Makeup is a form of self-expression. From everyday looks to full-on costume makeup, you can use it to create (or be) nearly anything you want.

Whether you’re a makeup pro or just discovering its benefits, there are a few key elements every makeup look should include. Check out these common makeup mistakes and learn how and what to use to achieve the most flawless makeup look.

Applying makeup with dirty makeup brushes.

A great makeup look starts with a few essentials—including clean makeup tools. Applying cosmetics with dirty makeup brushes not only prevents proper application, but can also expose your skin to harmful bacteria that can lead to infections or acne.

To disinfect your brushes between washes (we recommend disinfecting after every use) , try Glo Skin Beauty Brush Cleaner. Designed to gently cleanse bristles of bacteria and color buildup, this easy to use cleaner conditions bristles and protects brushes while enticing the senses with a delicate aroma.

Pro Tip: When you’re ready to give your makeup brushes a deep clean (We recommend at least once monthly), try the Sigma Beauty Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat and Sigma Beauty SigMagic Brushampoo Liquid. The uniquely designed mat features seven exclusive textures that help you deep clean brushes while the gentle liquid washes away impurities and softens bristles.

Not removing makeup before bed.

Hitting the sheets with makeup on is not only hard on your skin, but on your eyelashes and eyebrows. Repeatedly falling asleep without removing your makeup can eventually affect their health, in addition to causing breakouts, wrinkles, clogged pores and dryness.

We talked with Dr. Joel Schlessinger, board-certified dermatologist and LovelySkin CEO, to determine the importance of removing makeup before bed:

“Removing your makeup before you go to bed is absolutely paramount. I always say that if there’s any time to cleanse your skin, it’s at night. All day, skin is exposed to nasties like free radicals that adhere to the skin and makeup. Leaving makeup on when you sleep can create a barrier that prevents the skin from functioning properly, leading to accelerated aging and collagen breakdown. Plus, leaving eye makeup on can greatly affect the health of your eyelashes and eyebrows—causing breakage, hair loss and thinning. Overall, it’s just best to go to sleep with a clean face (and eyes).”

Removing makeup doesn’t have to be complicated. Eminence Organics Stone Crop Cleansing Oil gently washes away makeup, excess oil and impurities without stripping skin of moisture. The non-greasy formula contains hydrating sunflower and jojoba oils as well as stone crop, a succulent that reduces redness and brightens the complexion. Simply massage a small amount into skin and rinse. For a double cleanse, follow with your favorite facial cleanser!

Color-matching foundation incorrectly.

There’s no denying that a foundation shade can make or break a makeup look. However, color-matching foundation can be a challenge, especially with the variety of shades and formulas on the market. The trick to finding the right foundation shade is choosing the right undertone and testing the shade in the right spot. To find your undertone, look at the veins on the inside of your wrist.

• Warm undertones have veins that appear green. These skin tones tend to be more yellow, gold or peach.
• Cool undertones have veins that appear blue or purple. Cool skin tones tend to be pink or rosy.
• Neutral undertones have a mixture of blue-, green- or purple-looking veins and can be a mixture of warm and cool skin tones.

Once you’ve determined the correct undertone, it should be easier to find your shade.

If you have warm undertones, look for a foundation that has a yellow, gold or peach tone to it. If you have cool undertones, look for a foundation with a pink or rosy tone to it. For neutral, look for a mixture.

When it comes to testing foundation on your skin, try testing on the jawbone instead of the inner arm or back of the hand. This will ensure you get the most natural transition. Secondly, if you’re not sure about a shade, purchase two shades and mix them together for a custom-made match.

If you’re still searching for the perfect foundation, try Glo Skin Beauty HD Mineral Foundation Stick. The lightweight, long-lasting formula offers a gorgeous satin finish with sheer to buildable coverage. Containing powerful antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to lock moisture in, this non-comedogenic formula is great for all skin types.

Pro tip: Use the same method when choosing your concealer. For a brightening effect, choose a concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone. We love [Dermablend Cover Care Concealer] because it provides breathable coverage that won’t clog pores!

Skipping eyebrow makeup.

The eyebrows are the window to the soul. At least, the soul of a makeup look! While bold eyebrows are the current trend, it may not be the look for everyone. However, that’s no reason to skip eyebrow makeup entirely! There are a variety of formulas available, including gel, pencil and powder options that can help you achieve the look you crave. For a bold look, try a gel formula. For a natural, fluffy look, try a pencil. And lastly, for a subtle look (and to fill in sparse areas), try a powder.

For best results, choose a color that’s just a touch lighter than your natural brow shade. We love jane iredale Retractable Brow Pencil because it provides medium coverage with a precision tip for flawless, buildable application. Easy to hold and smudge-proof, this long-wear, waterproof formula also features a spoolie brush for shaping the perfect brow.

Applying cosmetics without using makeup primer first.

The key to a great skin care routine is hydration—and it doesn’t stop there. Makeup and dry skin just don’t mix. For the best makeup application, remember to stay hydrated. Don’t forget about moisturizer, and remember to prime your lips and face before following with lipstick or foundation.

We love prepping our lips with jane iredale Sugar & Butter Lip Exfoliator/Plumper. This unique duo features both an exfoliator and a plumper that enrich and strengthen lips. Mint, ginger, beeswax and brown sugar gently exfoliate while plumping peptides minimize the look of lines and reduce feathering.

Pro tip: If you have dry or cracked lips, try FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Lip Balm – Vanilla. This soothing formula features 1% hydrocortisone to heal dry skin and irritation while improving hydration and smoothing lips.

What makeup mistakes have bested your routine? Let us know in the comments below or share with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Pinterest!

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