Face Makeup

*When buying a foundation, skip the old "wrist test"and try it on your cheek or jaw line instead. If possible, step outside to see how it looks in natural light before you make your purchase.*

*Trying to change your skin tone with foundation doesn't look natural - ideally, it should match closely enough to disappear into your skin. Remember, you're just trying to even out your complexion, not fake a tan.*

*Apply your foundation out from the center of your face, and don't forget to blend thoroughly at your hairline and jawline.*

*If you have a problem with your foundation wearing off after an hour or two and are tempted to try one of the newer "all day" varieties, be cautious when applying. Many really do last for hours, but they also can be tough to blend. Work quickly and in small sections to avoid a streaky mess - once they dry (in about a minute), they are nearly impossible to move around, and you'll have to redo your whole face.*

*Lightly dab your brush into your blush (even with powder), and blow or tap off the excess before applying. Too much product on the brush is just a waste, and can leave you with a much more bold look than you were hoping for.*

*When applying blush, go sparingly and use light sweeping motions - don't press down or grind the brush into your skin.*

Acne Tips

*If your oily skin has you on a constant quest for "matteness" that puts you into a vicious cycle of overcleansing, you may be doing more harm than good. Cleaning too aggressively will cause your skin to produce even more oil, leaving you not only shiny but likely irritated too.*

*In a pinch, applying a dab of toothpaste to a blemish before bed will help dry it out. Use this sparingly, though - you don't want to dry out the rest of your skin, just the pimple.*

*Picking at your acne, as tempting as it may be, can leave you with a scar. Using an acne cream and letting it heal on its own is a much safer bet. If you can't resist squeezing, use your fingertips (not your nails) and don't overdo it - if the blemish in question doesn't "give" quickly, it's probably not going to happen and will end up looking much worse if you keep at it.*