Expert Skin Care

The internet is a-buzz with the latest in food fads: The Flat Belly Diet.

So what's it all about? According to MSNBC, the "Flat Belly Diet" wants you to eat more MUFAs!

MUFAs are foods rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, healthful fats that research links to less belly fat and better overall health. The best part: MUFAs are found in rich, delicious foods like olives, nuts and seeds, oils, avocado, and (yes!) dark chocolate. Incorporating a MUFA into every meal is easy; we made it even easier by combining them with our favorite new supermarket products.

Prevention.com notes that one of the most important aspects of the Flat Belly Diet is the "4-day jumpstart and one key ingredient is Sassy Water."

So what is Sassy Water? Looks like you have to sign-up to find out.

But the Daily Mail swears you'll "lose up to 7lb and more than five inches all over in just FOUR DAYS." They've also got a "Flat Belly Diet" Quiz to help you accurately ascertain your risk of bloating.

And lastly, New York's Examiner.com has a review of the upcoming book, "Flat Belly Diet."

The only part of the Flat Belly Diet that gives me pause is its assertion that eating monounsaturated fatty acids specifically targets belly fat; unfortunately, many people may purchase this book under the false impression that the exercises and meals in it are designed especially for decreasing their tummy girth. A good deal of research has gone into stomach-shrinking methods, and they universally find that, while eating less and exercising decreases the fat in your body OVERALL, you can't just target one area alone. You'll lose weight and inches from your stomach, in other words, but you'll lose it from everywhere else too, and possibly not quite in the proportions you had wished. And no amount of stomach crunches will burn fat only in your stomach. You'll develop some kicking stomach muscles and burn fat all over your body, but not just in your stomach.

Your baby's skin is thinner, more fragile and less oily than an adult's. It also produces less melanin, the substance that helps ward off sunburn. It is less resistant to bacteria and harmful substances in the environment, especially if it is irritated. Babies also sweat less efficiently than the rest of us, so it is harder for them to maintain their inner body temperature. On the other hand, most babies are less likely to react to allergens.

In the first few weeks after birth, your baby will retain some of your hormones. As a result, several minor skin conditions can result which will usually disappear fairly quickly. In addition, there are a few other skin conditions that are common during childhood which are normal and, most often, easily managed:

1. Heat rash: Small pink pimples, often across the body. This condition results from high heat and humidity and undeveloped sweat glands. Do not overdress baby or overheat room, keep clothing loose and cleanse and dry skin thoroughly.
2. Infant acne: Pink spots on the face. When infants are born, they still retain their mother's hormones for a short time and, as a result, infant acne can occur. This usually goes away on its own in the first few weeks. If not, talk to your health care professional.
3. Cradle cap: Crusty patches on scalp. Overactive glands in your baby's scalp can cause cradle cap. Wipe gently with baby oil, leave on a few minutes, shampoo with baby shampoo, then use baby brush or comb
4. Chafing: When there is friction between baby's clothing and skin, or where areas of skin rub together, chafing can result. Remove or minimize anything that is tight or rubs against the skin, like rubber pants or straps. Cleanse, rinse and dry skin thoroughly, then apply cornstarch baby powder, lotion or cream
5. Eczema: Red, irritating, scaly skin. Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a genetically determined common skin condition. Clean and dry skin thoroughly. Talk to your pediatrician or health care professional; you may want to try sensitive-skin products especially designed for babies.

Tinsel on your Christmas tree. Sequins on your blouse. Why not a little sparkle in your makeup? This season, holiday makeup is all about two things: jewel tones and metallics. New aqua blues, apple greens and rich purples line cosmetic store shelves next to silvers and golds. And glitter -- glitter is everywhere.

The color trend is not just for juniors. "More mature women shouldn't be afraid to play with color," says Megan Osborne, color consultant and makeup artist at Sephora at the Mall at Green Hills in Nashville, Tenn. "Browns and earth tones will tend to make you look older, so it's still fine to go with grays and soft blues, as long as they're matte."

But what if you just can't resist a little sparkle, especially for a holiday party? "I don't think any woman is too old to wear glitter on her lid as a liner," Osborne says.

Be brave. Experiment. Here are a few tips and products to try.

Too Faced Shimmer Veils Eyeshadow

($18.50, Sephora)

• Try the gold color, Firefly, if you have brown or green eyes. The silver Unicorn Tears will flatter blue or gray eyes.

• Younger women can coat the entire eyelid with this shadow. For extra glamour and staying power, use any complementary color as a base first.

• For older women, "the best way to wear them is as a liner on the lash line," Osborne says. "It brings a pop. It's noticeable and it's pretty."

Lorac Multi-Platinum Palette

($37, Sephora)

• If you'd rather leave the shine to your accessories, pick up this stylish palette of six shadows and a blush.

• "I love that palette. It's very transitional from day to night," Osborne says. "Use the neutral colors during the day, and add the liners at night. Use the blue or black as liners or as crease colors."

L'Oreal Hip Color Truth Cream Eyeliner

($11.99, CVS)

• This intense cream eyeliner comes in several colors, including Midnight Blue, Teal and Eggplant, and has a professional brush for application.

• Use a thin line for daytime, then double the thickness at night. Cream eyeliners "are smudge-able and have staying power," Osborne says.

• For an extra-smoky eye at night, Osborne suggests applying cream eyeliner all over the lid, then smudging with your finger.

Bare Escentuals Buxom Babes Big & Healthy Lip Polish

($28, Sephora)

• A gift set of four sparkling plumpers will make your lips tingle and glow.

• Wear the gloss alone or layer it over lipstick. "My favorite one is Starr," Osborne says. "It's a berry color with a beautiful gold shimmer on top."

• Bonus: These glosses smell like baked goods. "Not all lip plumpers are sweet," Osborne says. "Women love the cake scent."

SLS or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is most often found in skin care products that lather such as soaps and shampoos. If you are worried about wrinkles and getting older, however, you should avoid this one ingredient completely. This powerful ingredient will cause you to age at a much faster rate than normal -- not good if you are trying to maintain your youthful appearance.

Manufacturers use SLS in many industrial cleaners and chemicals including degreasers, detergents, and floor cleaners. Unfortunately, this is the exact same ingredient found in many of your favorite personal care products.

SLS might be a more effective ingredient at a far lower cost, but it is also corrosive. Here is an in depth look at many of the problems associated with SLS products.

Corrosive Tendencies

Experts believe that SLS transforms into carcinogenic nitrates. These substances are absorbed into the body where they enter the blood resulting in lung problems, eye and skin irritations, allergic reactions, and a loss or thinning of hair.

Dries Out Your Skin And Hair

Moisture is a vital component in skin. It keeps it looking young and allows you to hold off the wrinkles and dry look associated with aging. The moisture content in your skin causes it to look firm and tight. When you use SLS personal care products, you are robbing your skin of the oils and moisture it needs.

Experts believe SLS is the single largest cause of rough, dry skin because its effects worsen each time it is used.

The Harmful Effect Of Nitrates

Many people shy away from consuming hot dogs because of the nitrates they contain. However, the SLS products you use on your hair and skin are believed to contain the same harmful substances. In fact, the amount of nitrates absorbed to your body is 100 times more potent than a single hot dog.

Permanent DNA Damage

Studies performed by Japanese experts discovered SLS products not only steal your skin's moisture, but they also harm its DNA. This damage inhibits your skin's ability to repair itself. When it can no longer regenerate at a healthy level, it ages almost before your eyes.

Extensive Skin And Hair Damage

The previous problems mentioned all point to this fact, but enough cannot be said about the caustic and damaging effects SLS has on your hair and skin. The hair loss and corrosion can age your hair. Your skin will also experience burning and flaking. Perhaps the worst effects are those that affect your health far into the future.

Using products containing SLS works against all of the other steps you take in an attempt to age gracefully.

The Solution

The best thing you can do to avoid this harmful substance is to read the label of each product you purchase. Lotions, soaps, shampoos, and any other substance that touch your hair or skin can contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

Whatever you do, stay far away from these products. You may have to select products that come from other places such as a natural store. The cost may also be higher, but the healthier skin and hair will be well worth it. If anti aging is one of your main concerns, remember the ingredient Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

Want to reverse the signs of skin aging with the anti wrinkle treatment and beauty breakthrough that works? Then see this review of LifeCell skin cream and see how this product is said to be one of the best, and how it compares to Strivectin SD cream for skin lines and wrinkles. Find out all at this wrinkle cream and anti aging review site right here.

1. A good skincare routine can take years off your face. By skincare, I mean wearing sunscreen daily then using antioxidants, peels and scrubs to buy back lost time and fix damaged skin.

2. Stick to creamy blushes and shadows Older skin usually means dry skin so creamy blushes and shadows are optimal. Also, powder blushes and shadows tend to settle into your fine lines and wrinkles, whereas creamier products ‘plump’ up your skin.

3. Don’t overpluck Once you hit your 30s, you’ll want to be careful not to overpluck your eyebrows since brows are less apt to grow back if you excessively pluck.
4. Get your teeth lightened Over time, teeth may yellow from coffee, tea or red wine stains. You can whiten teeth quickly with over-the-counter products.

5. Stand up straight. Think about all the sexy women you know. They stand up straight and confidently. , it will make you look years younger

6. Get a good night’s sleep Few things age you overnight more than a poor night’s sleep. Your eyes are puffy, your skin sallow and dull and your face sags.

7. Vaseline. Can be used to remove eye makeup. It’s cheaper than over-the-market products, doesn’t bother the eyes and it helps protect the delicate skin around your eyes. Then during Harmattan Vaseline provides the perfect cure for chapped lips: Simply slather it on, then massage lips for a few minutes with until lips are silky and smooth.

8. Mascara can make anyone’s eyes look bigger and brighter. If you have short or straight eyelashes, curl them first before applying mascara.

9. Concealers come in very handy as a camouflage for fresh pimples. , dab on some before applying foundation .But make sure to dot the concealer on with the pad of your middle finger. You never want to rub concealer in like you would sunscreen or foundation.

10. The less makeup a woman wears, the younger she looks.

Hair colouring is the latest fashion trend and it lifts your looks and spirit more than anything. A new hair colour makes you look all the way new. Today there are number of colours you can choose from. Even though it is advised to colour your hair at a professional saloon; with a little care and a bit of effort you can do it at home itself. Hair coloring can add spice and enhance many hair styles. A good hair color can add shine, drama and fun to your hair style. It can make some hair types easier to style. Coloring the hair is probably the quickest way to and enhance your hairstyle.

There are certain things you should take care before colouring your hair. Make sure you have your hair condition in the best possible shape before adding hair colour. For the best results, stay within two shades of your natural hair colour. Nowadays many women and men prefer to colour their hair at home and of course there is nothing wrong in doing so but before you dye your hair for the first time you should be well-prepared and educated in order to avoid damaging your hair. Sometimes hair coloring can seriously damage your hair. Anytime chemicals are misused the chance of breakage and damage is almost 100 percent. The chemicals that the hair dye contains make changes in the texture or structure of the hair and if misused the hair colouring can make your hair drier, lifeless as well as brittle.

Before colouring your hair you have to decide what kind of results do you want! Are you going lighter or darker? Do you need to cover gray? Are you trying to update your look or jazz up a dull shade? The answers to these questions will help you choose your formula like permanent, demi-permanent or semi-permanent.

The tools you need

Protective clothing - a button-down smock will shield you from drips and you won"t have to pull it over your wet head when it is time to rinse.

Claw-like clips to separate sections of hair.

Latex gloves - these should be included in your home hair colour kit.

You may want to use a brush to paint on the solution and really saturate the strands.

If you have long hair you may want to have two kits ready. You don"t want to run out in the middle of the process.

Methods

Start with clean dry hair that has no product in it like any conditioner, styling gels, mousses etc... It"s best if you wash your hair the day before so your natural oils will protect your scalp.

Brush or comb out tangles, then divide hair into four sections. Part down the middle from forehead to neck, then across at the crown. Twist and secure each section with a clip.

Put on gloves and mix the ingredients according to the directions.

Do one section at a time. Starting with the back, release one clip. Put a line of color along your hairline. Then repeat by working through thin sections of hair until the whole area is saturated. Twist back into the clip and repeat with each of the remaining sections.

Go around your hairline to make sure you get all the little wisps.

Remove any colour that may have gotten on your forehead or neck or any exposed skin. You can use soap and water, or you can find color remover at a beauty supply store.

Wait for the colour to dry. Colour will usually take within 20-30 minutes. Stubborn gray can take up to 45 minutes. Most mixtures will stop working after an hour.

You want to dye your hair, not your skin, your bathroom walls, the tile floor, etc. Before you start, cover your surroundings with old towels, wear clothes that you don't mind ruining and rub Vaseline on your forehead to prevent stains.

Once you've successfully colored your hair, wait 24 hours before washing it again. According to me it takes at least that long time for the dye to settle.

Towel dry the hair and comb through. Style as usual.

Parabens: A group of chemical preservatives that is possibly carcinogenic. Linked to breast cancer, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption.

Sulfates (harmful): Sulfur-based compounds that are found to be irritating and drying to skin and hair.

DEA: A type of Ethanoloamine which has been connected to Immunotoxicity and believed to cause harm to the brain and nervous system.

Ethoxylates: Chemical compounds which are irritating to the skin and thought to be carcinogenic.

Silicone: A synthetic additive which can be harmful and irritating.

Phthalates: These compounds are commonly found in nail polish and fragrances. They are thought to be harmful to reproductive system, have been linked to developmental disorders in children, Immunotoxicity and Endocrine disruption.

Petrolatum: Developed from Petroleum, it can be irritating to the skin, clog pores, and may be contaminated with toxic impurities.

Burt's Bees began in 1984 as a homemade beeswax candle company and expanded in 1991 to include homemade personal care products. They now manufacture over 150 natural, earth-friendly products including face care, body care, hair care, lip care, men's grooming and baby care. Burt's Bees uses natural ingredients from renewable recourses, promises no petroleum compounds, and uses recycled and recyclable packaging and nature-safe manufacturing practices.

1. Massage your feet. Rub feet to release tension, increase circulation and rejuvenate the skin.

2. Soothe your soles. Soak feet for at least five minutes in a container filled with warm water. Pat your feet dry and apply lotion to hydrate your feet.

3. Elevate your legs. Lift your legs above your heart while lying down to help reduce swelling.

4. Rotate your ankles. Cup the foot under the back portion of the heel to brace the foot and leg and turn slowly at the ankle five times. This loosens the ankle joint and relaxes your feet.

5. Point your toes. While standing, do toe raises, toe points and toe curls for five seconds; repeat 10 times. This alleviates toe cramps and strengthens calf muscles.

6. If high heels are creating a burning sensation on the balls of your feet, use colorful ball-of-the foot cushions such as Foot Petals Tip Toes. Not only do they pamper the feet, but they stop them from sliding forward by moving the center of pressure toward the heel.

7. If your heels hurt, you can put some spring in your step with the help of Spenco for Her Comfort Casual Insoles. Designed to absorb shock and curtail odor, they also prevent blisters, as well as cracked and callused heels.

8. If sassy party slingbacks are digging deep into your skin, create a protective barrier by using a moleskin or Foot Petals Strappy Strips to prevent blisters and strap slippage.

Firstly lets explore how to get a cleavage to die for, without the aid of an expensive and painful boob job. Some of the bras out on the high-street are really great value and what's more, give you all the support and lift you'll need to create the illusion of bigger boobs.

Once you've been fitted with a killer cleavage bra, draw a line between your boobs with liquid concealer and blend outwards. The highlighting will create shadows, which will ultimately make your boobs look bigger. Don't go mad with the concealer though, otherwise you could end up with some tell tale make-up stains on your dress.

Next, how about plumping up your pout, without the use of collagen? Nothing says sexy like a pair of lips that look defined and plumped up against the rest of your look. There are plenty of lip plumping lipsticks out there from as cheaply as £1.99, but if you want to be even more clever, then why not invest in some cinnamon oil?

No, we've not gone mad! cinnamon oil is the ingredient present in most lip plumping glosses, so why not skip the expense and head to your local health food store and pick up a bottle. Simply dab on to your lips and let the magic begin...

Dry shampoo is also a party fave at this time of year, especially if you have to go straight from office to party with no time to glam up. Simply spritz onto your hair, leave for a few minutes and then brush or comb out and style as normal.

Lastly, why not protect your feet this hectic party season with a celebrity favourite, Elizabeth Arden eight hour cream? At £20 it's a bit pricey but it's a cream that can be used for pretty much anything including your lips, brows and cheeks at a highlighter.

In this instance, simply rub some onto your heels before slipping into your party shoes to help prevent them rubbing. The cream should act as a barrier between your heels and your shoes, so fingers crossed you can dance the night away minus that pesky blister pain.

Tip one: always exfoliate, shave and wax 24 to 48 hours before tanning. Use a salt and jasmine scrub (€25) from Cristalle Beauty to make your skin feel squeaky clean.

Tip two: never moisturise before tanning as it acts as a skin barrier and inhibits the DHA from developing properly. Only moisturise problem areas like elbows, knees and ankles.

Tip three: always use a glove or a mitt to get the best coverage and apply in quick circular motions. Wash hands afterwards to avoid staining around the knuckles and nails, which are two bad tanning telltales.

Tip four: avoid showering or exercising for eight hours and avoid washing your hands if possible.

Tip five: avoid tight clothing, bras with straps, socks and white clothing whilst your tan is developing.

Tip six: shower after eight hours to remove the tan residue. Use no exfoliant shower gels and keep the skin moisturised to keep your glowing tan.

Dr. Thienna Ho, founder of Thienna, Inc., a skin care company that focuses on health, is also the current Guinness World Records' holder for the most sumo squats in one hour. On Saturday, December 20 at 10:00 a.m. PST, she will attempt to break yet another world record for the longest wall sit. The event will take place at World Team USA Gymnasium at: 2575 Ocean Avenue in San Francisco.

The current Guinness World Records' holder for the longest wall sit is Rajkumar Chakraborty at 11 hours and five minutes; this record was set at Panposh Sports Hostel, Rourkela, India, on April 22, 1994.

"At the age of 41, I must prove to myself that I can do this," Dr. Thienna says. "As a scientific nutritionist, I eat well and live well and these wellness ideals have given me health, strength, and stamina; I am confident that I can break this record."

She adds that she is also attempting this record to honor her mother who passed away in 2006 from an autoimmune disease.

Dr. Thienna has set a personal goal of 12 hours. During this time, she will sit on an "invisible chair" - her thighs parallel to the floor and her back to the wall.

Dr. Thienna explains that no supportive use of hands on thighs is allowed. She expects to engage in some odd behavior during this time that will include pulling on her hair, pounding on her thighs, jiggling her legs, and massaging her neck. These are all behaviors to keep her sane during this record-breaking attempt.

"It will be difficult and even somewhat tortuous," Dr. Thienna says, "but, I hope to feel a real sense of pride and accomplishment when it's all over."

The event is open to the public. Dr. Thienna is also accepting $1 pledges and donating 100 percent of the proceeds, for each minute she exceeds the current record, to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association: www.aarda.org.

Some old views on skin care or beauty products have resulted in inaccurate information in the media, with beauticians or mostly various cosmetics companies which bombard us on a daily basis with advertisements and concealed PR articles, even research which mostly favor the products. We bring you a list of the biggest misconceptions.


Believing that your skin will be the same as our mother`s is somewhat true. Genetics really determine the type of skin we will have, but other factors and our habits have great influence as well. Exposure to the Sun, alcohol intake, smoking, stress, poor diet and lack of sleep significantly affect our skin appearance. According to most medical experts, free radicals mostly cause diseases and aging. Not only do they cause wrinkles to appear, but acne as well, excessive sensitivity of the skin, stains the elderly have and loss of elasticity.

Less sleep, bigger circles under the eyes

Experts say that dark circles under the eyes are a result of the concentration of veins under the eyes, and this area is covered just by a thin layer of skin. Therefore, credits exclusively go to genetics and do not depend on how much you sleep. Even some studies have shown that if you often stay up late, this can cause liquid to build up in bags under your eyes, while the dark circles are slightly swollen.

Always the same skin care products

It is a great challenge to find a suiting cream, especially today when there is a wide range of various beauty products on the market. Even if we manage to find a cream for our skin type, it is necessary to change it with time. Our skin changes just like we do. As technology keeps advancing, perhaps a new product is more efficient. However, we will never discover this if we do not experiment. We will probably make mistakes, but in the long run, the search will surely pay off.

Melanoma

Exposure to the sun is often blamed for malignant melanoma, though it is wrong. A study conducted by the US Navy has found more melanoma in people who spend most time indoors. Least cases were recorded with people who work both indoors and outdoors, Therefore, excessive or insufficient Sun exposure is harmful, but moderate exposure is healthy.

The skin breathes

We often say our skin can finally breathe when we remove layers of powder or cream from it. However, the truth is that oxygen and nutrients come to skin cells through blood, not from the air. Still, the skin eliminates toxins, sweat and oil and absorbs moisture from the air through the outer layer, thus, a thick cream or powder coat can disable normal skin function.

Rejuvenating products

Although any woman would want this, unfortunately, there are no products which can truly make the skin youthful. During the natural aging process, our skin becomes loose and looses fat which is under the surface. The consequence of this process are wrinkles and other visible signs of aging. Even the most expensive creams which are advertised as youth elixirs cannot stop this process. However, some products can temporarily tighten it, make it firmer and moisturised, leaving the skin to look younger.

Acne are a result of poor diet

For a long time, it was believed that eliminating treats like chocolate or fast food would prevent the appearance of acne, but recent studies have shown that there is no link between the two. The main cause of acne is hormones. Acne are caused with excessive production of sebum, which causes the pores to clog up. It is regulated by hormones, not to food we eat. This does not mean that it is best to reduce such a diet for the wellbeing of the entire organism.

Expensive products are better

Expensive creams do not assume greater efficiency than cheaper creams. Established cosmetics companies can increase this perception by emphasising luxurious ingredients of their creams, for example, gold particles or caviar. This does not necessarily guarantee they are more effective.

Therefore, remember, the price is not important for quality, this is all just an issue of prestige and good advertising.

Hydratation slows down the appearance of wrinkles

Unfortunately, hydrating your face only acts on the surface, but there is no evidence that skin hydration affects wrinkles, because they are created deep down. Wrinkles are caused by many factors, which increase with aging. Anyway, faces always look more nourished and healthier after creams.

Hair grows faster after shaving

Hair grown approximately a centimetre per month, regardless of the fact if you shave it or pluck it, and shaving your hairs will not make them thicker, just sharper due to the blade. However, it is true that hairs become thinner and softer after plucking, because their follicles are destroyed in time. Although it is a bit painful, it is worth it in the long run. To each their own.

Amount of water helps to hydrate the skin

Although many women drink too much water to provide additional moisture, this is not connected at all. The skin is hydrated thanks to natural oils which are in its upper layers, not liquid intake. Even though liquid helps better vital organ functions. Instead of intaking vast amounts of liquid, rather spray your face or body with some water in a dispenser.

Week after week, Dr. Robert Rey, better known as “Dr. 90210,” hits the floor of the surgery room to nip, tuck, lift and enhance women and men looking to beat the clock. Well, today he's left the knife at home and is sharing seven household beauty secrets that will enhance your looks and help you preserve your youth.

1. Stop the caffeine
   This is a tough one. But according to Dr. Rey, caffeine gives us cellulite and prevents our bodies from absorbing vitamins. "Fifty-two percent of all Americans are addicted to caffeine. Caffeine is like cocaine in the 1920s. Reverse the trend. We don't need crutches." But he offers a suggestion (and it's a fun one): Eat dark chocolate, as close to 100 percent cacao as you can, to help control the urges.
   
2. If it doesn't move, don't eat it
   Forget ice cream, bread and pasta and concentrate on food that once moved on land and water or swayed from a tree: turkey, chicken, fish, apples, corn and other fruits and vegetables.
   
3. Exfoliate with honey
   Put honey (a natural humidifier) and brown sugar into a bowl, microwave it for five seconds and leave it on your face for 10 minutes. It's a clay mask that tightens your face.
   
4. Sleep on two or three pillows
   Dr. Rey says believe it or not, this will make dark circles go away: “If you sleep flat, the vessels in your face will pop.” Rest your shoulders on the pillow as well, so you won't strain the neck.
   
5. Put cucumbers on your eyes and cheeks
   This is an oldie, but these bad boys work as a natural astringent and will penetrate the tissue and break up the pigment to prevent puffiness and get rid of darkness.
   
6. Keep two spoons in the fridge
   This is a quick fix if you have an important meeting and need to get rid of the giant bags under your eyes: Put the refrigerated spoons on your eyes for 10 minutes. Wet tea bags, although slightly more gross, will do the same trick.
   
7. Sleep on your back, not your face
   The pressure will wrinkle your face and your breasts.

1. Tissue: Never know when you’ll need to wipe something away quickly before it dries.
2. Lip Brush: Applying lipstick with a brush is a retro technique that’s gotten lost over time. I say we bring it back.
3. Foundation Brush: For those who want sheer coverage. Plus, it’s like beauty paint-by-numbers. Isn’t that fun?
4. Powder Brush: For those who like to set their look with translucent powder. Also good for brushing away loose eyeshadow that’s fallen onto your cheeks.
5. Eyeshadow Brushes: Three you must have—small (for corners), medium (for the actual lid), and large (for brow bone).
6. Angled Brush: For applying eyeliner with the precision of a seasoned expert, or for adding a flawless tail to shorter brows.
7. Blush Brush: Demurely dot on a little color onto the apples of your cheeks, or go ALL out an apply from temple to nose.
8. Double-Sided Mirror: One side should be a normal view, and the other should magnify—so you can see those larger than life pores!
9. Angled Tweezers: For picking up false lashes and getting rid of errant brows hairs.
10. Eyelash Curler: Nothing opens up your face like big, bright eyes.Curl those lashes up!
11. Small Scissors: For trimming long brows and false lashes.
12. Sponges: For those who want full coverage with liquid foundation. Blemishes and pock marks don’t stand a chance.

13. Cotton Pads: For blotting away excess foundation, or blotting on moisturizer.
14. Hair Clamps: You don’t want your bangs falling in your face while you’re primping, do you?
15. Petroleum Jelly: This multi-tasking product does it all—slicks back flyaway eyebrows, doubles as mascara (which is great for contact wearers)
16. Makeup Remover: Removes stubborn smoky eye makeup, waterproof mascara, and everything else left behind after you’ve washed your face.
17. Baby Wipes: Great for psuedo-washing your face when you’re dead damn drunk. Hey, it gets the important stuff off in one swipe.
18. Moisturizer: Skin should be hydrated and supple for your makeup to look its best.
19. Q-tips: For getting into tight spaces—aka perfecting your cat eye liner.
20. Facial Spray: Perfect for setting foundation, or simply cooling skin after stepping out of a steaming shower.

English model Kelly Brook, who has been known to be a favourite with the British public, has in an interview revealed the secrets of her beauty.

Brook, who launched her own fragrance called Vivacious this week, revealed what her fragrance is all about, and how it reflects her personality.

It’’s fun, sexy, demure and sophisticated. I like to think I can be those things when I wear it, the Sun quoted her as saying.

She also revealed that her secret to instant glamour was red lipstick, nails and a dress, and that her style icon is Sophia Loren.

Brook also revealed that her favourite nail polish was Fishnet stockings by Essie or Malaga Wine by OPI, when asked, and that she maintains her luscious locks by using vegetable treatments at Daniel Galvin.

Regarding her weight she stated that she has never ever checked to see how much she weighs.

On the beauty products that she uses, she revealed that Soap And Glory scrubs are great and that on a date she always wears Chanel lipgloss.

With the accessories to make her beautiful, Brook revealed that the one thing that makes her feel sexy is her boyfriend.

Brooks ”Vivacious”, 100ml, for 24.95 pounds is available now at Boots, New Look and larger independent pharmacies.

Leonardo Dicaprio is busy promoting his movie Body of Lies in the UK.

The Ridley Scott film has already shown here, but during press interviews in England he shared his beauty secrets.

“Drink formaldehyde everyday,” states Dicaprio.

Later he goes on to admit that his youthful appearance is largely achieved with makeup.

Makeup or not, the film did not live up to expectations in the US.

It made only $23 million on its opening weekend and was beaten by Beverley Hills Chihuahua.

1) Great-looking skin is where everything starts. “Don’t overdo it, though,” says Venoit, who recently appeared on the Rachael Ray show to help transform a viewer from everyday blah to Nicole Richie hot. “Let your skin show through. Apply a little concealer and foundation and, for extra holiday glam, use a large natural bristle powder brush to set with light mineral powder.”

2) “My favourite holiday party looks always involve a bit of glimmer,” says Baker. “Gold or silver on the eyes, a beautiful shimmer on the lips — and don’t forget the body.” Baker likes a dusting of glow powder on arms, back, legs and décolleté. “It’s absolutely sexy.”

3) “Highlight the tops of the cheekbones, the brow bones, the inner corners of the eyes and the bow of your lips,” says Venoit. “Reflect that evening light!”

4) Baker’s smoky eye tip is ultra-quick; keep it in mind when you have to zoom from work to drinks, dinner or the office party. “Use an eyeliner brush to smudge black or navy shadow over your existing liner,” she advises.

5) Give dark smokey eye makeup a twist with an unexpected colour hit. “Line inner rims with an eyeliner shade that pops —- turquoise, teal, violet or green,” suggests Venoit. Or go for coloured shadow and line rims with black.

6) Winged liner is another hot look. Venoit recommends using black liquid liner pen, then adding intensity with a wet angle brush and black eye shadow. “Use short strokes to line across the base of the upper lashes, and exaggerate a bit at the end with a little flick up at the outer corner of your eyes,” he says.

7) Support bold eyes with rosy nude or gold gloss for subtle sexiness on your lips. If you’re rocking gold or silver eye makeup, ramp up the focus on your lips with rich, red gloss or a sophisticated deep red or berry lipstick.

Myth: The thicker the cream,the more moisturizing it is.

Fact: Thick doesn’t equal moisture. The heaviness of a cream is often due to the lipids and emulsifiers in the formula, and sometimes heavyweight creams can leave skin looking dull while trapping dead cells and affecting skin function. Layering fluids and moisturizers is often the best remedy.

Myth: You don’t have to apply sunscreen as obsessively in the winter as you do in the summer.

Fact: Winter, spring, summer or fall: if there is daylight, you’re still
exposed to UV light and free radical damage. And if sunscreen helps prevent the signs of aging, why wouldn’t you want to wear it every day? A minimum of SPF15 is suggested for everyday use, and skin showing the signs of aging should wear an SPF30.

Myth: Skip exfoliation so you don’t dry everything out.

Fact: Quite the opposite! Exfoliation causes a burst in cell renewal, moving newer, moisture-rich cells to the surface. Exfoliation also removes old dead cells and dry skin, providing a smoother, brighter surface while enabling effective penetration of hydrating ingredients into the skin.

Myth: Hot, steamy showers are great for skin.

Fact: No – especially in winter! Hot water causes a stripping effect to delicate barrier lipids in-between the cells; when the lipids are removed, essential moisture below evaporates out. Combine hot showers with irritation caused by winter wardrobe made of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester and you’ve got an itchy, irritated skin situation! Warm water is best for skin when used together with a soap-free body wash such as Conditioning Body Wash. Bar soap or high foam-producing, artificially-perfumed shower gels will dry out the skin.

Myth: For dry lips, just apply more lip balm.

Fact: Some lip balms can create more bad than good. Mineral oil (petroleum jelly) creates an artificial film on the lips, and this gives the skin the illusion that it doesn’t need to produce lipids. These ingredients together with artificial flavors, colors, and fragrances can dry out the skin. Use lip healthy alternatives containing Shea Butter, Silicones, Cocoa Seed Butter, Avocado Oil, and Wheat Germ.

Myth: Let your skin hibernate and cut back on treatments.

Fact: Winter is actually the best time to take care of your skin with professional treatments. Skin may need more help, especially dry, sensitive/sensitized, and rosacea prone skins. Professional oatmeal masques are wonderful during the winter season!

As legs, underarms, and bikini aren’t as exposed, this is also a great time to start a hair removal routine.

Avoiding dry skin in the colder months can help you save face year-round. Still, the National Health Interview Survey found that at least 81 million Americans experience dry, itchy or scaly skin when temperatures drop.

Try these tips for protecting skin:

• Total Care--Used daily, a noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free product such as Theraplex HydroLotion can help keep skin hydrated. The product line is even formulated to address the drying, damaging effects of winter.
  
  
• Total Protection--Theraplex Emollient can help heal and protect skin from intense dryness resulting in dry, cracked hands, feet, lips, elbows and knees. The company's ClearLotion helps to replace essential oils when applied to wet skin.
  
  
• Total Healing--Look for products such as Theraplex FT Exfoliating Emollient, which contains a beta hydroxy acid. It can improve problem areas such as feet and elbows by sloughing off dead skin cells and deeply moisturizing.

Matthew Bruntel has opened Frederick Skin Care, an office specializing in medical dermatology.

The office is located at the Centerpark Professional Center, 604 Solarex Court, Suite 205.

A graduate of Cornell University and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed training at Heart of Lancaster Medical Center and Wellington Regional Medical Center.

His practice is devoted to adult and adolescent dermatology. He can help patients with problems of the skin, hair and nails. He accepts all local insurance and can usually see new patients within a few days.

The practice is new to the area, but Bruntel has looked forward to moving to Frederick for a long time. As a child, his family came through Frederick every summer to visit family members in the area.

"Ever since I was a kid on those trips I've had it in the back of my mind that Frederick was where I wanted to end up. I'm really excited to be here and be able to help Frederick community with their dermatology needs," he said.

His wife is a nurse at Frederick Memorial Healthcare.

Scottsdale police said they arrested two women Wednesday and recovered about $250,000 in laser skin care equipment that had been stolen from a downtown Scottsdale business earlier in the week.

Police arrested Bonnie Khamis of Mesa and Michelle Pandolfe of Cave Creek and recovered all but a few hundred dollars in petty cash. Khamis was on felony probation for forgery and remained in custody.

Ultimate Skin and Laser Institute, 6900 E. Indian School Road, had been burglarized twice between Monday and Tuesday, according to police.

Liv Tyler has that pale skin and fluctuating body weight which indicates that she's often not considered a typical Hollywood bombshell, yet I regard her as an ethereal beauty. Speaking to the Glamour magazine about her beauty secrets, she gave her top tips for beautiful skin: 

Be disciplined: "I've had a skincare routine from early on. No matter how tired I am, I will always wash my face and moisturise before bed. I love face masks, I do them all the time."

Avoid the sun: "I never sit in direct sunlight and I always put on an SPF50 when I'm on the beach."

Work with your skin tone: "When people try to make me look tanned it can look a bit silly. Pale suits me best."

Keep it fresh: "My favourite look is a bit of glow on cheeks and a see-through lip colour."

Show off your skin: "I like makeup that lets your skin show through. It looks fresher."

It's hard to believe that Lulu is about to turn 60, but on November 3 the singer will celebrate her landmark birthday — and she’s never looked better. Today, exclusively with Beauty Confidential’s Elsa McAlonan, she reveals her best all-time beauty tips and the secret of how she stays so young-looking.

What’s the most ageing thing a woman can do when she’s applying make-up?

For young people it doesn’t matter so much,
but when you’re older, less is definitely more - too much make-up can give you the eccentric Aunt Sally look!

If you had only five minutes to spend on your beauty routine, what would you do?

I cleanse, exfoliate (I use Blast To The Past Dermabrasion, £30) then moisturise. It may sound involved but believe me, I’ve got this down to four minutes.

Now you have your own skincare range, Time Bomb, has it made you less or more keen to try other products? What do you spend the most on and what would you recommend other people to do?

I have been a product junkie all my life - I have bought and tried everything on the market and
visited some of the best people in beauty over the years. Time Bomb encapsulates everything I have learned over the years and wished I could find in a capsule collection. It’s the absolute best skincare and body products I could envisage - and I am fussy. I am now able to indulge my love of beauty products and call it research. I am always keen to discover something new, but my advice is always to exfoliate. Get rid of those dead, dry cells then the new skin is ready for moisturising and you find your inner dewy, youthful glow. It’s in there somewhere.

What’s your daily cleansing routine?

It's important to have a regime, and over time it becomes effortless, like brushing your teeth. Always take off your make-up before bed - I am religious about this and always have been - and apply night cream. I am fanatical about cleansing - it’s every bit as important as moisturising and you have got to get rid of those dead skin cells. In the day, wear day cream and eye cream - I carry my eye cream (Smart Eye Balm, £20) about with me and pat it around my eyes all day long. I also exfoliate once a week.

What make-up tips have you picked up over the years?

Because of the shape of my eyes I can wear a lot of make-up. I can do a smoky look in the
evening, but in the day I wear a lot less. Most women don’t deal with lip pencils — they have
been given a bad name, but are essential, especially as we get older. I have perfected, almost to an art form, using lip liner with lipstick and sometimes gloss in order to make lips appear fuller and plumper and more defined, but never with an obvious dark outline. I love Myface cosmetics — lip pencils with coordinating lipsticks and glosses designed for fair skin like mine. It’s impossible to make a mistake. With blusher, mix colour and always apply delicately with a feathering brush. And apply upwards — that’s important as you get older.

What about foundation?

When you are young, it can be thicker, but as you get older it has to be much finer and lighter, as thick foundation can gather in lines and look ageing and dull — and never go too far from your own skin tone. That orange look is so last season, darling!

You spend a lot of time on planes. Do you have a special beauty routine to make sure you look fresh on arrival?

I always slather my Youth Juice Secret Oil (£30) all over, even on my hands, and, of course, I apply my eye cream. Always drink plenty of water — I know many people like to have a drink or two as they are most probably going on holiday, but it does nothing for your complexion.

Your hair looks better than ever. How do you keep it looking so good?

Having a great hairdresser is the answer to that question, and a great colourist. I go to Kevin Moss or Kiki at John Frieda, and they never let me down. As all women know, a bad hair day can mean a bad day in general — so a great cut which is relatively easy to maintain is also important.

Would you consider cosmetic surgery?

I'm not against surgery, just against talking about it — to quote Madonna!

Finally, how do you feel about Botox?

Enough is enough, less is more. Been there, done that and got the T-shirt. Amen!

Model Cindy Crawford, 42, advises a blend of natural skin care and Botox injections as a way of fighting the signs of aging.

The Mirror of London quoted her as saying that skin creams can improve skin texture, but have their limits. She explained:

Past a certain age, … I count on Botox, collagen and vitamin injections.

I have a very simple, healthy life that works miracles. I drink a lot of water, watch what I eat, and exercise.

But I owe the quality of my skin to my cosmetic surgeon.

The Body Shop introduces a new men's skin care line with the key ingredient Maca Root. Touted as the “super food of the Andes,” the maca root, dense with essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, was first used by the Inca more than 2,000 years ago for energy and endurance. During the height of the Incan empire, legend has it that Incan warriors would consume maca before entering battle to make them fiercely strong.

Other key ingredients to this line include Brazil nut oil, Aloe vera gel, Sesame Oil, and Vitamin E to sooth, nourish, and protect the skin from shaving.

Additionally, The Body Shop gets its Community Trade brazil nut oil from Peru, sourced through a unique fair trade program which ensures all producers and workers are paid a fair and living wage. The nuts are harvested from small farms and grown using traditional techniques, allowing the farmers to earn a fair income from an activity that fits their traditional way of life. The sesame oil found in this line is also sourced from a co-operative of small-scale in a remote area of Nicaragua.

Jerry Hall has apparently revealed her beauty secrets in a new show about staying young.

According to the Daily Mirror, the Texan blonde, who famously snagged Mick Jagger and Bryan Ferry, says that using cheap face cream and being in love is a winning combination.

The 51-year-old reportedly refuses to use branded cosmetics and anti-ageing potions to maintain her looks.

She apparently said: "I buy simple facewash and simple face cream and that is all I do. I use natural products and I don't buy anything that says anti-aging because I think that is insulting.

"And I think being in love makes a woman look really beautiful. Nothing beats that."

Jerry, who has appeared in shows as diverse as Batman, The Graduate, Picasso's Women and Hotel Babylon, added that she would never go under the knife to hold back the years.

She apparently said: "I think it is not natural and quite frightening."

The model and actress reportedly spilt the beans to Martine McCutcheon for UKTV's Style's new show The Truth About Beauty.

Hair Treatments

Conditioners, special shampoos and other hair treatments can increase the shine of your hair, help protect it and even repair some damage. But if you're afraid of the high price tag that often accompanies salon quality products, here are some simple at-home hair remedies that do the trick.

Dull Hair Remedies

Four household products ensure lustrous hair:

1. Lemon juice - mix it with water and rinse for added shine and bounce
2. Baking soda - mix it into your shampoo to eliminate dirt and grease.
3. Beer - after shampooing, rinse hair with flat beer to add body and shine
4. Tea - boil tea leaves and let cool; apply liquid to dry hair and let sit for 20 minutes; rinse with warm water.
   

Oily Hair Remedies

Two solutions to fight greasy hair:

1. Carrots - boil and mash them and apply to hair; let sit for 15 minutes; wash and rinse
2. Aloe and Lemon - mix ½ teaspoon of aloe and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with regular shampoo; wash and rinse.
   

Dry Hair Remedies

Apply a deep conditioning treatment once a week. Work any of the following ingredients through hair; put on a shower cap or wrap with saran wrap; let sit for 20 minutes; wash and rinse.

1. Mayonnaise
2. Olive oil/ baby oil/coconut oil
3. Egg yolk
4. Mashed avocado
5. Mashed banana
   

Skin Treatments

Forget expensive designer products. Glowing skin is as easy as opening the fridge:

Oily Skin /Acne Remedies

Create a mask or spot treat with any of the following ingredients:

1. Garlic - natural antibacterial properties make garlic a great acne treatment. Press into a paste and apply on acne
2. Honey and apple - mash together, and apply to individual pimples
3. Tomato paste - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse
4. Cooked oatmeal - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse
5. Egg yolk - apply a layer to face and let dry, rinse
   

Dry Skin Remedies

Soft, supple skin is a cinch with any of the following:

1. Almond oil - use as a primer before foundation or as a night moisturizer.
2. Banana - mash and apply to face; let sit for 20 minutes
3. Mayonnaise - apply to face; let sit for 20 minutes
   

Exfoliating Remedies

Slough off dead skin cells with these simple solutions:

1. Coffee - mix a quarter cup of ground coffee with a tablespoon of salt; rub on face then rinse off.
2. Pineapple - a natural acid exfoliant; puree pineapple and apply to skin; let sit for 20 minutes.
   

Nail Treatments

Most nail damage is the result of environmental influences (washing dishes, housework, yardwork, etc.), so try to protect your nails from these culprits. But when all else fails, one at-home remedy can rescue dry, brittle nails:

1. Olive oil - olive oil moisturizes nails and softens cuticles without weakening them, preventing hang nails caused by dry skin. Soak nails in olive oil for a few minutes every week.
   

Tips for Teeth

Teeth discoloration can point the finger at many offenders - ageing, smoking, consuming staining foods and beverages like coffee, red wine, cola, and blueberries. So it's inevitable that many turn to teeth whitening to restore those that were once pearly.

You have your pick of expensive teeth whitening procedures and over-the-counter chemical treatments, but for a more natural solution, try making a paste of the following ingredients:

1. Strawberries - they contain malic acid, which acts as a mild astringent when mixed with baking soda or powder
2. Lemon juice and salt - lemon juice also contains acid
3. Apple cider vinegar and baking soda
4. Orange peel and bay leaves

1. Anastasia says "Cleaning your skin daily is the absolute basic rule of great skin." Make sure to remove your makeup no matter how tired you are before going to sleep.

2. Do home treatments to keep your complexion looking at it's best. Anastasia recommends filling a sink with warm water and adding a few drops of lavender oil. Soak a face cloth in the water and then squeeze it out before laying it over your entire face. Take deep breaths and place the cloth onto your skin. This will initiate the flow of blood to the surface of the face.

3. Laurey suggests using a light tinted moisturiser as oppose to a heavy base if you want to look young and fresh. Try Olay Complete Touch of Foundation (£9.99) dotted onto the nose, cheeks and forehead. These are the areas that usually need more coverage so Laurey recommends blending lightly outwards for a natural effect. The fine pigments in the foundation help to even out the skin tone.

4. Try a cream blush for an effortlessly beautiful look. "Smile in the mirror" says Laurey "and apply a dab of blusher to the apples of the cheeks. Blend outwards towards the corners of your eyes using your fingertips." For a co-ordinated look Laurey suggests applying just a touch of cream blush to the lips for a bee-stung style.

1. STOP THE CAFFEINE
   
   This is a tough one. But according to Dr. Rey, caffeine gives us cellulite and prevents our bodies from absorbing vitamins. "Fifty-two percent of all Americans are addicted to caffeine. Caffeine is like cocaine in the 1920s. Reverse the trend. We don't need crutches." But he offers a suggestion (and it's a fun one): Eat dark chocolate, as close to 100 percent cacao as you can, to help control the urges.
   
   
2. IF IT DOESN'T MOVE, DON'T EAT IT
   
   This could be Dr. Rey's favorite motto. Forget ice cream, bread and pasta and concentrate on food that once moved on land and water or swayed from a tree: turkey, chicken, fish, apples, corn and other fruits and vegetables. "That's why I can't write a book, it would be one page long: Do not eat s--- that doesn't move!"
   
   
3. EXFOLIATE WITH HONEY
   
   Put honey (a natural humidifier) and brown sugar into a bowl, microwave it for five seconds and leave it on your face for 10 minutes. It's a clay mask that tightens your face.
   
   
4. SLEEP ON TWO OR THREE PILLOWS
   
   Dr. Rey says believe it or not, this will make dark circles go away: "If you sleep flat, the vessels in your face will pop." Rest your shoulders on the pillow as well, so you won't strain the neck.
   
   
5. SLICE SOME CUCUMBERS AND PLACE THEM ON YOUR EYES AND CHEEKS
   
   This is an oldie, but these bad boys work as a natural astringent and will penetrate the tissue and break up the pigment to prevent puffiness and get rid of darkness.
   
   

6. KEEP TWO SPOONS IN THE FRIDGE
   
   This is a quick fix if you have an important meeting and need to get rid of the giant bags under your eyes: Put the refrigerated spoons on your eyes for 10 minutes. Wet tea bags, although slightly more gross, will do the same trick.
   
   
7. SLEEP ON YOUR BACK, NOT ON YOUR FACE
   The pressure will wrinkle your face and your breasts.

When it comes to the latest hair trends, our politicians do not lag behind. Gov. Sarah Palin is now in the news, not for her wardrobe but for her exclusive hair style.

It's the hair that makes all the difference to her face, drawing the attention of millions towards her pretty face. Guess who is responsible for her amazing hair style?

It's Angela, a twenty-something stylist who works at the Hair Grove in Westlake Village, is the woman behind the scenes who gets the credit. Angela has been living a dream life ever since Palin got the Republican vice presidential nomination, flying around in private jets, surrounded by Secret Service, an intimate in the glamour and excitement of Palin's leap to national celebrity status.

Rumor has it she got drafted for the job thanks to Cindy McCain who somehow found her way to the area's hottest salon, probably through a friend who lives in wealth and splendor at nearby Lake Sherwood.

Amazingly, the local media haven't picked up on it. the Ventura County Star took a swing at tracking down the gossip about Angela and W magazine online had a small item weeks ago that apparently has gone unnoticed. So much for Google search.

Still, the talk around the hair salon community in the area has been all about Angela but it was hard to pry confirmation of the Hair Grove out of them.

The lines will be long for Angela when she returns to her normal world after the election. Who wouldn't want to know what Sarah Palin is really like?

1. Fix an eye makeup mishap.

Be extra careful -- once you've already smudged, you don't want to make it worse or you'll have to start all over again from scratch. Scott Miselnicky, executive director of global product development at Clinique, suggests wetting a Q-tip with makeup remover and gently dabbing at the mistake until it's completely gone. Go slowly so you don't take off too much!

2. Avoid Shirley Temple curls.

Pageant-perfect curls are a bride's worst nightmare. For a natural look, wrap a section of hair around the outside of the barrel and hold for three seconds. Release and let cool, then lightly run your fingers through your hair. And don't forget -- vary the size of your curls, and switch up the direction in which you wrap them.

3. Fake a great pair of cheekbones.

"If you're face is roundish, shading lightly can work wonders!" says Lucy Baldock-Sacchi, international makeup artist and founder of Lucy B. Cosmetics. She suggests using a matte bronzer just below your cheekbones, then following up with a pink or peach blush on the apples of your cheeks. To tone it down, skip the bronzer and use a hint of shimmer on the highest point of your cheekbones.

4. Flatter your face.

When it comes to choosing a hairstyle, all of our experts emphasize that your look needs to harmonize with your gown. Also, make sure to choose a style that will bring out your best feature, explains Jamal Hammadi, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Hamadi Beauty. "For an updo, placing the style between the top of your ear and the top of your eye (like a high ponytail) will enhance the shape of your eyes, while placing it lower (like a chignon) will put the focus more on your lips and neck," he says.

5. Stave off a breakout.

Right before the wedding is not the time to try out a new skincare regimen. No matter how tired you are, make sure you stick to your cleansing schedule and remove your makeup before you go to bed! If you really need more ammo, try a mask with salicylic acid.

6. Apply perfect foundation.

It only takes two tools to do this right: a quality brush and a makeup sponge. The brush will give you coverage, while the sponge will blend away any streaks or remove excess buildup.

7. Pull off a bold lip color.

Lots of brides like to amp up their look for the reception, and a deeper lip hue is a great way to do it. "Using a brighter lip color will always make your teeth look whiter; a big plus on your wedding day!" says Stila makeup artist Sarah Lucero. Keep all the rest of your face relatively neutral, and your eye makeup soft -- not severe. "Also, make sure your cheek and lip colors are in the same color family," she says.

8. Get voluminous locks.

Even if you're not going with a curly style, a curling iron or rollers should be in your repertoire. "Blow out your hair with a round brush for body, then follow up with a curling iron all over," explains Edward Tricomi, co-owner of Warren-Tricomi Salons.

9. Apply alluring eye shadow.

Eye shadow color trios and quads can be difficult to decode: How do you know where to use each shade? According to Baldock-Sacchi, it's perfectly fine to break the rules and experiment. If you want your eyes to look wider, she recommends using the lightest shade on the inner corner to give your peepers a more open look. Shimmering shades can be used all over and look amazing layered over color. The darker shades should be used for contouring in the crease or the center of the lid.

10. Keep your lipstick on your lips.

Miselnicky suggests applying a small amount of vaseline on to your teeth to keep lipstick from winding up on your teeth. "Also, gently blot your lipstick with a tissue after you have applied it to remove any excess," he says. "Believe me, the groom will be happy!"

11. Fight the frizzies.

"Always try to wash and rinse your hair with cool water, which will help maintain its natural moisture and prevent your hair from drying out," Hammadi says. Follow it up with a frizz-fighting product that will boost your protection level.

12. Make mascara run-proof.

Waterproof mascara is a wedding day must-have. "I use waterproof on everyone involved in the wedding party because you never know who will tear up!" Lucero says. For lower lashes, she recommends applying mascara with a flat eyeliner brush rather than the mascara wand. "This trick prevents smearing under your eyes, which can make you look tired," she explains.

13. Boast a beautiful decolletage.

You want your chest and shoulders to have clear, glowing skin -- especially if you're wearing a strapless gown. Debbie D'Aquino, vice president of global product development at Clinique, recommends wearing clothing that breathes and keeps perspiration from building up on your skin (this goes double for workout wear). Cleanse with a treatment that includes salicylic acid. We love ones that come in spray bottles because it's so much easier to apply to the back.

14. Prevent dark under-eye circles.

It might be tough, but Diane Berson, M.D., says it's key that you get plenty of sleep (and not just the night before the wedding). "Sleep with your head elevated on a pillow to reduce puffiness, and try not to rub your eyes," she says. It's also a good idea to use an eye cream that brightens as well as hydrates.

15. Touch up your makeup.

You may not have time to redo your makeup before the reception starts, but you should give yourself a quick once-over in order to make sure you stay looking great (after all, nearly every second of the reception will be photographed!). Makeup expert Francis Roman of Butterfly Studio says to skip blush (which should last just fine) and your eyelids (too risky). Instead, apply another layer of lip color, and blot your T-zone with an oil-removing paper. Then run a makeup sponge or a Q-tip beneath your lower lashes to remove any mascara or eye shadow that may have smudged or fallen beneath them, and you're good to go.