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50 Mistakes You're Making That Are Aging You & What To Do Instead

Your best glow-up is yet to come.

by Mallory Moreno
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

No matter your biological age, there are things you can start incorporating into your routine that will have everyone (including yourself) thinking you somehow started aging backwards. From makeup mishaps and skin-care oversights to everyday wellness habits that really add up, these common mistakes you’re making could be robbing you of your prime. Here’s how to reclaim it.

1

Mistake: Only Wearing Sunscreen On Beach Days

Solution: Applying A Daily SPF That Goes On Sheer

Dermatologists and aestheticians alike always preach the importance of daily SPF beyond just beach days. It helps protect your skin from UV exposure, which can lead to signs of sun damage over time. This SPF 50+ formula from EltaMD has a cult following for delivering daily protection that goes on sheer and lightweight. It features a nourishing blend of zinc oxide, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

2

Mistake: Forgetting To Protect Your Hands From The Sun

Solution: Slide On These UV-Blocking Fingerless Gloves

UV rays from the sun can still pass through car windows. For midday commutes and road trips, these sun-blocking gloves provide your hands with UV protection as you drive, cycle, or garden. They’re made from 100% cotton and feature a fingerless design that won’t hinder your grip.

3

Mistake: Skipping The Décolleté In Your Skin-Care Routine

Solution: Using A Targeted Serum With A Built-In Gua Sha Applicator

You may already have an established skin-care routine, but don’t forget to extend that to your décolleté. Infused with PDRN collagen and volufiline, this cream plumps skin and boosts elasticity. The gua sha-style applicator helps dispense the formula right along the jawline and neck.

4

Mistake: Neglecting Skin Care For Your Body

Solution: Applying A Retinol Body Lotion For Softer, Smoother Skin

Your body’s skin benefits from targeted care, too. This retinol-derived body lotion blends ferulic acid, shea butter, vitamin E, and green tea to help improve the look of uneven texture over time. With consistent use, reviewers have noted smoother, softer, and healthier-looking skin.

5

Mistake: Going Full-Glam With A Heavy Foundation

Solution: Opting For A More Natural Finish With A Tinted Serum

Going for a full-glam look day in and day out isn’t always realistic. Skip the heavy foundation and use this tinted serum instead. Existing at the intersection of makeup and skin care, it’s formulated with hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration paired with lightweight mineral-pigmented coverage. It’s the perfect everyday option for a more natural-looking finish.

6

Mistake: Skipping Out On Mobility Exercises & Stretching

Solution: Massage Sore Muscles & Improve Flexibility With A Foam Roller

It’s easy to skip out on mobility work, but the payoff is always worth it. Foam rolling is one of those game-changing habits that can help loosen tight hips, ease sore muscles, and improve flexibility and circulation. This high-density foam roller makes it easy to achieve the same muscle-recovery benefits as similar physical therapy sessions, right from your own home.

7

Mistake: Sabotaging Your Look With Outdated Denim Trends

Solution: Retire Your Skinnies For A Wide-Leg Pair

Consider pausing on outdated denim (sorry, skinny jeans) and styling silhouettes with a more modern cut — like this best-selling wide-leg pair. They offer a fresh update with a stretchy waistband, a relaxed fit, and functional pockets. Plus, they’re comfortable and so easy to style.

  • Available sizes: 2 — 16 (multiple inseams available)
  • Available colors: 4

8

Mistake: Stretching Out Your Earlobes With Heavy Hoops

Solution: Support Your Lobes With Discreet Patches

If you love to style with hoop earrings, it’s not uncommon for your earlobes to stretch over time. These discreet patches provide extra support when wearing hoops that — first and foremost — prevent further stretching over time while also masking already-torn lobes.

9

Mistake: Leaving Dark Circles Dehydrated

Solution: Brighten & Hydrate With An Energizing Eye Balm

A lack of sleep can make you feel like you’ve aged a few years overnight; de-puff and treat dark circles with this energizing under-eye balm for a luminous, refreshed look. It’s formulated with caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and prebiotics for instant cooling, brightening, and hydration, so you can at least fake the appearance of a full night’s rest.

10

Mistake: Removing Makeup With A Dirty Bath Towel

Solution: Use These Reusable Wipes That Also Nourish Skin

Using the same towel day after day can actually transfer buildup back onto your skin. The next time you go to wash your face, put the dirty bath towel down and reach for one of these disposable towelettes instead. Made from gentle materials and infused with glycerin, these help maintain a balanced skin barrier and a smoother-looking complexion after every cleanse.

11

Mistake: Not Prepping The Under-Eye Area Before Makeup

Solution: Plump & Hydrate Using This Viral Hack

Setting concealer with powder is one way to do it, but if you’re looking to really plump, hydrate, and lock in moisture under the eyes, try prepping your look with this Aquaphor stick. The hack has gone viral for preventing caking and creasing around the delicate eye area.

12

Mistake: Staring At Screens All Day Without Protection

Solution: Protect Your Eyes With These Stylish Blue Light-Blocking Glasses

Spending long hours in front of a screen can do a number on your eyes, leading to things like headaches and fatigue. These blue-light-blocking glasses help combat eye strain from your daily screen time. They feature designer-inspired oversized frames that add a stylish touch to your look and lenses that help filter blue light.

13

Mistake: Wearing The Wrong Shade On Your Lips

Solution: Create A Custom Color With A pH-Activated Gloss

Get rid of the guesswork when it comes to finding the perfect shade for your lips with this color-changing lip balm. It goes on sheer but is formulated to match your own pH, creating a color that’s custom to you. “The color change happens in minutes; it's a beautiful color on me,” according to one reviewer. “Enough to notice a change, but not so much to only be appropriate for certain situations.”

14

Mistake: Walking Around With Rough, Calloused Heels

Solution: Repair Them Overnight By Wearing These Moisturizing Socks

Don’t ever let dry heels stop you from wearing those super cute sandals. Heal them overnight by wearing these moisturizing socks. They feature a gel lining infused with jojoba oil, olive oil, and vitamin E to soften calluses and smooth cracks.

15

Mistake: Settling For Thin-Looking, Sparse Brows

Solution: Encourage Healthy Growth By Applying Brow Serum

You could commit to filling in sparse brows every day, or you could invest in this nourishing serum that promotes brow growth over time. A peptide complex blend, biotin, and arginine help prevent further breakage while giving brows a longer, thicker, and more defined appearance. One serum will last you up to six months, with reviewers having noticeable results in 60 to 90 days.

16

Mistake: Applying Makeup Directly Over Dry Skin

Solution: Prepping Skin With A Hydrating Primer

Matte makeup is notorious for looking dry and cakey by the end of the day. Prep skin first with this primer for a glowier, dewy finish. It instantly plumps and hydrates the skin, leaving an almost jelly-like texture that “grips” your makeup for long-lasting hold.

17

Mistake: Wearing Ill-Fitting Clothes That Do Nothing For Your Figure

Solution: Show Off Your Shape By Cinching Loose Silhouettes

You’ve got it, so flaunt it. This tailor ring turns oversized, ill-fitting silhouettes into something instantly more tailored without any actual tailoring. Use it to gather excess fabric, creating a made-for-you fit that celebrates your curves instead of hiding them.

18

Mistake: Skipping Out On Regular Body Exfoliation

Solution: A Body Wash To Buff Away Rough Patches, Breakouts, & Stubborn KP

Get the most out of your body wash with one that actually goes beyond just cleansing. This option from Medix 5.5 is formulated with a powerhouse of exfoliants — including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids — to buff away skin cells and unclog pores for glowy, healthier-looking skin. Reviewers report their skin feeling refreshed and hydrated post-shower.

19

Mistake: Overdrawing Lips With Liner That Smudges Anyway

Solution: A Lip Liner Stain That Won’t Budge

A perfectly lined lip that actually stays is the key, and it’s easy to achieve with this peel-off lip stain. Simply, outline your ideal shape, leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes, then peel. Best of all, it’s buildable so you can go as bold as you’d like.

20

Mistake: Trying To Squeeze Into Bras That No Longer Fit

Solution: Add Extra Width To Your Bras With Extenders

Bodies change over time, and your bras should be able to keep up. If your bras are still in decent shape (other than feeling a little snug) and you don’t feel like replacing them just yet, try these elastic extenders. They add extra width to the band of any hook-and-eye closure bra for a roomier, comfier fit.

21

Mistake: Going Too Long Between Hair Appointments

Solution: Touch Up & Fill In Roots With A Colored Powder

If you need to put off that root touch-up a little longer, you aren’t at a total loss. This pressed powder offers an instant solution, adding color to your roots and concealing sparse areas for a fuller look. The color temporarily binds to your hair and scalp for up to 24 hours of water- and sweat-resistant wear.

22

Mistake: Powdering Your Face To The Point It Looks Cakey

Solution: Maintain Your Glow With A Powder That Blurs & Hydrates

Mattifying can quickly turn into “dry and cakey” if you’re using the wrong products. Formulated with blue hyaluronic acid to leave a glowy finish, this K-beauty, semi-matte powder absorbs oil for a filtered effect. “[...] What I saw after a very light application was pure magic,” one reviewer raved. “It made my skin look smooth like glass, with very little pores showing.”

23

Mistake: Sleeping On A Flat, Unsupportive Pillow

Solution: Supporting Your Neck With A Contoured Memory Foam Pillow

There’s nothing worse than feeling sore from what was supposed to be a restorative night’s rest. You can prevent painful cricks and neck pain by swapping out your flattened, worn-out pillow for this ergonomic, cooling one. It’s perfect for side sleepers, featuring a contoured design that supports your neck and helps natural spine alignment. It's adjustable too. If it feels too high, you can easily remove a few pieces of memory foam.

24

Mistake: Sitting Or Standing For Long Hours Without Support

Solution: Wear Compression Socks For Better Circulation

Standing all day on your feet, sitting for long hours at your desk, or trying to survive a long flight can leave your legs begging for relief. These knee-high socks are designed to offer gentle compression, promoting healthy circulation and blood flow so your legs feel more energized rather than swollen and fatigued.

  • Available sizes: Small-Medium — Large-X-Large
  • Available colors: 25+

25

Mistake: Skipping Supportive Layering Under Tight-Fitting Clothes

Solution: Streamline Your Look With A Shapewear Bodysuit

Don’t underestimate what a good piece of shapewear can do for your entire look. Clothes naturally fall better and without the cling over streamlined silhouettes; this snatched bodysuit helps create that. It offers seamless wear, compression, and support from the bust through the thighs. Adjustable straps help you dial in the perfect fit.

  • Available sizes: XX-Small/X-Small — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 10+

26

Mistake: Not Hydrating Enough Throughout The Day

Solution: Stay On Track With A Time-Marked Water Bottle

It’s honestly amazing how much hydration impacts everything — from energy levels and focus to how our skin glows. But it’s such an easy habit to fall behind on. This time-marked water bottle can help you stay on track with your hydration goals throughout the day, with hourly reminders to stop and take a swig.

27

Mistake: Missing Those Extra-Dry Areas Of Your Body

Solution: A Rich Body Butter That Softens Skin

Deeply nourish those extra-dry areas on your body, like the elbows and knees, with this hydrating body butter. It’s formulated with shea butter, coconut oil, and a ceramide blend, making it far richer and thicker than a regular lotion. It’s perfect for softening and smoothing while repairing the skin’s barrier.

28

Mistake: Choosing Eyeliner That’s Too Harsh For Your Eye Color

Solution: Line Blue & Green Eyes With A Brown Eye Pencil

You may feel like black liquid eyeliner can look too harsh — especially with blue or green eyes. But instead of avoiding eyeliner entirely, try this light brown-colored eyeliner pencil. It provides a softer contrast that won’t wash out cooler tones and can really make those eye colors pop. The twistable design has a double-ended spoolie for perfecting your brows as a bonus.

29

Mistake: Letting Dull, Dry Hair Go Untreated

Solution: Add This Low-Maintenance Gloss To Your Wash Day Routine

You know that straight-from-the-salon glossy, sleek hair that you just can’t beat? Achieve it at home with OUAI’s hair gloss. A blend of hyaluronic acid, rice water, and panthenol boosts shine and helps repair damage. It can be used as a mask for up to five minutes at the end of your hair-wash routine. Plus, it locks hair in with heat protection, so it’s perfect for prepping a blowout.

30

Mistake: Letting Stained Teeth Go Untreated

Solution: Brighten Your Smile With A Whitening Toothpaste

You don’t have to invest in a professional whitening treatment — and you also don’t have to commit to high-maintenance strips for a brighter smile. This Crest 3D White toothpaste can lift stains after just one use. In addition to whitening, it offers enamel repair so you can prioritize oral health and a brighter smile all at once.

31

Mistake: Accessorizing With Outdated Jewelry Trends

Solution: A Minimalist Set Of Rings That Come Pre-Stacked

Modernize your everyday look with this set of stackable rings. A far cry from outdated jewelry, it features three dainty styles in mixed metals, embellished with cubic zirconia stones. They’re thoughtfully linked together so you won’t have to worry about losing them.

32

Mistake: Skipping Blush Entirely Or Applying Too Much

Solution: Building With A Creamy Blush For A Natural-Looking Glow

Whether you’re hesitant about blush looking “too much” or you’re a victim of blush blindness, this creamy balm blush provides a dimensional, glowy finish for a happy medium. It's formulated with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil to prevent it from settling into lines. Beyond your cheeks, use it on your lips and eyelids, too.

33

Mistake: Not Washing Your Face At The End Of The Day

Solution: Remove Makeup With These Reusable Cloths

Not removing your makeup can leave dirt and oil trapped under the skin, leading to dullness and breakouts. Even if you don’t have the energy for a full 10-step skin-care routine by the end of the night, these reusable makeup-removing cloths are better than nothing. They effectively remove everything from mascara to foundation. Wet with warm water, then gently wipe away the day.

34

Mistake: Letting Aches & Pains Keep You Up At Night

Solution: Apply Magnesium Lotion To Soothe & Relax Muscles

This magnesium lotion is the perfect addition to any nighttime routine — especially if you’re dealing with sore muscles and joints that keep you up at night. The soothing formula features a botanical arnica extract, which can help reduce pain and inflammation and ease soreness. Shea butter, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E leave a hydrating boost.

35

Mistake: Wearing The Wrong Socks With Sneakers & Loafers

Solution: Update Your Basics With Trendy Crew Socks

It’s true — your socks are exposing the year you were born. Update your basics with this six-pack of crew socks to replace a few of your ankle-cut ones. “They sit about two inches above your ankle, which is a great height when wearing sneakers or other shoes — cute and fashionable!” according to one shopper.

36

Mistake: Wearing Lipstick That Smudges & Feathers

Solution: Define Your Lips With A Stain That Won’t Smear

Lips can lose volume and definition as we age, which is why using lipsticks that feather or smudge is an all-too-common makeup mishap. Try this viral-worthy lip stain instead; it helps create a defined, long-lasting lip look without constant touch-ups after every sip, bite, or conversation.

37

Mistake: Sitting For Hours Without Proper Back Support

Solution: Attach This Lumbar Support Pillow To Your Chair

Spending hours sitting at your desk or lounging on the couch can really take a toll on things like posture over time. This lumbar support pillow can help relieve pressure on your lower back and encourage proper spinal alignment. It’s made from a cushiony memory foam and features a ventilated mesh cover and adjustable straps to keep it positioned securely.

38

Mistake: Skipping Out On Support In Your Shoes

Solution: Prioritize Comfort & Style With These Orthopedic Sandals

It’s absolutely a choice to allow your feet to suffer in uncomfortable footwear when stylish yet supportive options, such as these arch-support sandals, exist. Their minimalist design goes with anything from elevated looks to comfy athleisure. They can even be worn around the house to reduce stress and ease swollen feet.

  • Available sizes: 5-5.5 — 14
  • Available colors: 15+

39

Mistake: Tying Your Shirts For A Cropped Look

Solution: Tuck Hems Around This Clever Elastic Band

Sometimes a simple crop is all it takes to transform your look into something with a little more edge — but avoid tying your tops. Just loop this elastic band around your waist and tuck the hem of any tee, tank, or sweater.

40

Mistake: Wearing Knits That Look Worn-Out With Pilling

Solution: Maintain Your Favorite Pieces With This Fabric Shaver

It’s honestly way smarter to provide a little maintenance to your current wardrobe than constantly overhauling it. Give your favorite, most-worn knits new life with this fabric shaver. It removes fuzz and pilling with a rotating six-leaf blade system that’s safe to use on even your most delicate pieces.

41

Mistake: Treating Lips As An Afterthought Instead Of A Part Of Skin Care

Solution: Hydrate Daily With This Peptide Lip Treatment

Lips can show signs of dryness and texture if you aren’t actively caring for them in your routine. Packed with a nourishing ceramide blend, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, this lip treatment targets dry, cracked lips, keeping them looking plump and hydrated.

42

Mistake: Settling For Dull-Looking Skin

Solution: Apply This Brightening Overnight Face Mask

If glowy is your goal, then vitamin C in your routine is a nonnegotiable. This overnight face mask brightens discoloration and promotes healthy-looking skin. “My husband and I absolutely love this product. I have aging skin that gets occasional breakouts, and this is making my skin fantastic! Highly recommend,” one shopper gushed.

43

Mistake: Skipping Lymphatic Drainage In Your Routine

Solution: Sculpt & Snatch With This Gua Sha Tool Set

If you’re feeling a little puffier in the face than usual, lymphatic drainage may help. This jade roller and gua sha set supports circulation, resulting in a more sculpted-looking jawline. Thousands of reviewers have reported a noticeable difference with consistent everyday use.

44

Mistake: Neglecting The Delicate Skin Of Your Hands

Solution: Address Texture & Tone With This Retinol Hand Cream

Our hands are often one of the first places we notice visible signs of aging. To protect the integrity of that delicate area of skin, start using this hand cream. It combines retinol, collagen, and vitamin C to deeply hydrate skin while improving the look of uneven texture and discoloration. Hundreds of reviewers swear by it, noting softer, smoother hands in just a short time.

45

Mistake: Wearing Lash Extensions That Make Your Eyes Look Heavier

Solution: Achieve Natural-Looking Length With This Lash Lift Set

Dramatic lash extensions might seem like the best way to make your eyes pop, but extra-long, heavy lashes can sometimes do more harm than good. They can make eyes appear smaller and create a look that feels more tired than open and refreshed. Try out this Korean lash lift kit instead. It comes with everything you need to achieve natural-looking lift and length from home.

46

Mistake: Wearing Outdated Denim Trends

Solution: Swap In A Trendy Pair Of Jorts

Bermuda shorts or “jorts” are here to replace your outdated denim styles, and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. This trendy pair features cargo pockets and a relaxed, wide-leg silhouette that delivers an effortlessly cool look with every tee, tank, or knit you wear them with.

  • Available sizes: 4 — 18
  • Available colors: 5+

47

Mistake: Clenching Your Jaw While You Sleep

Solution: Support & Snatch Your Jawline With This V-Line Mask

Chronic clenching will have your jaw muscles working overtime. This can lead to facial tension and even change the appearance and structure of the lower face over time. This chin strap mask helps soothe and contour the jawline, creating a temporary sculpted effect. According to reviewers, it’s comfortable enough to wear while sleeping.

48

Mistake: Over-Exfoliating & Compromising Your Skin’s Barrier

Solution: Restore A Healthy Skin Barrier With This Repair Cream

Dull, dehydrated skin that’s easily irritated? You might be dealing with a compromised skin barrier, often caused by over-exfoliation. This snail mucin cream can help restore your skin’s barrier by adding hydration and infusing nourishing vitamins for plumper, calmer, and more radiant skin.

49

Mistake: Missing Out On The Benefits Of Dry Brushing

Solution: Exfoliate Skin & Improve Circulation With This Simple Upgrade

With nearly 20,000 ratings and a 4.6-star average rating, this seemingly simple dry brush will have your skin feeling renewed and revitalized. The soft bristles gently exfoliate, encourage healthy circulation, and promote lymphatic drainage. “I've only used it a couple of times, but my skin is so smooth and silky that I don't see myself quitting doing this anytime soon,” one shopper noted.

50

Mistake: Wearing A Crossbody Bag That’s Gone Out Of Style

Solution: Throw This Stylish Hobo Bag Over Your Shoulder

Crossbody bags have a way of feeling a little mid-2010s. Reach for this hobo shoulder bag for a modern finish to your look. Oversized and roomy, it can hold all of your essentials and looks effortlessly chic with a range of outfits. The faux leather pebbled texture comes in more than a handful of timeless, fashion-forward hues.