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Tips for a Clear,Glowing Complexion
Don’t Despair.You Can Go Natural Too:
The bare face look has been featured on the runways and on the red carpet all season and this natural look will continue during spring and summer. Expect tinted moisturizers and bronzers, subtle lips with sheer lip gloss and stains, and lipsticks in shades close to natural skin tones, and just a subtle flush of cheek color.
Some of us can’t get away with sheer, tinted moisturizers, illuminators and shimmery powders if we have major discolorations or acne scars to cover up. The problem with this natural look is, you really need smooth and clear skin!
Start With Healthy Skin:
In order to wear the fresh-faced look, you need to start with a healthy complexion. The point is to not have to wear heavy foundation and concealers, so if you are having problems with acne or other skin conditions, be sure to see a dermatologist for a treatment program.
Make sure you are eating a nutritious diet free of processed and fried foods, are drinking plenty of water, getting enough rest, are exercising and avoiding stress, and other things that can be unhealthy for you and therefore your skin.
Keep the Skin Clean:
It’s important to properly cleanse your face, using products according to your skin type and special skin concerns (acne, hyperpigmentation, oily skin, etc.) Start with a gentle facial cleansing routine in the morning and a more thorough cleansing at night to get rid of accumulated dirt, product and makeup. Be sure to remove eye makeup with an eye makeup remover that is formulated to dissolve and gently remove eyeliner and mascara without tugging or requiring excessive rubbing of the delicate skin in the eye area. In fact, it’s also a good idea to invest in a facial cleanser that is good for removing foundation and lipstick if you use long-lasting or water/sweat-proof formulas.
Be Gentle As You Cleanse:
Splash your face with warm water to open the pores and then gently massage the facial cleanser into your skin with your fingertips, using circular motions. Avoid using a washcloth on the face. It can be irritating, especially to sensitive or acne-prone skin. Rinse your face with cold water, pat dry and apply day cream or night cream. Use a gentle facial exfoliator once or twice a week.
If you have acne or are acne-prone you may need to wash your skin more frequently to get rid of excess oil that can contribute to breakouts.
Handle Your Skin With Care :
The natural look is actually a blessing for the acne-prone since many cosmetics clog the
pores and cause breakouts. Reduce your exposure to the oil in products, including makeup and sunscreen, by looking for products that are oil-free. Makeup should also be hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (it won’t clog pores) and non-acnegenic (it won’t stimulate acne). If you have skin that is easily irritated or sensitive to fragrance, use hands, especially when they have been exposed to dirt, bacteria and germs. If you have acne, don’t squeeze pimples or pick at scars and sores.
Tie your hair back at night or wear a satin scarf or hair covering to keep the hair out of your face. The oils from hair care products often contribute to breakouts.
Use clean applicators, sponges or brushes when applying makeup, and use applicators or cotton swabs to apply facial creams, acne creams and ointments. If you prefer using your fingertips to blend eye shadow, lipstick and other makeup, use a clean brush or applicator to remove the product from the palette or container, and then blend the product with clean fingertips. You want to avoid exposing the makeup and other cosmetics to bacteria (by dipping your fingers into the container) and then transferring bacteria and germs to your face.
| If someone doesn’t brighten your life, don’t take off your sunglasses, just find sunshine somewhere else. |
During the day remember to wear sunscreen, which can prevent skin discolorations, skin wrinkling and other problems that can ruin a glowing, natural complexion. Use a sunscreen for your skin type and be sure to wash the product off after you come in from the sun.
