Want the celebrity look? It doesn't take a fortune to achieve

Most women would love to get the flawless look that celebrities seem to achieve so easily. For African American women, there are many black skin care products that can help you get the high-cost look without spending a fortune. Recently, Parade magazine offered tips on how to look like you're famous while sticking to a budget.

First, the news provider suggested using a bold lipstick. Bright red colors can make you stand out, and when you find the bright color that works for you, a glamorous look becomes effortless. Next, Parade recommended filling out the eyebrows to make the eyes pop without the need for expensive makeup.

"To achieve this look, go a few shades darker than your original eyebrow color. For example, if you're blonde, don't go for a black brow. Stick with the same color family," said the news source.

Marie Claire magazine states that the best way to get the celebrity look is to create a "smoky eye." The periodical said to first apply a cream concealer to the eye, then use an eyeliner to trace the top lid from the inner corner to the outer. Then use eye shadow all over the lid and slightly past the outer corner to get the sultry look. 

Skin therapist discusses the importance of antioxidants

While many women are looking to get different things out of their cosmetics, most can agree that healthy, clear skin is a worthy goal. For African American women, there are many skin care products for black skin that contain antioxidant extracts, which have been shown to potentially protect skin from the pollutants that come with everyday life.

Recently, skin therapist Louise Thomas-Minns discussed the importance of having these natural ingredients present in your makeup and daily life. She also mentioned that even though the summer is ending, it's important to protect yourself against the sun year-round.

"Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare and diet will protect the skin from further damage and can work to reverse some of the damage if used in higher levels," she stated, quoted by MyPure.com.

The expert reminded people that the best way to choose the right product for you is to consult a makeup professional. Reading the ingredients on cosmetics can also help you determine which ones will be the best protection against pollutants and the sun's UV rays. Pomegranate, green tea and soy can be found in many African American skin care products, and are high in antioxidants.

The National Institutes of Health state that antioxidants may protect skin cells from pollutants caused by smoking, radiation and other things that can cause disease. 

Prone to breakouts? The problem may be more than skin deep

Whether your skin is too dry or too oily, it can be difficult to decide what technique may help make improvements. For African American women, there are a variety of skin care products for black skin that can moisturize without causing breakouts and improve the overall look of the skin.

Sometimes cosmetics aren't enough though, and when that happens the problem may be psychological. The Huffington Post offered tips for keeping the skin calm when the mind is all over the place.

First, the news provider said that stress can have a serious impact on skin, so try practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or deep breathing. WebMD calls the connection between emotion and skin psychodermatology, and the medical site agrees that a person's stress levels can affect their appearance.

"A lot of nerve endings are connected to the skin, which wraps around the organs, so as emotions are played out neurologically, they can be expressed through the skin just as stress can be expressed through gastrointestinal symptoms, increased anxiety or hypertension," psychiatrist Karen Mallin told WebMD.

Next, the Post suggested remaining active and keeping a positive attitude. Exercise increases endorphins, which can improve the mood. Keeping optimistic can lower stress levels, and potentially improve the look of the skin. 

Dermatologist Channing Barnett offers tips for keeping skin healthy in winter

The summer is coming to an end, and for many women the colder weather means dry skin. Luckily, for African American women, there are many skin care products for black skin with added moisturizers to keep the face looking fresh and hydrated all year long. Using these products is one way women can protect their skin in the winter months, and dermatologist Channing Barnett, M.D, recently offered some other tips for getting yourself ready for the season.

“A few simple things make a big difference in hydrating the skin,” said Barnett.

The doctor suggested bathing in lukewarm water instead of hot, because hot water can dry out the skin. She also recommended avoiding harsh soaps and products that contain strong fragrances, since these products are also known to potentially cause drying and. She also reminded people to exercise caution when using a washcloth or towel. It's better to pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it, which can cause redness.

Finally, Barnett said that the best time to apply moisturizers to the face is immediately after bathing. That way, the product will hold the moisture on your skin from the shower and will be potentially more effective.