Myths About Makeup That Are Absolutely Not Even A Little Bit True

Voting Rules
Vote up the myths that deserved to be debunked.

There are so many makeup dos and don'ts. You're not supposed to wear a statement eye and a bold lip; you should stay away from shimmer if you have wrinkles. The list is extensive. But many of these makeup lies are holding you back from being the most creative MUA you can be! It’s time to clear the air about these common makeup misconceptions.

In fact, some makeup myths are actually dangerous if followed. For example, you should never pump your mascara wand in and out of the tube. You could end up with a nasty eye infection. You also shouldn't be skipping sunscreen just because your makeup has SPF; your skin will suffer.

You won't believe how many lies have been told about the beauty products you know and love.


  • 1
    295 VOTES

    People With Dark Skin Can't Wear Bright Lipstick

    The Myth: There's been a beauty myth floating around forever that women with dark complexions can't wear bright lipsticks.

    The Truth: Where did this myth even start? All you need to do is look at Fenty Beauty's inclusive feed to debunk this one! Contrary to the myth, bright lipstick absolutely pops against dark skin. If you have a deep complexion, get yourself some STUNNA Lip Paint ASAP! 

    295 votes
  • 2
    304 VOTES

    Expensive Makeup Is Always Better Quality

     

    A post shared by CHANEL (@chanelofficial) on

    The Myth: You have to pay a lot of money for quality makeup products.

    The Truth: That's not always the case! There are some amazing, affordable makeup products that are better than their expensive alternatives. For example, Milani Baked Blush is hailed in the beauty industry for being just as good as $40 NARS' Orgasm Blush. And L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara is the go-to formula for celebs like Kelly Rowland, Kaitlyn Bristowe, and Jennifer Hudson.

    304 votes
  • 3
    243 VOTES

    You Should Prep Your Mascara By Pumping The Tube

     

    A post shared by Jessica Jade (@jessjadebeauty) on

    The Myth: You should pump your mascara wand in the tube a few times before applying product.

    The Truth: You should never do this. Pumping mascara is bad for many reasons. Namely, introducing air into the mascara tube causes the formula to dry out quicker. A dry formula also makes for clumpy, spidery lashes. Not to mention that introducing air into your mascara tube creates a bacteria breeding ground. That bacteria gets picked up by your mascara wand and deposited on your eyelashes, leading to irritation and infection. Gross!

    243 votes
  • 4
    197 VOTES

    You Don't Have To Clean Your Brushes If You're The Only One Using Them

    The Myth: You don't have to clean your brushes if you're not sharing them with anyone.

    The Truth: Bacteria can build up on your brushes even if you only use them on yourself. If you don't regularly clean your tools, you may end up with breakouts, skin irritation, and even infection. One study found that 22% of women have never cleaned their makeup brushes before. If you're part of the 22%, listen up. 

    Makeup artist and cosmetics entrepreneur Bobbi Brown advises

    "For concealer and foundation brushes, [clean] at least once a week to prevent a buildup of product. And because these brushes are used on your face, the cleaner, the better. Brushes that are used around the eyes should be cleaned at least twice a month, while all others can be washed once a month."

    197 votes
  • 5
    201 VOTES

    Dusting Bronzer Over Your Whole Face Will Give You A Golden Glow

    The Myth: To get a golden glow, you should dust bronzer over your entire face.

    The Truth: You should only do this if you want to look like a muddy mess. If you're looking for a sun-kissed tan, you need to be strategic with bronzer application. It should only go where sun would naturally hit the face. Sweep a deeper color on cheekbones, around the hairline, and on the chin around your jawline. You can even add a light swipe of bronzer down the sides of your nose. The result is less muddy, more magical.

    201 votes
  • 6
    209 VOTES

    Smokey Eyes Are Only For After-Hours

     

    A post shared by Jamie Amos (@glowonblog) on

    The Myth: Smokey eyes are strictly for nighttime looks.  

    The Truth: If you're partial to a black or dark brown smokey eye, you might want to leave that look for after-hours, but smokey doesn't have to mean dark! Bring your smokey eye skills into the light by opting for a light, neutral smokey eye in shades of beige, tan, and light brown. Urban Decay's Naked Palette can help!

    209 votes