Use the right product for your skin

 

When you go out to buy an African American skin care product, it's important that you keep your skin type in mind. This is because different complexions require unique care. For example, you don't want to be using a product that will dry out your skin if it's already flaky, or one that contains a heavy moisturizer if you have an oily complexion.

Recently, The Standard-Examiner, a Texas news source, reported on how to care for your specific skin type. First, for oily skin, the information provider recommends getting a toner, which will help wipe away the dirt and oil that washing may have missed.

Also, while you don't want to use a heavy moisturizer, you do want to use a water-based one if you have oily skin. Discovery Health has some recommendations for finding the right moisturizer for you.

"The best moisturizer for oily skin is one that is lightweight, non-comedogenic (which means it won't clog your pores) and oil-free. Those thick, heavy creams aren't designed with oily skin in mind," according to Discovery.

Finally, The Standard-Examiner discussed dry skin. The news source recommended getting a cream-based cleanser that is made specifically for dry skin. Also, avoid using a toner, as this product may further dry you out. 

Experts' give skin care routine and makeup ingredient picks

 

When it comes to skin care, the best tips come from the experts. Recently, Grazia spoke to a variety of cosmetics experts who had suggestions on how to get a smooth, clear complexion.

First, celebrity facialist Michelle Peck told the news source that during winter, she'll lean toward a thicker moisturizer. In particular, she likes ones that contain hyaluronic acid, an ingredient that can be found in many of the best African American skin care products.

Next, makeup artist Jemma Kidd gave the news source her most basic tips.

"Practicing a good skin care regime is fundamentally important – if you have good skin, you won’t need to wear much makeup, which is a joy.  You don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive products, but do focus on keeping skin moisturized and hydrated, always wear an SPF, take your makeup off at night and treat yourself to occasional facials," said Kidd, quoted by Grazia.

Finally, makeup artist Mel Arter told the news source that people need to let their skin breathe, which means you should always be sure to wash off your cosmetics at night.

Elle Magazine recommends products with green tea and vitamins for their skin-nourishing benefits. 

The 65th annual Bronner Bros. International Hair Show deemed a success

 

The Bronner Bros. International Hair Show is arguably the most popular African American hair show in the country – possibly worldwide. It has attracted the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackie Robinson because it draws in such a large crowd of movers and shakers.

This year's show was no exception, The Grio reported. The news source featured an article on the event, in which stylist David Hiland took home a grand prize of $20,000.

Speakers at the 65th annual event included Soul Food actress Nicole Ari Parker and reality television star Tami Roman, of Basketball Wives on VH1.

"We are celebrating 65 years of hard work, dedication, determination [and] focus-driven people. We are celebrating family and black history," said Christina Bronner, daughter of the show's founder Bernard Bronner, quoted by the news source.



A CNN article on the show reported that it features extravagant, multi-colored hairstyles that are nearly pieces of art, as well as beautifully styled natural hair for the more conservative set.

Ladies who want to embrace their ethnicity may want to check out some of the styles featured at the show in addition to using natural African American skin care products to bring out the best in their ethnic skin.

 

You can have great hair even on a budget

 

African American women have a tendency to spend more money on hair care than their counterparts of other ethnicities. In fact, a survey conducted by Design Essentials reported that black women are willing to spend about $107 on each trip to the salon, compared to the average consumer, who will dish out about $60 to have their hair done.

However, it's not necessary to break the bank for great hair. With a few investments and experiments, you can get a salon quality look without leaving home.

First, remember that your hair requires protein for strength and moisture for softness. There are many products that promise to provide one or both of these components, but finding the right one for you is often a matter of experimentation.

Also, it's worth it to splurge a little on a good ceramic flat iron or curling iron. These styling tools have come a long way in the past decade and allow ladies the sleek or curly look that they previously had to budget for – making them well worth the investment.

With the money you save styling your locks at home, you'll have more to spend on your favorite African American skin care products and, of course, the latest fashions.