Beauty Fix: How to heal hair ruined by dry weather, a self-tanner that doesn’t smell (honestly!) and more
Every week our Beauty Fix columnist takes on your questions about makeup, skincare, hair and more. Have a beauty question we haven’t answered? Email us atbeautyfix@fashionmagazine.com.
Nail polish often looks uneven because the natural texture of my nails shows through. Can I fix this?
The visual appearance of our naked nails is actually a significant indicator of our internal health, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s up when they’re bare. It’s normal to have ridges on your nails that run up and down lengthwise, and these are not a huge cause for concern. Buffing nails prior to applying polish may seem like a logical solution, but this can actually weaken your nails. A better solution is to use a ridge filling base coat, such as Joe Fresh Ridge Filler ($6, at Joe Fresh), in order to create a smooth, even surface for polish application. A quick coat of this before you apply your colored polish will balance everything out and make ridges a thing of the past.
The visual appearance of our naked nails is actually a significant indicator of our internal health, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s up when they’re bare. It’s normal to have ridges on your nails that run up and down lengthwise, and these are not a huge cause for concern. Buffing nails prior to applying polish may seem like a logical solution, but this can actually weaken your nails. A better solution is to use a ridge filling base coat, such as Joe Fresh Ridge Filler ($6, at Joe Fresh), in order to create a smooth, even surface for polish application. A quick coat of this before you apply your colored polish will balance everything out and make ridges a thing of the past.
I can’t stand the stench of self-tanner, but I want to have a bit of colour without actually tanning. Is there anything that I can use that won’t smell so unpleasant?
Even in the age of gradual self-tanners that take several days to build up colour on the skin, that telltale self-tanner smell lingers on. This is generally due to the fact that virtually all self-tanners use dihydroxyacetone (aka DHA) as the active ingredient that gives you a faux glow, whether it’s a full-force in mousse, spray or gel format or gradual in the form of a lotion applied daily. It’s your lucky day though, because Clarins has created a self-tanner that can be added to your usual facial moisturizer and applied once a day for a hint of colour—without streaking or even the slightest bit of stench. Add no more than three drops (seriously—this stuff is concentrated) ofClarins Radiance-Plus Golden Booster ($30, sephora.ca) to any face cream you use, mix to ensure the two are blended well together and apply to your face as you normally would. That’s literally all it takes to wake up with a bit of a tan without the fuss of makeup! Tip: This product is suited to all skin tones, as it warms up all complexions. Lighter skin tones can start with a couple of drops and adjust their use accordingly. Darker skin tones can benefit from the standard dose of a few drops when battling any kind of ashiness from drier weather.
Even in the age of gradual self-tanners that take several days to build up colour on the skin, that telltale self-tanner smell lingers on. This is generally due to the fact that virtually all self-tanners use dihydroxyacetone (aka DHA) as the active ingredient that gives you a faux glow, whether it’s a full-force in mousse, spray or gel format or gradual in the form of a lotion applied daily. It’s your lucky day though, because Clarins has created a self-tanner that can be added to your usual facial moisturizer and applied once a day for a hint of colour—without streaking or even the slightest bit of stench. Add no more than three drops (seriously—this stuff is concentrated) ofClarins Radiance-Plus Golden Booster ($30, sephora.ca) to any face cream you use, mix to ensure the two are blended well together and apply to your face as you normally would. That’s literally all it takes to wake up with a bit of a tan without the fuss of makeup! Tip: This product is suited to all skin tones, as it warms up all complexions. Lighter skin tones can start with a couple of drops and adjust their use accordingly. Darker skin tones can benefit from the standard dose of a few drops when battling any kind of ashiness from drier weather.
My hair is brittle and breaking from heat styling and dry weather. How can I increase the flexibility of my hair again?
I think we’re all a little nuts from this past winter, since it started quite early and gave little to no reprieve for months. Hair that’s dry from weather will only become more unruly and resistant to heat-styling, especially if moisture isn’t being put back in on a regular basis. Next time you’re out of the shower—and before you grab your blow dryer—coat your hair in a couple pumps of Shu Uemura Art Of Hair Ultimate Remedy Duo-Serum ($56, shuuemura.ca). This duo-chamber hair serum actually contains lipid oil extracted from lotus flowers on one side, and a ceramide-rich cream on the other. When mixed together and applied to hair, the ceramides fortifies hair in any weak areas that would be prone to breaking while the oil hydrates and protects hair. Consider it your new go-to heat protectant product.
I think we’re all a little nuts from this past winter, since it started quite early and gave little to no reprieve for months. Hair that’s dry from weather will only become more unruly and resistant to heat-styling, especially if moisture isn’t being put back in on a regular basis. Next time you’re out of the shower—and before you grab your blow dryer—coat your hair in a couple pumps of Shu Uemura Art Of Hair Ultimate Remedy Duo-Serum ($56, shuuemura.ca). This duo-chamber hair serum actually contains lipid oil extracted from lotus flowers on one side, and a ceramide-rich cream on the other. When mixed together and applied to hair, the ceramides fortifies hair in any weak areas that would be prone to breaking while the oil hydrates and protects hair. Consider it your new go-to heat protectant product.
What’s the best way to wear bright colours on my face?
When choosing a bright eyeshadow, lipstick or blush, it’s important to consider the formula and texture of the products. While matte products can ensure substantial colour payoff and are inherently bold and attention grabbing, a more luminous finish is the more modern way to wear bright, punchy pops of colour without being concerned about appearing garish. Sonia Kashuk Dewy Luxe Lip & Cheek Tint ($10, at Target Canada) is a liquid formula that can easily be blended onto lips and cheeks for a natural flush of colour that still has serious presence thanks to strong pigmentation. These tints are available in two vivid shades: “Charmed” (a practically-neon coral) and “Enchanted” (an orchid pink). The formula contains lychee extract for hydration, so it wears comfortably on cheeks and lips won’t look dried out within minutes of application.
When choosing a bright eyeshadow, lipstick or blush, it’s important to consider the formula and texture of the products. While matte products can ensure substantial colour payoff and are inherently bold and attention grabbing, a more luminous finish is the more modern way to wear bright, punchy pops of colour without being concerned about appearing garish. Sonia Kashuk Dewy Luxe Lip & Cheek Tint ($10, at Target Canada) is a liquid formula that can easily be blended onto lips and cheeks for a natural flush of colour that still has serious presence thanks to strong pigmentation. These tints are available in two vivid shades: “Charmed” (a practically-neon coral) and “Enchanted” (an orchid pink). The formula contains lychee extract for hydration, so it wears comfortably on cheeks and lips won’t look dried out within minutes of application.
I know it’s a runway trend to wear no mascara, but I’m not sure if it’s the best look for me. Is there a middle ground look between the two extremes?
Runway trends are just that: trends from runway shows. They’re not all necessarily suited for everyday life, but can definitely be adapted it to match your everyday style. If you’re a mascara fiend, then the no-mascara look is hard to embrace. However, if you want to test the waters, try using a mascara with a lighter look. M.A.C Studio Sculpt Lash ($19, maccosmetics.ca) has one of the most innovative brushes in that it’s essentially a half-brush, with criss-crossed bristles. This innovative brush allows you to build up (or tone down!) lashes with the creamy mascara formula. If you’re interested in taking a nod from the natural runway look, skip curling lashes and apply a single coat of this mascara. You’ll get an understated lash look that’s akin to the runway without forcing you to truly exit your mascara comfort zone.
Runway trends are just that: trends from runway shows. They’re not all necessarily suited for everyday life, but can definitely be adapted it to match your everyday style. If you’re a mascara fiend, then the no-mascara look is hard to embrace. However, if you want to test the waters, try using a mascara with a lighter look. M.A.C Studio Sculpt Lash ($19, maccosmetics.ca) has one of the most innovative brushes in that it’s essentially a half-brush, with criss-crossed bristles. This innovative brush allows you to build up (or tone down!) lashes with the creamy mascara formula. If you’re interested in taking a nod from the natural runway look, skip curling lashes and apply a single coat of this mascara. You’ll get an understated lash look that’s akin to the runway without forcing you to truly exit your mascara comfort zone.
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Beauty Fix: The best moisturizers and blush for dry skin, an inexpensive face mask with premium results and more
Is it possible to wear retinol during the day?
We’re encouraged to apply retinol at night for multiple reasons. First off, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients (like retinol) at night because it’s entered a reparative state. Secondly, retinol can make skin sensitive to sun, so daily SPF application is crucial when you’re dabbing on the retinol at night. All that being said, if you combine an SPF with a retinol, rules can indeed be broken. StriVectin-ARAdvanced Retinol Day Treatment SPF 30 ($109, murale.ca) is the ultimate daytime face product. Not only does it work to reverse wrinkles and fine lines, it will even out skin tone, refine texture and fight off UVA and UVB damage, all without irritating skin. Quite the multitasking product to put into your daily rotation!
We’re encouraged to apply retinol at night for multiple reasons. First off, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients (like retinol) at night because it’s entered a reparative state. Secondly, retinol can make skin sensitive to sun, so daily SPF application is crucial when you’re dabbing on the retinol at night. All that being said, if you combine an SPF with a retinol, rules can indeed be broken. StriVectin-ARAdvanced Retinol Day Treatment SPF 30 ($109, murale.ca) is the ultimate daytime face product. Not only does it work to reverse wrinkles and fine lines, it will even out skin tone, refine texture and fight off UVA and UVB damage, all without irritating skin. Quite the multitasking product to put into your daily rotation!
What’s the best type of blush to use on dry skin?
Finding the right blush for your skin type is more than finding an ideal colour—it’s all about how the product sits on your skin. If you have dry skin and it’s been exacerbated by this apparently never-ending winter, choose a creamy formula that has moisturizing properties, such as Maybelline Face Studio Master Glaze ($12, at drugstores). These colourful, creamy sticks are loaded with shea butter to ensure a smooth glide onto skin and high blendability. You’ll get a seamless application that won’t appear patchy in the slightest, which is a common gripe amongst dry skin sufferers when it comes to colour cosmetic application.
Finding the right blush for your skin type is more than finding an ideal colour—it’s all about how the product sits on your skin. If you have dry skin and it’s been exacerbated by this apparently never-ending winter, choose a creamy formula that has moisturizing properties, such as Maybelline Face Studio Master Glaze ($12, at drugstores). These colourful, creamy sticks are loaded with shea butter to ensure a smooth glide onto skin and high blendability. You’ll get a seamless application that won’t appear patchy in the slightest, which is a common gripe amongst dry skin sufferers when it comes to colour cosmetic application.
If I have rough, dry spots on my hands and face, what can I use to remedy these areas?
After such a severe winter, it’s a miracle if you don’t have dry spots or patches here, there and everywhere. A balm texture, such as Aerin Rose Balm ($64,esteelauder.ca), is both pleasant to the nose and soothing to apply. Each pot of this balm has a rose oil base that is extracted from 350 rose petals, making it a potent moisturizer and plumper for skin, whether it’s applied to your face or body. Tip: use it to soothe your nose after a cold or too many reaches for a tissue, or to hydrate cuticles without the mess of runny cuticle oil.
After such a severe winter, it’s a miracle if you don’t have dry spots or patches here, there and everywhere. A balm texture, such as Aerin Rose Balm ($64,esteelauder.ca), is both pleasant to the nose and soothing to apply. Each pot of this balm has a rose oil base that is extracted from 350 rose petals, making it a potent moisturizer and plumper for skin, whether it’s applied to your face or body. Tip: use it to soothe your nose after a cold or too many reaches for a tissue, or to hydrate cuticles without the mess of runny cuticle oil.
I need a deeply hydrating moisturizer that won’t make my makeup slide off. Am I asking too much?
There’s a flurry of moisturizers available that hydrate deeply, but not all of them can be worn during the day, especially if you’re applying makeup on top. Most hydrating ingredients give way to an emollient finish on the skin, and this doesn’t always play nicely with makeup. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Intense Hydration ($32, kiehls.ca) recently hit the market and the formula has managed to hit a sweet spot of super hydration without an excessively heavy texture. It contains apricot kernel oil (loaded with soothing vitamin E , making it extremely hydrating all by itself), fragmented hyaluronic acid (which plumps up skin by drawing moisture from the environment) and glycerin (to retain all the moisture that’s been pulled in). The lightweight formula absorbs quickly so you can carry on with your makeup routine, knowing skin will be hydrated for a full 24 hours!
There’s a flurry of moisturizers available that hydrate deeply, but not all of them can be worn during the day, especially if you’re applying makeup on top. Most hydrating ingredients give way to an emollient finish on the skin, and this doesn’t always play nicely with makeup. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Intense Hydration ($32, kiehls.ca) recently hit the market and the formula has managed to hit a sweet spot of super hydration without an excessively heavy texture. It contains apricot kernel oil (loaded with soothing vitamin E , making it extremely hydrating all by itself), fragmented hyaluronic acid (which plumps up skin by drawing moisture from the environment) and glycerin (to retain all the moisture that’s been pulled in). The lightweight formula absorbs quickly so you can carry on with your makeup routine, knowing skin will be hydrated for a full 24 hours!
Are inexpensive facial masks worth trying, or do I need to spend money to get results?
Not at all! Sure, we’re used to seeing high-end facial masks and treatments endorsed by celebrities—especially during awards show season when we’re so interested in their pre-red carpet rituals. While high-end masks are indeed excellent, you don’t need to drain your bank account to reap the benefits of the skincare ingredients they contain. Masque Bar by Look Beauty Brightening Sheet Masks ($10 for 3, at Shoppers Drug Mart) aren’t just affordable, but they’re infused with vitamin C, licorice root extract and orange extract, which are all instrumental in helping your skin brighten up. And because it’s a sheet mask, which creates a barrier between the sheet and your skin, you’ll get a super-changed treatment as it works by sealing moisture and other ingredients into skin.
Not at all! Sure, we’re used to seeing high-end facial masks and treatments endorsed by celebrities—especially during awards show season when we’re so interested in their pre-red carpet rituals. While high-end masks are indeed excellent, you don’t need to drain your bank account to reap the benefits of the skincare ingredients they contain. Masque Bar by Look Beauty Brightening Sheet Masks ($10 for 3, at Shoppers Drug Mart) aren’t just affordable, but they’re infused with vitamin C, licorice root extract and orange extract, which are all instrumental in helping your skin brighten up. And because it’s a sheet mask, which creates a barrier between the sheet and your skin, you’ll get a super-changed treatment as it works by sealing moisture and other ingredients into skin.
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Beauty Fix: Two ways to help tired-looking skin, how to update your manicure for spring and more
How important is sleep to healthy skin? I haven’t been getting much sleep lately and I’m not sure if it’s negatively impacting my skin.
While a lot of emphasis is placed on the importance of healthy eating, exercise and proper skincare, getting a proper night’s rest is often underestimated in terms of how much of a difference it makes to overall health, skin being no exception. While skincare products cannot entirely replace the benefits of a good night’s sleep, they can help prompt an earlier bedtime. If you aren’t able to unwind at the day’s end, the lavender scent of Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream Skin Protectant Nighttime Miracle Moisturizer ($47, thebay.com) can help slow you down. It’s incredibly soothing and the formula contains shea butter and vitamin E to hydrate, as well as salicylic acid for a bit of exfoliation— revealing skin that looks the precise opposite of exhausted.
While a lot of emphasis is placed on the importance of healthy eating, exercise and proper skincare, getting a proper night’s rest is often underestimated in terms of how much of a difference it makes to overall health, skin being no exception. While skincare products cannot entirely replace the benefits of a good night’s sleep, they can help prompt an earlier bedtime. If you aren’t able to unwind at the day’s end, the lavender scent of Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream Skin Protectant Nighttime Miracle Moisturizer ($47, thebay.com) can help slow you down. It’s incredibly soothing and the formula contains shea butter and vitamin E to hydrate, as well as salicylic acid for a bit of exfoliation— revealing skin that looks the precise opposite of exhausted.
I often see rainbow coloured concealers and primers, but never know how to use them. Help?
When it comes to yellow, green, purple and orange products and where to place them on your skin, just take a look at the colour wheel. For example, if you have undereye circles that have a purple-blue undertone, then reach for an orange- or peach-toned correcting product—as these colour families are opposite of each other on the colour wheel. Colour correcting products have come a long way in terms of formulation, resulting in finer textures with sheer veils of colour correcting properties that apply with ease and result in a more natural finish that still effectively correct discoloured areas as you’d expect. For tired skin, try M.A.C Prep + Prime CC Colour Correcting Compact in “Recharge” ($30, maccosmetics.ca). This apricot-toned semi-sheer pressed powder can be dusted all over the face to brighten and add warmth to your skin, breathing life back into your face.
When it comes to yellow, green, purple and orange products and where to place them on your skin, just take a look at the colour wheel. For example, if you have undereye circles that have a purple-blue undertone, then reach for an orange- or peach-toned correcting product—as these colour families are opposite of each other on the colour wheel. Colour correcting products have come a long way in terms of formulation, resulting in finer textures with sheer veils of colour correcting properties that apply with ease and result in a more natural finish that still effectively correct discoloured areas as you’d expect. For tired skin, try M.A.C Prep + Prime CC Colour Correcting Compact in “Recharge” ($30, maccosmetics.ca). This apricot-toned semi-sheer pressed powder can be dusted all over the face to brighten and add warmth to your skin, breathing life back into your face.
I tried to use anti-aging cream, but couldn’t get past how heavy it felt on my skin through the night. Is there a lighter texture that could still provide me anti-aging benefits?
Being comfortable with the texture of a product as it absorbs into your skin can be just as important as its actual efficacy—nothing is more distracting than being aware of a cream’s weight sitting on your skin. The thing about anti-aging skincare is that it’s best when applied at night, as skin enters a reparative state that’s more receptive to beneficial active ingredients. Opt for an oil-free formula such as Chanel Le Lift Crème Fine ($160, at Chanel counters), which has a lightweight texture and promotes youth protein production—this tends to slow down as we experience stress and begin to age. With consistent use, skin is firmer with improved elasticity with superficial lines smoothing in appearance.
Being comfortable with the texture of a product as it absorbs into your skin can be just as important as its actual efficacy—nothing is more distracting than being aware of a cream’s weight sitting on your skin. The thing about anti-aging skincare is that it’s best when applied at night, as skin enters a reparative state that’s more receptive to beneficial active ingredients. Opt for an oil-free formula such as Chanel Le Lift Crème Fine ($160, at Chanel counters), which has a lightweight texture and promotes youth protein production—this tends to slow down as we experience stress and begin to age. With consistent use, skin is firmer with improved elasticity with superficial lines smoothing in appearance.
I’m so tired of winter nail colours! How can I spring forward in the nail department?
Even though we just found out we’re allegedly in for another six weeks of winter, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who isn’t sick of winter in its various forms, whether it’s the frosty temperature, high winds or drab colour palettes that could use a visual lift. If you’re beyond ready to swap out your moody greys, blacks and endless barrage of neutrals, consider easing the transition with the gorgeous effect of a polish such as Dior Le Vernis in “Perlé” ($26, thebay.com). This satiny matte topcoat from Dior’s spring Trianon collection is actually full of lavender, fuschia and purple shimmer, adding a light mauve candy-coating sheen to anything it’s applied over. Try it on over any dark tone to mix things up visually without venturing into nail art territory.
Even though we just found out we’re allegedly in for another six weeks of winter, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who isn’t sick of winter in its various forms, whether it’s the frosty temperature, high winds or drab colour palettes that could use a visual lift. If you’re beyond ready to swap out your moody greys, blacks and endless barrage of neutrals, consider easing the transition with the gorgeous effect of a polish such as Dior Le Vernis in “Perlé” ($26, thebay.com). This satiny matte topcoat from Dior’s spring Trianon collection is actually full of lavender, fuschia and purple shimmer, adding a light mauve candy-coating sheen to anything it’s applied over. Try it on over any dark tone to mix things up visually without venturing into nail art territory.
I don’t love the look of powder, but I still feel the need to set my makeup. Can you recommend a powder that has a more natural finish?
Over the past few seasons, there has been a definite trend towards nude skin, with the no-makeup makeup look becoming increasingly popular. As far as base makeup goes, to achieve a no-makeup makeup look, it is key to use a lightweight powder such asMaybelline Dream Wonder Powder ($14, at drugstores) to set any concealer or foundation. This formula contains 60 per cent less talc than most pressed powders, and it feels downright creamy to the touch, allowing it to hold makeup in place without compromising the overall finish of your face. Smooth it on solo for ultralight coverage that’s straight off the runway.
Over the past few seasons, there has been a definite trend towards nude skin, with the no-makeup makeup look becoming increasingly popular. As far as base makeup goes, to achieve a no-makeup makeup look, it is key to use a lightweight powder such asMaybelline Dream Wonder Powder ($14, at drugstores) to set any concealer or foundation. This formula contains 60 per cent less talc than most pressed powders, and it feels downright creamy to the touch, allowing it to hold makeup in place without compromising the overall finish of your face. Smooth it on solo for ultralight coverage that’s straight off the runway.
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Viktor & Rolf's New Fragrance Combines Bows and Caramel in One Delicious Bonbon
At the end of their couture show in Paris earlier this week, with its en-pointe ballerinas in ribbon- and bow-printed latex tutus, Viktor & Rolf unveiled a sweet new women's fragrance, appropriately called Bonbon — so "good" they named it twice.
In fact the collection was based on the campaign photo by Inez and Vinoodh of the bow-shaped bottle nestled in the lap of model Edita Vilkeviciute, body-painted in pink ribbons.
The other meaning in Bonbon's double-entendre has to do with candy, and that's where the scent comes in. Its notes are caramel and a combination of fruits — good enough to eat, but please don't.
Available March 2014 at Viktor & Rolf’s new Paris flagship, Selfridges in the UK, de Bijenkorf in the Netherlands, followed by Saks Fifth Avenue in April.
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