I continually remind my clients of the importance of applying makeup to a clean, fresh face. Cleansing twice a day with a gentle, non-drying cleanser is best. Avoid using soap on your face. Soap has a tendency to strip the skin of its natural oils and leave the skin much too dry. Over drying the skin can lead to many undesirable consequences, like flaking skin, a burning sensation, pre-mature fine lines and wrinkles and even acne in some cases.

The next step is moisturization. However, many women, especially those with oily skin, have a tendency to skip the moisture step. Oil and moisture (hydration) are not the same. Moisture seals the skin and protects it from the environment. It keeps the skin from flaking and chaffing as well as giving the skin a smooth appearance and soft texture necessary for laying your makeup well. It is also a good idea to use a product with an SPF of at least 15 every day of the year.

The next step is eye cream. Although this step is optional, I highly recommend it. The skin around the eyes is delicate. There are very few oil glands there which increases dryness, leaving your concealer or foundation cake-like and crackling. Eye cream deposits moisture to this otherwise barren area, helping to reduce the signs of aging as well as provide a smooth canvas for your makeup.

Occasionally, throughout the year, we may find that our skin needs extra hydration. It is perfectly okay and highly recommended to supplement your every day moisturizer with an extra hydrating cream or lotion. Keeping your skin properly hydrated year round will help you look and feel healthy, radiant and just plain gorgeous.

Have a great day!