Make-up mistakes you didn't even know you were making

Quick fix:

• Stop piling it on and learn to build layers, especially with eyeshadow. Consider switching from dense face brushes to fluffier ones that pick up less product and give you more control over how much you apply.
• Less is more. Try using half the amount of foundation or powder you normally would and see how it fares throughout the day.
• Tailor your routine to the weather. That fantastic mattifying foundation you loved in the humid summer might dry you out in winter.
• Switch your face products - foundation, moisturiser and primer - every season. Use an oil-control one for the hotter months and hydrating one for the colder months. (Eye make-up doesn't have to change much, except maybe the shades.)

Telltale signs:

• Occasional breakouts with no known cause, or more blemishes on just one side of your face

Quick fix:

• At least once a week, clean any surfaces that come into contact with your face. This includes make-up brushes, pillowcases, and your mobile phone. Germs accumulated on these objects can transfer onto you face and cause spots.

Telltale signs:

• Make-up smells "off"
• Texture of the product has changed

Quick fix:

• Regularly review your stash of goodies to get rid of expired products.
• Be mindful of your products' shelf life. For example, most foundations will last for about a year, but mascara should be replaced every four months.
• When in doubt, chuck it out. The results - a nasty zit or eye infection - just aren't worth the risk.
   

Telltale signs:

• Mascara runs out or dries faster than expected
• The product starts smelling off
• Your eyes become itchy when using it

Quick fix:

• Don't pump your mascara wand in and out of the tube to get the product out. This pumps air and germs into the tube! Gently spin the wand into the tube to grab extra product instead.

Telltale signs:

• Greasy hair, sticky roots, or dull, flat hair without any volume

Quick fix:

• Use a few sprays of dry shampoo to mop up the extra grease.
• Rub a bit of baby power onto your scalp to absorb the excess oil; preferably just before you sleep so your tossing and turning will work the powder into your scalp.
• Wash your hair occasionally with a clarifying shampoo, and only apply conditioner sparingly to the ends. You don't need much conditioner at your roots because your scalp produces its own oil.

Telltale signs:

• Dry patches, uneven application of make-up, or product fading away to nothing super fast

Quick fix:

• Apply a light moisturiser to your skin, and allow time for it to sink in, before putting on any make-up. Add a primer if you're super oily: this will give your make-up something to sit on and hold on to, so it'll look better and last longer.

Telltale signs:

• Uneven nail polish, jagged edges, chipped ends

Quick fix:

• Remove your nail polish thoroughly and gently buff your nails for an even shine. Clean, shiny nails look better than ragged polished ones.
• Paint on a glitter polish and arrange the glitter to disguise the chipping. But don't leave it on for too many days.
• Take good care of your nails. Keep them at a reasonable length to avoid snagging or breakage, and rub strengthening oil into them once or twice a week. Healthy nails provide a better surface for nail polish to sit on, so they won't chip as easily.