If you’re blond
Lighter hair is gorgeous, but it’s easier to go overboard with your makeup color choices, according to Marie Claire magazine. With such a pale color surrounding your face, colorful features often take center stage. As a result, it’s best to choose one feature to make pop rather than several. If you want to draw attention to your eyes, use dark or neutral shadows to create contrast, like you’d find in the Jane Iredale – PurePressed Eye Shadow collection. The same goes for eyeliners and mascara. A lighter lip color, like peach, will complement darker eyes. One thing to keep in mind is the color of your eyebrows. Whether you keep them darker than your hair color or match them to it, it’s crucial to keep brows filled in with Paula Dorf – 2 + 1 for Brows to avoid them looking scarce.

If you’re a redhead
Neutral shades are a redhead’s best friends, as they won’t compete with the vibrant color of your locks. Browns and greens work well on their own, but layering brighter colors with toned-down shades will create a subtle burst of color. Pick up a compact with plenty of variety, like POP Beauty – Eye Cake, which has chic options. Marie Claire also suggests using purple as one of your go-to shades, as well as other jewel tones, so experiment with violet eyeliners and plum lipsticks. BORGHESE – B Moisture Advanced Care Lipcolour has plenty of purple choices that will make your lips truly luscious.

If your hair is black
Ladies should “play up the mysterious, sexy vibe of black hair by accentuating just one feature with sultry color,” Jerrod Blandino, founder and creative director of Too Faced Cosmetics, told Women’s Health magazine. Use colorful smokey eyeshadow paired with sheer cheek and lip tints, like you’d get with GloMinerals – gloTint for Cheeks & Lips. Plenty of mascara will pull together the look, so apply one coat of Blinc – Mascara then let it dry before coating lashes with another application. Use a lash comb to separate them afterwards for a feathery look.

If you’re a brunette
With brown hair, you can pull off a variety of colorful makeup looks. Brighter colors look fresh against a neutral brown shade, so try out something like vibrant orange lipstick or navy blue eyeshadow. Marie Claire warns not to forget about your eyebrows however, as they make a natural frame for your face. Colorescience – Eyebrow Stencil can help you achieve the desired shape. Feel free to experiment with a variety of colors, and don’t forget that shimmery shades and glitter can be fun for a night out!

Don’t forget that you can always switch up the color of your hair, so you don’t have to stick with the same coloring all the time. Even subtle highlights can open up a variety of makeup looks to experiment with, so don’t be afraid to ask your stylist for color advice.

First of all, you should know that there is no standard timeframe for when you need a trim. Everyone’s hair is different, so there’s no one time that’s good to have your hair touched up. However, there’s a basic guide that you can follow, recommended by The Beauty Department.

Short, cropped hair needs a trim every four to six weeks. This will ensure that the shape of the cut doesn’t change much. In between trims, you may want to use a styling product like Baxter of California – Clay Pomade to ensure that your style remains looking cared for.

Hair that’s about shoulder-length should also get a cut every four to six weeks. Many styles will start to flip outward when the hair hits your shoulders, so how long between trims depends on how long or short your neck is. Longer necks could probably go six weeks, while shorter ones might need a trim after four.

Layered hair needs a trim every six to eight weeks. This will ensure that the style moves the same way and remains the same shape. Leonor Greyl – Eclat Naturel can help your hair remain soft and smooth in between cuts.

Hair that’s medium to long length needs a trim every eight to twelve weeks. This will prevent any split ends from occurring, which could travel up the hair shaft and create frizz and other signs of damage. It’s important to use a conditioning product, like Hamadi – Healing Serum, in between trims.

Very long hair should be cut every six to eight weeks. Long hair has a tendency to get dry, brittle and extremely breakable near the ends, so it’s important to keep split ends at bay.

These numbers are subject to change, since all hair is different. Basically, it’s up to you to tell when you need a trim. If your hair starts getting heavy, shapeless and dry, you know it’s time for some TLC. Split ends are also a tell-tale sign that your hair needs to be cut.

Now that you know when to get your hair cut, it would help to know how. Most women prefer to go to a stylist to get their hair trimmed, but it’s actually very easy to do yourself, especially if you’re only touching up your bangs. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you should be able to save money and time by giving yourself a touch-up. Here are the tools you need, according to Livestrong.com:

• A fine-toothed comb to help you section off areas and get rid of tangles
• A selection of hair clips to hold back hair that you’re not cutting
• A razor comb to create layers
• Hand and wall mirrors to ensure that you can see your head from all angles
• Sharp scissors, especially designed to cut hair.

It’s best to cut your hair when it’s dry, as wet hair appears longer because it’s weighed down. This will ensure that you won’t cut your hair too short by accident. You should also make sure that your hair is free of tangles. Hamadi – Shea Leave In will make your hair smooth and manageable.

As long as you stay organized while you’re cutting by using plenty of clips, you should be able to give yourself a satisfactory trim. If you’re unsure about the best hair-cutting methods, simply pay attention to your stylist next time you go to the salon, or check out how-to videos online.

1. Wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. Although many women have been bombarded by the media when it comes to how damaging the sun’s rays are, that hasn’t stopped some from skipping the sunscreen. Ensure the protection of your skin by slathering it on in the morning as part of your routine – not just before you’re going to the beach. Makeup like Dermablend – Cover Creme SPF 30 will ensure that you’re getting coverage in more ways than one.

2. Fake it, don’t bake it. If you’re still heading to the tanning bed to get your glow on, cut it out already! Tanning beds are no safer than the sun, and some experts argue that they can do even more damage since you’re receiving direct exposure. Get a faux bronze look by using self-tanners like TanTowel – Self-Tan Towelette. These make the application process a breeze and they won’t leave any tell-tale streaks.

3. Exfoliate at least once a week. Getting rid of dead skin cells is the key to a glowing complexion that’s not dull or flaky. Use an exfoliating scrub for your face once or twice a week, and a rich scrub for your body in the shower. Get Fresh – SPA Sugar Body Scrub is the perfect treat.

4. Find your signature scent. There’s nothing like a fresh fragrance to remind people of you even when you’re not around, but it’s not possible if you’re always switching up your perfume. Take the time to find out what smells best on you, then invest in a few different products in the scent to ensure that you’re always exuding the aroma.

5. Don’t go to sleep without taking off your makeup. Leaving makeup on while you’re in bed at night is never a good idea. Your pores can become clogged, leading to acne, irritation and an overall messy complexion. Even if you’re too tired to wash it all off, keep a stash of wipes near your bed and use it to gently remove any product. Rilastil – Daily Care Make-Up Removing Wipes are the perfect thing.

6. Clean out your collection. Now’s the perfect time to go through your medicine cabinet, makeup bag and toiletry stash and get rid of anything old. Most products have an expiration date on them, but if you can’t remember when you got it, it’s definitely worth tossing. Expired products won’t work as well and could cause problems for your skin if you continue to use them.

7. Embrace your hair’s natural texture. Your strands could use a break from heat tools every now and then, so you should become comfortable with your hair’s natural state. That doesn’t mean you have to skip products altogether – a great anti-frizz serum like Leonor Greyl – Serum de Soie Sublimateur can do wonders.

8. Stop biting your nails. Every now and then, we all slip up and go to town nibbling that pesky jagged edge or hangnail – but you have to stop! Carry a nail file in your bag for on-the-go fixes and keep your nails polished and cute so you won’t feel the urge to bite them.

As long as you incorporate some or all of these beauty resolutions, 2012 should be your most beautiful year yet!

1. Down, wavy and all on one side. If you’ve been paying attention to the red carpet lately, you know how frequently this look pops up on celebrities. It’s an easy way to take your normal blowout from cute to fabulous. After showering, use a bit of Leonor Greyl – Condition Naturelle, then blow dry and use a large-barreled curling iron to create soft waves. Make a deep side part, then move all your hair to one side, in front of your shoulder. Spritz with hairspray to ensure it stays put.

2. Plenty of texture. If you want to wear your hair down but infuse it with loads of volume and texture, it’s easy to do with a volumizing mousse like Leonor Greyl – Mousse Au Lotus Volumatrice. Just apply some to your roots, then flip your head upside down and blow dry. Once it’s completely dry, use a curling iron to create waves on random sections, then finish up with a light hairspray.

3. Pinned side part. Celebrities like Madonna are real fans of this look, so it’s safe to say it’s totally fashionable for your holiday soiree. Blow dry your hair as usual, then use a round brush to lightly curl the ends underneath. Create a side part, then pin the sideswept hair behind your ear, tucking it underneath a bit.

4. Sleek and smooth. This look is very polished, so you can bet you’ll look fancy and sophisticated at the bash. Just blow dry your hair as usual, then use plenty of shine spray to infuse your hair with shimmer. Hamadi – Shea Spray will do the trick. Run a flat iron over your strands to really smooth them out, then blast with cold air from your blowdryer to seal the cuticle. Part it however you’d like, then tuck it behind your ears.

5. Side braid. Once your hair is dry, use a bit of salt spray to create beachy texture. Just mix a bit of table salt with water in a spray bottle. Pull your strands to one side of your head, then make a braid (or even a fishtail). Gently pull pieces out to make it a bit rough looking, as you want it to look casual.

6. Partial french braid. After blow drying your hair, use Jack Black – Body Building Hair Gel to create volume and texture. Part your hair on the side, then start a french braid one one side, right next to the part. Take pieces from along your hairline, then finish above your ear and secure with an elastic. Pin it in place and you’re good to go.

7. DIY headband. When your hair is dry, use a curling iron to create loose waves all over your head. Pull your hair into a low side ponytail, then separate it in half and braid the top portion. Pull the braid over your head to create a headband effect, then pin it into place behind your ear. Rough up the other half of the ponytail and secure it into a bun. Keep everything in place with Leonor Greyl – Structure Naturelle.

8. Half up. Create a bouncy blowout by drying your hair, then using large Velcro rollers near your roots and blasting them with hot hair to heat them up. Shake it out, then use a thin comb to tease the roots on the crown of your head. Pull the upper half of your hair back toward your crown, then secure it in place with bobby pins or a bejeweled clip.

Amp up your eyes
Eyes are usually the feature that people notice first, so it’s important to make sure yours are giving off the right first impression. You want bright, wide-awake eyes that look young and vibrant. The key to pulling this off is by de-puffing them and eliminating dark circles on the day of the event. Use a cold compress or even a frozen bag of peas to cool down your lids for ten minutes, then use a product like Sothys – Active-Contour Age-Defying Cream (Eyes). It will reduce the depth of wrinkles and fine lines, and if you keep it in the fridge, it’ll have extra de-puffing powers. Afterwards, use Jane Iredale – Active Light Under-eye Concealer to hide dark circles and signs of fatigue without any creasing.

Steer clear of acne
Even if your high school days are over, that doesn’t mean that your acne has completely gone away. If you’re still prone to the occasional breakout, it’s important to take preventative measures before the event. Wash your face twice daily with a cleanser meant for acne-prone skin, and consider using a product with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid afterwards. If you already have a breakout close to the event, do some damage control by warming up your skin with a warm compress, like a damp washcloth, for several minutes. Once your pores have opened, use two clean Q-tips to press on either side of a pimple to get rid of it, then use a zit-sapping product on top before concealer.

Get a dewy glow
You don’t want to look drab and burned out or oily on the day of your reunion, so use a product like BABOR – Advanced Biogen Intensive Repair in the days leading up to the event. Your face will have a smoother texture immediately and the formula will help with any scarring, abrasions and excess oil. Make sure to use plenty of moisturizer, and a facial spritzer like GloMinerals – gloMoist Hydration Mist can give you a quick pick-me-up, even in the bathroom of the venue!

Whiten your smile
There’s nothing like yellowing teeth to make you look older, so turn up the brightness of your smile with a kit like Supersmile – Professional Whitening System (Large). You’ll have much more confidence without even having to step foot in the dentist’s office. To get rid of any stains, you may want to try using hydrogen peroxide. Just dip a washcloth in it, then use it to scrub stains from the surface of your teeth. GoSMILE – TOUCH UP Mini (pear-licious) can also help you get rid of stains from coffee or wine on the day of the reunion.

Shine up your hair
Dull, dry hair can make you look much older, so it’s important to pamper your locks before the big day so your tresses will be glowing along with your face. Use a luxurious masque like BORGHESE – Fango Active Mud for Hair and Scalp, which will give you plenty of body and moisture. When you’re styling, use a shine spray like Hamadi – Shea Spray to get soft, luscious hair that your girlfriends will be jealous of.

A set of fabulous fringe will definitely do the trick to getting your eyes even more attention than they normally get, but not everyone was born with thick, full lashes. Luckily there are plenty of ways you can upgrade your lashes and make them look as full and lush as you wish they were.

All you need are a few tools and products and you’ll be on your way to luxurious eyelashes in no time. The first thing you want to invest in is a good eyelash curler, like Talika – Heated Eye Lash Curler. Curling your lashes will make them look fuller and longer because they’ll be more noticeable than if they were sticking straight out. A heated curler gets you fast results that will last all day, but even the regular curlers, like Paula Dorf – CURL-UP Eyelash Curler work great.

The next thing you need is a great mascara. There are plenty of different kinds out there that do exactly what they say they’re going to do, whether it’s adding volume, lengthening, thickening or defining. Some kinds, like ModelCo – Fiber Lash Extreme Lash Extension Mascara Kit have fibers in the formula which bind to your lashes and make them look much longer. It’s like fake lashes in a tube! Finding the right kind for you just depends on what kind of look you’re going for. Once you find a mascara that you like, you may want to invest in a shimmery topcoat that you can add on top of it for a little extra sparkle on special occasions.

When you apply mascara, it’s always a good idea to apply two or three coats. This will make sure every one of your lashes is covered and you’re getting the effect you want. It’s important to allow each coat to dry before adding more on, otherwise you won’t be building the product. Use a lash comb like Youngblood – Synthetic Eyebrow/Eyelash Defining Brush after each coat to make sure your lashes are separated and don’t have any clumps.

For really special occasions where you want to go all-out with your fringe, you may want to try a pair of false lashes. All you have to do is apply the glue either to your lash line or on the edge of the falsies, then use a pair of tweezers to hold the lashes and press them onto your lash line. It’s crucial to get them as close to your own lashes as possible. If you don’t want the full effect, ModelCo – Lash Out Individual Lashes + Glue can give you just a hint of length by adding a few lashes into the middle of your lids or on the outer corners.

After you apply false lashes, cover up the line by smudging an eyeliner over it, then using mascara to blend the fake lashes with your real ones. Your eyes will pop and you’ll feel like a supermodel every time you blink.

As long as you choose the right mascara for your lashes and take the time to curl them before you apply it, you’ll hardly need any other eye makeup to make your eyes look wide awake and beautiful.

According to the FDA, the two most important laws about cosmetics marketed in the U.S. are the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA).

The FD&C Act prohibits the marketing of “adulterated and misbranded” cosmetics. A cosmetic is considered adulterated if:
• It contains a poisonous or dangerous substance which makes it harmful to users when used following directions.
• It contains any “filthy, putrid or decomposed” substance.
• It has been prepared or packaged under unsanitary conditions and is therefore contaminated.
• The container is made from a poisonous or dangerous material.
• It contains an unsafe color additive (except for hair dyes, which have more specific conditions).

Misbranded products are improperly labeled or deceptively packaged. If the labeling is wrong or misleading, doesn’t include required information or doesn’t prominently display information, it is subject to regulatory action. This is supposed to make consumers able to make informed decisions about which products they are using, but unfortunately many people fail to read the ingredients on products before they buy them.

In order to make sure you’re not exposing yourself to potentially hazardous ingredients in your makeup and skin care products, avoid using products which list one or more of the following ingredients on the label, according to OrganicBeautyTalk.com.

• Alcohol, Isopropyl. This is a drying and irritating ingredient that takes moisture away from your skin and degenerates your skin’s natural immune barrier, making you more vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. It may also promote premature skin aging. It’s made from a petroleum derivative and is found in skin and hair products, fragrance, and antibacterial products. Use a more natural cleanser, like Archipelago Botanicals – Morning Mint Soap, instead.

• DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine) & TEA (triethanolamine). These ingredients are restricted in Europe because of their known carcinogenic effects, but the U.S. has yet to regulate them. The chemicals may disprupt your hormones and can form cancer-causing nitrates in your body.

• Fragrance (Parfum). If a label includes synthetic fragrance, it could represent thousands of separate ingredients used to scent products, many of which are considered toxic or carcinogenic. Fragrance chemicals and ingredients have been associated with respiratory issues, reproductive issues, skin discoloration and even changes in the central nervous system. It’s better to scent products yourself with essential oils, or buy organic products like Janson Beckett – Certified Organic Cleansing Milk.

• Mineral Oil, Petrolatum. This ingredient is a petroleum by-product that coats skin like a plastic, which clogs pores and prevents skin from eliminating toxins. This can cause acne and slow skin development – resulting in premature aging. It dissolves your skin’s natural oil and causes dry skin.

• Parabens. These ingredients often start with prefixes like propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl and methyl. They are preservatives which mimic estrogen and can disrupt your hormone systems. Many products these days are labeled paraben-free, such as PRIORI – CoffeeBerry Perfecting Minerals Foundation SPF 25 – Perfecting Foundation 4, which is 100 percent natural.

Next time you’re looking to buy beauty products, be sure to search for the ingredients and avoid those which could negatively affect your health!

Techniques to try

1. Use foundation or a makeup primer on your eyelids. This will make sure your shadow stays on and lasts all day.

2. Eyes will look bigger if you layer your eyeshadow. Use darker colors close to your lash lines and lighter colors as you go upward on your lids. This gradual change of tone will give the illusion of depth.

3. When using an eyeliner (like Sothys – Waterproof Soft Eye Pencil, which comes with a smudge tool) to define bottom lash lines, smudge it out. This will prevent your eyes from looking smaller and bring your outer edges forward, creating a larger look.

4. Full brows and lips will keep your eye makeup looking natural. Use an eyebrow pencil to shade in sparse areas and a plumping gloss to amp up your pout.

5. If you have monolids, there’s no need to fake a crease with eyeshadow if you tailor your look to work for you.

6. Do your eye makeup before the rest of your face. This will prevent any loose shadow or mascara clumps from falling onto your cheeks as you’re applying.

7. If you’re going with false eyelashes, use individual lashes for a more natural look that will make your eyes appear wider.

Looks to try

1. Everyday glamour. This style works great if you don’t want a heavy makeup look or are just starting to experiment with eye makeup. To create defined eyes, sweep on a cool brown or plum eyeshadow, like one from Pixi – Eye Beauty Kit, along your top and lower lash lines. Go up your lid a little bit so it will show. Use a dark brown liner on your top lash lines, curl your lashes and apply a lengthening mascara. Chic and easy!

2. Modern smokey eye. This edgy look works great on all skin tones and even on close-set eyes. Use a warm brown eyeshadow all over your lids and slightly above the creases. Extend the color straight out beyond the outer corners if your eyes are closely set. Do the same with your lower lash lines, then apply dark brown or black eyeshadow over the top and bottom lash lines, without extending outward. Go over the top of the lash line with a black eyeliner, curl lashes and use plenty of lengthening mascara. Pair with pink lips for a cute touch.

3. Glowing goddess. An allover glow will give fair-skinned ladies a touch of radiance. Use a shimmery light gold shadow three-quarters of the way up your lids as well as on your inner corners and lower lash line. Use an olive green eyeshadow along the upper lash lines, making it thicker as you get to the outer corners. Go over the top lash line with a black eyeliner, then line the inner rims of your bottom lids. Curl your lashes and top with mascara for a fresh-faced look.

4. Bronzed babe. This, warm, monochromatic look compliments a tanned skin tone. Use a nude eyeshadow all over your lid, then apply a cool brown shadow from your lash lines to just above your creases. Sweep a dark brown or black eyeliner over your upper lash line and on your lower inner rims. Curl your lashes and use a brown or black mascara. Finish with a bit of bronzer and an apricot gloss.

1. Metallic smokey eyes are totally in for fall and ready to spice up your night-time look. Just use your regular smoky-eye makeup (dark liner, dark shadow) and add a pop of a metallic shade like gold, bronze or silver to add a smoldering touch. Too Faced – Smokey Eye Kit can help you master the effect.

2. Dark red lips are bold but perfect for a bit of glamour. Keep the rest of your makeup simple to avoid any color competition, and make your lips the center of attention. Choose a wine-inspired color, and add a touch of clear gloss to achieve your own pout perfection.

3. Eyeliner is your best bet for adding definition, but rather than creating a perfect line, smudge it up a bit. Use a powder instead on your top lash lines and go over it with a wet brush for a soft, blended look.

4. Neutral colors are always in, but this fall’s version uses matching shades for a monochromatic look. Use a product like Jane Iredale – In Touch Cream Blush Stick for eyelids, cheeks, and lips. You’ll have a fast, easy application and a simple, pretty glow.

5. Ultra defined lashes are in for fall, so pick your favorite mascara and go a little overboard with multiple coats to make those peepers really pop. Skip the eyeliner and play up just your top lashes for a wide-eyed effect.

6. Matte lipstick is all the rage, and pretty pinks and corals are your best bets for making a serious impact. Use a lipstick brush to start at the center of lips and wing it out into the corners. Apply a bit of powder on top for a shine-free finish that will leave your lips looking soft and kissable.

7. Flushed cheeks are cute for any season, and fall is no exception. For a lasting impression, use a cream blush, which will stay put and make your skin look dewy. Use on the apples of your cheeks to define your facial shape.

8. Nude lips are extra sexy when you keep them glossy. A nude lipstick and matching gloss will warm up your face without making you feel naked, and you won’t have to worry about a perfect application because it will blend right in!

9. A glowing, candlelit effect on your skin is perfect for fall, as long as you stay away from overly shimmery or frosty shades. Choose a warm, peachy highlighter to smooth on the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and the inner corners of your eyes for a fresh take.

10. It may seem a little strange at first, but glossy eyelids look fresh and pretty. Just put on your normal shade of eyeshadow and top with a touch of lip gloss. A clear shade will let your eyeshadow shine through, but if you’re feeling a little daring, use a tinted lip gloss for a little extra oomph.

11. You can relax when it comes to plucking your eyebrows this fall. A strong, defined brow is the new shape this season, and it’ll bring attention to your eyes. Don’t pluck too much, and try using a brow pencil in a shade darker than your brows to amp up sparse areas and give more definition. Your eyes will be loving the flattering effect.