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You're Making Yourself Look Bad If You're Doing Any Of These Common Things

Luckily, these oversights have cheap and easy solutions.

Written by Erin Celletti
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Ever take a quick peek in the mirror and have that funky feeling that you’re doing something just slightly wrong? It happens to all of us. In fact, it’s incredibly common to make some small errors while getting ready that dull your natural shine, resulting in you not looking or feeling your best. Luckily, it’s all within your control. So if you want to know what small hair, skin, and makeup missteps you might be making (and what you can do to correct them) — keep scrolling.

1

Neglecting Dry Cuticles & Peeling Nails

Fix: A Flower-Infused Oil That Nourishes & Hydrates

Infused with real flowers, this scented cuticle oil strengthens and hydrates your nails while repairing cracked cuticles, too. The jar is filled with natural dried flowers and you can choose from 31 floral or fruity scents like cherry, lavender, and hibiscus. Just apply daily to your nail beds and the surrounding skin and you’ll notice smoother (and great-smelling) nails instantly.

  • Available varieties: 31

2

Applying Your Makeup In Dim Lighting

Fix: This Mirror That Illuminates & Magnifies

Illuminate your vanity for precise makeup application with this lighted makeup mirror with magnification. It features energy-saving LED bulbs and both 1x and 10x magnification, so you can get a close-up look. There are three touch-control light settings, plus a holder for your phone in front — perfect when you’re following along with a makeup tutorial.

  • Available options: 4

3

Using Harsh Ingredients On Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

Fix: This Gentle Face Serum That Soothes & Hydrates

Perfect for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this unscented face serum boasts a silky, light, almost watery texture that isn’t sticky and won’t leave residue behind. Its star ingredient is centella asiatica, which soothes redness and irritation, leaving skin calmer and clearer. It’s cruelty free and vegan, with a pH balance designed to be friendly to skin.

4

Going Out In Humidity Without Hair Protection

Fix: This Shiny Sealant That Keeps Your Style Fresh

There’s nothing worse than stepping outside and having a sleek hairstyle pouf out due to humidity — but this Color Wow Dream Coat prevents that. This hair sealant effectively waterproofs your hair, leaving it shiny, glossy, and smooth, no matter what the weather throws at it. Plus, it doubles as a heat protectant and lasts for up to four shampoos.

5

Attempting A Blowout Without Rollers To Set It

Fix: The Ceramic Rollers That Give Your Roots Volume

Even the best blowouts will fall and lose volume throughout the day, but you can prevent that by giving your roots a boost from the start. Available in sizes ranging from 0.75 inch to 3 inches, these self-gripping ceramic rollers help you achieve big and bouncy volume by lifting the roots. Just heat them up with a blow dryer and the ceramic material will help set your hair.

  • Available colors: 8

6

Not Using A Primer Before Applying Your Makeup

Fix: This Blurring Face Primer That Locks In Your Look

Lock in your makeup look all day long while smoothing out texture with this K-Beauty blurring face primer. The lightweight cream is enriched with green tea, cucumber, and other hydrating ingredients to soothe your skin while serving as the perfect base for makeup application. Plus, the SPF-30 formula helps protect against UVA and UVB rays, too.

7

Washing Your Hair Every Single Day

Fix: This Volumizing Dry Shampoo That Absorbs Oils

Give your hair that freshly washed look and feel without going through all the trouble of washing and drying with this volumizing dry shampoo. Made without any talc, parabens or pthalates, this non-aerosol powder shampoo packs a mighty punch — start with just a little bit applied to the roots and massage in for maximum results. It’s a great way to extend the time between washing, which can help keep your strands from drying out over time.

8

Not Exfoliating Rough, Dry Feet

Fix: The Foot Peel Masks That Work Effortlessly

Get rid of dry, scaly, and tough skin with this foot peel mask that’s so easy to use. The masks are made with a blend of fruit acids and extracts to target dead skin cells and slough them away. Just slide them on as you would socks and wait an hour before removing — softer, smoother skin will be revealed within six to 11 days of use as cell turnover speeds up.

  • Available options: 7

9

Sleeping On Rough Cotton Pillowcases

Fix: These Satin Pillowcases That Are Gentle On Hair & Skin

Believe it or not, sleeping on cotton pillowcases can wreak havoc on your skin and hair, as the grippy, absorbent texture soaks up moisture and leads to breakage and creases. These smooth satin pillowcases, though, reduce friction by allowing skin and hair to glide across it. Available in 36 colors, the silky material feels super luxe to sleep on, too.

  • Available colors: 36
  • Available sizes: 5

10

Wearing Lipstick That’s Prone To Fading & Transfer

Fix: This Liquid Lipstick & Gloss Combo That Will Stay All Day

Forget lip color that fades and smudges — this liquid lipstick stays in place for up to 16 hours, seeing you through Zooms, dinner dates, and everything in between. Ingeniously, it features a clear gloss at the other end that’s infused with moisturizing vitamin E and chamomile. The result? Vivid color with a high-shine finish.

  • Available colors: 40

11

Wearing Bras That Dig Into Your Skin

Fix: This Stretchy Bra That’s Nearly Invisible Under Clothes

Wearing an ill-fitting bra is not only uncomfortable, but it can also affect how your clothes fit, too. The Easy Does It bra by Warner’s changes things with its stretchy, seamless design that won’t dig into skin, providing for a smooth, nearly invisible fit under clothes. It comes in easy sizing options, so you don’t have to fuss with band and cup sizes.

  • Available colors: 18
  • Available sizes: X-Small — X3X-Large

12

Shying Away From Products With Eyebrow-Raising Ingredients

Fix: This Snail Serum That Lives Up To The Hype

Putting snail slime on your skin might seem like a wacky idea, but it actually does wonders for your complexion, which is why this snail mucin power essence has earned a 4.6-star overall rating after 82,000 reviews. This light, hydrating serum works to repair and rejuvenate skin, while fading dark spots for a more even tone. It’s hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and the ingredients are harvested in an ethical manner. One reviewer raved, “It is so lightweight and super moisturizing, making my face feel like a baby. It has helped to smooth out my complexion and is working on the dark spots as well. I will forever use this product!”

13

Letting Your Roots Grow Out Between Salon Appointments

Fix: This Touch-Up Powder That’s A Quick Fix

Keep your hair looking fresh in between salon visits with this root touch-up powder that instantly covers mismatched strands by tightly binding to hair follicles without clogging pores. Available in 14 shades for the perfect blend, the powder allows for fast and easy application, thanks to the included powder puff.

  • Available shades: 14

14

Heading Out Without Any Jewelry

Fix: These Sparkly Hoops That Go With Everything

Earrings are one of those accessories that can instantly (and effortlessly) elevate any look. So instead of leaving your ears bare, grab a pair of these gold-plated Swarovski crystal hoops that go with pretty much any outfit. Available in silver, rose gold, and gold finishes, the hoops are nickel-free, making them a good choice for sensitive skin. They feature hinged clasps for comfortable and secure wear.

  • Available finishes: 3

15

Ignoring Your Worn-Out Leather Shoes & Purses

Fix: These Wipes That Clean & Condition

If your handbags and shoes are looking a little worse for the wear, these leather-care wipes can offer durable cleaning and conditioning. Individually wrapped to prevent drying out, they effectively clean, moisturize, and protect both new and old leather items. The formula is gentle yet powerful, and the wipes can also be used on furniture, car seats, belts, and more.

16

Letting Puffy Eyes Go Unaddressed

Fix: A Gel Eye Mask That Cools & Soothes

This versatile eye mask can help in a number of ways, from reducing puffy eyes to helping with migraine and sinusitis relief. With flexible Velcro straps and a plush felt liner, it provides a comfortable fit and is easy on your skin. It can work for both cold and hot therapy, and is endlessly reusable.

17

Using A Self-Tanner That Leaves Streaks Behind

Fix: The Self-Tanning Mousse That’s Almost Foolproof

Achieve natural-looking color that enhances your skin tone with this tanning mousse. This lightweight, airy mousse goes on streak free, thanks to the fluffy, cloud-like texture. Drying in just 60 seconds, it’s cruelty free and parben free, and smells just like a tropical vacation.

18

Not Having The Proper Bra For Backless Looks

Fix: The Nipple Covers That Offer Discreet Coverage

Ideal for backless dresses or tops, these nipple shields create a seamless look in one of five skin-tone shades. Thanks to their reliable adhesive, they stay in place for up to 12 hours, regardless of humid weather or sweaty dance floor moves. They’re designed to be virtually invisible, and come in two options to accommodate most bust sizes.

  • Available colors: 5
  • Available sizes: 2

19

Wearing Lipstick Without Exfoliating First

Fix: A Cane Sugar Lip Scrub For a Smoother Start

This sugar lip scrub provides gentle exfoliation, while relieving dryness and rejuvenating your lips. Formulated with Hawaiian kukui oil and Maui cane sugar, this scrub sloughs away dead skin and leaves lips soft and moisturized. The result? Lipstick that goes on without flakiness. It’s vegan and cruelty free for peace of mind.

20

Skipping Lipstick Or Blush Because It’s Just Too Complicated

Fix: This Streamlined 2-In-1 Stick For Cheeks & Lips

Giving your lips or cheeks a flush of color is an instant way to look more vibrant, and this multistick makes it easy. The creamy formula is enriched with pearlescent pigments to deliver a shimmering finish, and the botanicals and vitamins nourish skin and add moisture. It’s super easy to apply — simply glide it on for a natural finish without the need for brushes.

  • Available colors: 6

21

Applying Eye Shadow Without A Stay-Put Base

Fix: This Primer That Prevents Smudges & Fallout

Formulated to enhance pigment and control oil, this primer provides a smooth base for vibrant eye shadow application, reducing fallout and ensuring a seamless blend. The formula includes pearl powder for a bright finish and the lightweight, non-greasy formula offers extended wear. Apply to prevent creasing and fading all day long.

22

Not Effectively Removing Stains From Your Clothes

Fix: This Stain Treater That Works Like Magic

This powerful stain remover is a friend in time of need — i.e., when you spilled ketchup on your white T-shirt. It’s so easy to use: Simply spray, blot, and then wash to quickly treat stains on clothing (you can also use it on carpet and furniture). It comes in a convenient, small spray bottle so it’s great for on-the-go use.

23

Not Dealing With Dry, Flaky Skin

Fix: This Hyaluronic Serum That Drenches Skin With Hydration

Give your skin a serious dose of hydration with this professional-grade hyaluronic acid face serum. It’s boosted by pure vitamin B5 to soothe skin while increasing dermal penetration for ultimate moisture and plumping power. Plus, it’s formulated without silicone or parabens, and is free of artificial colors and fragrances.

24

Showering In Unfiltered Water

Fix: This Filter That Your Skin & Hair Will Love

Chlorine and other hard minerals can be tough on your body, resulting in irritated skin and hair breakage and dullness. To improve the quality of your bathing sessions, this shower head filter features a 15-stage filtration system that effortlessly removes chlorine, heavy metals, and other sediment, while softening water for a pure and gentle clean. With no-tool assembly, it's easy to install in minutes.

25

Storing Clothes Without Protecting Them From Moths

Fix: These Moth Traps That Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals

These clothes moth traps are made with a special pheromone attractant mixed with glue, effectively capturing and eliminating the little bugs from your wardrobe. They’re easy to use — just fold the trap into a triangle and place it on a closet shelf. Most importantly, this mothball alternative is safe and gentle and doesn’t smell like, well, mothballs.

26

You Don’t Have Clothes That Are Both Polished & Comfy

Fix: This Versatile T-Shirt Dress That Works For All Occasions

Made from a blend of breathable cotton and stretchy elastane, this mock-neck T-shirt dress is the comfortable wardrobe staple your closet needs. Featuring short sleeves and a swing silhouette, it's perfect for various occasions, from work (add ballet flats) to errands (slip on some sneakers) to evening events (break out the heels). No matter how you style it, it always looks charming.

  • Available colors: 24
  • Available sizes: X-Small— 3X-Large

27

Applying Mascara Without Curling Your Lashes

Fix: This Eyelash Curler That Majorly Opens Your Eyes

Achieve a professional eyelash look at home with this curler made to fit the curves of all eye shapes and sizes. Effortless to use, it minimizes tugging and pinching, with a calibrated hinge that offers smooth, uniform pressure. Crafted from premium-grade stainless steel, it ensures a lasting lash lift without the need for heat.

  • Available colors: 4

28

Applying Makeup With Your Hands

Fix: These Applicator Sponges That Blend Beautifully

Instead of applying your makeup with your fingertips or your worn, possibly even dirty makeup brushes, give these beauty sponges a try. These game-changers can be used damp or dry to seamlessly blend in bronzer, concealer, foundation, and more. Use the pointier edge for areas like under your eyes, and blend your cheeks and forehead with the larger base.

29

Letting Frizz & Flyaways Take Over Your Hairstyle

Fix: This Wax Stick That Seals & Smooths Your Hair

This hair wax styling stick effortlessly smooths flyaways, helping you achieve a sleek, flawless look. The formula boasts 18 plant-based nutrients, nourishing your locks without the use of any harsh fragrances or ingredients. On top of its styling benefits, it deeply moisturizes and repairs hair, enhancing shine and softness.

30

Switching Eyes Shadows Without Cleaning The Brush

Fix: This Color Removal Sponge For Quick Shade Swaps

Say goodbye to muddy looks or using multiple brushes—this makeup brush cleaner removes pigment from the bristles without scrubbing in just seconds. Simply swipe back and forth over the pigment-trapping sponge for quick and effective cleaning. It comes in a durable metal container, perfect for use at home or while traveling.

31

Wearing Fuzzy & Pilling Clothes

Fix: A Clothes Shaver That Refreshes The Fabric

Revive your favorite clothes and remove unwanted fuzz with this electric fabric shaver and lint remover. Fitting in the palm of your hand, it safely removes fuzz, lint, and pills, and features three depth settings that let you use it on a variety of materials. The ergonomic grip ensures ease of use, while the detachable lint catcher makes cleanup a breeze.

32

Letting Eye Shadow Fallout Get On Your Cheeks

Fix: These Shields That Catch Stray Pigment

These eye shadow shields prevent unwanted pigment from ruining your look, protecting the cheeks and under-eye area from fallout. The half-moon shields are gentle on skin, with a sticky backing that stays securely in place until you’re ready to remove them. One reviewer wrote, “I love these. They really prevent getting eye makeup anywhere other than where I want it.”

33

Wearing A Standard Bra With Tank Tops

Fix: These Clips That Transform Regular Bras Into Racerbacks

Bra straps almost inevitably show with tank tops, so if you’d rather hide yours, you can do just that with these bra strap clips. They transform regular bras into racerbacks by bringing the straps toward the center of the spine. The set comes with 12 bra clips and three bra strap holders in six different colorways.

  • Available colors: 6

34

Neglecting To Wear Lip Balm Daily

Fix: This Glow-Enhancing Balm That Looks & Feels Good

Keep your lips hydrated and happy throughout the day with this glowy balm for your lips by Laneige. This fan-favorite formula gives your lips a lightweight layer of moisture thanks to murumuru and shea butter, and leaves behind a coral tint. Use throughout the day for best results.

35

Thinking Only Nail Polish Can Make Your Nails Look Good

Fix: This Illuminating Nail Concealer

Not a fan of bright or bold colors on your nails? No worries. This illuminating concealer is a universally flattering, all-in-one brightener that makes your nails look like your nails — but better. Available in five barely-there shades, it conceals yellowing and staining with a sheer layer of color that makes your nails look natural but glowing.

  • Available shades: 5

36

Using A Harsh Scrub Instead Of A Gentle Exfoliant

Fix: These Skin-Resurfacing Pads Infused With Glycolic Acid

A harsh scrub can irritate your skin, so opt for these glycolic resurfacing pads to help reveal a brighter, fresher complexion. They help stimulate skin cell turnover, while toning and moisturizing with the help of witch hazel and blue daisy. Just swipe them on daily for smoother, glowier skin.

37

Realizing At The Last Minute Your Shirt Has Deodorant streaks

Fix: These Deodorant Removers That Leave Clothes Good As New

Is there anything worse than getting dressed only to realize you got deodorant smudges all over your top? No, there’s not — but these deodorant removers can help. These sponges instantly remove the chalky white stripes in a few seconds flat. Just add a bit of water and voilà — crisis averted.

38

Letting Oil & Sweat Build Up On Your Face

Fix: These Blotting Sheets Made With Soothing Green Tea

Blot away excess oil and perspiration with these oil-absorbing sheets made of natural linens and green tea granules. These gentle but effective sheets soak up shine without messing up your makeup or drying out your skin. They’re especially handy in summer and sweaty situations.

39

Foregoing Vitamin C In Your Skin-Care Routine

Fix: This Formula That Makes Your Skin So Luminous

Vitamin C is a wonder ingredient for skin, working to brighten, fade dark spots, and smooth texture. If you haven’t incorporated this must-have into your skin-care routine, now’s the time — and this vitamin C serum comes at a great price point. It’s also boosted with other nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera for soothing and moisturizing protection.

40

Leaving Zits Vulnerable To Dirt & Germs

Fix: These Pimple Stickers That Work Overnight

At the first sign or a pimple, grab these acne spot dots that can help prevent it from getting worse while speeding up healing, too. The hydrocolloid stickers absorb oil and reduce irritation as little as 24 hours, while guarding skin from germs and dirt. They can be worn for eight hours at a time, making them perfect for overnight use. Each box contains 30 acne dots.