Are you using the right skin care product?

Trying to achieve perfect look can be difficult, especially considering the variety of African American skin care products out there. While having more variety may seem like it would make it easier to find the makeup that works for you, it can also make things extremely overwhelming. The Dominion Post reports on how to discover the product that is truly meant for your skin type, and how to tell if you've bought the wrong cosmetic. 

First, the news source reminded readers that there is no such thing as a "miracle cure," so you have to be patient. The Post stated that the most important ingredient to have in a foundation is SPF to protect against the sun's rays, but there is one other key substance - antioxidants.

"Some of the best [antioxidants] are those we easily recognize, for example, green tea, vitamins E and C and grape extract. And the more we use, the better," said Post reporter Tracey Strange.

Next, the news provider states that if a product is causing you skin to feel taught and dry or a rash appears, then you should toss it out and try another one.

Skincare-News.com states that your skin care product may stop working when the seasons change. For example, cold weather has lower levels of air moisture which can lead to dry skin, so you might need a heavier moisturizer in the winter.  

Beauty magazines offer some weekend makeup tips

While your African American skin care product can easily transition from day to night, you probably want to have a different look when you're out on the town than when you're in the office. Cosmopolitan Magazine explained some of the science behind choosing your weekend makeup style versus your workday look. 

Celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff told the magazine that your sleep schedule on the weekend should actually be factored into your skin care routine.

"Extra sleep on the weekend helps restore circulation, making under-eye circles less obvious. So just use a tinted moisturizer with SPF and top with bronzer," said Dubroff, quoted by the beauty news source.

Dubroff added that on the weekend you'll want to have more dramatic eye makeup, so don't be afraid to choose a more vibrant color than you would use at the office, such as rich blue shades.

Glamour Magazine offered a fun weekend lipstick and eyeliner combo that was inspired by Solange Knowles. The beauty news provider suggested using a coral lipstick with a green or gold eyeliner, these colors go well together, especially on black skin.  

Your foundation should reflect your skin type

Finding the right foundation that perfectly blends in with your skin tone can be difficult, especially when there are so many African American skin care products on the market that promise to be the answer to all of your needs. Recently, The Miami Herald spoke to Emmy-winning makeup artist Kevin James Bennett about how to choose the perfect foundation, and how to properly apply it once you find it. 

First, the expert said that you need to look at foundation the same way as face wash, meaning that you should choose one that's meant for your specific skin type. For example, people with oily skin should find formulas that say they are meant to control acne and excess oil.

Next, Bennett offered tips on proper foundation application.

"For sanitary reasons and better application, I prefer sponges and brushes [over fingers]. I prefer to dab foundation (with a cotton swab) onto areas that need coverage and then blend with a clean, synthetic foundation brush or a non-latex sponge," said Bennett quoted by the Herald.

Oprah suggests on her website that people with dry skin should choose a liquid or hydrating powder foundation, while individuals with an oily complexion should use an oil-free liquid or powder compact.

 

Dermatologist suggests homemade masks to improve your skin

While your African American skin care product can help you achieve a flawless look, having healthy skin underneath your makeup is just as important. In a recent guest appearance on the television show, Dr. Oz., dermatologist Ellen Marmur explained how you can use some simple ingredients found in your kitchen to boost the health of your skin.

First, the expert suggested wearing a mask of honey and avocado for 10 minutes a week to improve dry skin.

“You are going to cut your avocado in half and scoop out the fruit of the avocado and you’re going to start stirring in about one tablespoon of honey and make it into a kind of a nice consistency,” said Marmur, quoted by EMax.

Next, Marmur said that people who experience rosacea, a condition characterized by redness in the skin, can be improved using a mask of pineapple and cottage cheese.

WebMD reminds readers that what you eat is reflected in your complexion, so while you're using these ingredients on your outer skin, remember the take what your put into your body for account as well. Milk, strawberries and plums have all been found to improve skin's appearance.