5 Steps to a Fresh, Youthful Face

I’m a big believer in that if you focus on good skin care, you really won’t need a lot of makeup. – Demi Moore

I think Demi got it right here and this is the very reason I moved the skincare discussion to the forefront when talking about Charla Krupp’s advice in How Not To Look Old!  I have personally discovered I do need less makeup when I am not trying to cover up as much.

OK, confession: once I was one of those girls who tried every new makeup trend on the market from sparkles to bright eye shadows.  I also went through an unfortunate bronzer incident–now I just step away!

Experimentation is necessary to discover what best suits us.  However, I recommend you do most of the experimenting with makeup consultants at the fine department stores.  It saves money (we toss less) and the experience is always educational!

I also learned some sensible tips from the book and after testing her advice, I agree!  Here are the ones I believe really take off the years:

1. Use a primer under your foundation.  It acts as a paint primer and prepares the canvas.  It also smoothes over wrinkles and pores so that the foundation does not settle in.  Currently, I use a face primer and a primer on my eyelids as well.
2. She reminds us that too much foundation is aging.  Use of a brush to apply foundation will help with applying less.  The youthful look is a dewy look.  “It’s time to get over your fear of oil.  Since most women of our age need moisture and hydration, we also need a creamy foundation,” writes Krupp. Unless, of course, you are still battling with excessive oil seen by the majority of us in our teen years.  Go see one of the experts and make certain foundation matches, and is right for your skin type.
3. Concealer should not be cakey, too thick or too white.  It should melt into your skin.  Most brands you find at drug stores do not do this.  The right color of concealer is crucial. Don’t want to look spooky!
4. I formerly utilized blush and bronzer for contouring my face.  It was something I did not want to give up.  But, I tried her way of using blush only on the apples of my cheeks and she is right. It does look better!
5. Her last step is to top things off with one of the new translucent powders that are feathery light and leave a luminous sheen.  My Bobbi Brown consultant did not believe this was a good choice for me and I agreed.  However, you might want to try it at a counter and see what you think. 

I recently switched all of my makeup to the Bobbi Brown line and it has been worth every penny.  I feel more confident and love the compliments. Krupp recommends Laura Mercier.  My face primer, however, is a new product offered by ROC ; and, I saved a few dollars purchasing Sonia Kashuk brushes at Target (also recommended in the book).  The biggest mistake I made far too long was to avoid the department stores and believe I saved money in the drugstore/grocery departments. At least I learned my lesson. It’s never too late!

With makeup, I do agree with the author, our time for fun and wild experimentation is over.  Seeking advice from the experts, reading books such as this one, can really help us obtain a youthful, fresh look on our faces.

Anyone else have some fun makeup advice?

Thanks for stopping by the Joy Boutique for a makeup chat. I will see you next time for more advice to look our youthful best!   Have a great week everyone!