While many things get better with age, sometimes the tried-and-true approach is the way to go. Turns out, our parents and grandparents—and even generations before them—knew a thing or two about how to apply makeup. So, while the kiddos load up their backpacks to tackle their ABCs and dive into world history, we’re going back to beauty school to revisit some of the retro makeup tricks that still hold steady all these years later.
Bye Bye Pores Blush
IT WILL MAKE YOU BLUSH!
Brighten Skin with Peach or Apricot Blushes
Red and rose-toned blushes tend to be the hues we reach for most, and they’re certainly pretty in their own right. The same can be said about sweet pinks like fuchsia or bubblegum.
The aforementioned blush colors have a time and place, but if you want to naturally brighten your complexion, then reach for a peach or apricot blush instead. This beautiful makeup approach was especially popular in the ‘60s when a soft and subtle glow was the ultimate beauty goal. To get the look, sweep on Bye Bye Pores Blush in Naturally Pretty or Adore. Along with a brightening effect from the color, the formula instantly minimizes the look of pores and imperfections.
Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Loose Setting Powder
IT MAKES YOUR PORES DISAPPEAR!
Apply Powder Between Primer and Foundation
When you learned how to apply makeup, you were likely taught to apply your primer and then move right along to foundation. This makeup technique works well for people with normal to dry skin, but if you have oily skin then try applying a lightweight translucent powder after primer and before foundation.
This old-school makeup tip helps lock in your primer so it won’t slip and slide around and disturb your foundation. It also can help absorb excess oil for a more natural matte finish. Bye Bye Pores Translucent Loose Setting Powder is our favorite makeup product for the job. In addition to setting your primer, it’ll help visibly blur pores and keep oil and shine to a minimum as you move about your day.
Heavenly Luxe Bye Bye Foundation Brush #22
IT’S YOUR BRUSH THERAPY!
Make “Peach Fuzz” Disappear
Unless you dermaplane weekly, your face is full of baby fine hairs. Even though it’s adorably nicknamed “peach fuzz,” these little hairs can sometimes catch the light and look more noticeable than you may prefer.
You don’t have to stress it—nor do you need to shave it to make your peach fuzz disappear. All you need is a high-quality makeup brush, like Heavenly Luxe Bye Bye Foundation Brush #22—and a spare 30 seconds.
Here’s how this makeup hack works: After applying your foundation and powder, gently run your makeup brush along your entire face in a downward motion. This makes the baby hairs lie flat against your skin so they’re less visible. A setting spray can help keep the hairs from moving around as much, as well.
Brow Power Micro Eyebrow Pencil
IT’S YOUR BROWS BUT BETTER!
Use Hair-Like Strokes for Natural Brows
Trendy brow shapes and sizes have changed over the decades. In the ‘90s, super skinny brows were the preferred look, while in the ‘50s it was all about a super strong, straightened shape. Even with all the changes of the past and those to come, there’s one thing we know for certain: Natural makeup will always remain in style.
Regardless of the shape you prefer, use quick, thin strokes as you fill in sparse areas. This timeless professional makeup trick helps mimic the appearance of natural hairs. For the finest strokes, reach for Brow Power Micro Defining Eyebrow Pencil. The micro-fine pencil tip creates feathery, natural definition and even helps cover grays.
Superhero No-Tug Sharpenable Gel Eyeliner
IT’S EYE-OPENING!
Superhero™ 4-in-1 Eye-Transforming Super Shadow and Liner Brush
IT TRANSFORMS YOUR EYES!
Make Lashes Look Longer With Fine Eyeliner
We love a good winged eyeliner, but sometimes subtle is the name of the game. Here’s the thing: you can still use your favorite gel or liquid eyeliner and pull off a “no makeup makeup” aesthetic at the same time.
To make your lashes look even thicker and longer—and create a more defined lash line—draw a very thin line of eyeliner right against your upper lash line. If you have a dark complexion then use black, and fair-skinned people should use dark brown instead.
The easy-glide formula of Superhero No-Tug Sharpenable Gel Eyeliner makes it a top pick for this makeup tip. Lightly smudge it out for a softer effect using the liner brush feature from the Superhero 4-in-1 Eye-Transforming Super Shadow and Liner Brush. This brush is the perfect makeup basic to keep on hand, especially for minimalists!
Make Lipstick Last Longer By Blotting
Blotting lipstick and applying a second layer of lipstick—and perhaps even a third or fourth layer—is one of those classic makeup tricks that will stand the test of time. Not only does it help your lipstick last longer, but it lends to fuller-looking lips.
After applying lipstick—we’re partial to the nourishing, color-intense formula of Pillow Lips Lipstick—fold a tissue in half and then press your lips over it. Repeat the process one or two more times for beautifully stained lips.
P.S. This was a beauty hack that professional makeup artists swore by in the ‘40s and ‘50s. A certain blonde bombshell—who was known for her bright red, full lips—swore by it!
Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
IT'S YOUR SINGLE SWIPE SUPER SHADOW!
Try Frosted Eyeshadow for a Fresh, Playful Look
Beauty trends from the ‘90s have made their way back into the zeitgeist. Blue eyeshadow and brick-brown lips are two makeup do’s from this era. Another, which is really gaining momentum now, is a frosted lid look.
We love a frosty effect for a few reasons. Not only does it feel more wearable than a super glittery or shimmery look, but there are ways to pull it off that nod to decades prior while still feeling fresh and modern.
To pull it off, use a creamy and moisturizing eyeshadow formula that won’t crease or crinkle, such as Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick. It glides on easily and is super buildable, which gives you more control over the intensity. Another way to keep this look in modern territory is to wear a darker color, like Pearl Taupe or Bionic Bronze.
Seeking more makeup tips and tricks? Learn how to apply makeup foundation with a brush or your fingers, then check out our guide on how to apply concealer like a pro.
Shop This Post
Bye Bye Pores Blush
IT WILL MAKE YOU BLUSH!
Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Loose Setting Powder
IT MAKES YOUR PORES DISAPPEAR!
Heavenly Luxe Bye Bye Foundation Brush #22
IT’S YOUR BRUSH THERAPY!
Brow Power Micro Eyebrow Pencil
IT’S YOUR BROWS BUT BETTER!
Superhero No-Tug Sharpenable Gel Eyeliner
IT’S EYE-OPENING!
Superhero™ 4-in-1 Eye-Transforming Super Shadow and Liner Brush
IT TRANSFORMS YOUR EYES!
Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
IT'S YOUR SINGLE SWIPE SUPER SHADOW!
