A pimple forms when a type of oil called sebum, that lubricates the hair and skin, clogs the pores. As a result an infection occurs and red irritations form. Acne is most common in teenagers, especially during puberty (during this time the hormones become overactive and the skin creates excessive amounts of sebum). However, it can and will affect people of all ages.

Before investing in acne care, identify your problem areas. The most common problem area is called the T-zone and it consists of the chin, nose, and forehead. These areas contain the most oil-producing glands and therefore are prone to breakouts. Every person’s skin is different and trouble spots will vary.

Once you have identified yours, invest in some quality skin care products.

• Always apply your make-up after putting in your lenses.
• Never use eyeliner on the inner edge of the lid or above the lash line on the lower lid.
• Mascara should be used sparingly and only on the top lashes.
• Replenish all eye makeup three months after opening and stop using any makeup that seems to be causing irritation or redness in your eyes.

Don’t even ponder the thought of picking out clothes, trends change in a sec these days and it’s more likely that your gift will be found under the bed than on the girl.

Want some safe gift selections? Here are some great ideas: You can never go wrong with gift certificates. Take note of “hot” stores and buy a gift card. If you’re unsure about which stores she likes, buy a mall gift certificate that she can use in any shop. Movie and restaurant gift certificates always make great gifts.

Bath and body products are always wanted. Try some good-smelling body washes or scrubs, or even some light and delicate facial products.

How about a makeover? Ask a professional makeup artist at any cosmetic counter to show her how to get just the right look! She’ll also learn how to apply makeup and how imperative skin care is.

Pressed powder foundation is a silky, dry formula that is usually used on oily skin types. Powder helps absorb oil and keep your face feeling and looking smooth and soft. Dry skin types usually don’t prefer powder because it tends to have a drying effect and can leave skin flakey.

Cream foundation has a heavier consistency, which is widely used for dry skin types. It provides extra hydration and adds luster to dry, dehydrated skin. This type of foundation is commonly used by middle-aged and older women who like to “fill-in” the creases. Cream foundation tends to provide more coverage. Use a proper moisturizer first before applying foundation. “Stick” foundations are similar to the cream foundation as far as texture. The “stick” design provides an easy way to carry your make up without anyone knowing it. This formula is often used for touch up’s and spot cover up’s.

Liquid foundation can be used for all skin types. It is a “universal” and common formula. You can buy liquid foundations that are oil-free and/or non-clogging. This type of foundation is easy to wear and comes in different coverage and shades.

If you know your skin type and the coverage you are looking for then it’s easy to decide the formula of foundation that will best fit your individual needs. Remember you need a good canvas (fresh face) to start with so be sure to use your three step skin care routine (cleanse, tone, moisturize) before you apply your foundation.

To begin, start from the bottom and make sure that your foundation provides an even starting point for the rest of your makeup to be built upon.

If foundation ordinarily makes your skin feel thick and oily, then you’re not using the right kind (the longer-lasting foundations are heavier as are the foundations that transform into powders so avoid these). In fact, you can pretty much avoid almost all foundations and stick to cream cover-ups and correction sticks for skin irritations and dark circles. Apply these and blend them by massaging them into the skin.

After applying a light foundation or some type of cover-up to the problem areas apply a thin coat of loose powder with a clean brush. A loose powder is delicate and translucent so it won’t give you a “cakey” appearance. In addition, loose powder is easy to brush off any excess powder will blend easily and reduce shine. Only apply colors that don’t look overdone and thick and pick shades that closely match your skin hue.