Face Powder Tips and Tricks Face powder is the one facial product that is most commonly used because it’s such a quick and easy way to cover up blemishes.  It also works really well for setting makeup and can give a flawless look when used properly.  Face powder gives a clean look by absorbing oils and grease. The key is to find the right powder for you from three different types and then applying it correctly: Pressed Powder works best for concealing dark circles under your eyes and splotchy skin.  It is compact and so easy to travel with. Loose Powder works well for oily and normal skin types.  It gives a translucent look. This type of powder comes in a container and should be applied with a large powder brush, which is very important with loose powder.  It’s really wise to apply this type of powder before you get dressed since it can float around. Mineral Powder – This product is the newest powder.  Much like loose powder, mineral powder is a little different.  They provide longer coverage and won’t clog pores.  Some are suggested to decrease the look of fine lines and actually work to heal the skin. When you are selecting the powder best for you it is important to pick the right color. White powder works best for evening since it adds luminosity.  If you have a shallow complexion you might find that mauve or violet tone powder works best.  Green and blue will tone down colors, pink gives a nice glow for pale skin and apricot works for olive skin. Apply your face powder after your foundation and before your eye makeup.  Be sure to blend, blend and blend!  Don’t forget your neck so that you don’t have that awful defined line. Eye Cosmetic Safety There are so many products on the market today for your eyes.  Some add color, while others might be used to enhance or minimize.  Whatever you choose to use, there are some basic rules for their safe use:

1. Make sure that all instruments you use in the eye area are clean.
2. Never share any of your eye products with someone.
3. Discard your mascara after 3 months.
4. Don’t add saliva or water inside dried up mascara.  Both contain bacteria and water will dilute the preservative in the product putting your eyes at risk of a serious infection.
5. It is not advisable to store cosmetics above 85 degrees, such as in a car. This too will break down the preservative in the products rendering them unsafe.
6. Never apply or remove cosmetics in a moving vehicle.  You risk scratching your eyeball or getting product in your eyes.
7. Don’t use products made for your lips on your eyes, such as a lip liner, to avoid the risk of contamination.
8. Avoid products with color additives that are not specifically made for use in the eye area like “permanent” eyelash tints or kohl pencils.

Makeup Tips & Tricks

1. Cover your eyelids with white liner to make the eyeshadow shade pop.
2. Use a spoon to create a perfect winged liner.
3. To get a smoky eye effect draw a slanted hashtag at the outer corner of your eye and then blend.
4. Use a spoon to avoid mascara marks on the upper lid.
5. Dust translucent powder in between applying coats of mascara to plump up your lashes.
6. To make your lip color last longer lay a tissue over your lips after applying your lip color.  Next dust translucent powder to set the color.

Calendula Essential Oil Calendula oil is made from the bright orange pot marigold plant.  Calendula oil has exceptional healing powers for the skin with its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. This is a great oil to have on hand in your first aid kit as it is very beneficial for healing minor cuts and burns, even sunburn, and for preventing skin infections.  You can also treat pimples or use it to alleviate dry and inflamed skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and chapped dry skin. Here is recipe for a creamy body butter that is nourishing, soothing and healing for the skin: Calendula and Coconut Body Butter ½ cup cocoa butter ½ cup coconut butter ¼ cup apricot kernel oil 2 tsp beeswax 1 tsp vitamin E oil 20 drops of calendula essential oil

• Place all of the ingredients except the vitamin E oil and the calendula into a large glass jar.
• Place the jar in a saucepan of water so that the jar sits half immersed.
• Stir continuously over a medium heat until all ingredients are melted and blended.
• Remover the jar from the pan and add the Vitamin E and calendula oil, mixing well.
• Pour into smaller glass jars with lids to store.
• Apply to damp skin.

Sandi’s Q & A

Q:  Why does there seem to be more skin cancer as people become middle aged?

A:  Skin cancer is related to skin damage, particularly sunburn that has occurred during childhood. It can take years to show signs of the disease or it can develop more rapidly.  Genetics, the amount of sunburns an individual has had since childhood and the condition of the immune system can all be factors.

Q:  How can I use carrot seed oil for my skin?

A:  Carrot seed oil is impressive for its ability to heal, rejuvenate and protect the skin. You can use this oil in a serum to hydrate and soothe your face. It’s great on mature skin. Try mixing 3 tablespoons of carrot seed oil and 3 tablespoons of evening primrose oil. Apply a few drops to your face after cleansing.

Q:  Does the skin really absorb products like the magazines say it does or is it just hype?

A:  This is a fact. Skin absorbs about 60% of the chemicals found in skin care products and they go directly into the bloodstream.

Q:  When I put my mascara on and then use my eyelash curler my lashes get stuck to the curler. Is there something I can do to prevent that?

A:  Yes there is. Try waiting a little longer for the mascara to set before using your curler, don’t put several coats of mascara on before using your eyelash curler, and try putting powder on your lashes before you but the mascara on. The powder should help to dry the mascara and make them fuller looking. Views:]]>