Expert: Tyla Smith - 5/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I'm a 30 year old Asian with a combination skin. I have not applied make up before. At the most I use an eyeliner and lipstick. But off-late I find my face to be very dull . Do you think a light make up routine could change that?  Where do I begin and what is the minimum I need to do? I don't want a very made up look..something light that just makes my face bright :)

Thanks for reading.


ANSWER: As we get older our skin tends to slough layers less.  Children slough 30 layers of skin a month, that's why their pores are so small and their skin so luminous and smooth.  I would recommend using a daily alpha-hydroxy face peel to help slough the old skin, that would be a good start to making your skin look brighter.Also transition yourself to an anti-aging, skin brightening moisturizer and cleanser.  Putting makeup on only masks the skin and may not give you the results you are looking for.  Also, drinking a lot of water will help keep your skin bright and clear.  

Hope this helps- good luck!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your reply. If I need to put on make up..what do you suggest?

Thanks for reading.

Answer
Mineral powders are nice because they are light, it involves only one step, they have natural sunscreen in them, and healing qualities because of what they are made of.  Find a color that matches your skin color the best and blend in a swirling motion into the skin.  Then you could do a light blush for a little color to the cheeks and some mascara and lip gloss then you are ready to go.

Hope this helps- good luck!