The Seven Ugliest Beauty Sins

Do you have any ugly makeup habits? Here's how to clean up your act and overhaul your bad beauty behavior. Fess up—which ones are you guilty of?

Envy

THE GREEN-EYED MONSTER

Whether it's that $50 lip gloss your friend just bought or your sister's flawless skin, we're all guilty of wanting something we don't have. Even with emerald eyes, jealously is always ugly.

THE FIX

Perspective. Remember, the grass is always greener on the other side.

Gluttony

APPLICATION OVERLOAD!

More isn't always better. I've spackled my face with more color than I'd like to admit (hello eighth grade!). Makeup is a creative outlet and we encourage you to try everything once, but if you're not careful, it's easy to shift from subtle to psychotic for your everyday look.

THE FIX

Restraint. Use less product more effectively for a flawless finish sans cakey-ness. Still need color? Experiment and use just one bright.

Greed

HOARDING MENTALITY

Let's face it—our makeup collections are massive compared to the average woman, but there's a fine line between a stash and a stockpile. We're motivated to buy for different reasons, so purchase products you love and will use!

THE FIX

Budget. Set a fixed monthly allowance for beauty products and save up for periodical splurges—you'll become more aware of your spending habits and value what you already own.

Lust

IMPULSE PRODUCT PURCHASES

Raise your hand if you've ever purchased something just because it was limited edition, on sale, or just plain pretty? I'm guilty of all three, and you probably are too. If you're on a beauty budget, re-evaluate how you spend money on those must-haves.

THE FIX

Research. Before you shell out the dough, ask friends or fellow beauties who've tried the product if they think it's worth it. Will it do your laundry and fold your sheets? Read online reviews and blogs, then decide if it's worth your hard-earned money.

Sloth

BEAUTY HYGIENE

Have you ever stumbled in from a late night, too lazy to wash your face or even brush your teeth? Without a set routine, brushes go unwashed, makeup builds up bacteria, and your skin forgets what a proper cleansing feels like. Beauties, this might be the dirtiest sin of them all.

THE FIX

Preparation. Bacteria build up is no joke, so assemble your beauty routine for the ultimate sluggish circumstances. In light of late nights, keep face wipes on your nightstand for a basic cleanse, line up your skin care products in order so you can unconsciously follow your routine, and at the very least, floss your teeth!

Vanity

MIRROR MADNESS

How many times have you looked in the mirror today? Whether you're gazing at your charmingly good looks (you're hot!) or that one zit that won't go away, it's time to stop the mirror madness and give your reflection the cheek.

THE FIX

Acceptance. Give yourself a reassuring look-over in the morning to make sure your makeup is flawless, then you're set. Save the staring for touch-ups and bathroom breaks.

Wrath

MAD ABOUT MAKEUP

I've seen so many makeup mishaps that I get a little too harsh in my critique. It's easy to get a little mean when evaluating makeup you haven't applied yourself (I'm looking at Beauties who go overboard on application!). Change up your beauty commentary for the better.

THE FIX

Positivity. Instead of blatantly insulting your peers, choose your words wisely. If you come from a genuinely sincere and encouraging place, your friends will appreciate your constructive criticism. Check out our story, How To Tell Your Friend She Needs a Makeover for extra tips on approaching your friends about this touchy subject.