5 Tips to Get the Softest Skin, Ever

Just because we get to bundle under layers of sweaters now and hide our skin doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take care of it. We’re no longer frolicking in bikinis in the summer and focusing on every bump and flaw on our skin, but the cold air does wreak havoc on our skin and leave it dry and dull.
Dry skin leads to flaky and itchy skin in the winter, and those thick wool sweaters won’t help. We have the tips for you to get the softest skin – ever – so when you do have to show your skin (you never know if a surprise vacation will happen or you’ll be under the covers with People’s Sexiest Man Alive) you’ll be silky soft to the touch. Daily lotions are great, but may not give you the luxurious butter feeling you crave. And body butters won’t do much if you haven’t exfoliated dead cells away.
Follow these tips for the softest skin, ever:

1. First things first: avoid ingrown hairs and red bumps by changing your razor frequently. A month-old razor will harbor bacteria and be more dull than a new one, causing irritation when you shave. You should change your razor after every few uses.

2. Get rid of dead skin cells by exfoliating. Use an exfoliator like Elemis Spa At Home Lime and Ginger Salt Glow, which deep cleans, prevents ingrown hairs, and tones for smooth skin.

3. Exfoliating too much can lead to irritated skin so switch out with a moisturizing body wash like Aveeno Active Naturals Body Wash Hydrating Fig + Shea Butter, which cleanses and hydrates.

4. Lock in moisture with a body butter. As soon as you step out of the shower, massage an indulgent body butter like The Body Shop Cocoa Butter Body Butter all over your skin. Cocoa butter is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants so it’ll keep your skin feeling super soft all day and all night.

5. If you still have dry areas like your hands or feet, apply a moisturizer and vaseline then cover with socks or gloves before going to bed. Rinse off in the morning and you should notice softer skin.

6 Winter Beauty Mistakes and How to Fix Them

When it’s cold outside (and inside) we tend to stay under our thick blanket longer, take extra long hot showers, and skimp out on our morning routine when we’re running late. But it’s essential to take care of our skin and change up our beauty routine during the cold months so we don’t end up with flaky skin, cracked feet, and dry hair come spring. Read on for the beauty mistakes you may be making this winter and how to fix them.

1. Avoiding your feet. Although they’re hidden in thick socks, rough feet aren’t fun to cuddle with and it’ll be hard to get them in shape for spring if you don’t maintain them. When you give yourself a pedicure (if you don’t actually go pay for one every few weeks), actually spend time soaking your feet in the bath before removing calluses and dry skin with a callus stone like Tweezerman Pedro Too Callus Stone. And don’t forget to moisturize! Try one of these body lotions all over your legs and feet.

2. Not wearing waterproof makeup. Waterproof mascara may seem like something for summer in case you find yourself by a pool, but the cold weather and wind can cause you to tear up and in turn cause your makeup to run. Wear a waterproof mascara like Lancome Hypnose Waterproof Mascara and eyeliner that will stay put all day like Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner. But don’t forget to take it off every night before you go to bed!

3. Taking a long, hot shower. While taking a 20 minute steaming hot shower sounds like the best way to wake up in the morning, it may be doing more harm than good to your skin. The hot water dries out your skin, making it harder to retain moisture when you step out. Turn down the temperature and shorten your shower time.

4. Going for sun-kissed skin, but ending up with a fake summer tan. You may want a nice glow even in the winter, but avoid looking like someone from “Jersey Shore” and limit the spray tans and bronzers. You can get a spray tan once in awhile when you’re feeling a little pasty and compliment it with a moisturizer that’ll give you some color like Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer. Use a touch of bronzer like Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder where the sun would hit you on your face (cheek bones, nose, etc) for a sun-kissed tone but don’t go crazy with it.

5. Skipping SPF. It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean the sun isn’t impacting your skin. Being outside unprotected means the sun is slowly damaging your skin, even if you’re only outside for 30 minutes. To make it easy, use a moisturizer with SPF in it like Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30.

6. Styling hair without a heat protectant. Winter means we’re styling our hair with heat tools more often than we’re letting it air dry. Using blow dryers, straighteners, and curlers without any kind of heat protectant will lead to dry, damaged hair. Spray a heat protectant like Nexxus Heat Protexx Heat Protection Styling Spray on damp hair before styling.

101 Beauty Tips Every Girl Should Know

In the world of beauty, there are endless tips and rules to keep you looking fabulous. In the list below Beauty High breaks down all those tips to make the industry less scaryfrom makeup artists, hairstylists, skincare gurus and of course, our beauty staff. Remember, beauty should always be fun!
101. “Always keep your summer makeup minimal. Minimal and sheer makeup is the way to go when it’s hot and muggy outside.” – Mary Greenwell, celebrity makeup artist
100. “The best thing to do when you go to a makeup counter is be armed with what it is you want to do.”- Raychel Wade, founder of Cheek to Chic and La Prairie’s colour ambassador
99. Use excess eye cream on cuticles.
98. For smudge-proof eye makeup, take blotting tissue to remove any oil or any excess makeup from the eye area.
97. “A good perfume should consist of balanced blend of notes arranged in a way that creates harmonious accord.”- Alexis Bergman, P&G’s Global Flavor and Fragrance Trends
96. To prevent hair color from fading in the summer months, use a conditioning treatment weekly or bi-monthly.
95. Breakout before a big event? “Take oral cortisone a few days before the event to clear your skin”- Ava Shamban, dermatologist and author of Heal Your Skin.
94. “In order to keep eyeliner from running and smearing, opt for liner formulas that offer stayproof wearability.”- Robin Schoen, Urban Decay Makeup Artist

93. Always allow about two fingers from your nose to where blush starts.
92. “Make sure you hydrate the skin and put on a primer”- Jessie Powers, makeup artist and national educator for Make Up For Ever
91. “Balance out your shimmer. If youre doing a shimmery eye, do matte lips”- Raychel Wade, founder of Cheek to Chic and La Prairie’s colour ambassador
90. Brush out your curls with your fingers to give your hair a more tousled look.
89. To make your manicure last, apply a thin layer of clear every two days.
88. Wear white eyeliner to make eyes appear less red.
87. “Take a shimmery gloss to the center of your lips, top and bottom – this will attract light to your lips, making them look pouty.”-Katrina Barrion, makeup artist for Giella Custom Blend Cosmetics
86. For slicked back hair, use a serum.
85. For the perfect cat-eye, “select a thin liner brush that is tapered to the point”- Pamela Taylor, makeup artist
84. To make your cheek bones appear higher, use bronzer under the cheekbone and highlighter on the actual cheekbone.
83. Before you blow dry, start with a volumizing spray or light gel to give the roots some lift.
82. For fuller lips, extend the lip line using a flesh tone lip liner. Be careful not to go overboard!
81. The #1 reason for flaky mascara is that the formula is too dry or old. Make sure to close mascara after use to help keep its moisture.
80. To fake clear skin when you notice a pimple, “Apply tea tree oil as soon as you spot it”- Stephanie Flor, makeup artist
79. During summer, “Its easy to forget that feet can get sunburned. Be sure to apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 50 when barefoot”- Dr. Leslie Campbell, DPM
78. For clear skin, look for a cleanser with salycilic acid.
77. When choosing a red lipstick, you just want to remember to get one that looks good with your undertone. If you have a warm undertone, then go for warmer reds, and if you have a cool undertone, then go cooler.

credit: Jamelah
76. Sunscreens that claim to provide “all-day protection” and “water resistance” are not reliable; don’t be fooled by these claims and reapply all sunscreens at least every two to three hours.
75. When self-tanning, use a tanner with a guide color. “It will give you instant color before the effect and it will show you exactly where you put the color and where you may have missed”- Sinead Norenius, founder of Beautisol
74. “If you’re afraid of red lipstick, I love putting it on and then blotting it off to wear it as more of a stain”- Pat McGrath, makeup artist
73. For the summer months, you don’t want to be caked down in foundation so try a tinted moisturizer instead.
72. Use blotting papers to manage oil and shine in your T-Zone “which are also great for cleaning up around the eyes”- Rebecca Restrepo, makeup artist
71. The antihistamines in allergy medicine dry out the skin, so skip heavy foundation during allergy season. Instead, use a tinted moisturizer.
70. To make curls last, make sure hair is completely dry before you begin with the curling iron.
69. To make a zit go away faster, don’t pick at it. The bacteria on your fingeres will create more redness.
68. Use an exfoliater to get rid of dead skin but limit yourself to 2-3 times a week so you don’t dry out your skin.
67. Always wash your makeup off before bed. “That morning-after look has never been a good one, for anyone”- Rachel Adler, beauty director Beautyhigh.com
66. “Too much bronzer is a nightmare for pale skin”- Jason Ascher, resident beauty expert for Barneys New York. Opt for an illuminating cream or light powder to get a glow.
65. Pick a sulfate-free shampoo, as sulfates can be harsh and drying on the hair cuticle.
64. If you have greasy hair, avoid directly conditioning roots and condition from your ear down to ends.
63.”When you wear a red lip it’s important that it stays exactly where you put it. Using a long wearing lip pencil to create the perfect shape and a lip color are key to having a perfect red lip.”-Kristofer Buckle, celebrity makeup artist
62. To make volume last all day, avoid running your fingers through hair. “Oil from your hands can weigh down your roots leaving your hair flat at the end of the day”-Tatum Neill, Arrojo Studio
61. Try to avoid washing your hair everyday. Constant shampooing leaves hair dry and your scalp will create more oils to compensate for the loss of moisture.
60. Always use a moisturizer with SPF in the morning. Even in the winter!
59.”Go for a trim every 6-8 weeks to ensure you have no damaged ends making your hair look unhealthy”- Nick Arrojo, Arrojo Studio (and the man who worked for seven years changing lives on What Not To Wear)

credit: greenlagirl
58. Remember, clean brushes to fight against potential bacteria and breakouts!
57. Clean out your makeup bag at least once a year to get rid of old products that may be expired or you no longer use.
56. Winter can be especially harsh on your hair leaving it extra dry. Eugene Davis, celebrity hair stylist suggests using an Avocado Oil Hair Mask.
55. If you don’t have nail polish remover, apply clear nail polish over and then wipe off. It will remove old polish.
54. During the summer, wear chapstick or lip gloss with SPF.
53. To add volume to clean or unwashed hair, use a dry shampoo spray.
52.Change your beauty routine for Spring/Summer months. Your skin needs less coverage during the spring so you can swap the heavy products for lighter ones.
51.”I always think that less is more, there’s a point where you look in the mirror and say ‘Is this too much?’ and if you even have that inclination then it usually is.”- Kim Catrall, Sex and the City
50. When applying bronzer, “first start by applying it around the perimeter of your face and follow with a light dusting on your forehead, nose and chin”- Mally Roncal, Mally Beauty

49. To get curls when you have straight hair, use the following, “a volumizer or volume thickening agent, a curl enhancing product, light holding finishing spray”- Vicktor Stevenson, Hair Stylist
48.”Foundation should never be heavy”- Aura Schwartz, makeup artist
47.”The right red [lipstick] will light up your hair, eyes and skin immediately, the wrong one will not.”-Poppy King, Lipstick Queen
46.Use a shimmer eye shadow to compliment a bold matte lip.
45.To revive curls mid-day, “Take a very small amount of pomade and put it in the palms of your hands. Rub them together. Next gently smooth the pomade over your curls and scrunch just a little bit”-Eugene Davis, celebrity hair stylist
44.”You should always go to a hair-removal specialist, where waxing, laser etc. is their main business – don’t go to a nail salon for a wax”- Cindy Barshop, Completely Bare and Bravo’s RHONYC
43.”A little silvery-blue eyeliner on the lower lid is very flirty”- Dimitri James, makeup artist, author and creator of Skinn Cosmetics
42. “Use your concealer as a base on your eyelids”-Melissa Silver, Maybelline makeup artist
41. If you’re not a fan of liquid liner, get the look of liquid eye liner by using a gel instead.

credit: yumenouta
40. Exfoliate before applying self tanner to get rid of dead skin. Tanning products tend to cling to dryer areas.
39. If you straighten your hair with a flat iron, cause less heat damage by letting hair air-dry. The less heat, the better!
38. To minimize pores, use a pore-minimizing facial wash followed by a toner. Make sure the toner is alchohol-free so it won’t dry out your skin.
37. The healthier you are, the healthier your hair! Take a daily multi-vitamin with Biotin to help hair grow.
36.To mask split ends, use an iron to straighten ends and then apply a hair repair cream.
35.There are always cheap, natural and effective homemade beauty recipes.
34.To fix brassy hair color, use a color-depositing shampoo with purple tones. For unwanted redness, use a color-depositer with a green tone.
33. To cover up roots in a hurry, use a dry shampoo spray for your hair color. If you don’t keep this product around, use eyeshadow (in a shade closest to your hair color) for a quick fix.
32. Get a “dewy glow” using a highlighter or illuminator above your cheekbones and on the browbone.
31. To contour cheeks, use a matte powder (a few shades darker than your skin tone) with an angled brush. Blend on temples and under cheek bone.
30.When using a cream product, lock it in by using a translucent powder over it.
29. Get quick volume by using a root lifter, then use hairspray to set hair. This will prevent it from fall flat during the day.
28. For makeup that lasts all day and night, use a makeup-sealing product.
27. To help you find the right shade of foundation, choose the product you think is closest to your color and try it on your jawline in natural light. You will be able to easily compare it to your neck’s color to see if you need to go for a different undertone, lighter or darker.
26. Try out the funky hair color trends without dying your hair. Instead, dust bright blush in your ponytail for the same effect.
25. “Foot perspiration is typical in the summer and can lead to fungal infection and unwanted odor. Wash feet daily, and let them dry thoroughly before putting shoes on”- Dr. Leslie Campbell, DPM
24. Splurge on items that are important to you.”If mascara is really your thing and you fall in love with a mascara that ‘s $40, buy the mascara.”-Raychel Wade, founder of Cheek to Chic and La Prairie’s colour ambassador
23.”Don’t be too serious: It’s only Makeup! “- Francois NARS insists you play around with new colors
22. To reduce unwanted shine, use a moisturizer that mattifies, that way you get the moisture your skin needs without looking greasy.
21. To create a lived-in look for your hair, use thickening or sea-salt mist before you blow-dry. Follow by running a volumizing or texture cream through hair.
20. When using an eyeshadow primer, only place the primer where you’ll be adding color.
19.”Cream rouge [blush] should be the first thing that touches your cheeks when you want to project an image of healthy and pinched cheeks”- Pablo Manzoni, former creative director for Elizabeth Arden
18. If you choose to use false eyelashes, remember to use the dark glue as it will blend in with the lashes.
17.When buying “organic” beauty products, make sure to check if they are FDA certified organic. This will prevent you from getting scammed.
16. Use a facial exfoliater bi-weekly to get dead skin of dead skin. Makeup will look better on a clean, smooth canvas.
15. After using a a hair conditioning mask, follow with “a cold water rinse to close the hair cuticles”- Ursala Stephensen, Motions celebrity stylist
14. To get your braid to last all day, try styling hair that’s “dirty with product”. This will make the style stick longer.
13. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to get rid of any product build-up that may have occured during the week.
12. If you have chipped nail-polish, add crackle or glitter on top to disguise the look of chipping.
11. Use a pumice stone on your feet after the shower to get rid of calluses on your feet.

credit: silkegb
10. Hydrate your under-eye area with an eye cream to prevent puffiness and bags.
9. If you have light hair,”put a lotion over the eyebrows and hair line” when self-tanning the face. Also remember to “apply it in circular motions and blend down to the neck”- Sinead Norenius, founder of Beautisol
8. If you often find yourself being too tired to wash your face at night, keep makeup removing wipes in your night stand to prevent a runny mess or morning break out.
7. Pop 1-2 Advil before going waxing to prevent pain.
6. The best way to get rid of ingrown hairs is to exfoliate,”which rids the skin of dead cells and allows the hair to break through the surface”- Marlena Ramoy, Bliss Spa Esthetician
5. Carrots are good for the hair. A healthy diet leads to a beautiful you.
4.”The best time to apply creams is after the shower, as the skin has been de-oiled.”- Dr. Stephen P. Bracci
3. Replace mascara and liquid eyeliner after three to four months.
2. To keep hair color vibrant longer, use shampoos and conditioners formulated for colored hair.
1. Use a cream or milk cleanser to wash your face. Creams are less drying than gels.

Beauty Tips for Beautiful Cheeks

Here are some simple ways to get beautiful cheeks. 

Beautiful, rosy cheeks light up a woman’s face and reflect good health and inner radiance. But few of us wake up with that natural glow, and often we apply makeup in a way that makes our skin look worse instead of better. Try these tips for beautiful cheeks from morning to night.

• Before applying your makeup, soak in a warm bath. Make it special and fragrant with soothing bath salts and scented oils. Cleanse your face gently and pat dry — do not rub. When you step out of the bathtub, notice where your cheeks are naturally pink — this is the area to focus on when applying blush.
• After the bath, moisturize your face with cream or lotion and let dry.
• Apply a thin makeup base or foundation to your entire face to even out your complexion.
• Next, apply your blush. Choose a natural-looking color rather than one that looks heavy, pasty, glittery, or too dark. If you have a lighter complexion, opt for the rose tones. For olive or darker skin, a deeper shade of blush will work. Avoid orange-tinted blushes, which aren’t as flattering.
• Use a clean, top-quality makeup brush to apply powder blush. Avoid using cotton balls, tissues, or the mini brushes that are sometimes enclosed with compacts and palettes as applicators. The wrong tools can give cheeks an uneven, blotchy look.
• Apply the blush to the apples of your cheeks and work your way up to the hairline. Don’t apply the color too close to your nose. Use three to five strokes max on each cheek — any more than that is a beauty no-no! The secret to beautiful cheeks is to keep them looking natural, not overdone.
• Finish off with a highlighting powder. Apply a shimmery powder to your cheekbones and brow bones for a beautiful glow.
• If you prefer a cream blush, remember that a little goes a long way, so use sparingly. Dab onto fingers, then smooth into skin from the center of the cheekbone toward the hairline. Blend evenly into the skin until any hard edges disappear. Cream or stick blushes work especially well for women with dry skin and during the winter months, when powder blush can flake off.
• If you’re fair-skinned, use a light base coat of cream blush followed by a few strokes of powder blush. Then apply a translucent powder with a large brush and blend well for a natural look.
• Keep cheeks looking beautiful between makeup applications by following these simple daily steps:
  • Drink lots of water — beautiful cheeks are hydrated cheeks!
  • Exercise. It’s the best way to get a natural glow.
  • Gently pinch the skin along your cheekbones to brighten them throughout the day.
  • Eat fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein (avoid the fatty, greasy stuff!) to enhance the skin’s natural glow and reduce blemishes.
  • Have sex. Yes, this really does give you beautiful, flushed cheeks!
  • Remove your makeup thoroughly every night with a cleansing cloth.
  • Moisturize cheeks before bed with an emollient facial cream.
  • Avoid wearing makeup on lazy days to give your face a chance to breathe.
  Follow these tips and you’ll see how easy it is to get that beautiful rosy glow!

 

Beauty Tips for High School Girls

Beauty Tips for High School Girls

Girls become very conscious for their appearance in high school years. Here I want to share few random beauty tips that will be best suitable for high school girls to get a fashionable look:

Skin Care

Skin can undergo many changes in teens for instance skin produces more oil which causes embarrassing acne problem. You should avoid washing your face many times a day and using highly medicated products. These medications over stimulate oil glands to produce more oil. Make sure to wash your face with a light soap twice per day. It will also be good to add some shine-free moisturizer for skin hydration. Make sure to remove makeup before sleeping.

Makeup

Mostly high school girls like to use heavy makeup in crazy colors for fun but it looks unnatural. Choose one feature you want to highlight when it comes the time to apply makeup. Use this key feature as a base for you. If you have pretty eyes then do those up and leave rest of your face as natural. If you want to use bright lipstick then use minimal amount of makeup elsewhere.

Hair

Hair styling is very important for high school girls. Girls like to have fun in dyeing hairs and use different colors to highlight hairs. Having one signature hairstyle is an easy way to retain your personality among all other high school girls.

How to Be a Beautiful Teenager

It's getting harder and harder to fit in as a teenager. The key to being social is confidence, which (I find!) is easier to accomplish if you feel beautiful. Beauty is basically all about hygiene. Take care of yourself! You deserve it.

1. 
   
   

   Brush teeth and use mouthwash, and floss daily - twice a day.
   Brush teeth and use mouthwash, and floss daily - twice a day. Also, try chewing sugar-free gum after meals. You don't want to smile at your crush with some cabbage in your teeth. Have a packet of mint gum nearby to chew when your breath isn't great! Get braces if you have to, and don't be ashamed to wear them - you'll be the one smiling in the future with lovely teeth when your braces come off!
2. 
   
   Use deodorant (and if you want) cologne or perfume, even if you think you don't smell.
3. 
   
   Be healthy. It might not seem like it matters much, but being in shape and healthy makes a huge difference. It's not as hard as it seems. Make sure you eat healthy foods, and stay away from fatty/sugary foods, eat lots of veggies and fruits, and exercise at least 30-60 minutes a day. After doing a good cardio workout, like running, for 30 minutes you raise your heart rate which puts your body in "fat burning mode". Try and burn more calories than you eat a day, and make sure you never skip a meal. It makes your body take muscle tissue into your metabolism and makes you store fat, making your metabolism run slowly resulting in weight gain.
4. 
   
   Take care your hair! Use shampoo and conditioner at least 2-3 times a week. On the days you can, let your hair get greasy (sounds gross but the natural oils are really good for your hair).
5. 
   
   Shave or wax any hair that you don't want on your body. It's a good idea, if you're doing any facial hair removal, to go get it professionally done. For best results with shaving, exfoliate your legs first, towel dry, then cover legs in shaving foam (lots of it!) and shave. Be careful not to get into the habit of over-shaving (shaving every day, for instance) as it will just make the hair grow back thicker and it'll end up being a huge hassle.
6. 
   
   

   Take care of your nails! You don't have to go to a salon.
   Take care of your nails! You don't have to go to a salon. Just get a nail file and/or nail clippers. You can shape your nails with a file or clip off uneven parts with the clippers. If you want a natural look apply clear nail strengthener to them and leave them be! If you want a funky look then go for any colour you want, just make sure to fix them if they chip at all. Chipped paint looks terrible.
7. 
   
   Fight the habits! Stop biting your nails, picking at skin blemishes, etc.
8. 
   
   

   Smile! Seriously! It makes you a lot prettier and approachable.
   Smile! Seriously! It makes you a lot prettier and approachable. Just make sure your teeth are clean!
9. 
   
   Apply a bit of make-up (if you want) to enhance your natural look. Don't plaster it on, and use neutral colours. Use bold mascara to make your eyes seem bigger. Lip balms and glosses are cute, or use lipstick to achieve a bolder look. If you don't want lip stuff on your lips, you can moisturize with lip chap. Acne is very common with teens, you can cover it up with concealer and foundation. Fit Me or Cover girl works great, and is super cheap! Maybe buy a good, gentle face wash to help clear it up.
10. 
    
    Find a style of clothing that suits your body type. Don't wear really tight clothes if you're a little bigger, and not wear really baggy clothes that fall off either. Make sure your clothes are clean and tidy. If they have stains or holes (unless they are those famous "ripped jeans") just throw them out. Don't wear the same outfit two days in a row and make sure all of your clothes are clean and wrinkle-less.
11. 
    
    Remember you can change your look but it's not always good to change your personality if you want to fit in, so, with that being said, be yourself. Yep, that's a bit cliche, but it's the truth! Being yourself will make you look (even more) beautiful.

Tips

• If you're going to use make up, be sure it's a gradual change over time.

Warnings

• Don't get carried away with trying to change your image! It's all in baby steps. Everything in moderation.
• Make sure you know how to apply makeup before you wear it in public/ at school. Practice!
• Be careful that you don't wash your face/ hair to often as this can actually be worse for it (overboard)

Things You'll Need

• Mouthwash, Dental floss, toothpaste and a decent toothbrush.
• Deodorants. Roll-ons and sprays are good to use.
• Hair products - Shampoo, Conditioner
• Skin Moisturizer
• Wax Strips / Depilatory Cream / Decent Razor.
• Shaving Foam.
• Nail polish, Nail cutters, Nail Buffers, Nail Files, Nail Scissors, Nail Varnish Remover.
• Products to prevent nail biting.
• Bold Mascara, Blusher, Lip balm / gloss/ Chap, Neutral and bold eye-shadows
• Perfume (or Body Spray)
• Facial Cleanser

How to Remove Your Makeup

Pro Tips From the Beauty Experts

To properly remove makeup, all you need is a proper facial cleanser and eye makeup remover. The goal is not to rub your face raw and don't forget to wash into the hairline and jawline, especially if you use foundation. Here are some answers to your biggest burning questions.

Must I Wash My Face Before I Go to Bed?

Yes -- especially if you have makeup on your face. If you want to wake up with dewy, glowing skin, then you must remove your makeup and sunscreen.

Do I Need Toner?

Many women use toner because they feel it removes all traces of dirt, oil and makeup, however, most beauty experts agree that toners are unnecessary. Most cleansers these days do a great job of removing all the muck from even the heaviest of your makeup days. While toner will strip your skin of any makeup, it also removes natural oils, which can be drying. Unless you have super oily skin or just happen to love a product, skip the toner.

Can I Use Baby Wipes to Remove Makeup?

No, no, no, says beauty expert Laura Mercier in Allure Magazine. "I cringe when I see women using baby wipes to remove their makeup. Those do not get the job done." Women think baby wipes are formulated to be gentle on baby's skin, so therefore it will be gentle on facial skin, Mercier says. Her response to women who think baby wipes are gentle? "Well, a baby's butt isn't covered in makeup that requires special ingredients for proper removal."
'Nuff said.

I Have Super Dry Skin, How Do I Remove Makeup Without Drying It Out More?

Choose your cleanser based on your skin type. If you have super dry skin, consider a cleansing oil. Mercier suggests applying oil on a cotton pad and then swiping the oil across lids, lips, face and brows. Massaging in the oil loosens dirt and makeup. Wash skin with a foaming or gel cleanser, and wash off the cleanser with a warm washcloth, which works to exfoliate skin. Follow with a moisturizer applied to still damp skin.

Help! I Have Acne

If you have acne, your best bet is to wash face with a Salicylic Cleanser. If you have oily skin, consider a foaming cleanser.

What's the Best Way to Remove Waterproof Mascara?

I have used Vaseline all my life to remove eye makeup and I've never had a problem, but the best way to remove all mascaras is to use eye makeup remover (my hands down favorite is made by Clinique). Apply remover to a square cotton pad, then press down on eyelids and lashes to let it soak in. Gently wipe the pad across eyes to pick up mascara. Go over the eye area with a clean pad until it's makeup-free. (This keeps your towels from getting makeup on them). Extra tip: Eye makeup remover works great on lips to remove long-lasting lip color, as well.

Should I Wash My Face Again in the Morning?

Your face doesn't get dirty from sleeping on a clean pillowcase, so there's really no need to wash again in the morning. In fact, too much cleansing can dry out skin. If you wake up with an oily sheen, however, splash a bit of warm water on your face to dissolve the oils. You can also press a warm washcloth to face.

 

How to Tell Your Skin Type

Find out the difference between oily, normal, dry skin

There are 5 basic skin care types: oily, combination (normal), sensitive, dry and sun-damaged. Your skin type is determined by how much -- or how little -- oil your skin produces. Genes, diet, stress level, hormonal fluctuations, medication and even your skincare regimen all determine how much oil your skin produces.

Rona Berg, in her book, "Beauty the New Basics," suggests you take the "skin test" to tell what skin type you have. To do this, wash your face, pat it dry, then take a few pieces of rice paper or lens-cleaning tissue paper and press on different spots on your face. If your skin is oily, the paper will stick, pick up oily spots and become translucent. If the paper doesn't stick or pick up any oily spots, your skin is likely dry. If it sticks in your t-zone (forehead, nose and chin) then you have combination (or normal) skin. Most women actually have combination skin.
Here are the 5 different skin types and their tell-tale characteristics.

Oily Skin

Oily skin is shiny skin, especially in the T-zone (from the forehead, down the nose to the chin). You may have enlarged pores, and you may be prone to blackheads and breakouts due to the overproduction of the sebaceous (oil-producing) glands. The good thing about oily skin is it ages better than dry skin because the oils keep the skin plump allowing fewer wrinkles to form. Many young women have oily skin but as they age, they may find their skin becomes more dry, especially after age 35. To take care of your skin, wash with a cleanser formulated for oily skin before you go to bed. Exfoliate twice weekly with a gentle scrub and use oil-free moisturizers. If you suffer from breakouts, an astringent may help. When it comes to blush and bronzers, powdered blends work better than liquid ones and look for oil-free options for tinted moisturizers or foundations.

Combination/Normal Skin

Most women (some experts say up to 70 percent, although how anyone arrived at that number is beyond me), have combination, or "normal" skin. Combination skin means you may have a slightly oily T-zone and drier cheeks with dry patchy spots here and there. You may also have larger pores on your cheeks and possibly your forehead. This skin type has medium pores, a smooth and even texture, good circulation and a healthy color. To take care of your skin, you may need to treat the T-zone differently from your drier spots. If your T-zone tends to be oily, try an astringent on those areas only after you've washed your face. Make sure to exfoliate twice weekly (I love my Clarisonic Mia) to remove any dead skin cells and use a heavier facial moisturizer on your dry spots as need be.

Dry Skin

After I turned 35 my skin magically became much drier. This skin fluctuation can definitely be attributed to hormones. Dry skin feels tight, especially after cleansing. You have a tendency towards fine wrinkles, flaking and red patches. In women of color, skin may appear ashy or dull from dead skin buildup. Dry skin requires special care. I prefer heavy cleansers and moisturizers over the lightweight products of my oilier years. I exfoliate weekly and even slather on primers before I apply foundation just to plump the skin up as much as possible. I carry Evian spray water with me when I'm traveling to less humid areas and I keep a bottle on my desk to spray my face in the winter, when furnaces dry out the air. If you live in a cold environment, I suggest using a humidifier in your office and bedroom to keep skin from drying out.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin tends to be thin, and delicate with fine pores. If you are easily irritated by the sun, certain cosmetic products and if you are prone to redness, itchy patches or blotchy skin, you likely have sensitive skin. Finding the right cleansers and moisturizers for your skin type can be tricky. The good news is many companies have developed products specifically for sensitive skin. Look for mild products that contain no scents. Many drugstores and department stores allow you to return products, so check out the return policy before you buy or ask if the store carries freebies so you can try before you buy.

Aging or Sun-damaged Skin

This skin also feels tight with visible wrinkles, slack skin tone -- especially around the cheeks and jawline -- with leathery texture and broken capillaries. To care for aging skin, you should consider using moisturizers and heavy creams to plump up your fine wrinkles. I love Retin-A which has done wonders on my skin tone and has smoothed some fine wrinkles. And if you are really upset about your deeper lines, you can have them frozen with Botox or filled with injectables. 

 

20 Makeup Tips for Gorgeous Skin

How to even out skin tone with foundation, concealer, blush

People tell me all the time I have great skin, which takes me by surprise because I think I have ruddy skin and dermatologists (the famous ones I get to meet as a beauty editor) always say the same thing. Somehow I have non-famous people convinced I have great skin. I chalk this up to regular use of Retin-A (my secret to anti-aging) and this bevy of tips I've accrued over the years.

Get skin in tip-top shape

The No. 1 rule I've learned as a beauty editor is the healthier your skin, the less makeup you'll require. If you cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate skin, you'll notice over time you don't need much concealer and very little foundation.

Always slather on primer or moisturizer before foundation

If you apply a primer to your face first, your concealer and foundation will glide on smoothly instead of settling into your fine lines or wrinkles. Moisturizer works, too, just not as well. The trick is to apply foundation within a minute of the primer or moisturizer application -- you don't want it to soak into skin completely.
Apply concealer BEFORE foundation Once you apply concealer, you won't need as much foundation, according to makeup artist Bobbi Brown. Use concealer under eyes, along the nose and on the chin.
When you do apply concealer, pay special attention to the red areas around the nose. Dot concealer on these areas and then step back and look at how much brighter your face is (please also write to me and inform me of how genius I am).

Avoid full foundation coverage

Few people need to apply foundation all over the face -- a look I lovingly call "cake face". Apply where you have uneven skin tone (usually along your nose). In wintertime, if your cheeks tend to get ruddy, apply there as well. For more sheer, natural coverage, consider a tinted moisturizer, which goes on much lighter than typical foundations.

Blend foundation correctly

If you do want more coverage, use a foundation brush (more on this below) and always start in the center of your face, blending outward. Pay special attention around the neck, otherwise people will see the line where you stopped, giving you a "mask face." (Full disclosure: I went around with mask face my entire sophomore year of high school).

Pick the proper color and formula for your skin type

Choose a color that's as close to your natural skin tone as possible. Never try to darken your complexion with foundation, it will look very obvious (use a bronzer for a sun-kissed look). But do consider two shades of foundation: One for summer when skin is naturally darker, and one for winter when skin is lighter. Mix them in the in-between months. For oily skin, go for a matte foundation. Dry skin? Try a hydrating formula. One last tip: It's a myth to test foundation colors on the back of your hand. The best spot is actually along your jawline, according to Allure's Linda Wells, in her book, Confessions of a Beauty Editor.

Use a sponge, a brush OR your fingers

There's really no right or wrong way to apply foundation. It's just by preference. Some makeup artists prefer foundation brushes to apply foundation (I loved Trish McEvoy's foundation brush until I lost it). A brush allows you to get into all the nooks, crannies and pores on your face. To do this, put a glob of foundation or tinted moisturizer on the back of your hand and dab in a foundation brush (I like MAC brushes), then apply to face. Other makeup artists believe using your fingers warms up the foundation, which helps it melt into your skin better. A sponge provides a great even coverage. It's up to you which you prefer.

Don't throw out wrong-toned foundations and concealers

Finding the right color foundation and concealer can be daunting, which is why I suggest you get professional help at Sephora or a makeup counter at a department store. This way you can try before you buy. But if you do have a few foundations and concealers that are just a bit off, do like the makeup artists and blend a couple of mismatched colors for the perfect one.

How to conceal dark under-eye circles

According to makeup artist Anthea King in InStyle magazine, you want to neutralize dark under-eye circles with peach- or yellow-tone concealers. Dab concealer on the inner corner of the eye by tapping it into place (never run a concealer on like you would sunscreen or foundation).

Don't be afraid of bronzers

Nothing warms the face more than a bronzer. Make sure to use a big makeup brush (again, putting in my plug for MAC brushes) and a light touch. Apply to all the spots where the sun hits: Forehead, cheeks and nose. For more "pop," blend a creamy blush on top.

Avoid "cake face"

Oily face? Make sure to blot oil before powdering or your skin will look cakey. Try a powder-free blotting sheet.

Set makeup with a primer

Primers are a relatively new "must-have" trend in the beauty world. They act like spackle: They moisturize, plump the skin and fill in any fine lines, pores and wrinkles so your foundation won't settle into them. At first I was skeptical but then a makeup artist talked me into the beauty editor's All-Time Favorite foundation primer from Laura Mercier. Cha-ching! The primer is oil-free, which means it contains no oils, a bonus for my oily skin. I bought it and use it daily underneath my tinted moisturizer.

Natural oils are not bad

Speaking of oily skin, I'm no fan of the cakey, too-powdered look. Don't be afraid of your skin's natural oils. I prefer my face to have some sheen, which I think looks more "dewy" -- plus, keep in mind oily skin tends to develop fewer lines than dry skin. If you have oily skin, apply an oil-free primer before your foundation to keep makeup in place (see my advice on primers above), then powder only the nose and chin. Keep a pack of blotting tissues in your purse to blot excessive oils.

Evian spray is a God-send

After you apply makeup, spray Evian water spray on your face to get the perfect dewy non-cake face. Get Evian spray at any drugstore. You can also apply a pea-sized dot of moisturizer on a sponge and lightly apply to forehead and cheeks.

Get rid of the "ashy" look

If you have dark skin, you may notice your skin can get ashy. Combat it with a cream highlighter. Apply concealer to upper corners of lips where skin tends to be darker.

Tone down ruddy skin

If you have ruddy (red) skin, tone it down with a yellow- or green-based foundation. Pink-based foundations and tinted moisturizers will only worsen your red complexion. Also, try yellow-based blushes, such as apricot, instead of a pink tone.

Highlighters add depth to skin

I love the way highlighters can minimize your worst features while enhancing others. Apply just above the eyes for a wide-awake look and use to contour around the cheeks. A makeup artist's favorite (and mine, too) is Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat concealer. Makeup artist Jo Strettel swears by this in Elle Magazine because it's easy to use: You simply paint it on the face.

Create instant cheekbones

Add contour and depth to cheekbones by applying a bronzing powder over cheeks, forehead and nose (where the sun naturally hits), then applying a cream blush on cheeks over this. Instead of applying blush into the apples of your cheeks, dot the cream along your cheekbone, then blend in well.

Darken your ultra-white skin

Does your skin get super white? Add color and shimmer to it with Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse.

Yes, everyone can wear blush

I have ruddy skin and thought I never needed blush and the makeup artist at Bobbi Brown agreed, until she applied a tinted moisturizer first. The moisturizer toned down my ruddiness enough that she NEEDED to add a blush which subsequently gave me a healthy flush.

 

What is the best foundation for Asian skin?

Answer: Asian skin can be tricky. You want to stay away from pinkish shades and stick to a yellow base. Your best bet is to go to a large department store that stocks dozens of brands and shades (like Sephora) and test out different colors with the help of a salesperson. The trick to testing foundation is to stand near a window to view the shade in natural light. Otherwise, you might try custom blending. Several department stores offer this. The makeup artist will blend the perfect formula for you (keep in mind you may need a different shade for summer and one for winter).

Some great brands to try: Prescriptives makes 500 shades so chances are you'll find your perfect fit. Also Shu Uemura and Shisheido are two Asian-based companies that cater to Asian skin.

How To Pick the Perfect Foundation Makeup

Picking the perfect foundation for your skin can be daunting. Here's how to go about it while shopping in a department store. Remember, you always want to test before you buy. This is why it's best to get your foundations from department stores rather than from the makeup aisle at your local pharmacy or grocery store. If you do buy from a drugstore, make sure it has a liberal return policy (like Rite Aid).

 

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: 10 minutes

Here's How:

1. Before you pick the formula, you need to find out the right formulation for your skin. If you're oily, look for words like "oil-free," "oil-control" or "mattifying" on the bottle. Got dry skin? Go for moisturizing foundations with "hydrating" or "moisture-rich" wording on the bottle. Foundations containing glycerin glide on easily. For combination skin, determine if you're more oily or dry and go from there. Cream-to-powder bases work great for combination skin. Mineral foundations work well on all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
2. Consider if you want a light or medium-coverage. If you have good skin, but want to even out a few ruddy areas, consider a light coverage. For women with really uneven skin tone or blemishes, consider a medium-coverage foundation. Some women swear by mineral foundations, so you might want to try these out as well.
3. Show up to the makeup counter with a clean, fresh face. It's OK to wear eye makeup or lipstick, even moisturizer on your face, but you don't want to show up already wearing foundation.
4. Select a few colors that seem close to your natural skin tone. Go for the yellow-based foundations, which look most natural on all skin tones. However, if you're very fair, try a pink, cooler shade.
5. Apply a stroke of up to three colors on a cheek (the inner wrist or hand aren't the best spots, contrary to popular belief). The one that disappears is the right shade.
6. Take a good, long look -- near a window. Ask to borrow a hand mirror and stand near a doorway, or step outside, to see which foundation looks best in the natural light. The right shade is one that you can't see because it blends in so well. If you are purchasing from a drugstore, take a couple bottles to a doorway, hold them up to your neck and see which one matches the best or if you have a favorite shade you want to match, match the colors of the bottles, never the swatch on the display.
7. Once you've bought the foundation, take it home and try it out. If you don't like it you can return it. If you're buying from a drugstore, purchase from one with a liberal return policy (like Rite Aid).

Tips:

1. Try the color out on your jawline, not your wrist or hand
2. Remember to stand in a doorway or outside to see if the color matches
3. A foundation with sunscreen is a safe bet, but you will still need to wear sunscreen under your foundation. Also considering skipping foundation and opting for a tinted moisturizer (Laura Mercier makes a great one) instead.
4. Believe it or not, today foundation is totally optional. It's healthier for your skin NOT to wear foundation daily. If you have blemishes or pimples, try strategically placed concealer instead. Or just wear the foundation on the parts that need it most, likely around your nose and eyes and on your chin. Just make sure to blend properly.
5. Go for different looks for evening and day. A light foundation is perfect for work or weekend. While a sexy shimmer is great for evening.

Get rid of Dark Circles

I have dark under-eye circles. Is there any way to get rid of them?

Answer: Dark circles are famously annoying and unfortunately, there's no way to get rid of them. However, you have 3 basic options for concealing them.

Option 1: Use a proper under-eye concealer

Under-eye concealers are formulated for dark circles found under the eyes. They work by brightening the dark areas under the eyes and are not to be used to camouflage redness or blemishes. If you put a dab of concealer on a red spot or blemish, you will only highlight it, according to makeup artist Bobbi Brown in her book, Makeup Manual. This is because you need separate concealers for each problem spot on the face. For blemishes and red spots, Brown suggests you opt instead for a yellow-based foundation. Using an under-eye concealer can wake up your face and hide your dark circles. I've seen amazing before-and-after pictures in beauty books and magazines. The key is finding the right shade and in the proper application.
To find the right shade for you, test out concealers at a department store counter or at Sephora. (Tip: Tell the makeup artist you are looking to correct the under-eye circles and are testing several different types before purchase). Choose concealer that's a shade lighter than your foundation. And if your circles are very dark, go 2 shades lighter. You might be choosing a concealer that's too light if you end up with a "raccoon look."
If you have super dark under-eye circles, look for a peach or pink "corrector" to apply under the eyes. This is mean to counteract the purplish or blue circles under the eyes. You'll likely need to dot a regular yellow-based concealer over the corrector to hide it's lightness, according to Brown.
Here's how to apply concealer or corrector:

1. Starting with a clean face (concealer should be your first step, always), apply a corrector pen or dot under-eye concealer at the corner of the inner eye. Continue to "paint" the corrector or "dot" the concealer under the eyes close to the lashes. You want to apply product generously and cover all dark areas.
2. Blend the concealer by using the pad of your middle finger to gently press the product into the skin.
3. Use a yellow-based powder to set the concealer. If you have super fair skin, use a white powder to set the concealer.

Option 2: Invest in a vitamin K-based eye product

Eye creams such as Vita-K Solution gel or Peter Thomas Roth Power K Eye Rescue can help strengthen capillary walls so dark circles and veins become less visible.

Option 3: Laser treatment

If you have a chronic case of under-eye circles, you should contact a doctor about lasers. Lasers can thicken the skin by increasing collagen production, so you are less likely to see veins, according to Los Angeles facialist Kate Somerville in InStyle magazine.

How to Apply Bronzer

The "must-hit" spots on the face; plus, my favorite bronzers

Bronzer is a great staple for any beauty bag. It can make your skin look sun-kissed even when it's protected with sunscreen. It can also wake up tired, pasty skin. Here are some tried-and-true tips for proper application.

The Must-Hit Spots for Bronzer

Bronzer looks best when applied lightly to all the spots where the sun naturally shines (the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin).

Don't Go Too Dark

Most companies sell light, medium and dark bronzers. Choose a shade that's no more than two shades darker than your skin. I once made the mistake of buying bronzer that came in a quad of four colors. The darkest was WAY too dark for my skin. (Hello George Hamilton!). Keep in mind you might need a different shade in winter than summer, when your skin is naturally darker.
If you're fair and sunburn easily, peach or pink bronzers are a great choice. (Bronzers in general are great for neutralizing a ruddy complexion, according to InStyle's book, "Getting Gorgeous"). Copper shades are nice on olive skin tones, while darker shades are perfect for dark skin. Avoid orange shades, which can look unnatural.

How to Choose the Right Bronzer

Powder-based bronzer is best for oily or normal skin. Use a short, fluffy blush brush to apply, but first blow excess bronzer off brush before application or you risk going overboard with color. Cream- or gel-based bronzers work best for dry skin. Apply with finger or a sponge. As with most cream-based beauty products, it's important to blend well into skin or you risk looking like a clown.

Don't Forget Blush

Bronzer alone can appear dull. For a dewy look, apply cream blush to the apples of your cheeks. The combination of bronzer and cream blush is absolutely gorgeous. According to makeup artist Bobbi Brown, bronzer looks best on days you don't wear a lot of foundation.