FASHION & BEAUTY
Style tips and tricks
Life often throws up a few more don’ts than dos. And while reluctant to add a few more to the slate, knowing what not to do can be as useful as understanding what works, especially when it comes to beauty. Here, then, are 10 bad habits to break right now.
1. Don’t rely on the sunscreen in your moisturizer. Summer’s around the corner, and skin needs the protection of a separate broad- spectrum sunblock with an SPF30 or more. Try Natio Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF50, $ 15, an affordable everyday protector that comes in a convenient carry size, making it perfect for popping in a purse.
2. Don’t over- exfoliate. It depends on the product, but serious intervention is called for if you’re currently exfoliating more than once a week. Irritating the skin on the face can cause flaking, oiliness and blemishes — the reasons you were probably exfoliating in the first place. Gentle exfoliating products are essential.
3. Don’t get too close to the mirror when plucking the brows. The result could be too big a gap between them, making you look perpetually cross. From about 30cm away, you won’t lose that all- important perspective.
4. Don’t pump mascara. It forces air into the chamber, softening the formula and causing smudging and flaking.
5. Don’t be bamboozled by blusher. A pale pink blush with a touch of sheen works on everyone.
6. Don’t put makeup on the forehead. It creases as the face moves. Just dot foundation where it’s needed and then blend any extra up and out towards the hairline.
7. Don’t use body wash as a shaving cream — not for a close, nick- free shave. Shaving foam or gel is much better than suds at acting like a cushion between your skin and the razor.
8. Don’t think that white wine won’t stain the teeth. A crisp white is generally more acidic than red. Keen on keeping those choppers pristine? Rinse after drinking (or eat something like bread, which will reduce the acidity).
9. Don’t mist the face with water. Spraying with Evian won’t rehydrate skin — just the opposite. If you must mist, do so with a product that contains a humectant such as aloe or glycerin, which will lock in the moisture.
10. Don’t apply concealer or foundation to the lids ( in place of primer) — it will make eyeshadow crease, especially as the temperatures heat up.