How to Avoid Looking Washed Out in a Headcovering
- Julie Diana
- Apr 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 18
"I feel like makeup is a necessity with a lot of scarves. I don't wear a lot of it, but it's easy to look washed out when you wear a scarf without some color on your face.
Most days I just wear lip and cheek stain, a little neutral/brown eyeshadow, and mascara. It's enough to make my face look more alive and not overshadowed by the scarf."
-Eva B., NYC
Today's theme: less is more.
These past few months, I've discovered some new (and new to me) tools and techniques.
Specifically, tools that make my life as a hair-covering gal more glamorous and fun.
Many are 2-in-1 and even 3-in-1 products that save time, cash, and counter space. Oh, and effort.
They're great for travel, since they save space. You can use the extra room in your suitcase for scarves and hats (naturally).
Scroll for 11 tips and tools that have transformed my beauty and haircare routine in the past few months.
1. Reigning in strays
Before putting on my headscarf, I have 3 quick steps to tame hairline strays.
First: water. This continuous spray bottle makes it so much easier to spritz my hairline. Also, it looks cute on my bathroom counter.
Second: mousse. I used to use hairspray, but recently stopped. It was too difficult to control, and would end up on my sensitive skin.
I find mousse is easier to apply along my hairline. I dab it above my ears and along the nape of the neck.
Third: Brush strays into place. I smooth stray hairs into place with my favorite mini bristle brush.
2. Brighten undereyes
Full disclosure: I ordered these eye masks by accident. They ended up in my cart when I was shopping online for concealer with SPF (featured further below).
I gave them a try and was impressed how hydrating and soothing they are. I guess that's why they have over two thousand 5-star reviews!
3. Blend seamlessly
These mini blending sponges by Real Techniques are perfectly shaped for blending under the eyes. I use them to apply this next product...
4. Correct undereyes
For the past few weeks I've been using Luminous Eye Corrector by DRMTLGY. It has SPF 41, and nice coverage for dark circles.
I especially love the metal applicator, which has a cooling effect. This 2-in-1 product saves so much time in the morning. As do these...
5. Serum foundations with SPF50
Lately I've been wearing two new (to me) foundations. They both have a whopping SPF50!
The first is Colorescience Flex Foundation. It comes in four shades, and blends beautifully.
Next, I've been using Ciele Tint & Protect, which is a serum foundation. It comes in 13 shades. I used the testers at Sephora to find the right one.
I've also been using Ciele's SPF30 loose finishing powder, for a few months, and it is a dream! It sets the liquid foundation and add extra sun protection.
On lazy days at home, I skip the liquid foundation and wear the ciele powder directly on top of sunscreen. It adds natural-looking coverage.
6. Tinted sunscreen
EltaMD UV Physical sunscreen is another newcomer to my suncare collection.
It's perfect for a low-maintenance, t-shirt dress kind of day. The sunscreen's sheer tint is ideal for fair skin tones.
7. Bronzer
This is key to enlivening your skin when wearing a headcovering.
A swipe on the top of your forehead, cheeks, and nose will ensure your complexion doesn't look washed out. It takes minimal effort to apply, and creates a lovely effect.
For years, I've been using Rimmel's Natural Bronzer in shade 'sunlight.' I discovered it in a Lisa Eldridge tutorial.
Recently, I ordered Baked Bronze-n-Brighten by Laura Geller. It's cream-to-powder bronzer, and is specially formulated for mature skin.
8. Try a tubing mascara
Tubing mascara is a relatively new innovation. It works by wrapping around each lash, thus creating a 'tube.'
I've tried a few, and CaliRay 'Come Hell or High Water' is my favorite. It comes off easily with warm water, and is available in both a mini and full size.
If you have sensitive eyes, I recommend Physician's Formula Organic Wear mascara. It's also great if you wear contact lenses.
9. Fan out your lashes
For removing clumps and fanning out lashes, I reach for my Tweezerman lash comb. I find its metal prongs works better than plastic ones.
10. Surround your face with sparkle
These little clip-ons create the effect of pierced-ear stud earrings. The removable silicone cushions add comfort. They come in a set of 15 pairs on Amazon, and look surprisingly fine given the low price point.
11. Five-second eyeshadows
L'Oreal LeShadow / e.l.f. no budge shadow stick / Ulta collection cream shadow stick
These shimmer cream eyeshadow sticks have been saving me so much time in the morning. You can apply them from the stick. No need for a brush; just blend with your fingers.
I love Bobbi Brown's cream eyeshadow stick in the shade taupe. It's perfect for no-makeup makeup days. (For me, that's basically every day).
For an sheer effect, I first apply it to my fingertip, then dab onto eyelids.
12. A weighted eye mask
I've been using this weighted eye mask for about a month. It helps my ongoing effort to sleep on my back.
Clever tools I've yet to try...
The following 2-in-1 and even 3-in-1 tools are at the top of my wish list.
Thank you for reading!
May your inner beauty shine through and enhance your features. You are awesome, just for being here.
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