Glitter eyeshadow, ombre lipstick, white eyeliner: How come the most impractical makeup trends are always the prettiest? This time around, face gloss has taken the beauty world by storm, and I might as well be leading the charge: A few years ago when highlighter became A Thing, I decided to sit on the sidelines, waiting until something slightly less sparkly—and, well, less iridescent—came along.

In the meantime, I used RMS’s Living Luminzer, a glitter-less highlighter that I waxed poetic about for months, until one day last summer when I made a fortuitous discovery: I has dispensed way too much Glossier Balm Dotcom from its tube, so I rubbed a bit on the apples of my cheeks, up toward my cheekbones. The result? I looked well-rested, and a few years younger, if I do say so myself. Eventually I started using it in the center of my lids for an all-over refreshed look.

More: The Lipgloss Hack That Makes Me Look Awake In Seconds

It was three months later that I found out face gloss was an actual thing, and not just a hack I’d been taking credit for throughout the tail end of 2016. Applied (almost) in the same way you’d wear highlighter—to the points of your face, like your cheekbones, just above your outer brows, and at your Cupid’s Bow—face gloss extends beyond looking naturally dewy and instead escorts you directly into angelic territory.

As with most products, face gloss is buildable, and though you can go from dewy to editorial to greasy in three second flat, it’s mostly a godsend. I like to apply my CC cream as usual, then use my Beautyblender to dab some gloss on my cheekbones, eyelids, and even into the corners of my eyes. Yes, it feels a little tacky, and yes, it takes some getting used to, and yes, you will look approximately one million times better than if you were to pile on enough highlighter for the same effect. Just know that your hair will stick to your entire face, should the wind blow—they still haven’t figured out how to fix that when lip gloss was a thing in the ‘90s.

Ahead, the best face gloss products to shop now—including two that aren’t face glosses at all.

More: 31 Super-Pretty Makeup Looks To Copy

MAKE Face Gloss

One of the first to debut a face gloss, MAKE’s formula creates an even, glossy sheen. Just don’t wear it over powder foundations, lest your face turn into one big cakey mess.

MAKE Face Gloss, $25; at MAKE

Milk Makeup Face Gloss

If you’ve spent at least one minute on Instagram, you’ve seen this product at work. It’s high-shine and a tad gummy, but not in an Elmer’s Glue way. Pro tip: A little goes a very long way.

Milk Makeup Face Gloss, $20; at Sephora

Glossier Balm Dot Com

Perhaps the most fortuitous discovery I made last summer was when I dispensed too much of the brand’s Cherry Balm Dot Com and used the excess on my cheeks and eyelids. For days when my eyes are actually bloodshot, I swap in the original.

Glossier Balm Dot Com, $12; at Glossier

NYX Cosmetics Lid Lacquer

This budget formula works surprisingly well over powder- and cream-based products.

NYX Cosmetics Lid Lacquer, $6.99; at Ulta

M.A.C. Clear Gloss

It’s a little tacky, but slightly creamier than its competitors. It’s also great for mixing pigments to create your own shade.

M.A.C. Clear Gloss, $22; at M.A.C.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment

Sure, it’s not technically a face gloss, but throw some on your cheekbones and tell me you don’t look radiant—I dare you.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment, $4.99; at Target

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

It's spring break y'all — which means it's time for water, the sun aaaaand probably a horrifying sunburn. Let's be real, after spending all winter inside, our skin just isn't ready for all that exposure. Once you've been cursed with a burn, it usually seems like there's nothing to do but sit back and suffer the consequences — but there are actually some remedies that can help cool you off, stop the itch and keep you from being one big mess of flaky skin.

The sun is just starting to peek out from behind the winter clouds, but keep these tips bookmarked for all warmer seasons. Even if you don't have a wicked burn, these aftercare ideas can help to soothe irritated skin when you've spent too long at the beach.

More: How to Bounce Back From Dry, Peeling Skin on Your Face

1. Cool it down

If you notice your skin start to peel, the first thing you should do is take a cold shower or bath. The cold water will help your skin cool down and slow the peeling process. When you are drying your skin, be sure to pat it dry with a clean, soft towel and avoid rubbing. By rubbing your skin, you can actually speed up and spread the peeling of your skin — and you definitely don't want to do that.

2. Stop the itch

At all costs, you should avoid scratching your skin when it's peeling. You can actually do permanent damage to your skin in the form of scars. If you get the urge to scratch, the best thing to do is to use ice to dull the sensation. Put ice in a piece of soft cloth and gently place the cloth on top of the area of your skin that itches. The itch should subside once the ice begins to cool down the skin.

3. Moisturize your skin

Once you get out of the shower and dry your skin, apply a moisturizing lotion. Look for a moisturizer that is specifically designed to work on sunburned or peeling skin. Generally, the lotion should contain aloe vera, which will cool your skin, reduce inflammation and slow the peeling. Aloe vera is a natural cactus extract that has long been hailed for its soothing properties. You can actually buy pure aloe vera gel (or break open the plant, if you have it) and apply it directly to peeling skin to aid healing, fight pain and avoid infection.

Next Up: Drink up

Originally published June 2008. Updated March 2017.

4. Drink up

Now that you have cooled your skin from the outside, it's time to start working on your skin from the inside. Truth be told, nothing helps your skin as much as a tall glass of water. Healthy skin needs to stay hydrated. When your skin is damaged — like after a sunburn — water becomes even more important. Drink a lot of water to give your skin all the fuel it needs to repair and revive itself. If you notice your skin beginning to peel, be sure to drink eight to 10 glasses of water per day.

5. Don't peel it

Flaky, peeling skin is more than just irritating and unattractive — it can also lead to an infection. Peeling skin can become infected if you scratch or try to forcefully peel the skin. If there is a segment of dead skin that is hanging off and you want to remove it, don't pull on it, no matter how tempting it is. Instead, get a small pair of scissors and carefully cut away just that section of skin. Be sure you are only cutting away dead skin and you don't tear skin that is trying to heal. Once you cut away the dead skin, apply an antibacterial ointment like Neosporin to the area.

6. Prevent scarring

Reduce the itch associated with peeling (and moisturize your skin) by taking a cool bath containing colloidal oatmeal. You can find this fine oatmeal in most pharmacies. To help prevent scarring, promote healing and reduce long-term skin damage, take antioxidant supplements — vitamin C and vitamin E. Also apply a topical vitamin E cream to reduce the chances of scarring.

Bonus: be prepared

Prevention is the best cure for peeling. Plan ahead and don't get sunburned in the first place. By the time your skin starts peeling, the damage has already been done. Before you go out into the sun, always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. If you are going into the water, be sure to reapply sunscreen each time you get out. When applying sunscreen, don't forget about hidden areas, such as behind your ears, which are often forgotten and end up burned.

More: The DIY Spray for Beachy Hair That Saves Any Bad Hair Day

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

We've all made the decision at one point or another to prioritize fashion over function, and there's no way we'll be quitting high heels anytime soon — but that special brand of pain that comes with wearing a heel can seriously wreck a day at work or a night out on the town.

While we're totally on board when it comes to sucking it in for a corseted top or dealing with a less-than-comfortable strapless bra, we're so not here for torturing the most important part of our bodies — we're talking feet here, people. Wearing high heels that kill your toes, heels, ankles and the balls of your feet instantly rob you of your happiness — and kinda take away from an otherwise cute outfit. Even Kate Upton would have a difficult time looking hot while wobbling around the room in pain.

Hold onto your heels because there are solutions. We got some tips straight from beauty and fashion experts on how to make heels more comfortable.

1. Learn about the many benefits of deodorant

Wardrobe consultant and personal shopper Diane Pollack of Stylempower.com has let us in on a great stylist secret: Roll transparent deodorant beneath any area of the shoe (straps, in particular) to prevent chafing. "This will help it to gently glide instead of rub," Pollack said.

2. Opt for styles with buckles and straps

Adjustable straps and buckles will make sure your heels fit snuggly to your feet, which helps avoid the unnecessary rubbing and irritation that cause blisters and discomfort, according to Courtney Barry, the Merchandising Brand Manager of ShoeBuy.

More: The One Product That Makes Every Single Hair Type Look Better

3. Take care of your pairs

A good local butcher is hard to find, but a cobbler? If you're lucky enough to live close to one, make him your BFF now! "The rubber lifts and soles of high-heeled shoe styles get worn down with extended wear, making them uneven and uncomfortable," Barry said. "Take your shoes to your local cobbler when this starts to happen to prevent damage — to you and your shoe!"

4. Stretch them out and break them in, no excuses

Once you've taken the plunge and purchased your new shoes, and depending on the material, it can be helpful to stretch them out a bit to give them some flexibility, Barry said. "You can buy your own shoe stretcher to use at home or take them to your local cobbler — either way you'll be glad you did."

If you know you have an upcoming event that requires a pair of new heels, give yourself time to purchase and wear them a few times before the big day. "Nothing works to make a shoe more comfortable than simply breaking it in," Barry said. "Wear your new shoes around your house a few times before venturing outside, just in case."

5. Go shoe shopping at night

Live your life for a full day and then go shoe shopping. Why? "Try to shop at the end of the day when your feet are swollen," said Marissa N. Stempien, fashion editor at Just Luxe. "If shoes crush, pinch or smash your toes at the store, you can bet they'll do it at home."

6. Get your shoe size accurately measured

If it's been a while since you had your feet sized, now is the time to ask a shoe store to measure them before you drop a lot of money on heels that may not fit properly. "Your feet can change over the years and sizes can change slightly from brand to brand just like clothes," Stempien said.

7. Walk differently (yes, we said that)

There's a way to walk in flats and there's a way to strut in heels and never should the two be confused. "Heels are not sneakers — you have to carry yourself differently," Stempien said. "Use your core muscles and stand up straight. Pretend you're strutting your stuff on the catwalk and use your hips and legs to propel yourself forward. It should feel more like a bounce than a normal stride. Practice it at home until you’ve got it down pat — this can be one of the easiest ways to avoid pain in heels."

8. Tape your toes

Here's an interesting tip — one certainly worth trying if it means a painless shoe experience. "Taping your third and fourth toes together (counting from the big toe) will help with the pain," Stempien said. "Yes, it’s a little weird, but there's actually a nerve there that contributes to foot pain. Stress on the nerve is alleviated when supported by the other toe. Keep in mind this might not work for high-heeled sandals or deep peep-toes."

9. Try this frozen water hack

"If your shoes are a little too tight, then I have a hack for that," said stylist and wardrobe consultant Allie Brandwein. "Fill a zip lock bag halfway with water and place the bag inside the shoe. Put the shoe in the freezer overnight and voilà! Your shoe stretches. The water freezes and expands the shoe. Genius!"

10. Buy shoes with leather soles

Before you throw down your plastic, turn that cute shoe over and check what material has been used on the bottom. "You are always better off with leather soles," said Robyn Vie Carpenter, author and founder of The Lesbian Socialite. "Even if your uppers are man-made, you need the pliability of leather to allow your feet to move."

11. Make sure your feet can move in your heels

And on that note: "If your soles don't move at all, you will end up feeling like your feet are strapped to boards," Vie Carpenter said.

12. Use silicone gel inserts

So, you bought shoes that you thought were comfy and you were wrong. What now? "If you have uncomfortable shoes, the best thing you can do is start gellin," Vie Carpenter said. "Use the silicone gel inserts designed specifically for heels. They go right under the balls of your feet to protect them from all of that standing."

13. Consider a chunkier heel

Many of us love stilettos the way we love German chocolate cake. We know we can only handle a nibble or two, but goodness, how we want to gobble the whole thing up at once. Instead of wearing thin heels at all times, consider incorporating a funky wide heel into your wardrobe, as a chunkier heel will allow for your weight to be more evenly distributed, creating less pressure on the front of your foot, Vie Carpenter said.

More: 6 Ways to Nail The Glossy Eyelids Look

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Originally published June 2015. Updated March 2017.

Sure, it's fun to experiment with trendy hair colors like silver and lilac, but when you're blonde you have a neutral palette to work with — which gives you more freedom when you're picking out clothing to wear.

Check out these tips for flattering color options.

Pale blondes and pastels

Not everyone can pull off pastels, but pale blondes can! Mint green, baby blue and colors with a blue or gray undertone flatter like no other.

"Dusty shades of pink and lavender are also great for cool blonde hair colors," celeb color expert Jill Kirsh told Beauty Riot.

More: The One Product That Makes Every Single Hair Type Look Better

Warm blondes bring the bold

If you're a warm blonde, Kirsh suggests hitting up some jewel tones and colors that have an orange or red undertone.

"If you want to wear red, go for tomato shades and [for green] choose grassy, kelly greens over olive," she says.

And instead of pastels, warm blondes should try on turquoise or aqua, lemony shades of yellow, peach or coral, and deeper purples like amethyst.

Another winner for all shades of blonde is basic black — and white can be equally flattering, even dramatic.

Keepin' it neutral

Blondes look fabulous in navy, charcoal and deep browns, as well. These neutrals can be the building blocks for any wardrobe.

Colors to stay away from

While orange and red is great for warm blondes, pale blondes should avoid clothing colors with orange, red and gold undertones — the boldness can overwhelm your look. In fact, pale blondes should avoid warm colors all together.

By the same token, warm blondes should avoid cool colors such as pale shades of blue, pink, and yellow, as well as reds that have a blue undertone.

"Cooler colors — like mint or olive green — when worn by someone with warm blonde hair can grey the skin and make highlights look yellow and brassy," Kirsh warns.

More: This New $7 Dry Shampoo Truly Transformed My Hair

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Originally published August 2011. Updated March 2017.

We always hear about the toxic ingredients that should never ever be in our beauty products, but what about the ones that should be there? Check your lotion bottle for these six ingredients that make lotions and moisturizers better at their job.

1. Peptides

Peptides are amino acids that help your skin produce collagen and tell it how to function properly. Applying them topically via creams and lotions can decrease the appearance of wrinkles over time. One study even found that peptides can help minimize the symptoms of skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and dermatitis, which makes it an ideal ingredient for your facial moisturizer and your body lotion. Win-win.

More: Summer skin safety for the whole family

2. Ceramides

These little guys are lipid molecules that lock in moisture and protect your skin, so if you have dry skin, it typically means you're lacking ceramides. Your body produces them naturally, but they tend to diminish as you age. Luckily, you can restore lost lipids and restore moisture to your skin's barrier by using a lotion that contains ceramides. Because they're so absorbent, they help lock in water and give your skin its groove back.

3. Sodium PCA (sodium pyroglutamic acid)

Sodium PCA is one of many effective humectants used in personal care products. That just means it can absorb lots 'n' lots of water, which helps bind moisture to your skin cells and prevent dry skin. Sodium PCA also happens to have anti-aging benefits and can reduce inflammation. Even cooler, it actually attracts moisture from the air to your skin to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

More: No-fail summer skin care strategies

4. Essential fatty acids

Eat avocados, they say. Cook with olive oil instead of butter, they say. Well, just as these omega 3- and omega 6-heavy foods are good for your diet, they're also good for your skin. A severe lack of essential fatty acids (omegas) can lead to skin abnormalities and dermatitis. But your lotion probably isn't going to list "avocado" on the ingredient list. Instead, look for avocado oil, flaxseed oil, cottonseed oil or safflower oil, just to name a few. Borage seed oil and primrose oil are two others.

5. Glycerin

Glycerin is another humectant that helps attract and retain skin's moisture. The International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that using a lotion with 20 percent glycerin increased hydration more than lotions without glycerin.

More: 5 Ways to snag high-end skin care products for next to nothing

6. Vitamin E

You'll often see this on a label as tocopherol. It's been shown to hydrate skin, promote healthy elasticity, and even defend against free radicals, all of which make it a great anti-aging ingredient as well as a moisturizing one. You'll be hard-pressed to find a lotion that doesn't have vitamin E these days.

7. Various antioxidants

We could spend days going into the many types of antioxidants that are good for your skin. They fight free radicals, cell damage and wrinkles. Some examples to look for include green tea, vitamin C, lycopene and grape seed. While not all of these moisturize your skin directly, they keep skin healthy, which also influences its ability retain moisture and function properly.

This post was sponsored by Curél.

Long, hot showers with no one bothering you and time to ponder your day are little slices of bliss. But unfortunately, sometimes you just have to get in, make the most of your time and get out. Here's how you can shower more efficiently when you need to.

1. Use better, faster products

From cleansing conditioners to double-sided soaps, there are lots of better, faster beauty products hiding in the beauty aisle. Our latest find is Curél Hydra Therapy Wet Skin Moisturizer. What's so special about it? It’s different because you apply it to wet skin just after showering, but before you dry off. The formula is water activated so it penetrates to the source of dryness and ends dry skin when used daily. No greasy or sticky feel and you can get dressed immediately.

More: Surprise: Makeup Wipes Are Actually Really Bad for Your Skin

2. Bring your toothbrush

It's common knowledge that you condition your hair and then shave while it soaks in. But on days I don't have to shave, I brush my teeth in the shower instead. OK, I don't just do it on no-shave days. Sometimes it's just nice to know that once I get out of the shower, everything is done but hair and makeup — that head-to-toe clean feeling.

3. Only clean the dirtiest bits

Many soaps and body washes are loaded with harsh, drying ingredients like fragrance and foaming agents. Luckily, you can get away with skipping a full-body lather and just spot clean your skin. Karyn Grossman, a dermatologist in New York City, says you really only need to focus on areas where you sweat more, e.g., groin, armpits, buttocks and under your breasts. Maybe take a pumice stone to your feet and just rinse the rest.

More: Woah! This Is What the Wrong Shampoo Can Do to Your Colored Hair

4. Add some aromatherapy

Why not supercharge your shower with some aromatherapy to energize you, relax you or make you feel more focused, all while getting clean? A shower infuser can get the job done, making your shower so much more than just a shower. It's like a mini spa day that starts and/or ends your day right so everything else can fall into place a little easier (that's the idea at least).

5. Keep a cleaning sponge in one corner

This tip is a little less glamour, a little more function. Take 30 seconds or less at the end of your shower and use your foot to give the shower floor a gentle scrub down. It makes house-cleaning days less of a headache and prevents grime from building up right under your feet. After all, a dirty shower is kind of contradictory, right?

More: Your Most Confusing Makeup Questions Answered

6. Dry brush, baby

While it's pretty much been debunked that dry brushing magically rids your body of cellulite and flushes toxins, it's not a total bust. It does temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, it plumps and exfoliates skin and it just plain feels refreshing. Carve out a few minutes preshower to dry brush once or twice a week. It may not make cellulite disappear, but it will make you feel alive.

This post was sponsored by Curél.

Alright, so we won’t pretend that green nail polish is the most fashionable, chic, or even most-loved nail color in the history of ever, unless, of course, it’s St. Patrick’s Day. But we’re here to tell you that green is officially spring’s biggest nail trend—namely, mint green—and you’re about to see it all over your social feeds.

But we’re not talking the gaudy, frosted, got-it-from-a-gumball-machine green polish that you wore in elementary school. We’re talking about pale, seafoam mint that’s just bright enough to make your nails look fresh, yet subdued enough to be considered a neutral. And thankfully, it’s one shade that really does look good on every skin tone.

But rather than have you stare wistfully down the beauty aisle of the drugstore, trying to find the best mint green to try today, we rounded up our five favorite, below.

Essie Mint Candy Apple

Essie Mint Candy Apple, $9; at Essie

Nars Nail Polish in Thasos

Nars Nail Polish in Thasos, $20; at Sephora

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Minted

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Minted, $15; at Butter London

Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Color in Mint Sorbet

Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Color in Mint Sorbet, $2.49; at Target

OPI Hawaii Nail Lacquer Collection in That’s Hula-rious

OPI Hawaii Nail Lacquer Collection in That’s Hula-rious, $10; at Ulta

Charli Howard is a British model who raised major eyebrows when she confronted her former agency in a Facebook post that went viral. Dropped for being “too big” at a size 2, Howard went on to found the All Woman Project and become one of the first models to ever be signed to both the straight-size and plus-size boards at her agency. “When you surround yourself with agents who care about your well-being, their opinions don’t matter. I starved myself for over ten years, giving me irregular periods (if any), bad skin, a bad back, bleeding gums, hair loss etc, and I’m never going back to that place to meet somebody else’s ideas of perfection,” she said in a recent post on Instagram. We recently caught up with Howard to get the truth on what it’s really like to be considered a plus-size model at a size 6.

“I used to fight my natural curves with every ounce of my being. Models, as I knew them, did not have boobs or thighs. I thought fat was evil. I look back at that mentality now and wonder why I fought my shape for so long. If I’d known I could work and be this happy before, I would’ve laughed.

“It does feel odd, being a US size 6-8 and being considered a ‘curve’ model. I’m only curvaceous in modeling terms, not in the real world. I know I will never be plus-size as my bone structure is quite small. My only concern is that young girls might look at me and question their own sizes, thinking something like, ‘If Charli’s considered curvy at a size 6 or 8, then what does that make me?’ Fashion is not reflective of the real world, so I try to make it as relatable as possible with the All Woman Project that I co-founded.

“I guess I became a plus-size model without realizing it. I began to be asked how it felt to have gone from being a straight-size model to a curve model, and my initial reaction was just, ‘Huh?’ I knew my measurements had gotten bigger and that I’d filled out, but I didn’t know that made me ‘curvy.’ I’m often too small for some clients, and then too big for others. I sit right in the middle of the conventional model categories. So instead of fighting it, I just do my own thing.

More: All Woman Project Celebrates Real Diversity in Second Campaign

“Up until I moved to New York, I had no idea the plus-size industry really existed, or that you could make money from it. It sounds like a dream to most people–getting to eat, whilst still being able to model. And I’m living it!

“In my ignorance, I used to assume plus-size models were girls who couldn’t compete with us ‘straight-sized athletes’—the girls who starve themselves every day, almost competitively, as a step closer towards accomplishing their dreams—and in the UK, curve models are not taken seriously at all. But when I came to the United States, I was amazed by it. The industry turns over billions a year, and the women are just as beautiful and aspirational as ‘regular’ models–just more relatable to the consumer. I only wish more countries would realize how profitable and successful this side of the industry is.

“I’ve had comments saying curve modeling isn’t ‘real’ modeling, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Some people compare modeling to athletes, saying that if you can’t maintain the measurements, you’re not model-worthy. I just don’t understand why society has become fixated on thinness, and measures that as success. Beauty doesn’t come in one dress size.

“When I tell people I’m a curve model, a few people seem shocked. I know that I’m not plus-size in real life, but I am as a model, and that has taken some getting used to. I still wish women weren’t divided into categories based on their body type and that they were all on a single board, just so fashion has to cater to every body shape.

More: Meet the Designer Who Is Creating Swimwear for Women of All Sizes

“Becoming a curve model has allowed me to live again. I was trapped in a cycle of self-loathing and restricting. I was constantly miserable, with bad skin and a mood even worse. I’m happy being part of a team of people within fashion that want to see change happen. I truly believe that had I seen women of various sizes growing up in fashion and in magazines, I doubt I would have had half the body issues I did. Diversity is important not only for fashion, but for society and young girls, and so it’s my mission that they are represented, too.

“I remind myself daily that I am more than my measurements. I’m a good friend, a good sister, a good daughter. I love animals and I don’t set out to hurt people. Those parts of me are far more important than what I weigh. I genuinely believed weighing less would make me more likable, but once I stopped focusing on what others thought about me, I truly began to live life.”

As told to Christina Grasso

Originally posted on StyleCaster.com

All right, we won’t pretend that putting on lipstick requires a four-year cosmetology degree or the steady hands of a cardiovascular surgeon, but anyone who has ever worn lipstick knows that there’s a significant difference between carefully applied lipstick and the I-don’t-have-time-just-throw-it-on lipstick. And sometimes, even your really diligent and patient application still looks like messy, feathery crap.

More: How to contour like a pro in five minutes or less

But, hey, it’s not your fault — sometimes in beauty, you just don’t know there’s a better way to do something until your favorite beauty editors point it out to you, which is why we’re here to show you exactly how to apply lipstick for the absolute best, makeup artist-level finish. No, this isn’t a three-second hack that you can do with one hand while simultaneously wrangling your kids with the other. But if you have five minutes and a bit of patience, we promise the finished result is worth it.

And to get you started, we found the ultimate lipstick tutorial on the interwebs (really — we looked through them all) that is guaranteed to give you an insanely perfect lip. Watch the full video below, and then take all of the selfies to wow your Instagram friends.

Listen, I’m cool with my brows. In fact we have a pretty great relationship. I’ve got my beloved Glossier Boy Brow, which fluffs up my eyebrows and darkens them a little without giving me #InstagramBrow (you know, those thick, drawn-in brows that look like tiny works of torturous art), and that’s pretty much all I need. So when an email landed in my inbox from celebrity brow maker Piret Aava (also known as the Eyebrow Doctor) inviting me to try microblading — a semi-temporary eyebrow tattoo that makes brows look filled in and shaped 24/7, sans cosmetics — I thought, “Nah, I’m good.” At least for approximately one day.

More: 10 New Acne Products That Fix Breakouts FAST

Because at first pass, the idea of temporary tattooing reminded me of those women with permanent eyeliner that had faded from black to blue and green after a few years, which was not a look I wanted for my eyebrows. And because the results of microblading can last up to two years, it would be slow torture to deal with a gnarly fade or a heavy-handed treatment. Besides, the treatment tends to ring up in the neighborhood of $700 to $1,300, a cost which, sure, might eventually offset the time and money you’ll save by not having to fill in your brows everyday, but still — that’s a lot of coin.

"She got to work, raking the tiny needles across my skin."

But then I started seeing celebrities with really, really excellent brows extol the wonders of a good microblading. Serena Williams and Malin Akerman have been bladed by Aava, and they look fantastic. Bella Thorne documented her own microblading session on Snapchat, and even with her fair, strawberry-blond hair and fair complexion, the results looked good and surprisingly believable. And, hey, if a slew of celebs trust a possibly scary beauty treatment, I guess that’s some sort of vote of confidence, right? And just like that, I RSVPed.

I’ll admit that I was relatively worried the day of the appointment, imagining myself yelping in pain as someone meticulously inked my face. But the appointment was actually much speedier and far less painful than I had prepared for. After I explained (and re-explained) how natural and light I wanted my tattooing to be, Aava massaged a numbing cream over my skin and shaped my brows with tweezers before drawing an outline around my desired brow shape, like a crime scene outline of where the body should be. Yes, the look had a certain Divine in Pink Flamingos vibe, but Aava assured me this was just done to keep the tattooing contained.

Then she busted out the blades, a row of nine tiny needles sized like acupuncture pins. After selecting the ink that most closely matched my natural brow color, she got to work, raking the blades across my brows and depositing ink into the hair-like cuts as she worked. I know, it sounds horrible and violent and incredibly painful, but trust me when I say the actual sensation didn’t even make me wince. It truly felt like light finger scratches on my skin.

After 10 quick minutes, Aava announced that she was done and sent me packing with aftercare instructions: Apply a healing ointment for the first two days, and then keep brows dry for a week. That’s it! And despite a row of tiny needles digging into my skin, my brows weren’t even bleeding or too dramatic-looking immediately after. In fact, I headed straight to another meeting without feeling self-conscious. And though they did quickly darken to a more intense shade than I was bargaining for, just like Aava said they would, the shade lightened back up after Day 4. After a week’s time, I absolutely loved the result.

Of course, nothing magical lasts forever, and Aava says that touch-ups may be needed somewhere between six and 12 months' time. But for now, my brows are in a perpetual state of well-groomed and perfectly arched. Even with a close inspection, I can’t immediately tell where my actual brow hairs end and the tattooed “hairs” begin. Instead, they look like a makeup artist had her way with them each and every morning, and even my friends are noticing. One even hit me with, “Gurl. Your brows,” delivered with a tone of awe. Translation: Your brows look good, but I’m not quite sure why, which is basically the best compliment I could hope to get. And best of all, I have yet to pick up my beloved Boy Brow or spend literally any time at all on my brows since microblading. So I guess this is goodbye, Boy. (For now.)

More: Uh, Lucy Hale Has Changed Her Hair 13 Times Since 2012

by Erika Stalder

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

When I say I’ve tested more than 200 curl products, I think I’m actually low-balling that number. It’s probably closer to 300… maybe 400? Yeah, that sounds like bullshit, but not when you consider the fact that I’ve spent the last four years of my beauty-editing life testing at least one new curl product a week in addition to the decade I spent throwing my allowance at every drugstore curl product I could find.

And despite the billions of dollars I’ve slathered on my hair at this point, nothing — and I truly mean nothing — has ever come close to the curl cream that I first fell in love with in high school almost a decade ago. Yes, this is a love story, folks.

More: The 5 Best Flat Irons for Natural, Coarse and Kinky-Curly Hair

It’s important to first understand that my curls are confusing as hell. Not only are they baby-fine and super-limp, but they’re also part flat and wavy and part-ringlet-y (that’s 2B/3A curls, for you curl-guide followers), which means that almost every curl product either weighs down my hair or leaves it feeling too soft and fuzzy. So over the years, I’ve filled my bathroom and bedroom with the newest serums, shampoos, creams, jellies, mousses, leave-ins and every other curl “must-have” that I saw in message boards and articles and still never came close to the AnnaLynne McCord curls of my dreams.

And then, in high school, I found it — the holy grail curl cream that gave my curls almost weightless hold and definition without ever looking greasy, shiny or stiff: Beyond the Zone Noodle Head Curling Crème. Never heard of it? I’m not surprised. Unless you spend every waking minute at Sally Beauty, the only place Beyond the Zone is officially sold, and have an affinity for traffic cone-orange packaging, you would probably never pick this sucker up. But after reading a billion praise-worthy comments on a random 2008 message board, I bought a tube, tried it out, and proceeded to fall in love.

Following all of the instructions the internet strangers gave me (instructions that I still follow to this day, by the way), I turned off the shower, gently squeezed the water from my hair with my hands, then raked a nickel-size dollop of curl cream through my sopping-wet hair, from root to tip, before plopping my curls (I won’t go into plopping, but if you don’t already plop your curls to dry them, it will truly, truly blow your mind). When my curls dried, they were smooth, totally frizz-free, defined, and voluminous. You know, all of the words that you rarely say in conjunction with “my curls.”

And despite having my first-ever “good” hair day, I pushed the curl crème to the back of my shower and continued to test new products, convinced I’d find something better. Flash-forward to 2017, and that orange bottle is the only beauty product that’s been consistently stocked in my shower for almost a decade, despite me having tested over 200 (maybe 400?) curl products along the way. I wish I could tell you there was some magical ingredient in it that explained its powers, but there really isn’t — it’s just the perfect combination of all wonderful things without parabens, gluten or silicones. And yes, it deserves all of the attention in the world. So even though I’ll continue testing curl products, hoping for one of them to finally replace this top contender, I won’t get my hopes up. Just please never discontinue this product, OK, Beyond the Zone? Thanks.

More: The Coolest Minimalist Beauty Products You’re About to See All Over Instagram

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

K, so obviously, all of us wash our makeup brushes every other day because we are all good little makeup lovers who dutifully follow the rules of hygiene, etc, etc. But even if you only wash your brushes once a year, you know how annoying it is to dry the damn things. Like, sure, you can precariously hang them off a ledge hoping enough air flow will get to them or you can just let them sit on a towel, collecting moisture and mold. Or you can do what this insanely clever person on Reddit did and devise a drying rack for your makeup brushes that allow them to hang upside-down while drying. And yes, we urge you to choose the latter option.

More: Emma Watson’s New Beauty Obsession Is So… Emma Watson

The post, which has steadily grown in popularity over the last few hours since it was submitted, includes a picture of dozens of makeup brushes tethered to a rail using elastic hair bands. The user, memerrmaiden, wrote “I saw some genius on here drying their brushes like this, and I was inspired to wash mine!” (So, OK, clearly this person wasn’t the first to come up with the idea, but we’re giving them all of the credit right now, anyway).

Memermaiden used the elastics to tether the wet brushes to a clothing rail, wrapping one end of the elastic around the handles of the brush, looping the elastic around the rail, and sliding it over the tops of the brushes. And if you think, damn, I don’t have a clothing rail and I live in a shoebox with no room for this, Reddit has you covered: “I think hangers would also work, if someone doesn’t have a towel rack,” wrote one user. Nope, that brilliant idea didn’t come to our minds, either.

And although there are no guarantees, we think this drying-rack trick might just make us wash our brushes a bit more frequently. Or at least complain a little less when we actually do it. (Hey, we’re only human, OK?)

More: I’ve Tested Over 200 Curl Products, and This One Literally Changed My Life

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Poor tinted lip balms — we’re sorry we take you for granted, letting you melt in our glove compartments or get covered with lint and crumbs in the bottom of our purses or drop you behind our dressers and never bother to retrieve you. It’s not you, though; it’s us. Because even though we genuinely, truly love tinted lip balms, they’ve kinda been meh on our list of most exciting beauty products. Until now.

More: The 12 Best Spring Fragrances You Need to Try Immediately

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm

Maybelline Baby Lips moisturizing lip balm

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm

Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm

Avon True Color lip balm

E.l.f. tinted lip balm

SheaMoisture velvet lip crayon

Sonia Kashuk Moisture Luxe tinted lip balm

NYX Cosmetics Butter Lip Balm

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

OK, we'll be the first to admit that fake eyelashes can be a little intimidating. They're kinda tricky to put on at first, they seem a bit dramatic when you're not used to them — and it's a little unnerving to wake up in the morning to some falsies stuck to your pillow because you didn't wash your face after a long night out.

But fake eyelashes are actually pretty amazing once you warm to their charms. They don't clump, smear or stick together, they're easy to remove, and they instantly give anyone gorgeous, perfectly separated, lush lashes. And that's not all — read on for even more huge reasons why you should include fake eyelashes in your makeup bag arsenal.

1. They're perfect to wear during emotional times (like weddings, sad movies or when you have PMS)

Feeling sensitive? All faux lashes will carry you through.

"False eyelashes are a great way to have tear-proof makeup — instead of having eyeliner and mascara run down your eyes when you attend a big event, false eyelashes won't leave dark streaks down your face," says Courtney Lutkus from StyleInGo. "False eyelashes are a wonderful way to enhance your eyes without piling on a ton of makeup. While mascara can only darken and lengthen the eyelashes you have, false eyelashes can multiply the eyelashes that you have."

More: I Finally Microbladed My Eyebrows, and It Kinda Changed My Life

2. They come in a variety of materials

Think false eyelashes are all alike? Depending on your price point and what you feel most comfortable wearing, there are a bevy of options out there.

"The most popular eyelash materials are human hair, plastic, and mink," Lutkus says. "Human hair and mink are preferred for their realistic look — with mink eyelashes being the priciest. Eyelash adhesives ensure that the lashes stay on all day, but the lashes can be easily pulled off at the end of the night."

A set of mink eyelashes from You Complete Me costs $29 (Violet Grey, $29), while a pair that uses human hair, such as Andrea Modlash Strip Lash (Walgreens, $5), costs significantly less.

3. They can help strengthen your real eyelashes

"While false eyelashes don't have special ingredients that will help to strengthen and grow your lashes, by wearing false eyelashes as an alternative to mascara it can help your lashes stay strong and healthy," Lutkus says. "Mascara weakens your eyelashes and makes them brittle. Thus, by wearing false eyelashes as an alternative to mascara your eyelashes will start to look thicker and healthier."

4. Eyelash extensions are also an option — and you can wear them for days on end

There are fake eyelashes, which are made of heavier materials and should be worn for one evening or day only — and there are eyelash extensions, which you can sleep in, wake up in and wear for weeks, explains KP Murray of Elle Lash Bar in Washington D.C.

"Eyelash extensions are the best option when using false lashes to enhance your look. This is because eyelash extensions are placed using the correct weight and correct length individually on your natural lashes," Murray says. "They are placed 1 mm from your skin, so there is no contact with your lids or skin. The adhesive used is undetectable and is medical grade. Once your natural lash is ready to shed, the extension that is placed on your lash naturally sheds with the extension so there is no pulling or breakage."

More: The 9 Prettiest Tinted Lip Balms for Under $10

The average length of time eyelash extensions last on your lashes is two weeks, according to Professional Makeup Artist Ashley Spedale. "Every day we naturally shed 3-5 lashes, so in about two weeks half of the extensions will have shed," Spedale says. "With extensions comes some maintenance; however, the pros of this is say buh-bye to your mascara and wake up feeling more wide eyed and able to run out of the house! Most of my clients call it a mini eye lift. No need for as much make up either. It becomes an addiction!"

5. They will save you oodles of time in the morning

Imagine being able to wake up and cut the time it takes you to make yourself even prettier in half. You can thank eyelash extensions for that.

"Eyelash extensions are better than mascara for a few reasons," Murray says. "Makeup application takes a lot of time. Eyelash extensions save time in the morning."

6. They help keep your skin healthy

All that wiping and rough housing we do to our made-up lashes to get all that gook off? Not only does it result in eyelash loss, it also messes with the delicate skin around our eyes and, when not removed properly, can hurt our eyes.

"Mascara can damage eyelashes," Murray says. "Waterproof formulas are drying and cause breakage. Curling your lashes after applying mascara can also cause breakage. The majority of women do not remove all of their mascara, which causes it to dry, become brittle, and break your lashes. Old mascara also harbors bacteria and can infect the lash follicle."

7. You'll instantly become a Kardashian — for one night only (whew!)

Fake eyelashes and extensions provide the easiest way to change up your look in a matter of seconds — and, yes, to even Kardashian-ify your look.

"A strip lash is amazing to wear for an event because I feel it completes the make-up look," Spedale says. "You can make your lashes appear to be longer and thicker for the day/night. If you wanted a look like the Kardashians, one might want to double stack a strip lash or even triple stack them."

And, guess what? Lash makers are getting hip to the fact that women aren't thrilled about spending money on lashes they can wear once or twice but then have to throw in the garbage.

"There are many eyelash brands that are coming out with mink false lashes or a faux mink lash that can be worn up to 30 times if taken care of properly," Spedale says. "Brands like Lilly Lashes now offer these. You can also check out House of Lashes for some really great strips or my favorite by Ardell called Demi Wispies, which you can get at your local drugstore."

More: 6 Ways to Nail The Glossy Eyelids Look

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Originally published September 2015. Updated April 2017.

You spend about a million years putting on your primer, foundation, setting powder, bronzer, concealer and, well, we could go on for days with other products — so how come all the time and effort exerted putting on a full face every morning usually results with everything sliding right off? It all comes down to the order in which you're applying your makeup.

Even when you're putting on your products correctly, if something is put on out of order it can throw off the whole process. If you've ever tried applying eye shadow after putting on eyeliner only to have said eyeliner vanish off the face of the Earth, you probably already know this.

More: 7 Facts About Fake Eyelashes That'll Make You a Fan

So to cut through all the confusion, here's a foolproof, 13-step process to get your face on — and get the most out of all those pricey products too.

Sources: Cosmopolitan, Prevention

More: The Ultimate Lipstick Tutorial to Get Perfect Lips

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Originally published July 2016. Updated April 2017.

OK, I know — most of the time, a supermodel’s skin care routine involves insanely luxurious and over-the-top products like liquid gold facials and diamond-infused serums, at least according to what we see on Instagram. But, every now and again, one of them throws us mere (equally awesome, though significantly shorter) mortals a bone and admits that their dewy, seemingly perfect complexions are the result of cheap, grocery store-brand products and not frequent trips to the fountain of youth. And the latest model to drop this knowledge on my brain? Victoria’s Secret Angel Stella Maxwell, who swears by Whole Foods products for her smooth-as-hell skin. Yup.

More: You Need to Watch This Beauty Vlogger Apply Makeup With a Hard-Boiled Egg

I recently found myself interviewing the Maxwell at an event for the latest Victoria’s Secret collection release. While rattling off her beauty and fitness routine (these are, of course, the things people want to talk about when you look like Maxwell), she began discussing her face, saying “my skin is quite dry, so I like to use products that are moisturizing,” which, OK, no shock there. But then, just as I expected her to drop the name of some insanely pricey La Mer crème — or a $225 tube of Prevage Daily Serum, perhaps — Maxwell casually mentioned the $19 tube of Weleda Skin Food that she slathers on her skin day and night. And yes, she buys it at Whole Foods.

Sure, I’ve heard of Weleda before, but never in a cult-favorite, oh-my-God-try-this way. Which is a damn shame considering the fact that upon some quick research the face-and-body moisturizer has hundreds of obsessive reviews online from people who swear by the chamomile- and calendula-infused moisturizer for making their skin glow with the light of 1 million moons. Plus, it’s completely natural, using rosemary extract and sweet almond oil to work its nontoxic magic, so it’s safe for even the most natural of beauty lovers.

But lest you think Weleda is the only affordable product Maxwell uses, she also mentioned to me that she keeps Heritage Store Rosewater Spray on hand during the day to offset dryness (“I like to use rose water; like, the mist is really good,” she said of the oil- and alcohol-free formula), as well as double face masking whenever she can, using either a sheet mask with an eye mask, or two sheet masks in a row. “Sometimes, I’ll put the eye mask [on first] and then put a face mask over it,” said Maxwell. “Even before the Vanity Fair [after-party for the Oscars], I did two face masks, putting one on top of another. I just laid on the couch and let it marinate.”

And there you have it — a supermodel’s not-so-secret lineup of skin-saving products. Though we can’t promise you’ll be any closer to looking like a Victoria’s Secret model after trying Maxwell’s Whole Foods buys, we can say that with these kind of prices, you might have enough cash leftover to try a gold facial. Maybe.

More: The 9 Prettiest Tinted Lip Balms for Under $10

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

If you have curly hair, you most definitely have a curl routine that you’ve diligently followed for years and years. Maybe not always with the same set of products (hey, you never know which new product will be the one that revolutionizes your curls), but it’s probably pretty rare that you leave your hair untouched for more than a day.

But if you’ve been feeling a little meh about your hair lately — or maybe you just really want to try out a new routine that leaves you with a completely new set of curls — we’ve got you covered. We rounded up the best curl tutorials from the top beauty vloggers that address all of your hair issues, so you too can have your dream head of hair. Scroll down to find the video that works for you and get ready to have weeks and weeks of really good hair days.

YOU HAVE: Tight, S-wave curls

YOU WANT: Full, picked-out, voluminous curls

YOU HAVE: Dry, textured, undefined curls

YOU WANT: Hydrated, clumped curls

YOU HAVE: Long, undefined curls

YOU WANT: Smooth, perfectly coiled curls

YOU HAVE: Flat, second-day curls

YOU WANT: Springy, revived curls

YOU HAVE: Fuzzy, short curls

YOU WANT: Soft, rounded curls

YOU HAVE: Undefined curls that clump in weird spots

YOU WANT: Uniform, evenly spiraled curls

Suede shoes, boots and jackets are a big fashion yes. Keeping your suede in good shape? That’s where things get more complicated — wintry elements like rain, sleet and snow aren’t particularly kind to suede items, and April showers just make things worse. That said, with a little bit of planning and some extra attention, you don’t have to make fashion choices based on inclement weather.

More: How to Break in Three Types of Shoes

Here, our six tips to make sure your suede shoes and boots look as good as new.

1. Seal your suede

You wouldn’t hit the beach without sunscreen, and similarly, you shouldn’t hit the streets in suede without properly protecting them first. Everywhere from drugstores to shoe repair stores carry protective sprays, and we’re big fans of Gear Aid ReviveX Nubuck Suede & Fabric Water Repellent (Amazon, $8.25), in particular. A thin application of a suede sealant will last for several months (yes, you do have to treat suede every couple of months) and will help repel dirt and stop stains before they start. A tip to keep in mind before actually spraying: We strongly recommend brushing with a suede brush before and after you spray it.

More: 101 Fashion Hacks Every Girl Should Know

2. To treat a liquid spill, clean with talcum powder or cornmeal

If you spill liquid on your suede item, pat the area with a clean cloth or towel and then apply a layer of cornmeal or talcum powder. Let it set overnight and then brush the suede the following day with a suede brush to remove the dried powder.

3. Treat dried stains — like dirt — with white vinegar

Approach dried stains like dirt a little differently. For a quick fix, rub off dirt with a kneaded eraser or an emery board. For heavier stains, blot the stain using a small amount of white vinegar and a clean towel. Repeat for as long as necessary until you see your stain disappear. This is a great way to get rid of both water and salt stains.

4. Bring your suede back to life with a toothbrush

Should your suede begin to look tired and flattened, scrub it with a clean toothbrush or terry cloth towel. If it’s really in bad shape, hold your shoe above steam — even from a teakettle — for a few seconds and then brush it.

5. Whatever you do, don’t clean suede with water

This might seem counterintuitive, but don’t try to clean suede with water alone, which can affect both the color and texture of suede.

6. If all else fails, get your suede shoes professionally cleaned

Obviously, this is a solid way to ensure your suede looks it’s best. This is also a great thing to do before you put your winter suede boots or jacket away in storage during the warmer months.

More: How to Care For Every Item in Your Closet: 101 Tips

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Can we all just agree on something? Can we as women band together and just say one thing with one voice? Doing your own hair is really damn hard. Sure, we’ve all got our signature look down, but as a popular meme once pointed out, our hair usually appears in one of three stages: curled, top knot or homeless. Somewhere in our grand beauty education, most of us missed the class on hair. That’s why we’re bringing you easy styles you can do in five minutes or less. Assume selfie position, these are good.

1. Upgrade your ponytail

When is a ponytail not just ponytail? When it’s twisted, curled and work-worthy. YouTuber Bebexo’s channel is packed with gorgeous hairstyles, but her elevated ponytails are the perfect five-minute, I’m-crazy-late looks.

2. Insta-worthy updo

The word updo usually causes unpleasant flashbacks to high school prom and unfortunate, early 2000s, slicked-back, no-baby-hairs-left-un-gelled looks (carefully finished with butterfly clips, of course). This is not that updo. Meet your new Instagram-worthy, low-key updo courtesy of YouTube vlogger Alex Gaboury.

More: 25 of the Best New Haircuts to Copy This Spring

3. Easy mermaid hair

Blogger Emily Meyers’ signature twisted braid is the stuff of #HairGoals legend. And it turns out it only takes two minutes to recreate. Check out her quick tutorial to get the look.

4. Short hair-savers

Short hair is no excuse for rocking the same look day after day. Thanks to innovative YouTubers such as Patry Jordan, there are a slew of ways to switch up short strands. Start with the three super-fast looks in this video.

5. Quick and chic

A five-minute hairstyle that’s Paris Fashion Week-approved? We’re in. Instagram-famous makeup guru and fashion darling Camila Coelho touts this fast and easy hairstyle as her go-to during the Fashion Month craze.

More: How to Style Bangs 3 Different Ways

6. Crazy-quick curls

If just the thought of curling your hair sends you into panic (never mind a braid or an updo), this five-minute tutorial from Kaushal Beauty will calm your fears. Her foolproof technique for getting big, luxurious curls is genius.

7. Natural hair know-how

If you have thick, natural hair, vlogger AsToldByAllie offers up four work- or school-friendly hairstyles you can master in minutes.

8. One-minute wonders

Really strapped for time? Abby from Twist Me Pretty debuted five easy hairstyles you can do in just one minute. Abby even timed herself to show how quick and easy these looks are. We especially love the knotted half-up look.

9. Curly hair game-changer

If you’ve got curly, natural hair, YouTuber Alyssa Forever’s lazy-day hairstyles are perfect for mornings when you want to look like you didn’t just hit the snooze button six times.

10. The ultimate easy updo

Headed to a festival, spring wedding or rooftop party? Try this style by YouTuber Estée Lalonde, which may be the easiest updo we’ve ever seen.

More: 17 Celebs You Didn’t Know Have Insanely Pretty Curly Hair

This post was brought to you as part of a sponsored advertising collaboration.

"Holy contouring" is probably what most of us think every time one of those slightly terrifying makeup tutorials passes through our Pinterest feeds. Then curiosity follows, usually dominated by the question: Who has time to put all that stuff on their face? As it turns out, it's not all that complicated or time-consuming. I reached out to professional makeup artist and beauty blogger Ivy Boyd to help me break it down.

Rule No. 1? You probably shouldn't use any ol' bronzer. Most contouring tutorials will call out bronzing, including this one. In many cases, contouring kits even use the word bronze on their labels. However, contouring powder is slightly different than a traditional bronzer. "If it looks ashy and matte, it’s probably a contouring powder. If it’s warm or has shimmer, it's a bronzer," said Boyd. Go for the former.

Step 1: Start with your cheekbones

Apply bronzer (see note above) in a light sweeping motion just below your cheekbone. Aim your line toward your mouth, but stop before you get there. If you want to create a more youthful appearance, you may want to create more of a curve shape than a stripe. "I find from the top of the ear towards the side of the nose is better for some face shapes," said Boyd.

If you have time for one step and one step only, this one should be it. According to Boyd, contouring under the cheekbones makes the most impact. So, if you need to run out the door now, consider yourself dismissed.

Step 2: Contour your hairline

Apply bronzer along your hairline from temple to temple in small circular motions. This helps start to shape your face and can create the appearance of a lower hairline for anyone with a forehead they want to minimize. If you already have a low hairline and/or a small forehead, Boyd says you make want to skip this step.

Step 3: Contour below your jawline

Continue to bronze lightly just below your jawline on both sides. A little goes a long way. All you're doing is continuing to bring out your features and if you have a fuller face, this will begin to add more definition. However, this is one place you should be extra, super-duper careful about applying too much. It could result in a bearded appearance, Boyd warned.

Step 4: Now, about your nose

You'll add a touch of highlighter later. For now, use a small brush to lightly bronze the sides of your nose. "Make sure to follow the natural curvature of your nose," says Boyd. "If your nose flares out at the bottom, make sure your contour lines do too for the most natural look." The goal here is to create a light shadow for a narrowed look.

Step 5: Switch to highlighter and start with your cheekbones

Now, apply highlighter along the tops of your cheekbones. This mixture of darkening (from step one) and highlighting creates the appearance of higher cheekbones. (Who said you can't defy gravity?)

If you have a small forehead or a low hairline, skip any contouring on your forehead. According to Boyd, you'll visually shorten and shrink it even more. You could add a bit of highlighter in the middle of your forehead, but avoid anything shimmery so your skin doesn't appear oily.

Step 6: Highlight your nose (optional)

Read closely because not everyone needs to do this. If you want to accentuate a smaller nose, apply highlighter in an up-and-down motion along the bridge of your nose. If you want to give your nose a more upturned appearance, only apply highlighter to the tip of your nose. If you don't want to do either of these things, skip this step.

Step 7: Last but not least

Finish the job by highlighting above your brow arches for more lift and in a thin line above your Cupid's bow to create more definition. If you have a weak chin (not very defined), you can also apply some highlighter there as well. This will help bring it forward.

This post was brought to you as part of a sponsored advertising collaboration.