Lanier Long

Q: I have mostly oily skin with some dry areas and have noticed that either sooner or later, my skin breaks out when I wear foundation. I and am looking for an excellent way to give my face a beauty boost without the blemishes. Could you give me some suggestions or alternatives?-Keicia P.S. I clean my brushes (if used) and have used non-latex sponges for applications.

A: If you are breaking out it could be one of two things: An internal condition or an allergic reaction. Many people overlook what’s happening on the inside, but it directly affects how you look on the outside. If it is the former, I suggest that you build up your immune system with a good antioxidant, which helps to fight free radicals. Also drink lots of carrot juice as it contains vitamin A, which is great for obtaining and keeping healthy skin. Stop using sugar, and reduce your intake of coffee and sodas—or remove from your diet completely. You should see results within three to four weeks. If you are experiencing an allergic reaction from beauty products, make sure you are using oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup and cleansers. I also recommend staying clear of scrubs and alcohol-based toners that will leave your mores enlarged, leaving them more susceptible to becoming clogged. Remember, strong closed pores won't allow makeup to enter your pores at an allergic level. Last, you may want to look at the hair products you use. Depending on how you wear your hair (e.g., bangs) that could also be the contributor to breakouts.

Q: I was wandering if you could please recommend a brand of eye shadows that have great colors that will pop on my dark complexion for when I go out that is inexpensive?-Nia

A: Applying eye shadow to dark complexions requires using a shadow with a rich pigment. The brands with the brightest pigments are Iman (sold at drug stores, and at Ulta.com), M.A.C (at cosmetic counters) and L’Oréal’s H.I.P (high intensity pigment, also sold at drug stores and at Ulta.com). Here’s an insider trick to know: you can deepen some shadow colors by dabbing them in water prior to applying. Or you might try a layering process of putting on two or three layers of the same color and lifting the color off the surface with a sponge applicator. 

Q: I am looking for the right makeup and skin care regimen to follow.
My complexion is cocoa and I have spent lots of money and cannot get the right look. I am in my fifties and I have combination skin so I would appreciate any help you have to offer.-Pamela
 

A: Let’s start with skin care: First cleanse with a water-soluble cleanser, followed with a face cloth dipped in tepid water. Next, moisturize and use an eye cream. Now on to makeup. You should always experiment with new products, doing so is fun. But remember the seven basics for makeup application includes concealer, foundation, pressed or loose powder, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, blush and lipstick. I list these steps because salespeople and cosmetics companies always try to cut a couple of these procedures. You said you have a lot of cosmetics you’ve purchased at cosmetic counters. Compare them to IMAN and Black Opal in your shade see which ones work best!

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