Makeup suggestions for short-haired women

 

Do you have very short hair? If so, you have gone where many women fear to go, and you might be wondering whether you should be switching up your makeup routine, since this hairstyle shows off so much of your face. Short hair can be easier to maintain, giving a girl more time in the morning to perfect her complexion. Recently, BoldSky.com published an article with some makeup tips for short-haired ladies.

First, the news source suggests cleansing your face with a toner before applying makeup, which will help your foundation stay in place. Next, they said that short hair gives you the opportunity to enhance your eyes, so make them pop.

"One simple makeup tip for women with short hair is to use an eye liner or kohl to finish the eye makeup. Apply on the upper and lower eyelid or just in the lower eyelid if you want to keep it simple. Groom and shape your eyebrows for a clean and defined eye makeup. You can use an eyebrow pencil or shadow to set the brows," according to BoldSky.

The HairStyler.com states that you want your complexion to be as clear and glowing as possible if you have short hair, so be sure to blend your foundation well and use an African American skin care product that matches your skin tone.

Skin care ideas for African American men

 

Ladies, if you spend hours getting ready for a big event, then you want make sure that your man looks his best as well. There are plenty of African American skin care products that men can use  that can help him achieve clear skin. Recently, BlackDoctor.com offered some skin and hair care tips for African American men who want to step up their regular routine.

First, the news source reported that 60 to 80 percent of African American men suffer from facial bumps due to shaving. The website suggested keeping the skin moisturized and shaving in the direction that the hair is growing to reduce this problem.

Next, the news provider said that even if you don't wash your hair every day, it still needs to be moisturized.

"Your hair needs to be moisturized daily, whether you shampooed or not, to replenish hydration that is lost through dry conditions or indoor heating. A simple oil can be applied to the roots of your hair to make your hair look softer and help you avoid flakes and dry scalp," according to the news source.

MenScience.com recommends that African American men avoid taking long, hot showers, since they can pull moisture from the skin's surface. They also suggested that if you use a disposable razor, you should change it after about five uses to help avoid bumps and ingrown hairs.

 

New book explains the importance of diet for healthy skin

 

It's important to remember that the things you eat have an impact on the health of your skin. For example, WebMD recommends consuming low-fat dairy products to get a glowing complexion, since these foods contain vitamin A, which is essential to healthy skin.

Recently, the Daily Aztec reported on a new book by dermatologist Jessica Wu called "Feed Your Face: Younger, Smoother Skin and a Beautiful Body in 28 Delicious Days." The book details the importance of having a diet that works for your body and your skin. While Wu recommends healthy foods such as fresh vegetables and brown rice, she also said that you can still have your favorites, like pizza.

"Pizza can be a good choice for your skin. Just order thin crust (whole wheat if possible), go light on the cheese, and load it with the right kinds of protein and veggies that help fight wrinkles," said Wu, quoted by the news source.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants such as pomegranates and green tea have also been shown to potentially keep the skin healthy. On top of eating these substances, they can also be found as ingredients in many African American skin care products.

After the stress of the holidays, treat your skin to something special

 

Hopefully this holiday season brought you lots of new African American skin care products to keep your complexion looking fresh and hydrated during the rest of the winter. It can be difficult to know what to do to combat the rough winds that can show up this time of year, and the dry skin that subsequently follows.

Due to the harsh conditions that come with this time of year, the winter may be a great time to treat yourself to some spa time. While it may be costly to add spas to your regular beauty routine, giving your skin celebrity treatment a couple of times a year may help you feel refreshed and keep your skin glowing.

Another reason why this time of year might be a good opportunity to treat yourself is that some spas offer post-New Year's specials in anticipation of people who made resolutions to take better care of themselves. Remember, not all resolutions have to be to lose weight or get more sleep, you should also resolve to do more for yourself, after all, you deserve it!

 

Radical beauty mistakes of the past

 

Your African American skin care product can do a lot to keep you looking gorgeous, which is a good thing considering some of the crazy things women have put themselves through for beauty. A recent article published in the Huffington Post's style blog Stylelist detailed some of the radical things that movie stars of the past did to enhance their appearance.

First, it was rumored that Marlene Dietrich had her molars removed in order to make her cheekbones more pronounced. Next, Elizabeth Taylor was reportedly born with hypertrichosis, a condition where she was covered in dark hair all over her body, including her nose and ears. Regardless of the fact that it eventually fell off, Taylor regularly shaved her face for a smooth look.

The news source pointed out that Taylor wasn't the only lady to pick up a razor

"In an effort to get glowy skin, [Marilyn Monroe] used Active pHelityl cream, a topical natural hormone replacement. One side-effect was that she grew a layer of peach fuzz, which Monroe proceeded to shave off," according to the news provider.

TotalBeauty.com discusses some more common beauty mistakes that people make. For example, they warn against putting makeup on dry, flaky skin. Foundation will emphasize the flakes by sitting on top of the skin. Also, the website reminded readers to not ignore their eyebrows or over-pluck them. 

Shedding some pounds may improve your complexion

 

While you can use your African American skin care product to hide any pimples you might have, it's best to try and get rid of acne as soon as it rears its ugly head. One thing that young girls who are concerned about their complexion should do is maintain a healthy weight, as USA Today recently reported on a Norwegian study that found that overweight or obese teen girls are more likely to have acne.

"It is possible, but not yet known, that in girls, but not boys, excessive androgens caused by obesity has a greater additive effect on acne," said dermatologist Robert Kirsner, quoted by the news source. He added that the psychological stress that overweight girls may experience could also contribute to skin problems.

The scientists studied more than 3,600 teen girls and discovered that 13 percent had acne. When examining only the obese girls, however, that figure rose to 19 percent.

Discovery Health offers some tips for getting rid of acne. First, try to keep your hands away from your face as much as possible to avoid the oil and dirt from your fingers getting into the pores. Next, the news source recommends washing your face twice a day - no more, no less. Finally, Discovery suggests getting regular exercise to relieve the stress that can cause breakouts.

Brandy discusses being a hair icon

 

When you're getting ready fro a big event and putting on your African American skin care product, what icons do you turn to for guidance for how to do style your hair? In the 90s it was all about Brandy, not only because of her hugely popular albums, but also for her iconic hairstyles. Recently, Essence magazine spoke to the artist about what it means to be a hair trend-setter.

According to Brandy, she began wearing her famous "Brandy braids" in the 90s because people around her said that as a young African American women, she shouldn't be wearing that hairstyle. She wanted to show that she couldn't be held back by what critics were going to say about her appearance.

Next, the news source asked the singer and actress who she turns to for hair advice in this day and age.

"I love Beyonce's hair. I just love it. It's so classy, yet very glamorous. I love Chanel Iman's style. I think she's beautiful in every way. Rihanna can’t do any wrong. Her style is fearless. I want to be able to grow into taking risks like that," said Brandy, quoted by Essence. 

The Hollywood Reporter states that Brandy and other 90's icon Monica are reuniting to record a new single for the first time in 14 years, maybe this will lead to a resurgence of her famous braids as well. 

Suggestions for skin care resolutions

 

If you made 2012 resolutions to do things like lose weight or get in shape, then why not resolve to improve your skin? This can mean a lot of different things, from getting new African American skin care products to taking better care of your current cosmetics.

For example, makeup bags are breeding grounds for bacteria. This kind of bacteria is then passed on to your skin and can cause breakouts, redness and irritation. This is why one resolution you can make is to clean out your makeup bag once a week, washing brushes and wiping down the inside of the bag.

Next, resolve to never go to bed with your makeup on again. While most women will admit to doing this once in a while, they may not realize that they could be doing serious damage to their complexion by allowing foundation to sit on the skin all night, clogging the pores.

Finally, make a resolution to try something different this year. Wear a bold lipstick color, or go to your local cosmetics store to get recommendations from the professionals who work there for what new look may work for you.

Winter skin care myths explained

 

This season, there have been a lot of stories published about how to protect your skin from the winter weather. Using an African American skin care product with added moisturizer is one way to potentially prevent dry skin in the next few months, but not everything you hear about how to protect against the cold is correct. Recently, the Huffington Post ran an article detailing some winter skin care myths.

First, it is a myth that the thicker the moisturizer, the better it is for your skin. In reality, heavy moisturizers can cause acne or clogged pores, so it's better to use something that isn't too thick. Next, people may tell you not to use lip balm because it will be habit-forming and it will dry out your lips. According to dermatologist Bobby Buka, this isn't true.

"An old, but persistent rumor suggests that lip balm, meant to hydrate dry and chapped lips, actually robs the lip skin of moisture, making it reliant on a balm for hydration. But Buka says there is nothing physiologically drying or habit-forming about lip balms," according to the news source.

WebMD also de-bunked some common skin care myths, and stated that it's not true that you don't need sunscreen on a cloudy day or in the winter. The sun's UV rays are still present, even when you cannot see them.

Tips to get camera-ready

 

Ever have an amazing night out, only to hate how you look in all of the pictures from it? The problem isn't you, it's that you're probably not using your African American skin care product to the best of its ability. Recently, BoldSky.com explained how to use makeup to create the perfect camera-ready look that will help any lady look her best.

First, the news source recommended applying ice on your face before putting your makeup on for a special occasion. The website says this may prevent you from sweating during the evening and having your cosmetics run all over your face.

Next, they recommended using liquid foundation and then a powder, but always the same shade to avoid looking splotchy. The authors also suggested keeping it simple when it comes to colors.

"Never use glitter or shimmering makeup if you want to the red carpet look. You must stick to neutral colors like browns, flesh tones and hues. Even lip gloss looks awkwardly shiny on camera," according to BlueSky.

Orprah.com suggests using a little bronzer if you're looking for that red carpet glow in pictures, as it will give an added dimension to your skin tone.

 

Simple, inexpensive tips for avoiding dry skin

 

Ladies, are you worried that your African American skin care product is not going to be able to hide your dry winter skin? The holiday season, though filled with beautiful lights, trees and parties, does not always lead to a beautiful complexion. Recently, The Washington Post reported on tips from some world-class dermatologists about how to keep skin safe during these frigid months.

First, the experts recommended taking showers at temperatures as tepid as you can handle, rather than very hot ones that will further dry out your skin. Also, try to avoid soaps that contain detergents, which can remove natural oils.

Short on cash and looking for effective moisturizers? According to these dermatologists, there are cheap ways to get smooth skin.

"If you’ve got the driest of dry skin, the best defense for that is a couple of days of plain old Vaseline, as a a sealer and a protectant," said dermatologist Alicia Zalka, quoted by the news source. "If the skin is already cracked, it does not sting."

MakeupandBeauty.com states that another interesting use for Vaseline is to rub it on your cuticles to help brittle nails grow stronger.

 

Don't forget about skin care during wedding preparations

 

If you're planning on getting married in 2012, then you've probably already thought about how you're going to use your African American skin care product to create the perfect wedding look. The last thing you want to do on your big day is wake up with dry, flaky skin or a bunch of pimples, so you want to be doing all you can to keep your skin healthy in the months leading up to a wedding.

Recently, Philadelphia Daily ran an article by bride-to-be Carolyn Kye about what she's doing to get her skin ready for her wedding. First, she said she planned her first facial. If you've never had any sort of professional skin care procedure before, then now might be a good opportunity to try it out.

Next, Kye said she's going to try to eat healthier, not just to fit into her dress, but for her skin as well.

"I noticed over the summer that when I limit my carbs and eat more vegetables, I have nicer looking skin. This is a huge challenge for me, but I’m thinking I should try to get back on the healthy-eating bandwagon soon," writes Kye in the Daily.

Discovery Health recommends eating seafood, citrus fruits and brightly colored vegetables to achieve a glowing complexion.

 

Keep skin in mind during a workout

 

Your African American skin care product can help you look your best whether you're at the office, a party or even at the gym. According to Glamour magazine, many women choose to put on makeup before a workout. The news source stated that there's nothing wrong with wanting to look good while you're exercising if it boosts your confidence and helps you feel motivated.

Regardless of whether you wear cosmetics to the gym, women who workout regularly should take extra steps to ensure that their skin is not being affected by their exercise routine. Yahoo! recently offered some tips for athletes who are concerned about their complexion.

First, the news source suggested drinking more water. If you're working out and losing hydration, then you want to be sure to drink more water to ensure that your skin does not dry out.

Next, Yahoo! suggested getting more zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and B in your diet.

"Most skin problems are linked to inadequate nutrition and horrible eating habits. Your skin shows what is going on inside your body, thus what you put in your body will come out through your skin," according to the news provider.

Finally, learn your skin type to determine what kind of face wash you should use after a workout to remove dirt, sweat and impurities.

Look for antioxidant-rich skin care products for a healthy complexion

 

Although women have different skin care needs, most of them can agree that they're looking to do all they can to improve the health of their complexion. According to the website Technorati.com, one of the best things a person can do to protect their skin from the pollution and chemicals that they will encounter in everyday life is to eat foods and use skin care products that contain antioxidants.

The National Institutes of Health state that these substances may protect against "free radicals" that come from environmental exposure. These radicals damage cells and may contribute to heart disease, cancer and other conditions. They can also cause wrinkles and other signs of aging on the skin .

"Look for ingredients such as pomegranate, green tea, and vitamin C [in skin care products]. Topical antioxidants help prevent cellular damage but unfortunately aren’t able to penetrate deep enough to supply the greatest protection making it necessary to feed your skin from the inside as well as from the outside," according to the website.

Luckily, these ingredients can be found in some of the best African American skin care products that can help a lady look her best while keeping the skin healthy. 

Nighttime habits for a better complexion

 

While you might spend a lot of time in the morning applying your African American skin care products, you need to make sure you spend just as much time caring for your complexion at night. While you sleep, the environment in your bedroom could be wreaking havoc on your skin - especially in the winter. Good Housekeeping magazine offers some tips for a proper nighttime routine for women who want to wake up looking fresh.

First, the news source spoke to Ranella Hirsch, M.D., a Boston-area dermatologist, who said that the best thing you can do for you skin at night is keep a humidifier in the room, especially during the colder months, when the air is already dry to begin with.

Next, the magazine stated that no matter what, you have to be sure to wash your face before going to bed.

"So many people sleep with their makeup on and wonder why they wake up with funky eye gunk in the morning," says Emily Kate Warren, a New York City makeup artist, quoted by the news source.

TotalBeauty.com states that a proper nighttime regimen, complete with high-quality moisturizers and face washes, is the key to better-looking skin.

 

The secret to smooth, hydrated skin may be silk

 

Most women who care about their skin know that they need to buy and African American skin care product with the right ingredients to boost the health of their complexion. For example, a study conducted by researchers at the Case Western Reserve University found that green tea has the potential to aid in the treatment of a variety of skin disorders thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Recently, Everyday Health ran an article on one substance that many people may not realize can benefit their skin - silk. According to Jennifer Peterson, M.D., a dermatologist at the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in Texas, sleeping on a silk pillow case will leave your skin more hydrated than if you use a cotton one, since the tightly-woven fibers won't draw moisture from your face.

Next, the dermatologist said that studies have found that a European fabric called DermaSilk may help treat irritated skin.

"One particular study showed improvements in patients with the skin condition eczema who used Dermasilk, but not in those who used cotton," said Peterson, quoted by the news source.

So the next time you find yourself wondering how your skin got so dry, you may want to grab some silk sheets.

 

Green tea may have many benefits for the skin

 

Most women want to keep their skin young and healthy-looking for as long as possible. Using the right African American skin care products can help reduce the signs of aging, but you want to make sure you get one with the right ingredients. Recently, StyleList.com reported on one ingredient that you may want to look for in your cosmetics if you want to look young and fresh - green tea. 

Green tea has been proven to have multiple health benefits, and now it has been shown to help the skin as well. The news source spoke to dermatologist Heather Woolery-Lloyd, about how this substance works.

"A botanical antioxidant. The nutrients in green tea neutralize free radicals that damage cells and tissue, which in turn slows down the aging process. While you can reap the benefits by drinking green tea, Woolery-Lloyd advises applying it topically," according to StyleList.

SmartSkinCare.com states that studies have also found that green tea may protect against sun damage, this suggests that a product that contains both green tea and SPF would be particularly effective. 

Research finds what's most important for women when it comes to cosmetics

 

Why do you choose your African American skin care product? Is it because it matches your skin tone perfectly, or contains antioxidants that have been shown to enhance the health and appearance of your complexion? In September, the Roy Morgan Research Center set out to determine the most important factors that influence New Zealand women when they choose cosmetics.

The researchers found that "getting the most value for the money" was the number-one reason that most women chose a particular makeup product over another. The second most important factor for the women who were surveyed was "quality brand names," followed closely by "sun protection factor (SPF).

"Value for money is a factor likely to be considered important in most consumer buying decisions, and skin care and cosmetic purchases are no exception," said Pip Elliot, client services director of the research center.

The best news to come out of this research was that 54 percent of women understand that it's important to choose a product that contains SPF to protect the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. It's important to remember that, even in winter, the sun can still damage the skin. 

This season, protect the hands from cracking

 

There's been a lot of discussion lately about the damage that harsh winter winds can do to your complexion, but there is one part of the body that experiences the cold even more - your hands. While your African American skin care product can help protect your face from winter damage, it can't do much for the hands.

Recently, Fox News spoke to New York City-based dermatologist Anne Chapas about how to protect hands during the colder months.

"During the winter, the decrease in humidity, as well as the harsher winds, causes us to lose a lot of water in our skin, so that makes everything dry," explained Chapas, quoted by the news source.

She recommended using the creams and moisturizers liberally during winter, and limiting excessive hand-washing because antibacterial soaps can try out the skin. Instead, it may be best to use an alcohol-based sanitizer, but not too much, since that may also cause dryness.

USA Today suggests wearing gloves both indoors and out. This means gloving-up when you're headed outdoors, but also while washing the dishes, or even over moisturizer when you're sitting and watching TV.

 

Tips from makeup artist Francois Nars

 

Have you been feeling bored with your old makeup routine? It may be time to get new African American skin care products to help you shake up your look. Recently, Become Gorgeous spoke to renowned makeup artist Francois Nars about how to choose new cosmetics that will transform dull winter skin into an up-to-date, red-carpet-inspired look.

First, picking out the right shade of foundation is essential for an even appearance. Many women don't understand how to pick the color that's right for them, and end up looking unnatural. Nars suggests testing a product on your wrist and blending it thoroughly to ensure that it matches your skin tone before purchasing it.

Next, Nars said the keys to proper makeup application are densely packed brushes.

"These contribute to the perfect application of powder and other cosmetic formulas. Skip the use of low-quality brushes to save yourself from any meltdown," said Nars, quoted by Become Gorgeous.

Allure magazine also commented on the importance of choosing a high-quality makeup brush, stating that it can be the difference between years of flawless looking makeup, and years of mediocre applications. 

 

Keep skin hydrated throughout the winter

 

While your African American skin care product can keep you looking great throughout the cold months, winter winds may still leave you with dry, itchy skin. Recently, Straight.com, a Canadian news source, spoke to Rebekah MacLaren, an esthetician and skincare advisor at the Spa Boutique who offered some tips on how to get rid of cracked winter skin.

She said that people with drier skin may be able to use a face cream with oil in it. While most people avoid these creams for fear of breaking out, if you have dry skin you may be missing some natural oils that can help keep your skin moisturized. People that don't feel comfortable using oil, however, should try products with hyaluronic acid.

"[Hyaluronic acid] is an ingredient that actually holds up to a thousand times its weight in water, so that way, you’re using something that adds water to your skin, and not oil. That’s a good option for someone who has oiler skin," said MacLaren, quoted by the news source.

WebMD reports that some people have even referred to hyaluronic acid as a "fountain of youth" product that can reduce the signs of aging. While there is no scientific proof of this, the substance may have multiple benefits. 

Susan Taylor recommends foods to eat for a better complexion

If you care about your skin, you already know that you should wash your face regularly and use high-quality African American skin care products rather than cheap cosmetics that can cause irritation. What you may not realize, however, is that it's possible to improve your complexion by eating the right foods - foods that are good for your overall health as well as your appearance.

Dermatologist Susan Taylor has done extensive research on the best foods for the skin, and has some recommendations to offer for women who want a glowing, youthful-looking appearance.

“Eating a variety of healthy foods and drinking plenty of water so the skin stays hydrated should help most people improve the appearance of their skin," said Taylor, who added that following the USDA food pyramid is a good place to start for improving the health of your skin and body.

Taylor suggested eating fruits and vegetables that are a good source of vitamin A, such a spinach and mangoes, since this nutrient helps maintain and repair skin tissue. She also recommended vitamins C and E, which contain antioxidants that have been shown to help protect the skin against harmful sun rays and free radicals that are a result of pollution. 

Makeup tips for when you have a cold or flu

 

The holiday season can unfortunately be a time when many people get a cold or the flu. While looking good is usually the last thing on anyone's mind when they're sick, some women still have responsibilities that require them to leave the house when they're not feeling well.



If you're one of these ladies then never fear, your African American skin care product can help you look better than you feel by using a few simple tricks.

Beautylish.com spoke to celebrity makeup artist Jeffery Paul about how to apply makeup to hide the signs of being sick. First, the expert recommended using a concealer underneath the eyes to eliminate dark circles.

“I'll color correct before applying concealer if there’s strong discoloration, but a full-coverage formulation usually does the trick,” said Paul, quoted by the news source.

Paul also suggested using a powder foundation over a thick face balm to prevent makeup from rubbing off when you have to repeatedly use tissues.

DailyMakeover.com suggests doubling up on moisturizer when you have a cold, since beign sick can cause a dry-looking complexion.

 

Ways to fix common blemishes and makeup mistakes

 

Even if you feel like an expert while applying your African American skin care product, beauty mistakes can happen, and when they do, some women may be prone to panic. There's no need to worry, however, as there are simple fixes for most of the common errors that women make during their beauty routine. Recently, BecomeGorgeous.com explained some tricks for covering up beauty mistakes.

For example, most women know the experience of waking up on the morning of a special occasion, and finding themselves with a giant zit. According to the news source, there's a simple solution for this problem.

"Use a cosmetic or homemade spot treatment and then apply a tiny amount of concealer on your fingers and then on the zit. This fabulous makeup formula will mask your pimple perfectly. Finish up your makeup base by spreading a thin layer of translucent powder all over the face. This guarantees the uniform color effect," stated Become Gorgeous.

RealSimple.com also has some tips for avoiding a common mistake. According to the website, many women put on moisturizer, and then add foundation too quickly, creating a blotchy effect. The news source recommended waiting at least 60 seconds, until the moisturizer is completely absorbed, before adding foundation.

Makeup artists offer tips to get Beyonce's look

Recently, Beyonce appeared on 20/20 looking absolutely fabulous. US Magazine spoke to Mally Roncal, the makeup artist who worked on Beyonce before the show, and she offered some tips for how to use your African American skin care product to get the same look. 

First, Roncal said she used a combination of colors to highlight Beyonce's skin tone. She combined tan and medium concealer shades to enhance the performer's brow bone and the center of her nose.

"Next, she applied a liquid foundation, set with a powder foundation. Using a shaping powder, she contoured the hollows of Beyonce's cheeks, temples and jawline to enhance her natural bone structure," according to the news source.

Back when Beyonce's hit movie Dreamgirls came out, Glamour magazine spoke to makeup artists who worked on the film for some more tips for how to look like the star. They suggested using brown and sliver eye shadows and a lot of concealer under the eyes to keep bags from distracting from a dramatic look.  

Get Kelly Rowland's X Factor look

Former Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland is now a judge on the UK's X Factor, and her use of African American skin care products is getting a lot of attention. Recently The Mirror explained how to get Rowland's look using your own makeup. The result is a smokey cat eye that can highlight most women's brightest features. 

First, the news source suggested using a light concealer on the cheeks, applying it with your fingers so that it doesn't look too heavy. Next, they recommended using a palette of different shades of brown eyeshadow to create a smokey look.

"With the lighter brown, sweep the color across the eyelid. Take the darker brown and blend it upwards towards the brow, then outwards to create a slight winged effect," according to the news provider.

Finally, the Mirror suggested using an eyeliner with a slight shimmer in it underneath your bottom lash, making sure to blend it in.

TotalBeauty.com says that in order to really make your eyes pop, choose a foundation that is slightly lighter than your skin and use it as a primer underneath eye shadow.  

Secrets for getting a picture-perfect look

Ever walk out the door feeling like you're looking great only to have your picture taken and hate the results? Even the best African American skin care products will come off as shiny or too thick in photos if you're not applying them correctly, especially since digital cameras can zoom in so close you can almost see every pore. Recently, Allure magazine spoke to makeup artists Romy Soleimani and Gucci Westman, who explained the secrets for creating a picture-perfect look. 

First, the magazine says you have to be careful when applying undereye concealer. If your concealer is lighter than your foundation, then it will look too light under the influence of a camera flash. Instead, be sure to choose the right color and blend well.

Next, be sure to use the right tools to make sure you don't look too shiny.

"To avoid a dull, powdery complexion, control oil with blotting papers," said Westman, quoted by Allure "Keep your T-zone super matte, but keep your upper cheekbones or the bridge of your nose more luminous because you want that youthful glow," added Soleimani, also quoted by the news source.

Cosmopolitan magazine says that to look good in pictures, stand up straight and turn one slightly towards the camera. This will make you appear longer and leaner.  

Use a skin care calendar this 2012 to improve your complexion

 

The new year is a time to recommit to using the best African American skin care products to enhance your complexion. Skincare-news.com suggests that one way to do this is to make a beauty calendar for 2012, with a skin goal for each season. This way, as the weather changes from one condition to another, you'll be prepared for whatever comes your way.

For example, this February make a resolution to re-evaluate your skin care routine to make sure that you are doing the most for your unique skin type. If you've been noticing that your skin is dry and flaky, then it make be time to chance products to something with more moisturizer. For oily skin, you may want to consider using a cleanser that is free of any extra oils.

When the spring come around, make a plan to go see the dermatologist. These professionals can educate you on the best ways to take care of your skin. This may not only benefit your complexion, but help protect against skin disorders. 

In the summer, resolve to make sure that your cosmetics contain added SPF. This will help keep you from developing skin cancer, one of the most common forms of carcinoma. 

Simple lifestyle changes for healthier skin in 2012

Did your new year's resolutions include improving the health of your skin? If not, they should have, since your complexion is the first thing that many people notice when they first meet you. There are many ways to improve your skin, from using the best African American skin care products to making simple lifestyle changes.

First, drink more water. This will improve your overall health and the elasticity of the skin. Eight, eight-ounce glasses a day is recommended to replenish the cells. Next, eat a healthy diet that gives the body the antioxidants you need. Some substances that contain these helpful nutrients can also be found in African American skin care products, such as green tea and pomegranate.

Try to do things to relieve stress. Anxiety can cause breakouts and other skin issues such as psoriasis.

Finally, use the right skin cleansers for your particular complexion type. If you're not sure which one is right for you, than consult with a dermatologist who can offer you a professional opinion. 

Women have more antioxidants to reduce their skin cancer risk

It's important to wear an African American skin care product with added SPF to protect against the sun's harmful UV rays to lower your risk of developing skin cancer. Ladies should be encouraging their male partners to slather on the sunblock as well, since men are three times as likely to get a common form of skin cancer than women. 

Recently, researchers from Ohio State University set out to try to figure out why men are developing this and other cancers at a higher rate. What they discovered is that male mice appear to have lower amounts of an important skin antioxidant, and a higher amount of cancer-causing inflammatory cells.

"The findings suggest that women may have more natural antioxidant protection in the skin than men," said study co-leaders Gregory Lesinski and Tatiana Oberyszyn.

Researchers are hoping that the discovery of this disparity could lead to new targets for cancer treatments.

For women who want to give their skin even more antioxidants, there are many skin care products for black skin that contain green tea and pomegranate, both of which are antioxidant-rich.

 

Skin care routines differ for men and women during winter

Ladies, you wouldn't share your African American skin care product with your guy, so why share the same winter skin care routine? Recently, Health News Digest spoke to dermatologist Rebecca Baxt, who explained some of the different issues men and women run into with their skin during this time of the year, and what the best methods for dealing with them are. 

"Men have more testosterone hormone and hair follicles, so they tend not to be as prone to dryness in the winter as women, but men tend not to moisturize as part of their routine, so their skin can still get dry from the winter weather," said Baxt.

She warned that men can get seborrheic dermatitis in the winter. According to the Mayo Clinic, this disorder affects the scalp, making it itchy and causing dandruff. Baxt recommended specialty shampoos and over the counter anti-fungals.

For women, Baxt says that moisturizers are the best defense against the winter cold. She added that if you're short on cash, Vaseline is an inexpensive way to help keep chapped areas hydrated. Finally, Baxt reminded readers that the sun can still be damaging in the winter, so be sure to use a product with added SPF.