Beauty Q&A: Sexy lips & more

Tuesday, March 01, 2011

Becky DiStefano, GoLocalProv Beauty Expert

As the infox overflows, we are answering your beauty questions! Have no fear, your beauty expert is here.

I love the look of lipstick but I get really self-conscious wearing it. I want to step up my lip look a notch but fear looking like a clown! Any tips? --Meghan, 25, Portsmouth

Lipstick is not scary; it's fun! Lip products including classic lipstick along with lip glosses, stains and balms come in a range of colors, textures and finishes so you can find what is best for you. I personally feel that everyone needs a red lipstick in their repertoire. The best way to find your red is to try it on so get thee to a makeup counter or beauty boutique for some on-lip trials. Ideas on reds include Nars Pure Matte Lipstick in Vesuvio ($25, Sephora, Providence), Smashbox Photo Finish Lipstick in Legendary ($22, Nordstrom, Providence) and Jane Iredale Pure Moiste Lipcolor in Carrie ($19, Facing Thayer, Providence).

My nails are a wreck and weekly manicures just aren't in my budget. What can I do to get my natural nails to look good? --Cynthia, 28, Scituate

Weekly manicures are a luxury but it isn't always realistic. Instead, I would recommend getting a pro manicure to start you off and then maintain after that at home. Head over to Jazzy Nails in Warren for a classic manicure and get those cuticles and nails pampered. Use hand cream every night before bed or even olive oil and rub and massage into cuticles to increase circulation and moisturize. Wear gloves in the cold and do not bite your nails, ever! Be sure to have hand cream with you at all times so you can moisturize after you wash or if you feel dry. Hands can be transformed simply by moisturizing!

I use a lot of hair products to get my mane tamed...what can I do to give my hair a break and get rid of the buildup? --Rhonda, 23, Providence

Product buildup is very common when we use hairsprays, gels, pomades and waxes. The best thing you can do is use a clarifying treatment a few times a week and maybe try to go a day or two with no product. Using apple cider vinegar (about $2 at the grocery store) as a rinse in the shower will help to rid your hair of buildup. Or use a clarifying shampoo like Frederic Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo ($23, Bath and Body Works). Another tip is to use products that do not contain harsh chemicals, which can damage your hair as well as leave residue.

What do you think about highlighters for the eyes and face? Are they easy to use? --Deidre, 34, Warwick

Highlighters or facial enhancers are fabulous and I use them often. I love using a shimmery white on my brow bone or a dab of highlighting cream on the apples of my cheeks for a healthy glow. Try Nyx Trio Eyeshadow in White/Gray/Black ($8, Ulta, Warwick) using the white on your brow bone. For the face, a fabulous choice is Physicians Formula Multi-Colored Highlighter ($14, drug stores). Sweep across cheeks for an instant refresher!

Thank you to all of my beauties for your questions and readership!