THE BB BEACKDOWN

The BB BREAKDOWN

BY LISA OPIE

WE CAN THANK GEN Z FOR CANCELING HEAVY makeup and popularizing the dewy, no makeup makeup look. BB Creams are making a huge comeback because of their lightweight feel, natural look, and easy application. INFECTA investigated to find the best BB Creams on the market.

I received a sample of the YENSA SKIN ON SKIN BC FOUNDATION in my Ipsy and I have been hooked on this ever since. This multitasker offers full coverage with a dewy finish and SPF 40 protection. $38, www.yensa.com YSL BEAUTY TOUCHE ECLAT ALL IN ONE GLOW FOUNDATION is pricey but worth every penny. On pump will get you looking flawless. This liquid consistency makes it easy to apply and has a natural finish. SPF: 23 $48 www.nordstrom.com

GARNIER’S SKINACTIVE MIRACLE SKIN PERFECTOR BB CREAM naturally covers imperfections while providing SPF 20 protection. It’s formula controls oil and shine while making pores less visible. This cream has light to medium coverage with a dewy finish. $14.99 www.ulta.com Invest in your skin with this EXTRA AF BB CREAM: 3LAB’s tinted moisturizer version brightens your skin, calms irritation and offers SPF 40 protection. This formula boasts wrinklefighting Bio-Engineered Renewal Complex, as well as Phytocell Tec to protect cells and maintain a youthful complexion. $120 www.net-aporter.com

L’OREAL INFALLIBLE 24H FRESH WEAR FOUNDATION is mask-friendly thanks to its long lasting formula. When it comes to quality, L’Oreal never lets us down. This SPF 25, lightly fragranced lightweight foundation has a lightweight feel with medium to full coverage, and lasts all day (even with a mask on!) $14.99 www.lorealparisusa.com

Day to DaywithDr. Renae

BY RENAE SWEENEY, DMD

ARE YOU READY TO DITCH YOUR N95 MASK AND REVEAL YOUR BEAUTIFUL SMILE?! You might be asking, “how can makeup alter your smile,” Contrast and color are key. Check out these tips for an instantly whiter smile! 3 TIPS:

• BRONZED GODDESS • COOL COLORS • GLOSS IS BOSS

BRONZED GODDESS Adding a little bronzer will help to highlight the white in your teeth making them look brighter. The darker your complexion, the whiter your teeth tend to look. Blondes and those with fair complexions have a more difficult time making their teeth appear white than brunettes and those with darker complexions. COOL COLORS When it comes to lipstick and your teeth, orange is your enemy. Aim for cool tones vs warm tones when choosing a lip shade. Lipsticks with a blue undertone will help to contrast and counteract the natural yellow of your teeth. Meanwhile, those with a warm or orange undertone will accent the yellow. Try a true cherry red, fuchsia or purple for a fun pop of color! GLOSS IS BOSS Matte lip colors will make your teeth appear dull and dry. Glossy lips will help your teeth look whiter as it reflects light off of your teeth. When choosing a lip gloss, go with a cooler silver shimmer over gold to help brighten your smile.

$6.99 CREST PRO-HEALTH GUM AND SENSITIVITY crest.com

$5.98 ACT TOTAL CARE MOUTH RINSE actoralcare.com

Q & A with Dr. Renae

$5.99 SENSODYNE RAPID RELIEF sensodyne.com

$5.99 PRONAMEL .pronamel.us

$4.99 COLGATE SENSITIVE colgate.com

Q: I have sensitive teeth, is there anything I can do to help with this?!

A: Teeth can become sensitive for a number of reasons. The most common causes are tooth decay (cavities), chipped tooth, broken filling, gum recession, teeth clenching/grinding, etc. Other habits like tooth whitening, and consuming foods or drinks which are acidic which can lead to thinning of the tooth can also contribute to tooth sensitivity.

It’s important to see your dentist for an exam to identify the causative factors. At home products such as a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne Rapid Relief, a fluoride mouth rinse such as ACT Total Care, and a soft bristled toothbrush can help with sensitivity. Q: What toothpastes do you recommend for sensitivity?

A: There are many great toothpastes out there. The main thing to look for is fluoride, Sodium Fluoride or Stannous Fluoride. Both types help to protect teeth against decay and acidic breakdown. Fluoride works by integrating into the enamel (outermost protective layer) which allows for strengthening and remineralization of the tooth. Some of the most popular sensitivity toothpastes are Colgate Sensitive, Crest ProHealth Gum and Sensitivity, Sensodyne and Pro-Namel. My personal favorite is Sensodyne Rapid Relief Toothpaste. Q: What are your thoughts on charcoal toothpaste?

A: Charcoal toothpastes are too abrasive for everyday use and can actually weaken your teeth over time. Activated charcoal in toothpaste may help remove surface stains on your teeth, but can also wear down your enamel which can make your teeth appear more yellow as it exposes the dentin (inner layer of tooth). This can also lead to increased sensitivity. Although charcoal toothpastes have been a popular trend, there are more effective products for whitening your teeth such as at home whitening products and toothpastes.