Something's Gotta Give
Forgetting SPF
“The biggest mistake moms make is protecting their kids’ skin from the sun but forgetting to protect their own,” says dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, co-director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C. Choose moisturizer and makeup with SPF already in it. Even on cloudy days, the sun can cause damage, so don’t skip.
Using Bar Soap
“A common beauty mistake that I see moms make is that they tend to grab whatever cleanser or bar of soap happens to be available in the shower that day,” says mom Joanna Vargas, facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skincare Collection. “It's horrible for your skin, because it throws off the pH balance and causes either breakouts or extreme dryness. Leaving a nice facial cleanser in the shower is a must!" Vargas also recommends an exfoliant. That way, when you’re tempted to scrub in the shower, you have your necessities on hand.
A Complicated Routine
If your skin care routine is loaded with bells and whistles, you won’t follow through. “My job as an esthetician is to design a home care plan that works for anyone—even a busy mom,” says Vargas. “My recommended routine is very simple: Wash your face at night before bed and after the kids are asleep, use a great nourishing serum night and day, and exfoliate in the shower once a week. Simple.”
Not Checking out Trends
Now that your gorgeous skin is prepped and ready, it’s time to make over your makeup. “Stay relevant and of the moment,” Kashuk says. “You can look younger and more modern with a few simple updates, and it doesn’t have to cost much.” Even then, a beauty indulgence or two per season won’t hurt your pocketbook … and will do wonders for your whole look.
Skipping Primer
Lots of women moisturize, but not enough prime—an equally key part of pre-cosmetic skin prep. “We cannot underestimate the power of a good primer,” says renowned makeup artist Uzo. “Not only does it actually cut down on application, because foundation and eye makeup go on more smoothly, but it creates the perfect start for long-wearing, fresh-looking and fade-proof makeup.”
Not Using Concealer
Dot, dot. Line, line. You don’t want to see those on your complexion, right? Take a moment to dab on concealer. Use it for “eliminating redness and darkness around the eye area, evening skin tone, and blurring the appearance of fine lines, crow's-feet and blemishes," Uzo says. "It opens up the eyes for great looking eye makeup, and also makes for a fresh, bright and healthy-looking complexion.”
