON THE BASE

Knowing your undertones and finding a shade match is a solid start to perfecting a radiant, even-toned complexion, but there is much more to consider. Chanel Temple, an Hourglass global makeup artist, explains that it’s all about the finish. “The number one mistake I see people make is choosing the wrong foundation for their skin [goal],” she says. “If you feel like your makeup is aging you, try a foundation with a dewy or luminous finish.” (Photo via Svetikd/Getty)

LESS IS MORE

Celebrity makeup artist Julie Cuomo, who works with Danielle Fishel, explains that being too heavy-handed with your makeup application can lead to older-looking skin. Instead, she recommends opting for the less is more approach. “Start by dampening a beautyblender ($20) with water. Use it when you’re applying foundation, either all-over the face or spot correcting,” she advises. “When [following up with] powder, only tap it into the areas you really need it, like where you get shiny.” By doing so, you’ll avoid caking product onto your skin and prevents the makeup from settling in fine lines and wrinkles (ultimately bringing more attention to them) as your makeup wears throughout the day. (Photo via PeopleImages/Getty)

RELATED: How to Master Eye Makeup When You Have Hooded Lids

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Amazon’s Big Spring Saleis officially here, and it’s packed with endless deals on everything from fashion to home furnishings. Of course, we’re starting our sale search with the beauty aisle – so many of our go-to skincare goodies and makeup faves are all under a mere $10 right now, and we just have to share ‘em so you can shop ‘em!

Scroll on to shop our top 10 deals on Amazon beauty finds you can’t miss before the sale’s over!

Amazon

e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner

This is by far the best drugstore eyeliner out there. Designed with a convenient retractable (no-sharpen!) tip, it's super easy to take on the go for any touch-ups. Plus, the color payoff and wearability of each shade is insanely impressive.

Amazon

If you're looking for an eyeliner that, no matter the circumstances, does not budge, this $5 is the perfect pick-me-up. You can find it in a handful of different colors to suit your makeup needs.

Promising review: "I can’t believe I’ve been trying to make felt tipped eyeliners work for so long. Usually I put on felt tipped eye liner and it barely shows up, maybe my eye lids are watery or oily. So naturally within a hour or two it doesn’t even look like I’ve put on eye liner. This is not the case with this elf eye cream retractable liner. It actually shows up right away, it also lasts for hours. Even after 8 hours there was still some on my eyes, although I did need to re apply in some spots. It also didn’t smudge. For it to last at all and not smudge is amazing for me."

Amazon

Nivea Body, Face, & Hand Moisturizing Cream

Though some people may see this $10 tinned cream as truly "old school,"many others still hold it near and dear for its ability to moisturize and heal dry skin in need of nourishment.

Amazon

The thick, non-greasy formula is chockfull of provitamin B5 that really sinks deep into the skin. The best part is it's really gentle, so you can use it on your face, body, and hands.

Promising review: "Nivea is a great product. My parents always had a tin of it around. I've continued the tradition. It is a wonderful thick cream that moisturizes well. Great value for the price, as a little goes a long way. Softens rough skin."

Amazon

TONYMOLY Petit Bunny Lip Gloss

This adorable bunny-shaped lip gloss is enriched with vitamin E for soft lips and a pinch of pigment so your pout gets a nice wash of color. It comes in a convenient stick form that's super easy to travel with!

Amazon

Right now, 6 different shades of this gloss are on sale for $6 (originally $8). Snag one before the sale's over!

Promising review: "I am really happy with this product. The tint is very pretty, and not too pigmented. I am very picky about the texture of my lip glosses and lip balms and this one is lovely."

Amazon

Versed Sweet Relief Night Mask + Face Balm

B+C Affiliate Writer, Meredith, truly cannot get enough of this stuff from Versed. It's a thick, moisturizing face balm that really nails down the 'slugging' skincare trend without totally swamping your skin. It is fairly oily and shiny after one application, so she recommends using it only at night – and you'll wake up with a glowy complexion!

Amazon

Its $10 (was $18) formula is loaded up with bacuri and kokum butters and apricot kernel oil that are all dedicated to protecting the skin barrier. Though these ingredients may sound intimidating, the product is still wonderfully gentle overall for any skin type.

Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin and LOVE this as an overnight moisturizer. It's thick but a little goes a long way. The winter where I live is very dry. I use it every night before bed, my skin feels great in the morning! It's neutral smelling but I prefer that."

Amazon

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo

This $7 (was $10) shampoo will set all your hair growth goals so right. It's made with rosemary and mint essential oils that help stimulate the scalp for better growth, along with biotin that ensures your locks don't lose moisture during the washing process. Snag the coordinating conditioner to get the full benefits (read an editor's review here)!

Promising review: "This shampoo is my favorite. It has a nice smell and gives my thinning hair a lot of volume and softness. Lathers well. Packaged well, no leaks. Hair loss has slowed down some. I will definitely continue to use."

Amazon

e.l.f. Cosmetics Glossy Lip Stain

This $6 (yes, $6!) lip stain is unlike most lip stains in the way that it boasts a fun, glossy formula. Where some leave-on lip stains may dry up and make your lips look crusty AF (hate that), this one nourishes your pout, all the while leaving a nice wash of color behind.

Amazon

This e.l.f. product stole the heart of B+C Affiliate Writer, Meredith, for its natural look, comfortable wear, and undeniable affordability. Its low price of $6 makes it so easy to try out the lip stain trend without going all-in! There are also so many shades to pick from, so you're sure to find one that suits you perfectly.

Promising review: "This was the first time buying any thing that was being called a lip stain. I didn’t want to spend a lot since I wasn’t sure if I would like them or if they worked the way people said they did. This goes on very easy and I have only used it a few times now, but it did last for a number of hours and did not come off when I ate or drink anything. I have thinner lips, but I like at this at least helps them show up more and when I don’t want to wear a lot of color, this is a soft neutral."

Amazon

Method Pure Peace Body Wash

This $8 body wash smells like heaven, truly. With notes of peony, rose water, and pink sea salt, it's perfectly feminine and clean and feels like a total treat in the shower or bath. Though fragranced, it's still gentle on the skin and provides a good amount of moisture after each use!

Amazon

This body wash from Method also boasts a unique biodegradable formula made with plant-based cleansers that contains zero parabens or phthalates to ensure healthy skin 24/7.

Promising review: "I was hesitant to buy this as I was not sure about how the scent would be. I am pleasantly surprised.
It has a simple rose smell, but it's mild and lacks that perfumey, cloying sort of smell that can happen with floral scents. Very simple, like I'm rubbing roses on myself. Not super strong, it lingers but doesn't feel like it's following you around all day either."

Amazon

Essence Lash Princess Mascara

This $5 mascara definitely doesn't feel like it's $5. It undeniably volumizes and lengthens your lashes in a few simple swipes, all without those pesky clumps you might expect from a more affordable product.

Amazon

The brush itself features an easy-to-use conic shape that lets you access the entirety of your lashes for a cohesive look, too!

Promising review: "What a little hidden gem this is. I first saw this on a you tube video and decided to try it. The bottle is adorable, but the contents will blow you away. It's probably the best mascara or one of the best that I have ever used. It was very inexpensive so even though the woman on the you tube video was saying how great it was, I wasn't expecting it to be all that great, but was still curious. I'm really glad I bought it, because it is the best mascara from a company no one probably even knows of because it is not mainstream. Buy it! I think you will love it!!"

Amazon

Cocokind Mymatcha All-Over Moisture Stick

Infused with caffeinated matcha, this one-of-a-kind $9 moisture stick is perfect for combatting everything from dry lips to tried under eyes. Its formula is 100% vegan and super gentle on the skin, so people of any skin type can try it out.

Amazon

The wide shape of this balm-like moisture stick allows you to cover a good amount of real estate on your face or any dry patches elsewhere. It has a very slight matcha-y scent, too, for all you matcha fiends out there!

Promising review: "I have used these moisturizing sticks since I was pregnant with my son 7 years ago. I used them all over my face in the harsh winter months working at a ski resort and now under my eyes as a sleepy mama to a toddler. Great for preventing windburn and easy for kids to use. I can throw this in my son’s book bag for school when he plays outside in -30 degree weather and don’t have to worry about it getting all over his hands or leaking. No funky ingredients. No synthetic fragrances. We love it."

Amazon

Wet Brush Original Detangler Hair Brush

The Wet Brush is a team favorite around here. It's gentle, lightweight, and oftentimes comes in the cutest colors and patterns to make our hair care routines more fun.

Amazon

If you're still using your old, ratty hair brush, the flexible bristles on the Wet Brush will feel like a total treat on your head. They help minimize breakage while still effectively detangling your locks. We're simply obsessed with this $7 rainbow colorway, too!

Promising review: "It glides through my hair effortlessly, detangling without pulling or causing breakage. The bristles are gentle yet effective, making it perfect for both wet and dry hair. Plus, the color is so pretty! If you struggle with knots or just want a great everyday brush, this one is a must-have!"

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

When I ended up in the ER for stomach pain my senior year of college I didn't know that six years later I'd be relatively pain-free. I out gluten, high-acid foods, and red meat, and started consistently buying stomach-safe foods like broccoli, sweet potatoes, and chicken, and my first thought was Is this what everyone feels like all the time?

Those foods swaps genuinely changed my life — and now I'm on a (semi) permanent anti-inflammatory diet that features lots of whole foods and only the occasional coffee (hence the "semi" permanence). And an absolute must-have in my fridge these days? My homemade, 3-ingredient tzatziki sauce. Give it a try and tell me it's not the perfect topping for Mediterranean bowls!

Keep reading for the easiest 3-ingredient tzatziki sauce recipe for Mediterranean bowls, breakfast dishes, and more.

Here's what you'll need for this 3-ingredient tzatziki sauce.

Shameel mukkath/Pexels

Ingredients

  • Non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cucumber
  • 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Tools

  • Bowl
  • Grater

How to make Brit + Co's easy tzatziki sauce

Shameel mukkath/Pexels

Instructions

  1. Grate your cucumber into your bowl: I like to use at least half the cucumber if not the whole thing!
  2. Next you'll want to get rid of all the water: I dump out the liquid in the bowl then soak up any extra with a paper towel. Don't be afraid to squeeze the cucumber out!
  3. Mix in your Greek yogurt: I prefer equal parts yogurt and cucumber, but you can play with the ratio until it's a mix you like. That's the best part about homemade recipes!
  4. Add in your lemon juice: I prefer to taste the lemon so I love to really add it in but you can keep it light, and even mix in a little salt or garlic powder for a different edge.
  5. Mix it all together and you're good to go! I store mine in a mason jar in the fridge and it's ready for me whenever I need it.

This tzatziki sauce is the perfect topper for my Mediterranean chicken bowls, potatoes, or even on top of an egg (trust me!). There's no better time to make these 26 Mediterranean Recipes That Will Make You Feel Like You're On Vacation;).

Tag us in all your cooking adventures @britandco and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

Target just gave us the best excuse to refresh our beauty stashes, because they just quietly put so many of our favorite products on sale. We’re talkin’ skincare, makeup, hair care, and more! This week’s steals make shopping for beauty must-haves at Target – without overspending – easier than ever. You’re not going to want to pass these deals up!

Scroll on to see our favorite beauty steals to shop at Target this week!

Target

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Pimple Patches

These $9 pimple patches are insanely good at pulling the gunk out of big breakouts, or simply protecting them from the elements if you feel a flare-up coming on. The best part about 'em is they're completely invisible on the skin, so they don't distract from your beautiful face!

Target

SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream

This $13 curl cream does exactly what it says it will, defining and enhancing your waves and curls with just a bit of product! It also delivers when it comes to added moisture and reduced frizz, helping your 'do last all day long.

Target

CeraVe Foaming Face Wash

We're all aboard the gentle skincare wave right now, and while this $13 foaming cleanser from Cerave definitely takes it easy on your skin barrier, it still gets the job done and leaves your face feelin' fresh in preparation for your skincare routine or everyday makeup look.

Target

Byoma Balancing Face Mist

This $14 face mist is formulated to soothe and balance your skin with a nourishing medley of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. Whether you employ it as a toner or save it for when your dry skin needs a boost, you'll love how skin-friendly it is!

Target

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

This snail mucin serum is a cult favorite for a reason. It's especially quenching and nourishing for dry, dull skin, and tons of shoppers have noticed a difference in the glow in just a few applications!

Promising review: "This product has truly transformed my skincare routine. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling plump, hydrated, and smooth without any greasy residue. What I love most is how it helps with skin repair. My skin looks brighter, more even-toned, and my fine lines have started to appear less noticeable."

Target

e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray

If you're looking for a new product upgrade in the vein of last-all-day makeup, this $10 setting spray is stunning. It's formulated with both water and oil to emit a dewy finish, plus it's boosted with aloe, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and green tea seed oil for added skincare benefits – no pesky breakouts here!

Target

Pacifica Eye Bright Undereye Vitamin C Spot Serum Mask

This $5 eye mask will surely save you from sullen, tired eyes and give you a revived look! Each patch is loaded up with vitamin C to brighten to the gods.

Target

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Strengthening Hair Oil

We adore anything haircare-related Mielle makes, though this $10 oil truly takes the cake! It's uniquely crafted with both rosemary and mint essential oils that increase blood circulation, stimulating hair growth for not only faster grow tim,e but thicker strands, too.

Target

Garnier Micellar Water

We will never tire of Garnier's micellar water, especially this very effective $9 formula. It tackles everything from waterproof mascara to stubborn foundation with total ease, so your bedtime routine becomes super simplified.

Target

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel

This is our favorite affordable under eye cream! Based in a lightweight gel formula, it awakens the eye area with the help of the caffeine and antioxidants found in yerba mate. Plus, a little bit goes a very long way – the $6 tube will honestly last you months.

Target

Fine'ry The New Rouge Body Mist

This luxe-like body mist does not smell like it's only $15. With notes of golden saffron, amber resin, and sandalwood, you'll be left with the bougie scent of your dreams, all without breaking the bank!

Target

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

Another e.l.f. fave! This grippy $10 primer really does grip your skin and the subsequent makeup you put on it for a lasting effect. We've worn it through countless hot summer days and sweaty nights at the club, and it's stood up nicely to its claims!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

There’s always a bit of an ick factor when you move into a new home — especially if it’s a fixer-upper. When I closed on my home five years ago, the place reeked of cigarette smoke. I had the floors refinished and the walls painted before I moved in, but even then, I couldn’t relax until I gave everything a deep clean. If you’re about to settle into a new space, don’t skip these often-overlooked spots when you're cleaning your home — they make a big difference!

Here are places you should always clean when you move into a new home.

Photo by Kam Idris on Unsplash

Inside Kitchen Cabinets & Drawers

Crumbs, dust, and mystery smudges often get left behind when previous homeowners move out. Wipe with a gentle all-purpose cleaner, then add drawer liners for a fresh, finished look.

Photo by Liliana Drew

The Fridge & Freezer

It always feels good to start with a clean slate in the fridge; after all, you don't want your groceries mingling with someone else's leftovers. Take out all shelves and drawers to soak in warm, soapy water, then wipe down interior walls with a baking soda and water solution.

Photo by Christian Mackie on Unsplash

Bathroom Fixtures

Faucets, handles, and shower heads can harbor buildup or bacteria. Use a vinegar soak on shower heads and a disinfectant spray on all high-touch surfaces.

Shutterstock

Air Vents & Filters

I was living in my home for a year before a friend pointed out that I needed to replace my HVAC filter every 6 months to a year. Now I'm consistent about it. Apparently, dust and allergens can build up fast — especially if the home was vacant for a while. Vacuum vent covers and replace HVAC filters so your new space breathes better.

Photo by cottonbro studio

Light Switches & Doorknobs

These are touched constantly — and rarely cleaned. Go room by room with a disinfecting wipe or spray to wipe down all the switches and knobs.

Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn

Baseboards & Trim

Vacuum your carpets and floors thoroughly, then mop using the right cleaner for your floor type (wood, tile, vinyl, etc.). Don't forget baseboards and trim, which collect dust and scuffs — especially during a move-out and move-in. Use a microfiber cloth and warm, soapy water to clean up dust. I'm love a Magic Eraser to remove tougher marks too.

Photo by Nacho Posse

Washing Machines

Lint, detergent buildup, and even mildew can linger in your washer from previous use. Wipe down the inside of the washer drum, clean the detergent drawer, and vacuum out the dryer lint trap and vent. Run a hot cycle with white vinegar in the washer to freshen things up. Do the same for your dishwasher too!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

For every amazing Aldi find, there’s unfortunately one that’s… not so amazing. In fact, Aldi fans are pretty quick to identify the worst products sold at the grocery chain, whether it has to do with taste or overall quality. We scoured the r/Aldi Reddit page and uncovered the top 10 worst Aldi products shoppers say are “horrid,” “garbage,” and even “vile.”

See the 10 "worst" products you’ll definitely want to avoid when shopping at Aldi.

Reddit

1. Frozen Lobster Mac & Cheese

Lobster mac & cheese most certainly should only be eaten fresh – this frozen iteration from Aldi is allegedly not worth the hype. One shopper even said it was "horrid.”

“I thought the lobster mac would be good..." one Redditor commented. "But way too fishy and briney.”

“I still have bad memories from when I bought that lobster mac n cheese," another person said. "Terrible taste, terrible smell. Cannot believe they still carry that garbage.”

“The smell of the lobster Mac and cheese haunts me," one more user confided. "It’s been a year and I still gag when I think about it.”

Gül Işık / PEXELS

2. Sliced Deli Turkey

Deli turkey of any kind can really be hit or miss. According to one Aldi shopper, the grocer's deli turkey is undoubtedly a miss.

"“I bought the deli turkey once and it was slimy and tasted terrible," they wrote. "I might have made two sandwiches just to feel less bad about wasting the food, but I remember throwing the rest out. But the salamis and charcuterie-esque meats are all really good imo.”

Aldi

3. Sweet & Spicy Candied Pecans

Sweet and spicy – or 'swicy,' if you're cool like that – is typically a great flavor combo. One Redditor simply did not care for this Aldi product that incorporates the duo into a nutty snack.

“Sweet and Spicy candied pecans are one of the worst things I’ve ever bought there," they said. "They taste like candy pecans that were dunked in extremely vinegary hot sauce."

Reddit

4. Cauliflower Crackers

This Aldi version of Cheez-Its, essentially, is crafted with cauliflower for a "healthier" take. Anyone who tends to reach for the health-ified versions of certain snacks knows there's a risk of them being absolutely appalling. Well, one Redditor wasn't shy to say these Aldi crackers are “nasty vile things.”

Aldi

5. Toaster Tarts

Aldi shoppers have long debated the quality and taste of the grocer's off-brand Pop-Tarts. In one succinct conclusion, one fan ruled the crust "flavorless and dry," though another shopper countered their point and said that Aldi's version typically has more filling. 👀

Aldi

6. Deli Pickles

Aldi shoppers also have grown to dislike the deli pickles, noting a weird change in their flavor over time.

“The deli pickles used to be amazing and now they taste like they’re contaminated with cleaning products," one Redditor said.

“The ones I got were so mushy and tasteless," another person commented. "So bad.”

Reddit

7. Organic Chicken Lemon & Lavender Bone Broth

Though bone broth can be a great source of protein, Aldi just might have messed up by flavoring their with lemon and lavender.

“This was absolutely disgusting. The smell is god awful," one Redditor said. "The person that came up with this flavor needs to be fired.”

Aldi

8. Crab Rangoon Dip

In theory, this sounds really good, but Aldi shoppers say otherwise.

“We try to not let anything go to waste in our house and will zhuzh up bad meals but that one went into the trash," one person said.

“I’ve not heard a single person say that dip was good lol," another commented.

Aldi

9. Confetti Brownies

These off-brand Cosmic Brownies put shame on the name of the OG, according to Aldi fans. To give you a better idea, one person even called them "a f-cking travesty.” LOL.

"Ugh they are terrible!!” another shopper said.

“Yes! Just threw a box of those away," one more person chimed in. "Like play doh on the top with no taste.”

Aldi

10. Shelf-Stable Tortellini

This packaged pasta seems to be notoriously gross. Some shoppers did note it tastes better in a recipe, rather than by itself. But still, others are disgusted by it.

"I bought mushroom ones. Terrible. Just dreadful," one person said. "They were …tart. And with no mushroom taste whatsoever.”

“It smelled like wet dog,” another user wrote.

“I farted so terribly,” one more person admitted.

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