INSIGHT
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IN THIS ISSUE 2
TOP NINE SPRING ESSENTIALS
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SHEDDING LIGHT ON SUNSCREEN
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SPRING BEAUTY
BEST SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR EACH AGE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Amber Jepsen
7 THINGS THAT KEEP BOBBI BROWN YOUNG HOW BAD IS THAT BEAUTY HABIT
INSIGHT CONNECT
PUBLISHER
Insight Productions 23412 Heber St Laguna Beach, CA 92656
PHOTOGRAPHY Veer Stock Photography
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SPRING ESSENTIALS DON’T BE WITHOUT THESE TOP NINE MUST-HAVES FOR SPRING! A warm breeze here, a tiny bud there…spring is on its way, kids, in all of its alfresco-dining, dresswearing glory, park-lounging glory. Now that the gray clouds are finally parting, the R29 beauty team decided to round up their favorite
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products for the month by color: beauty director Annie Tomlin is into new-leaf green, senior beauty editor Megan McIntyre is craving hot coral, and assistant beauty editor Tara Rasmus is digging shades of violet.
MARC JACOBS DAISY SUNSHINE “I’m a devoted fan to the original Daisy — I love the fresh, sparkling scent and that packaging is too cute for words — so I was stoked to see a new twist on the signature scent. This one adds bright and juicy fruits like guava, mandarin, lychee, and apricot skin to give the fragrance a sunnier disposition. One spritz of this in the a.m., and it feels like spring, regardless of what the weather is doing outside my window.” — Megan McIntyre, senior beauty editor $65, available at Macy’s.
SUPER SHOCK GEL PENCIL
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“This eyeliner might look intimidating on its own, but don’t be scared — it is so springlike and lovely when it’s worn. It’s highly pigmented and pretty much klutz-proof, which is always a plus. And, if bright color isn’t your thing, you can always choose gunmetal, brown, or black. (But, really, go for the aqua. Live a little.)” — Annie Tomlin, beauty director $14, available at We See Beauty. 2 INSIGHT
3 ALTERNA CAVIAR ANTI-AGING BRIGHTENING BLONDE SHAMPOO “I may sound like a broken record at this point, but seriously: Every blonde (even if you just have highlights) needs a purple shampoo to cut brassiness and maintain your brightness between color appointments. I love this one by Alterna for its fresh scent and amazing ability to thoroughly clean my hair while moisturizing it at the same time. It’s like an instant makeover for your hair. Purple rain, baby.” — Tara Rasmus, assistant beauty editor $36, available at DermStore
4 This same line of shampoo is used by Katie Holmes! She LOVES it!
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REMINGTON PAINTED BOBBY PINS “I fell in love with these cheap and cheerful bobby pins while shooting our chignon DIY. They have the power to transform even the simplest ensemble into something a bit more pulled-together. I want them in every color, basically — and at this price, I can afford to have them.” —Tara Rasmus $2.50, available at Target
OPI NAIL LACQUER YOU’RE SUCH A BUDAPEST “I’ve always been a big fan of shades of lavender and lilac (especially in the spring), but some of the light purple polish shades that I try just end up looking pink and a little flat once they’re brushed on. Not this baby: this shade is electric lilac at its best, and the color has succeeded in brightening my cold-weather-induced blahs. Signature shade potential, for sure.” — TR $5.39, available at Drugstore.com
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TOP 9 PRODUCTS FOR SPRING
6 NOT YOUR MOTHER’S KINKY MOVES CURL DEFINING HAIR CREAM “Once the weather starts get warm enough, I put my T3 into hibernation and go au naturel. My fine, long hair is extremely prone to frizzing, so I need to give it a little bit of extra love by adding curl cream. I’m currently into this one from Not Your Mother’s because it helps unsnarl my strands and smooth down pesky flyaways.” - MM $5.99, available at Ulta.
SHADOW EYEZ 12 HR WEAR IN PERFECT PURPLE
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“At a recent shoot, our makeup artist’s gorgeous assistant, Bethany, touched up my makeup. Only when she got close to me did I realize that she was wearing electric-purple liquid eyeliner — somehow, the color managed to be both subtle and punchy at the same time. Since I’m not a pro, and therefore not as skilled with the liquid liner as Bethany is, I’ve been using this liquid pencil to get me the same awesome look with much less hassle. “ — TR $6.99, available at Milani.
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CHANEL SYCOMORE FRAGRANCE “I smell a lot of perfumes as part of my job, and while many of them are good, only a few find a home on my dresser. Sycomore is one of them: a verdant, crisp, complex take on vetiver. It isn’t an everyday fragrance — it just feels too sophisticated and special to wear with jeans — but it certainly is a fresh, green, brilliant one.” — AT $130, available at Chanel. WIN THIS! Want this fragrance? Enter to win on our website at InsightBeauty.com! We have 100 to give away! You could be a winner!
9 BENEFIT COSMETICS ULTRA PLUSH LIP GLOSS IN POUTRAGEOUS “It is my humble opinion that coral lipstick is the best lip color of all. It blends the best of both worlds — vibrant orange and pretty pink — into one perfect, fun, flirty, spring hue. I’m digging this soft and silky gloss because it feels creamy, not sticky, and drenches my lips in a cheery coral color that looks great with my warm-weather makeup palette.” — MM $16, available at Benefit Cosmetics.
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SHEDDING LIGHT ON SUNSCREEN DEMYSTIFY 7 COMMON MYTHS By Katrina Woznicki of WebMD
If you are hazy on sunscreens and how to use them, your health could be on the line. Being out in the sun without proper protection from ultraviolet light exposure can increase your risk for sunburn, wrinkles, and skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed every year. 6 INSIGHT
There are two types of ultraviolet light: UVB, which causes sunburn, and UVA, which penetrates the skin and can cause wrinkles. Both UVB and UVA rays can lead to skin cancer. Dermatologists Jennifer Stein, MD, PhD, of New York University Langone Medical Center and dermatologist James Spencer, MD, of St. Petersburg, Fla., clear up myths about sunscreen.
Sunscreen Myth #1: I can skip it.
Sunscreen Myth #2: The SPF in my makeup is enough.
Maybe you think you can pass on sunscreen because you don’t bask in the sun. But sunscreen is not just for sun worshippers. “If you’re going to be outdoors,” Stein says, “you should wear sunscreen. Even when it’s cloudy outside, you can still get sunburn through cloud cover.” Or if you think your naturally dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen, think again. “People with darker skin are definitely less likely to burn,” Stein says. “But they can still burn and should wear some form of sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB.”
Some women may rely on sunscreen in their makeup. But you might need more than that. “If you use foundation, a few spots of sunscreen on your face isn’t going to be enough out in the sun,” Stein says. “You should wear at least an SPF of 30. The easiest approach is to use a facial moisturizer that already has sunscreen in it.” It’s fine to have sunscreen in your makeup, but consider it an extra layer, not your main safeguard.
If you’ve got a tan, either from the sun or a tanning bed, Stein says it means your skin is damaged. “A tan,” she says, “may give you a little bit of protection, but you can still burn.” She also says, “There’s a myth out there you should tan before going on vacation because it will protect you from getting burned. That’s just not true. Also, the tan you get from a tanning bed doesn’t protect you. It’s a different kind of tan because it’s from high amounts of UVA, which darkens the skin quickly.” And if you skip sunscreen because you don’t like how it feels on your skin, shop around. “There are so many sunscreens on the market,” Spencer says. “Don’t give up.” Got sensitive skin? “You can try ones marked ‘sensitive skin,’ which often are the ones that have a physical blocker such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in them,” Stein says. Spencer agrees. “People with sensitive skin tend to do better with the physical blocks,” he says. Stein notes that sunscreens labeled for babies or children are often the same as the “sensitive skin” versions of those products, just repackaged for a different age group. Stein also has other tips for people with sensitive skin: Do a test spot. “If you’re concerned about a new sunscreen, you can first try it on the inside of your arm before you use it on your face or put it all over your body,” she says.Wear protective clothing. “Clothing and a hat are even better than sunscreen,” Stein says. “The more covered up you are, the less sunscreen you need.”
Sunscreen Myth #3: All sunscreens are the same. Not so. Sunscreens can differ in the way they protect your skin. Some are physical sunblocks, which use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block UVA and UVB rays. Others use chemicals such as avobenzone to do the job. Newer active ingredients include Helioplex and Meroxyl SX. “Dermatologists like Helioplex and meroxyl because these ingredients are photostabilized, which means they give you good UVA and UVB protection,” Stein says. “And they’re more stable so they won’t break down as quickly.” What offers the best protection? That’s a matter of debate. The Environmental Working Group has reported that some sunscreen products don’t adequately protect the skin, but the Personal Care Products Council, an industry group, has disputed that. Consumer Reports also reviews and rates sunscreens. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should look for a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher that provides broad-spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB light. The FDA recommends using a sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher that says “broad spectrum” on the label.
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Sunscreen Myth #4: A little sunscreen will see me through the day. “The general principle is to reapply every two to four hours,” Spencer says. “Sunscreen does go away with time.” Don’t be stingy when you’re putting it on yourself or your children. “To cover your whole body, you would have to fill a shot glass,” Stein says. “A good way to conserve sunscreen is to cover up with clothing. Clothes are more reliable than sunscreen -- you don’t have to worry about forgetting about it or reapplying it.” If you get into the water, you may need to reapply more often. The FDA doesn’t allow sunscreen makers to claim that their products are “waterproof” or “sweatproof,” or identify their products as “sunblocks” because, the FDA says, those claims overstate their effectiveness. Sunscreens can claim that they are “water resistant,” but they have to specify how long that lasts. You may also want to check on whether your prescriptions make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Certain blood pressuremedications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and so can some antibiotics, such as doxycycline, which is an oral antibiotic used to treat acne. Be sure to talk to your doctor about this,” Stein says.
Sunscreen Myth #5: I put sunscreen on my face, arms, leg, back, and neck -- so I’m set. Not so fast. You may have overlooked some key areas. “The ears and the back of the neck are commonly neglected,” Stein says. “You can actually get sunburn on your scalp, so wearing a hat is a good way to get protection. It will also shade your face, and that will give you good face protection.” Don’t forget about your lips. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30.
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Sunscreen Myth #6: Lotions, sprays, or stick sunscreens work differently. “There are no real major differences; these are just vehicles for the sunscreen and it depends on what the consumer likes,” Spencer says. “Men often do better with alcohol-based sprays because they don’t like greasy products. Women often do better with lotions and creamier products because they like the moisturizing effect,” Spencer says. “There are many different sunscreen products to choose from. What’s most important is compliance -- if you like the product, you’re more likely to use it.” Whatever kind of sunscreen you choose, the American Academy of Dermatology says to put it on dry skin 15-30 minutes before you go outside.
Sunscreen Myth #7: Last year’s bottle is still OK. “You should use enough so that you’re not using the same bottle summer after summer. If you’re doing it right, you’re not going to have leftovers next year,” Stein says. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen bottle.“ Some sunscreens break down quickly, especially the ones that give you UVA protection. So it shouldn’t sit in your bathroom cabinet for too long,” Stein says. Sunscreen tip! Budget brands are just as effective as the more expensive brands. Brands such as Neutrogena, Coppertone, and Banana Boat are a less expensive option for sunscreen. These brands carry a variety of choices for adults, children and babies. Find these brands as well as others at your local drugstore.
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7 THINGS THAT KEEP BOBBI BROWN LOOKING AND FEELING YOUNG “Don’t hide your age; highlight your beauty”, says Bobbi Brown. Read on for her best anti-aging to live by. By Victoria Kirby of Redbook
Ask Bobbi Brown for her secret to looking younger and her immediate response is, “I never use the word younger--I prefer to say better.” At 55, the makeup maestro and creator of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics has learned plenty of transformative beauty tricks, but she still believes that less is more. “In the past, if a woman felt she was starting to look old, she’d hide under a ton of makeup,” Bobbi says. “Now, we know the impact that good skin care, diet, and exercise can have on our skin, so we’re more empowered about how we age.” That idea sparked the concept for Bobbi’s newest book, Pretty Powerful, which features her tips along with advice from real women and celebrities such as Lauren Bush and Blythe Danner. “It shows women of all ages, with and without makeup on, to really drive home that it’s about enhancing what you have, not covering up,” she says. Of course, she practices what she preaches with these simple, savvy essentials. 1 DOUBLE MOISTURIZER “I layer my moisturizers, which makes my complexion so fresh, I can wear less foundation. First I smooth on a lighter lotion, then I follow with a rich cream, and I swear, I instantly look five years younger. And I blend both of them in with a foundation brush so I’m evenly hydrated.” 2 PALE EYESHADOW “Many women like to wear nude eyeshadow during the day, but it doesn’t really do much for you. Instead, try one that’s a few shades lighter than your skin tone. I brush my eyeshadow in Bone all over my lids, and it immediately makes me seem more awake. If you have olive skin, try a peachy shade, and for dark skin, go with a camel hue.”
Brownie -- the first one I ever created-gives you that effect. It’s the color I wish my lips were naturally.” 5 SANE WORKOUTS “I used to think that if I didn’t have time to do an hour long workout class, there wasn’t any point in exercising. But now, I make sure to do a little something every day: a brisk walk for 10 minutes, climbing stairs instead of taking the elevator. Then a few times a week, I do a longer workout. My friends who exercise a little every day look the best, by far.” 6 SMART SNACKS
“I buy a jar of it at the drugstore and use it as body lotion. It makes my skin incredibly soft and smooth-and it’s cheap, so I don’t mind going through it fast. I also put a drop or two of it in my hair to get it really shiny. Glossy hair is always youthful.”
“I stopped eating flour three years ago, and since then I’ve seen a huge difference in my skin. I also have more energy and better focus. To satisfy my carb cravings, I munch on Flackers flax-seed crackers by Dr. In The Kitchen. Also, the more fiber I eat, the less I snack, so I sprinkle a raw fiber powder from Whole Foods in a smoothie or yogurt and have it in the morning and then again around late afternoon.”
4 LOW-SHINE LIPS
7 THE RIGHT COCKTAIL
“I don’t believe any lip shade is off-limits, but texture is key. A sheer lipstick in a healthy pink or neutral color looks more polished and grown-up than a super-shiny gloss. Our number-one-selling lip color,
“I gave up wine because it makes my face so puffy the next day. Now I enjoy a good vodka or tequila on the rocks!
3 A TUB OF COCONUT OIL
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Sally Hansen Salon Manicure Nail Polish in ‘Pink Me Now’ $8 - Drugstores
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in ‘Move it Mauve’ $7 - Target
Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara in ‘Carbon Black’ $8 - Drugstores
EDITOR’S CHOICE A soft floral pink nail polish, a mascara perfect for sensitive eyes, and a pop of mauve to brighten up your lips. Find more of our editors favorite products for spring at insightbeauty.com
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SPRING BEAUTY The spring fashion shows are all over the place but, how do you get the red carpet look without going overboard? Here’s how: NUDE, MINIMALIST FACES with just a jolt of color-like bright blue eyes- are all the rage. You don’t have to go crazy with the cobalt eyeliner; it can be just a smudge of color or eyshadow.
BRIGHT LIPS ARE BIG AGAIN -pucker up to corals, magentas, mauves and reds. If you’re nervous about going super bold, try a lipstain instead of a lipstick- they won’t be as bright as a lipstick.
METAL ROCKS especially as a bronze, smokey eye- a springtime interpretation of the heavier charcoal eye.
SOFT NEUTRAL NAIL POLISH -keep your nails a neutral color like a soft floral pink or nude beige. Neutrals will enhance your skin tone and work with almost any outfit.
BEAUTY REVIEW Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil WHAT IT IS A serum with argan oil WHAT IT DOES Hydrates and adds shine to dry, frizzy hair. KEY INGREDIENTS Moroccan argan oil and silicones (which smooth the cuticle and add shine to your hair) HOW IT FEELS/SMELLS/LOOKS The nongreasy gold liquid has a vanilla-andamber scent and the formula is paler than other argan oil formulas (which can show up in blonde hair). WHY WE LIKE IT “It’s very good for coarse, thirsty hair,” says hairstylist Nathaniel Hawkins, who suggests that everyone else lighten the formula by squeezing two drops in their palm and adding a splash of water. Our tester liked its shine-boosting powers and loved the scent so much, she dabbed it on her wrists. -CATHARINE GAMBRELL from allure magazine INSIGHT 13
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THE BEST SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR YOUR AGE! By: Total Beauty.com
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THE BEST SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR YOUR AGE By: Total Beauty.com
When it comes to skin care, most of us fall into one of two camps. There are those of us who never change our routine, using the same harsh face wash and lightweight moisturizer from our high school days. Then there’s the other group, who embrace treatments like Botox and acid peels before there’s even a wrinkle in sight. Neither situation is ideal. But with a few simple updates, it’s easy to find the happy medium. To help, we talked to New York dermatologist Heidi Waldorf, MD, and Olga Lorencin, esthetician and co-owner of Kinara Spa in Los Angeles. They gave us the scoop on what products are ideal for you in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. Follow their advice for your best possible complexion at every age.
20’s IF YOU’RE IN YOUR 20S ... The issues you’re most likely facing are acne and possibly some discoloration from sun damage. The most important thing to do is to keep your skin protected with sunscreen -- everyday. And “start protecting your neck, chest, and hands along with your face,” says Waldorf. Your ideal regimen: Step 1: Use a gentle foaming cleanser that will remove makeup and excess oil, but won’t dry 16 INSIGHT
out your skin. Step 2: For day, use a light moisturizer that contains sunscreen, and provides UVA and UVB protection. Look for a product that contains either zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or Mexoryl. Step 3: If you get mild breakouts (not serious acne -- your dermatologist should recommend the ideal treatment for that) use a spot treatment containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. And whatever you do, don’t pick -- it can lead to long-lasting scars. Step 4: If you are one to stay up all hours drinking, smoking, etc. you might want to kick start your anti-aging program now by applying a serum at night that contains Vitamin C. It’ll help fight the free radical damage your lifestyle is causing. Step 5: At night, choose a basic light moisturizer if you need it. “You don’t want to play too much or you’ll over do it and your skin will get out of wack,” says Lorencin.
30’s IF YOU’RE IN YOUR 30S ... Discoloration caused by sun damage or melasma (aka the mask of pregnancy that can also be caused by birth control) are likely two of your biggest skin challenges. “At this point, you need to start exfoliating regularly because skin only exfoliates naturally every 35 days as opposed to every 14 in your 20s,” says Lorencin. Your ideal regimen: Step 1: If you used a foaming cleanser in your 20s, it’s time to switch to a non-foaming, nondrying cleanser. Step 2: For day, before applying sunscreen use an antioxidant-rich moisturizer. “There is some evidence that antioxidants act synergistically with sunblock to help guard against photodamage,” says Waldorf. “They can also help reduce old damage,” she says.
Step 3: Add a retinoid to your regimen to help improve the overall texture and tone of your skin. The highest strengths of retinoids are prescription only, but over-the-counter retinol is a close second. Apply retinoids at night, and avoid putting them on your upper eyelids -- they’ll be too irritating on your delicate eye area. Step 4: If your skin feels like it needs additional moisture after applying a retinoid, use a basic hydrating cream that doesn’t contain additional Retinol. “You want to avoid over treating your skin,” says Waldorf.
40’s IF YOU’RE IN YOUR 40S ... In your 40s, the lines of movement between your brows and around your eyes and mouth don’t disappear like they did in your 30s. “Your estrogen level is tapering so your skin will become dryer,” says Lorencin. Overall you’ll need to add moisture and collagen-building ingredients like peptides. Your ideal regimen: Step 1: Cleanse using a basic non-foaming, non-drying cleanser in combination with a gentle face cleansing brush to help remove dead skin cells. Because you’ll use retinol regularly, you’ll need to get rid of any flaking skin. Step 2: Use SPF daily to prevent further damage and choose a product that contains antioxidants to fight free radicals and help reverse some of the damage you already have. Step 3: Retinoids and peptides are two ingredient groups that you should add into your routine if you haven’t already. Peptides can help rebuild collagen, especially when used in combination with skin texture-improving retinoids like retinol. To get both ingredients in one dose (and at one price), opt for a serum.
Step 4: Use a moisturizer that has a high level of glycerin or hyaluronic acid to help skin retain the moisture it needs.
50’s IF YOU’RE IN YOUR 50S ... “Moisture, moisture, moisture,” says Waldorf, should be your main concern in your 50s. Loss of tone and sagging are your biggest issues and creams and serums can only do so much. If you’re looking for more dramatic results, in addition to using powerful products that contain peptides, retinoids, or alpha hydroxy or amino acids, consider talking to your derm about laser treatments and other non-evasive or evasive skin rejuvenation options if you haven’t already. Your ideal regimen: Step 1: Use a cream cleanser that will hydrate skin while it cleanses. Step 2: Choose a moisturizing cream that contains SPF to keep skin hydrated and protected. Because ingredients like retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, daily use of sunscreen is a must. Step 3: For day, apply a peptide rich serum under your SPF daily to help build collagen. Look for one that also contains antioxidants to fight free radicals or hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture. Step 4: For night, apply a retinoid like retinol before your moisturizer “Generally retinoids are applied at night because most lose potency with exposure to ultraviolet light,” says Waldorf. Step 5: Though it sounds too simple (and inexpensive) to be true, a simple petroleum jelly is tops at sealing in moisture, which is more important now than ever. Apply it following any treatment serums.
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HOW BAD IS THAT BEAUTY HABIT? By: Total Beauty.com
When it comes to our beauty routines, we all do it—cut corners, skip steps, and multitask (but in a bad way). Say you stop shampooing for a few days, or finger-paint on lip gloss—is it any big deal? You’re going to want to rethink a few of these habits, but as it turns out, sometimes doing “wrong” gives you a surprise beauty benefit.
You clean your makeup brushes once a year (if that)... The verdict: Uh-oh! “If you haven’t cleaned your brushes in some time and are experiencing breakouts, this could be the culprit,” says New York dermatologist Craig Austin, MD. “Makeup brushes are like sponges; they hold on to bacteria.” They can even harbor mold. Wash sponges and “wet” brushes (for concealer or foundation) every three to four days, because they’re more hospitable to bacteria. Dry powder brushes should be cleaned weekly. “If the bristles are dirty and sticky,” notes New York-based celebrity makeup artist Nick Barose, “they’ll hang onto more makeup and not blend it as well.” Use a gentle face wash, then let them air-dry. 18 INSIGHT
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You apply makeup with your fingers... The verdict: Hey, it’s OK! Plenty of makeup artists use their fingers in lieu of brushes, and it’s not just because this shortcut saves time. “I love using my fingers to apply foundation, cream blush, and concealer because they warm the product up and really press it into the skin for a look that’s more natural and seamless,” says Los Angeles-based celebrity makeup artist Kayleen McAdams. You’ll also likely waste less makeup because fingertips don’t sop it up like sponges. Caveat: Most powders (eye shadow, blush) will look less splotchy when you use a tool, like the Ecotools Foam Applicator Brush ($6; ecotools.com).
Do you pop pimples? The verdict: Uh-oh! It’s the cardinal sin of skin—squeezing a zit. But who has the willpower to wait out a giant whitehead? “Picking blemishes can make them appear worse and spread bacteria,” says dermatologist Howard Murad, MD. If you can’t stop, minimize harm: Clean the area, help things along with a warm cloth or steam, and (very!) gently use tissue-covered clean fingertips (not nails) to apply pressure evenly. Then treat the area with an antibacterial product containing salicylic acid.
You don’t wash your face at night The verdict: Fine in a bind! Some nights you deserve a medal just for brushing your teeth. Fact is, occasionally sleeping in makeup won’t harm you, though it can cause inflammation around the eyelids, says Wendy W. Lee, MD, associate professor of clinical ophthalmology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. 20 INSIGHT
You skip the base and top coat when you paint your nails... The verdict: Fine in a bind Four layers of polish (plus waiting time) is a tall order. If you must skip a step, nix the base coat, says Tom Bachik, L’Oreal Paris consulting nail expert: “Most top coats are designed to be quick-dry and help keep color from smudging.” Just know that without the base, you’ll see chips sooner. So try a three-in-one: a polish with the top and base coats built in, like Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Polish ($8 drugstores).
You blow-dry or flat-iron your hair every day... The verdict: Hey, it’s OK! Yes, really. Assuming your hair isn’t damaged to begin with, “it’s entirely possible to heat-style and still have hair that looks luxurious,” says Liz Cunnane, a trichologist at Philip Kingsley in New York City. The trick: Always use a heat-protective spray before hitting the tools; we like Tresemme Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Heat Protection & Shine Spray ($4; mass retailers). Switch to the dryer’s lowest setting or medium for the iron.
You dye your hair so often you don’t remember your real color! The verdict: Hey, it’s OK! Here’s the deal: If you’re just touching up roots, rest easy, says colorist Aura of Sally Hershberger Downtown in New York City. The issue, she says, isn’t how often you color but how often you change it drastically (going majorly lighter is especially harsh). So be sure to ask your colorist for a damage-minimizing plan.
And rehydrate strands with a weekly deep-conditioning treatment. We like L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare Power Moisture Rush Mask ($7; mass retailers).
You skip shampoo (a lot)... The verdict: Hey, it’s OK! No need to feel like a slacker—there are benefits to not sudsing up daily (less wear-and-tear and better shine, for starters). But if your hair looks flat or oily, refresh it with dry shampoo and a dryer blast. We like Schwarzkopf Professional Osis Refresh Dust ($22; Ulta stores). Or, Rhys suggests, try an old-school alternative: baby powder. INSIGHT 21
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