Choosing the Right Cosmetics

We all have different skin types and all of those different skin types react differently to the various cosmetics out there. I've worn some brands of makeup that make my skin break out and some that give my skin that desired porcelain look. With all of our individual skin characteristics it's no wonder there's no many cosmetics out there and apart from the basics of skin type, you have skin tone and a myriad of other variables. That's why choosing the right cosmetics is so important!

For me, choosing the right cosmetics is trial and error. The cosmetic that gives me the most problems is foundation because I have naturally oily skin and so I need to be careful about what kind of cosmetics I buy. There are so many different brands out there and so many different cosmetics targeted toward almost every skin type so sometimes it just takes some time in the makeup aisle to find something that could work.

Choose cosmetics that match your skin tone and complement it. A darker foundation, deeper eye shadow colors, and darker shades of eyeliner will all look great on olive or chocolate skin. If on the other end you have a fair skin tone, buy makeup in lighter tones—lighter foundation, lighter eye shadows, and lighter eyeliner or mascara will all work to enhance your features. When you use cosmetics fit for your skin tone you will complement and enhance your features rather than washout or overpower it.

It's worth it to invest in good makeup. I know good makeup can get pricey, especially if you buy it all at once, but you won't regret it. If you have good, quality makeup, your face will look good and quality. However if you're trying to save money, you could incur cost on your complexion and overall look. Cheap makeup looks cheap on your skin; it can cake on there and make you look plastic rather than beautiful. Remember also that cheap doesn't inexpensive. You can find some great deals at department stores on great makeup, but avoid the cheap, low quality makeup; don't buy makeup for the sole reason that it doesn't cost a lot. Buy it for its quality and for how it make you look.

So, back to the original question: how do you choose the right cosmetics?

• Accommodate your skin type—makeup that dries out or aggravates your skin isn't worth it
• Use cosmetics to work with your skin tone—darker shades with darker tones and lighter shades for lighter tones
• Investment in quality makeup, even though it can be expensive, results in a quality look. You'll pay more on your face if you use cheap products.

Choosing the right cosmetics is a quandary only because it's completely personal. Your skin is so individualized and so these tips should be so individualized. No rule regarding what kind of cosmetics to buy is hard and unchanging. Now you know to work with your skin instead of changing it, cosmetics will be a breeze!