Ask an Expert

This month, we bring you the best in clean beauty, foundation inclusivity and hair savers.

Our tips on clean beauty, hair savers and more

QI go through body lotion so fast it’s bankrupting me! Are there affordable options?

If dry skin is the bane of your existence and you’ve exhausted your options, consider something simpler and costeffective. Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, a Torontobased dermatologist and the author of Beyond Soap, recommends body oils. “For the body, my favourites are virgin coconut oil and sunflower-seed oil,” she says. Oils improve the skin barrier that helps hold in moisture without being too heavy. Look for coconut oils that are cold-pressed or extra virgin, which indicates the oil is unrefined—the best kind for skin care because it’s rich in polyphenols, a powerful antioxidant.

QNow that I’ve started to exercise regularly, is there anything that can help me cut down on washing my hair?

Apply this nonaerosol powder at your roots and massage it in either before you go to bed or before you hit your Spinning class. The rice and tapioca starches will help soak up sweat and oil, while charcoal deodorizes your hair and scalp, making your hair seem thicker by adding texture. Kaia Naturals owner Mary Futher likens the product to gravy—“starches need time to thicken”— meaning, the longer the powder sits, the better the oil absorption and volumizing effect. KAIA NATURALS The Takesumi Detox Overnight Dry Shampoo, $32, kaianaturals.com.

QFinding the right foundation colour is a challenge. Do any brands have a wide range?

Major beauty companies are finally embracing a full line of foundation shades for women of all skin tones, including some of our favourite affordable brands. Both Maybelline New York and Covergirl have launched ranges with 40 shades in formulations geared toward full, matte and long-lasting coverage. MAYBELLINE NEW YORK Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Foundation, $11, maybelline.ca. COVERGIRL Trublend Matte Made Foundation, $14, covergirl.ca.