We’ll cut to the chase — picking out clothes is tough. From figuring out what’s flattering for your body type to deciding which denim cut works best for your legs, it's basically a part-time job. Even though these clothing guidelines and suggestions can seem overwhelming at first, they’re sure to help ease your shopping and dressing process. Today we’re talking about which colors will work best according to your skin tone and hair color. We’re moving on from old-school color rules like “redheads shouldn’t wear red” or “blondes shouldn’t wear yellow,” because let’s get real, those color combos can be pure gold.

Below, we break down various different skin tones, the most common hair colors associated with those skin tones and which clothing colors will complement them. We also asked Siobhán Quinlan, creative director of New York’s Art + Autonomy salon, for some insider tips.

But before you dive into figuring out the color of this week’s outfit, step one is figuring out your skin undertone.

Finding your skin undertone

An undertone is the complexion of your skin, and most people fall in one of three categories: cool, warm and neutral. Understanding your undertone can help you discover the best shades of color to wear.

1. Color check: Look for specific colors that stand out in your skin. Warm-toned skin has yellow, peach and gold tints, while cool-toned skin has more pink, red or blue.
2. Look at your wrist: Look at your veins. If you see blue or purple veins, you’re most likely cool-toned, and if you see green, you’re warm.
3. Look at your eyes: “Does their eye have golden flecks? They will look better with something warmer. Does their eye have blue or gray flecks? Then I will probably suggest something cooler,” says Quinlan. Generally, cool-toned people have blue, gray or green eyes, and warm toned people have brown, hazel or amber eyes.
4. Look at your hair: Look at your natural hair — cool tones will have silver or ash undertones and warm tones will have red, orange or yellow undertones.
5. Celebrity match: Look for a celebrity who has similar skin tone to you and see if you both have cool or warm tones. You can also see how a hair color or a color looks on them and if you like it.

Now, what if you don’t identify any of those consistently or feel in the middle? You’re probably a neutral skin tone, which means you can wear either cool or warm tones — go, you!

Some general color guidelines based on your skin undertone are:

• Warm undertones look better in gold jewelry, whereas cool undertones look great in silver jewelry.
• Generally, warmer colors (like red, orange and yellow) look flattering on warmer skin tones and cooler colors (like blue, green and purple) look flattering on cool skin tones.
• Look for colors with the same undertone — if you’re cool-toned, find a red with a blue-ish/deeper base, and if you’re warm-toned, look for warmer brick reds.

Very fair

Cool tone: Julianne Hough | Warm tone: Taylor Swift

Best hair colors include: platinum, ice/silver blond, red, ashy blond, champagne, gold, honey

Best colors to wear: neutrals, pastels, jewel tones

“Something too dark or light (in hair or clothing) can sometimes feel harsh for everyday,” says Quinlan. “I tend to advise my clients to stay away from those extremes unless they are really going for more of a ‘look.’” You can add subtle contrast with darker neutral colors and jewel tones.

Fair

Cool tone: Emma Stone | Warm tone: Blake Lively

Best hair colors include: red, dirty blond, golden blond, light brown, butterscotch, strawberry blond

Best colors to wear: lavender, sea-foam green, blush, soft yellow, mint green, coral, ivory, peach

Medium

Cool tone: Penélope Cruz | Warm tone: Jessica Alba

Best hair colors include: golden brown, caramel, ash brown, dark brown

Best colors to wear: olive, purple, mustard, cranberry, forest green, royal blue, pink

Medium skin tones can wear darker, bolder colors without washing them out.

Olive

Cool tone: Rosario Dawson | Warm tone: Jennifer Lopez

Best hair colors include: golden blond/brown, caramel, chocolate brown

Best colors to wear: earth tones, green, orange, olive, blue, navy, pink, emerald, burgundy

Dark

Cool tone: Kerry Washington | Warm tone: Beyoncé

Best hair colors include: espresso, jet black, honey blond (for warm tones)

Best colors to wear: jewel tones, plum, white, orange, pink, yellow, ruby

Deep

Cool tone: Lupita Nyong’o | Warm tone: Viola Davis

Best hair colors include: jet black

Best colors to wear: jewel tones, white, fuchsia, yellow, royal blue, blush

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

On one hand, I would like to think I’m a frugal spender. I love vintage shopping; my favorite pieces were thrifted for under $1; and I’m not a label snob. But on the other hand, I have never met a Chanel bag I didn’t want to immediately own. So, how do you live in the best of both worlds — budgeting, saving and still dress according to this season’s trend report? Below are 10 tips I live by that are guaranteed to help you put a couple of extra bucks into your savings account (or your future purse fund… either way, we don’t judge.)

Do your research

Before you swipe your card, do your research. Is there a major holiday coming up? Because that means there will be a sale. Is it sold somewhere cheaper, like a major retail store, or can you get a new or loyal customer discount? Or does a different brand make a very similar item for a better price? Take a few extra minutes before purchasing something and see if you can save some money.

Resale, rent & repeat

These are the words to live by, and it can be done with the click of a button. There are countless resale websites like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, ThredUp, Poshmark, Depop, Rebag and Tradesy where you can buy and sell your clothing. Looking for that piece that got away from last season and sold out? It might be on your Poshmark app for a fraction of the price.

Now, let’s talk about the new world of renting. Places like Rent the Runway have completely changed the game for special-event or even ready-to-wear dressing. You are able to rent a dress at a hugely discounted price, wear it, return it and bam — no more one-time-use dresses taking up valuable closet space.

Buy trend items from fast-fashion websites & stores

Do not shell out a small fortune on a trend item that will most likely be out of style within a year. Instead, buy these items at the trend-focused fast-fashion stores for significantly less money. You’ll save money on the purchase, and if you end up not liking the trend or don’t wear it the following season, no worries. This is also a great way to try out new trends like cropped jeans, off-the-shoulder tops or loafer slides, and if you do like the item, you can later invest in a more expensive pair down the road.

More: Simple Steps to Declutter Your Closet

Low-price-point layering pieces

Don’t spend hundreds of dollars on a layering piece, like a turtleneck or basic tee. You can buy these at many retailers for a great price or stock up on one in every color from a fast-fashion store. They are easy to replace if needed, and you can use that money on more special items you want in your closet, like a cool coat, shoes or designer sunnies.

Skip the one-night stands

As in… don’t buy an item you’re only going to wear one night and never wear again. We know you’re a busy lady with multiple wedding seasons, vacations, events and a much-needed date night. Instead of buying for the event, buy for the investment. Are you realistically going to wear this dress again and can you style it for the office or a weekend use as well? If not, we suggest renting a dress, borrowing from a friend or buying something a little simpler that you can wear over and over again.

Shop off-season

Clearance is music to my ears. At the end of every season, the clothes go on major discount, and you can find items for basically pennies (OK, maybe not pennies, but it sure feels like it!). Even though you’ll be purchasing items in advance, like bikinis in December or coats in May, your wallet will be thanking you when that season rolls around. Prices are always the most expensive going into the season and will gradually be discounted throughout the season, ending with a big clearance sale to get rid of merchandise. These clearance sales will allow you to stock up on items now and save later.

Shop in the men’s section

In case you didn’t know, men’s clothing is cheaper. We hate them for this too, but why not reap the benefits? Their basic tees are cheap and can have that perfectly oversize feel you’re looking for. You can create true boyfriend jeans, and don’t even get me started on sweaters. Pro tip: I normally buy my white and black tees in the men’s bulk packs, like Hanes, Jockey or Calvin Klein. They’re cheaper and last me way longer since I can rotate them out. Plus, the fabric is typically more durable than the almost see-through white tee for $85.

More: How to Figure Out (& Fix) Your Fashion Blind Spots

Become besties with your tailor

Sometimes, when you shop in the sale section or consignment/resale, the item might not be in your size, but it’s... The. Only. One. Snag it up and get it tailored. The tailor’s bill plus your purchase price will still be cheaper than buying it at the beginning of the season.

Thrift, consignment, swap meets, & flea markets are your friends

Now, we totally hear you; secondhand is not for everyone. Personally, I love it, and that was the only way I could afford to shop during high school and college, but it takes some courage, a dry cleaner and an open mind. I have found vintage, originals of the retro “trend” items like fanny packs, oversize sunnies, belts, high-waisted jeans and so much more.

Start shopping at the back of the store

When you walk into a store, walk to the back of the store, start with the sale items, and then work your way forward. You might find very similar styles in the sale area that were recut for a newer style in a different color. The stores are set up so you stop and shop at the front displays, the items that are big sellers, etc., but to save a little money, start with the sale items and then go from there. You might be pleasantly surprised at how much you find and save.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Before going vegan, I never gave much thought to the ingredients in my personal care products. I rarely considered whether the chemicals were harmful to my body or the planet or tested on animals. I kept just two things in mind: how well they worked and whether or not they made me look good.

But just one year after my conversion to a vegan lifestyle, the shiny rows of makeup, hair and body products at mainstream retailers were no longer appealing. I was spending more time at the local health food store because sometimes that was the only place I could get specialty food items, and the personal care items sold there were more aligned with the kind of person I was becoming.

Adopting a vegan diet for ethical reasons has opened my eyes to all the various ways in which animals are being exploited in our society, including animal testing in beauty products. But it also inspired a greater interest in both my health and the environment. I no longer want to put products on my skin that are chock-full of sketchy ingredients or contribute to the pollution of our environment.

Here’s how I cleaned up my act.

More: 16 Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were Vegan

Beeswax & lanolin

Many natural makeup products contain beeswax, which technically isn’t vegan. Having talked to my vegan friends about the subject of using products derived from bees — including honey, bee pollen and beeswax — it seems that some are willing to let it slide while others aren’t. In general, I try to avoid products made with beeswax, but I will cop to sometimes buying products that contain it, such as the RMS cult favorites “Un” Cover-Up and Living Luminizer.

Another non-vegan ingredient found in natural makeup products is lanolin, a byproduct of the wool industry taken from the sebaceous glands of sheep. I’m always extra-careful to read the list of ingredients in lip balm since that’s where it’s often found lurking. Anything that comes from animals (with the exception of insects) is a deal-breaker for me.

Animal testing

Because natural products don’t contain potentially hazardous chemicals, animal testing usually doesn’t enter the picture, but it’s always worth checking the product packaging for the Leaping Bunny logo or visiting the company’s website to double check. A helpful resource worth perusing is Cruelty Free International’s database of companies that don’t test on animals.

More: These Vibrant Vegan Lipsticks Were Made for Brown Skin

Soap

The first thing I switched out was soap. I had noticed the big bottles of Alaffia African Black Soap at my health food store and was intrigued, so I tried it and was happy to discover that it can double as shampoo. African black soap is a centuries-old West African formula consisting of shea butter and oil, saponified with ashes. Black soap usually contains palm oil, which has been under scrutiny in recent years for causing rainforest destruction, but Alaffia makes an effort to ensure that theirs is sustainably sourced.

Moisturizer

I soon became hip to the idea of using straight-up oils instead of lotions since they’re generally more potent and give you more bang for your buck. There are lots of natural oils out there, including argan, Moringa, tamanu, baobab, rose hip and sea buckthorn. All of them have interesting but subtle differences in texture and smell. Pure shea butter is another great moisturizer and is especially effective as a hand salve.

More: The Go-To Vegan Recipes These Celebrities Swear By

Hair

Oils were a total game-changer for my hair regimen since they add moisture and shine without any buildup. In addition to using argan oil as a hair gloss, I now try to look for shampoos and conditioners with oils, such as Giovanni’s Avocado and Olive Oil Hair Mask.

Skin

Hyaluronic acid serum helps skin to retain its moisture and elasticity. I now wear vegan hyaluronic acid followed by argan oil and MyChelle Dermaceuticals Sun Shield Liquid Tint SPF 50, which doubles as my foundation.

When my skin needs a good cleaning, I’ll use a clay mask, such as Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. When combined with apple cider vinegar, it synergistically works to extract impurities and shrink pores.

More: A Step-by-Step Guide to Veganizing Your Closet

Makeup

Whole Foods’ Whole Body section has an extensive inventory of natural makeup brands to experiment with, including brands such as Dr. Hauschka and Gabriel. Online, I discovered the vegan companies Ecco Bella, Modern Minerals, Ilia and Inika.

Conventional makeup brushes are derived from the hair of minks, sables or ponies. The environmentally friendly brand EcoTools sells a variety of inexpensive brushes made with recycled synthetic material and bamboo.

Dental care

At first, I was not particularly discerning about which natural toothpaste brand I used until I learned about the potential hazards of carrageenan — an additive that is sometimes included in food, personal products and most natural toothpaste brands. These days, I switch it up between Himalaya Botanique’s ayurvedic toothpaste and Weleda’s salt toothpaste, both of which are carrageenan-free.

More: 7 Weirdly Cool Vegan Beauty Products We’re Obsessed With

Deodorant

When it comes to natural products, deodorant is a notoriously shaky area. After a few hits and misses, I settled on the brand Herban Cowboy, which is mostly targeted toward men, but has a few feminine scents.

Fragrance

As I weaned myself off products containing synthetic fragrances, I became more appreciative of natural essential oils and the amazing scents they can provide. They are great when combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba, sesame, or coconut oil or when added to a diffuser.

One of my favorite places to get scented products is Aveda. They have a great collection of body sprays intended to correlate with different chakras as well as essential oils, perfumes and candles that evoke the rainforest.

Once I made the switch to natural, cruelty-free products, I knew that I’d never go back. Not only is it a relief to know that what I’m buying doesn’t contain any suspicious ingredients; it also feels good to support ethically minded businesses that care about the environment, animals and their workers.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

As much as we love to preach the idea that a woman’s choices — especially regarding physical appearance — are her own, plastic surgery is still considered taboo and routinely placed under heavy scrutiny. So it’s no wonder that noninvasive procedures or those that don’t require anesthesia and instruments within the body are gaining the same traction as more traditional ones, like breast enhancement or rhinoplasty.

Although more than 1 million Americans are still going under the knife every year, advanced technology has made it possible to get the same results with less pain, less time and in some cases less money — a trifecta of benefits for men and women who are busier than ever. Procedures like CoolSculpting (the destruction of fat cells) have made headlines in recent years, but in 2018, there are a handful of other treatments slowly making their way into the limelight.

Ahead, four well-known professionals share the most popular options at their practice and why patients are going crazy for them.

More: Amber Rose Got Attacked for This Part of Her Beauty Routine

Selfie sculpting

Dr. Rian Maercks, a Florida- and New York-based aesthetic, craniofacial and reconstructive plastic surgeon, says its name comes from the incredible pervasiveness of social media and selfie culture. The goal of selfie-sculpting is to create the illusion of a slimmer, more defined face with elevated cheeks and brows and more open eyes.

“People are spending a lot of effort to play with light, filters and programs to perfect their appearance posting on social media every day…Think of it as a real-life photoshopping of a person’s face.”

The procedure itself takes 15 to 30 minutes and either utilizes off-the-shelf fillers, the patient’s own fat or even special amniotic membrane-derived filler material. Although the timing is pretty short, it’ll still cost you.

“The average patient spends around $9,000 on selfie sculpting, but the range is generally $4,000 to over $6,000, depending on budget, patient desires and regions treated.”

More: 5 Millennial Women on Why They Opted for Plastic Surgery

Tip flip

Maercks is also keeping busy with the tip flip, a five-minute nonsurgical rhinoplasty (also known as a nose job). Although every individual’s goals are tailored to them (removing bumps, straightening, etc.), the base of everyone’s nose tends to lose volume over time; a tip flip reverses this effect by “creating nasal projection and rotating the tip of the nose up.”

Unlike selfie sculpting, this one is a little more cost-effective, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000.

Injectable facial rejuvenation

Dr. Steven Cohen, a San Diego-based surgeon, is seeing an uptick in facial fillers powered by stem cell technology. At his office, Faces+, he’s optimized fat grafting with a procedure that changes the rate of tissue decay, which in turn addresses the root cause of aging instead of masking it with a quick fix.

In a simple outpatient, turbo-charged session, Cohen harvests fat — two to three times more than any other doctor — through a needle incision. The fat is morcellized into three different densities using cutting-edge instruments and injected into the face to address individual areas of decaying tissue. It repairs and stimulates the soft tissue, creating new blood vessels and combating inflammation.

“With ITR, we actually are changing the rate of tissue decay by adding biological tissue volume and mass back to the face and regenerating blood supply. To my knowledge, this is the first time a concept of decay and replacement has been conceived and implemented to treat facial aging in a dynamic fashion.”

Cohen likes to treat patients proactively at the earliest signs of damage, if not before, as tissue decay begins at maturity in our 20s. And it’ll cost you around $6,000.

More: Kris Jenner’s Major Makeover Sparks Plastic Surgery Rumors

Miradry

Dr. Elie Levine of Plastic Surgery and Dermatology of NYC is seeing more men and women who want to downsize or completely eliminate sweat and odor from the underarm area. This is done through a one-hour procedure called Miradry that costs approximately $2,000.

More: WTF Is a Botox Facial & Should You Try One?

Levine laser lift

Levine also has a custom version InMode FaceTite, another contouring procedure that eliminates fine lines, sagging skin and other signs of aging. It’s similar to selfie sculpting and facial rejuvenation since it makes the face look fuller and more youthful. Levine describes it as a liposuction and lower face fat transfer (when applicable) to the lower third of the face.

 “This minimally invasive, virtually scarless procedure for the lower face and neck rejuvenation has minimal downtime and spectacular improvement. Depending on the procedure, cost ranges from approximately $3,000 to $10,000.”

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

In 2018, there are a million ways to get it, and for some of our favorite celebs, that includes a YouTube channel. Back in the day, A-listers rarely put their personal interests on display, but in an era when Instagram and paparazzi exist, that’s no longer the case.

Now more than ever, women such as Rihanna and Kim Kardashian West are showing us that their influence extends far beyond their “day jobs.” And the ones we love most are those who share our obsession with all things beauty. Ahead are seven famous women whose YouTube channels are giving our favorite vloggers a run for their money.

More: Jackie Aina’s "I Don’t See Color" Tutorial Is a Must-Watch

Ashley Tisdale

Believe it or not, it’s been almost 10 years since High School Musical 3 hit theaters. And as expected, all the cast members are still making major moves in Tinseltown. Tisdale, who continues to make music and act, has also made a name for herself in beauty circles thanks to her booming YouTube channel. It’s actually been around for a decade, but in recent months, we’ve been loving her seasonal makeup tutorials, which she does by herself or alongside other pros, such as Patrick Starrr.

More: The Ultimate List of the Best Beauty Vloggers

Maddie Ziegler

She’s been Sia’s dancing sidekick for a few years (see: “Chandelier” and “Elastic Heart”), but she's slowly coming into her own on YouTube. Her channel reminds us that despite her high-profile job, she’s still a normal teenager who gets the occasional pimple. Oh, and her beauty product hauls are actually pretty helpful. Just last month, she schooled us on the miracle acne buster we never knew we needed: ciclopirox gel.

Zendaya

She’s the undisputed queen of red carpet fashion and beauty, so it makes sense that millions subscribe to her app and YouTube channel. She shares insider moments with her family and trusty assistant Darnell and is a must-follow for curly girls everywhere. Her tutorials aren’t overly complicated and typically include products you can find at your local Target, such as Miss Jessie’s Multi Cultural Curls.

Madelaine Petsch

The Riverdale star catapulted to stardom in 2017, and her YouTube channel already boasts just fewer than 1 million subscribers. She's an open book, posting videos of her vacations, Q&As about the CW show and makeup tutorials featuring her favorite products. Fun fact: Petsch is an advocate for cruelty-free products and shared her favorite finds in a holiday-themed tutorial last month.

More: The $3 Brow Kit Madelaine Petsch Swears By

Karlie Kloss

If you want to know how a supermodel lives, just hit the subscribe button on this informational channel. Sure, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at ultra-glamorous events like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. But Kloss also does a great job of highlighting other parts of her life, especially her wellness routine.

Shay Mitchell

The Pretty Little Liars star has shown us time and time again that she’s no slob in the hair, skin and makeup departments. But if you really want to know how she always manages to look camera-ready, make sure you’re staying up to date on her YouTube uploads. She’s constantly sharing her favorite hair and makeup tips, most of which she does on her own, sans makeup artist or hairstylist.

Tia Mowry

In addition to her seasoned acting career, Mowry is known for her cooking skills, having released multiple books over the past few years. But if you follow her on YouTube, you’ll quickly realize she’s quite the hair expert too. Her channel includes a handful of tutorials that are actually easy to copy and won’t leave you frustrated as you press play and pause.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

If you’re afraid your eye makeup look will get lost behind eyeglasses, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, the accessory still carries a stigma that makes men and women think they should wear them only when absolutely necessary or behind closed doors. In actuality, wearing glasses presents an opportunity to better frame and highlight the eyes, as you can play more with product and applications that might feel heavy without them.

According to Julie Fredrickson, CEO and founder of Stowaway Cosmetics, “The trick to looking great with glasses is giving your eyes as much dimension as possible by highlighting areas, like your inner eye, and pushing back and framing others, like your crease.”

Ahead are five ways to make your eyes radiant under a set of specs, all of which can be done with a shadow set like the Essential Eye Palette ($26 at Stowaway).

More: The Best Filler Products That Can Transform Sparse Brows

Contour your crease

Since wearing glasses can change how others perceive the depth and dimension of your eyes, a little eye contour along the crease goes a long way.

“The crease is where the top of your eyelid and your brow bone meet in an indentation. Use a nice neutral color on your lid and then use a dark brown, mauve or even black in your crease to create a shadow pushing back the crease and adding in depth. I will usually use one of my matte brown or mauve shades in Stowaway’s Essential Eye Palette.”

Use an illuminator in the inner eye, under-eye line & under-brow bone

Fredrickson also says that “drawing in attention and light to your eyes underneath lenses will help them appear brighter and wider and contrast beautifully with a darkened crease. Remember you are adding back in dimension, so choose a color that contrasts with the crease color.” The best way to do this is by adding a little shimmer.

More: Offbeat Beauty Hacks to Cop From Makeup Artists

Line your upper lid

Although fully lining the top and bottom lash lines can look super-glamorous, it can also feel heavy and push back your eyes underneath glasses, making you look sleepy. “Instead, use one line on your top lid as tight as you can get to your lash line,” says Fredrickson. “I like using a brown eyeliner here personally, as it keeps your eyes defined without being harsh.”

Wing it

Concerned that your glasses are making your eyes look closer together? Simply extend the line of your eyes by extending your eyeliner with a wing. “Most glasses are wider than your eye, and it gives you the chance to do the wide-eyed look without it being too wild.”

Groom your brows

Glasses already act as a frame, so make sure your real eye frames — your brows — are brushed and filled in. “No need to go full squared-off Instagram-brow, just make sure they are tidy,” says Fredrickson. “I use a light matte brown and the angled brush in Stowaway’s Essential Eye Palette to quickly get stray hairs in place and fill in any sparse areas.”

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Most of us are always looking to write off anything and everything possible from our taxes. At the same time, we also shy away from some things in fear of the dreaded audit. But if you spend some serious dough on beauty products, chances are you're sitting on a whole heap of tax-deductible items — especially if you're in the beauty profession.

Based on the most recent tax estimates from TurboTax, the IRS shells out $1.2 trillion in tax deductions every year. Although it might change with next year's tax bill, for 2017 filings, it's time to dig deep and see if any of that cash belongs to you.

1. Body lotion

Depending on the biz you’re in, a standard body lotion could qualify as a tax deduction, says certified public accountant ZM Ishmurzina, partner at Artio Partners.

More: 5 Ways to Ensure Your Makeup Shines Under Glasses

“Body lotions can be deducted as a business expense by massage salons and bodybuilders,” he explains.

2. Cosmetic surgery

Here’s a fun one if you happen to fall into the category of professional dancer — according to Ishmurzina, the cost of breast augmentation qualifies as a tax deduction for strippers and adult dancers since it is considered a stage prop. (Who knew?)

More: Does Insurance Actually Cover Cosmetic Surgery?

3. Demo products

Mary Kay and Jamberry fanatics, all of your hard work is starting to pay off. Purchasing products to use as demos in a multilevel marketing or beauty business can also fall under the tax-deductible umbrella. Sarah Nieschalk, licensed tax professional at Tax Defense Network, explains, “Typically, products you purchase to present as a model or demo are tax deductible. The nice thing about this tax break is that it applies to virtually any item that you intend to showcase in this capacity.”

4. Eyewear

Eyeglasses are yet another personal care product that may be tax deductible — though most prescription glasses are written off as a medical expense as an itemized deductible on form 104, Schedule A. Ishmurzina confirms, "Eyewear products are deductible as a medical expense on Sch. A if the total amount of medical expenses exceeds 10 percent of adjusted gross income."

5. Makeup

If you’re a licensed makeup artist with a drawer, box or even suitcase of makeup used for professional purposes within the past year, you’re in luck. “Makeup can be deducted by a makeup artist if [he or she] uses this makeup for his [or] her clients,” says Ishmurzina.

6. Hair care

Performers are just one more example of hardworking professionals who can expect to reap tax-deductible beauty benefits. Ishmurzina explains that if you are a performing artist who requires hairstyling before a show, the cost of that hairstyle can be written off too.

7. Salon space

Renting or owning a salon isn’t easy to break into, but it does have its benefits come tax time. Renting or owning your own salon space means you can deduct some or all of the costs, depending on the scenario, says Nieschalk. She adds, “Much like your inventory, virtually any furniture you use in your salon is tax-deductible. This includes sofas or chairs for customers in your lobby or the chairs they occupy when you’re reshaping their appearance. Any supporting furniture for equipment, such as racks or mobile counters, may also be deducted.”

8. Professional hair equipment

When working as a beauty professional, this one’s a given. Almost any tools, products or gear that you use to perform daily services on clients falls into that magical category of tax-deductible. Nieschalk explains, “These may include coloring agents, shampoos, gels, removal wax, scissors, curling irons — basically, anything that is essential inventory for operation of your business.”

More: What the Colors You Wear Say About You

9. Salon magazines

As the icing on the cake, there are plenty of little extras that can slide in under the wire. Nieschalk says that in a salon, this could mean that small purchases like magazines or entertainment publications for waiting clients can also be written off.

The fine print

The IRS is nothing if not meticulous, so it’s important to pay attention to detail before you file. Nieschalk reminds us that every beauty deduction will require a receipt, while Ravi Ramnarain, a licensed CPA in Florida, Massachusetts and Arkansas, explains that beauty write-offs are a type of deduction all their own. He says, “For individuals, the only way that beauty products could even begin to be considered deductible is if you are itemizing your deductions (instead of taking the standard deduction). However, one must be cognizant of the fact that beauty products do not count as ‘normal’ itemized deductions.”

According to Ramnarain, beauty products count as miscellaneous itemized deductions that are subject to the following requirements:

• A 2 percent "floor" (i.e., you can only deduct miscellaneous itemized deductions that exceed 2 percent of your adjusted gross income).
• The total of all your itemized deductions (normal and miscellaneous) must exceed the standard deduction for the year in question.
• A requirement that you work in the beauty industry (or a closely related field).
• Proof you were not already reimbursed for the out-of-pocket beauty product expenses by your employer.

These qualifications may seem overwhelming at first glance, but don’t let the red tape deter you. When in doubt, Nieschalk says, “You may want to consult with a licensed tax professional before filing just to make sure you’re on point. He or she can provide suggestions for how to reduce this year’s tax bill as well as some best practices to make the most of your expenses and deductions in preparation for next tax season.”

A version of this article was originally published in February 2016.

In the last year, the fashion industry took more and more steps toward inclusivity; female empowerment; and putting a stop to retouching, body-shaming and discrimination. While the industry is still far from perfect, there are a few brands that walk the walk when it comes to being inclusive in every way.

Praise to brands such as Aerie for not retouching bodies and using models of every shape, size and color; brands such as eShakti for providing completely customizable clothing to fit your body perfectly; and finally brands such as ModCloth, Asos and Swimsuits for All that provide clothing from straight through plus-size.

Below we are outlining 13 brands that have shaken things up in the industry and started paving the way toward more body-positive branding.

eShakti

Meet your completely customizable retailer, eShakti, aka your new best friend. The brand offers sizes from 0 through 36W and complete customization through exact body measurements, various options for necklines and sleeves and garment length to fit your height. Talk about a new way to shop without breaking the bank.

Aerie

Aerie stopped retouching its photos a couple of years ago and started being more inclusive with diverse models and sizing. We love that the brand embraces stretch lines, cellulite and real bodies.

More: 31 of Our Favorite Curvy Brands & What to Shop From Them

ModCloth

ModCloth is your perfect mix of feminine, vintage and quirky. There’s something for everyone, and the company offers garments in straight to plus-size. What’s even better, it actually shows pictures of two models (straight and plus-size) to see what both look like in the garment. Can we get a round of applause, please?

Asos

We can’t help but spend hours online shopping on Asos and calling it our one-stop shop because the site literally has everything and more. It offers various sizing — straight, curvy and plus as well as maternity, tall and petite styles.

More: 12 Body-Positive Instagrammers to Follow Now

Old Navy

Old Navy is one of our classic favorites. It has great prices, tons of stylish options and sizing for all. It also makes sure its advertisements, social media and models are diverse, and the brand promotes body-positivity.

Swimsuits for All

We dare you to scroll through Swimsuits for All’s Instagram account and not feel empowered or more confident or want to immediately throw on a bikini and head to the beach. This is a brand that has definitely walked the walk and talked the talk, and we believe it fosters an interactive and engaged community with its customers and promotes loving your body, whether you’re a size 4 or 34.

Eloquii

Eloquii is one of our favorite plus-size brands. It offers sizes 14 through 28 and focuses on “fashion for the style-driven, fit-obsessed customer.” Eloquii designs fun, trend-forward pieces with great structure and affordable prices.

Dear Kate

Dear Kate is a “fear-proof, worry-free undies and apparel” company that helps you get through any period, literally. Its branding is relatable, chill and girl-power-positive.

Target

Who else could spend hours wandering through the aisles of Target and feel right at home? Target offers a wide selection of in-house brands, sizing and plenty of options for every personal style. We love how the store promotes body-positivity, real women and attainable style.

Dressbarn

Dressbarn offers clothing sizes 2 to 24 and does a great job on social media showing pictures of its db brand ambassadors, who are real women wearing Dressbarn. It has created a great community for the brand and shows how women all over style the pieces on their own.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

There is nothing novel about clay in skin care. It’s a powerhouse ingredient with ancient history and straightforward benefits, but we can’t help but notice it’s staging a mini comeback in 2018. We’re barely a month into the new year and some of our favorite brands, both high-end and drugstore, have already unleashed a handful of detoxifying formulas that our skin could use a little more of this winter and beyond.

But before we get into the new kids on the block, a brief breakdown (get a full one here) on the most widely used clays of the moment and why experts can’t stop utilizing them:

Bentonite clay: A highly porous substance with electric properties that can absorb great amounts of excess oil when mixed with water.

Kaolin clay: An exfoliator that's different color variations yield different benefits. For instance, white kaolin is gentle enough for sensitive skin, while red kaolin is slightly tougher and recommended for oily skin.

Rhassoul clay: A negatively charged ingredient that’ll instantly suck up skin toxins, which are almost always positively charged. However, it can be super-drying if used in excess.

French green clay: This sea-born clay is so absorbent that in addition to absorbing oil, it also pulls blood toward the surface of your skin, resulting in better circulation and regeneration of new cells.

Fuller Earth clay: This multitasker totes such powerful absorption capabilities that it’s even used in kitty litter and to spot dry-clean fabrics.

More: How 5 Different Types of Clay Benefit Your Skin

Clean & Clear Night Relaxing Detox Clay Mask

This brand has a number of cult favorites on its roster, but could we have a new classic on our hands? Its newest product is this deep-cleaning face treatment that includes a handful of clay ingredients, including bentonite and kaolin, to destroy oil and makeup residue at the end of a long day. And with a mere $5 price tag, it’s hard to say no to this one.

Clean & Clear Night Relaxing Detox Clay Mask, $5.49 at Target

Honest Beauty 3-in-1 Detox Mud Mask

Even Jessica Alba had to put her stamp on a clay-infused mask. The newest addition to her Honest Beauty family is infused with a group of deep-cleansing ingredients (volcanic ash, activated charcoal, white bentonite) and conditioners (sea buckthorn oil, manuka honey, shea butter) to ensure your skin is pampered to perfection by day’s end.

3-in-1 Detox Mud Mask, $22 at Honest Beauty

More: De-Puff Your Eyes With These Celebrity-Approved Tricks

Dear by Renée Purifying Kaolin Mask

This new skin care line combines two of our favorite things: clinically tested dermatological technologies and naturally derived ingredients. We’re pretty sure its exfoliating face mask will be an instant hit, thanks to a balanced mix of antiseptic properties and detoxifying kaolin clay.

Purifying Kaolin Mask, $49.95 at Dear by Renée

L’Oréal Pure-Clay Mask

The newest member of the Pure-Clay family is this kaolin-, Moroccan lava-, and montmorillonite clay-infused mask made with yuzu lemon extract to further clarify freshly detoxed skin.

Pure-Clay Mask, $12.99 at L’Oréal Paris

More: Ultra-Rich Moisturizers for Shielding Your Skin Against the Cold

Clarins SOS Pure Rebalancing Clay Mask

This 10-minute treatment was made especially for oily/combination skin. Its clay formula also includes alpine willow herb, a prime ingredient for shrinking pores and minimizing shine.

SOS Pure Rebalancing Clay Mask, $34 at Clarins

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

After a long day of being on your feet, walking home from work or even just squeezing your feet into a pair of uncomfortable shoes, a simple foot massage can make a world of difference. But knowing how to give yourself a good massage makes all the difference. Consider this just one of many ways to practice self-care, by giving your tootsies some much-needed TLC — or asking a partner to do it for you.

More: 10 Modern Pieces That Belong in Every Woman’s Work Wardrobe

(As a quick note: Be careful when receiving a foot massage during pregnancy. Some pressure points may cause contractions.)

Here's how to give a foot massage like a pro:

How does a foot massage sound?

Regardless of whether you're on the receiving end of a foot massage or you're the one giving it, you both will experience many benefits, Even if you are simply massaging your own feet, it can still be a rewarding and satisfying way to end your day.

• The giver: Giving a friend or loved one a foot massage is very soothing and calming for you, too, and can actually cause your blood pressure to decrease. It's a very caring, nurturing, and bonding experience to share with another person (as weird as that may sound).
• The receiver: Obviously, this is really the best position to be in. Foot massage will help reduce your stress, boost circulation, and relieve blood stagnation from wearing ill-fitting shoes. In addition, it will dramatically relax your body, soothe foot muscles, and undo knots and tension in your toes, balls of your feet, arches, and ankles. It will even soften your feet if a cream or massage oil is applied!
• One-on-one: Though not as fulfilling as having your feet massaged by another, self-massage enables you to care for your feet on a regular basis, to de-stress and pamper your feet as you see fit.

Next Up: Techniques for foot massage

A version of this article was originally published in April 2008.

Techniques for foot massage

A foot massage can be performed at any time you wish or as part of a home pedicure procedure. The following illustrations depict some standard foot massage techniques that a nail technician might perform on a client during a pedicure. If you do not have a willing partner to give you a massage, never fear. These techniques are just as easily done (with some minor alterations) alone.

If a partner is involved, have the one receiving the foot massage recline against a big pillow on the sofa or bed to fully relax the entire body. Foot massage feels really great if the whole body is at ease.

If you're going solo, find a comfortable chair, preferably one with padded arms and a foot rest, such as a recliner. Sit back, prop one foot in your lap and let the other rest extended in front of you, and massage those feet until they smile.

If using a massage oil or lotion, protect clothing and furniture with a towel or two. Rub oiled or creamed hands together vigorously to warm them before beginning the foot massage.

Complete all six steps on one foot before moving on to the other.

Step 1: Stroke the top of the foot

Stroking stimulates circulation and warms the foot. Holding your partner's foot in your hands, on the top of the foot begin a long, slow, firm, stroking motion with your thumbs, starting at the tips of the toes and sliding back away from you, all the way up to the ankle, then retrace your steps back to the toes with a lighter stroke.

Repeat this step three to five times, then stroke the bottom of the foot in the same manner.

Step 2: Ankle rotations

Loosens joints and relaxes feet. Cup one hand under the heel, behind the ankle, to brace the foot and leg.

Grasp the ball of the foot with the other hand and turn the foot slowly at the ankle for three to five times in each direction. With repeated foot massages, any stiffness will begin to recede. (This is a particularly good exercise for anyone suffering from arthritis.)

Step 3: Toe pulls and squeezes

Toes, like fingers, are quite sensitive to the touch — this massage can be very calming. Grasp the foot beneath the arch. With the other hand, beginning with the big toe, hold the toe with your thumb on top and index finger beneath.

Starting at the base of the toe, slowly and firmly pull the toe, sliding your fingers to the top and back to the base.

Now repeat, but gently squeeze and roll the toe between your thumb and index finger, working your way to the tip and back to the base.

Repeat these two movements on the remaining toes.

Step 4: Toe slides

Grasp foot behind the ankle, cupping under heel. With the index finger of the other hand, slide your finger between the toes, back and forth for three to five times.

Next Up: Step 5: Arch press

Step 5: Arch press

Releases tension in the inner and outer longitudinal arches. Hold foot as you did in Step 4.

Using the heel of your other hand, push hard as you slide along the arch from the ball of the foot toward the heel and back again. Repeat five times. This part of the foot can stand a little extra exertion on your part, just don't apply too much pressure. Push your hand along the arch of the foot.

More: How to Pull Off Baby Bangs Like a Celebrity

Step 6: Stroking. Repeat step 1

This is a good way to begin and end a foot massage.

Agony of the Feet Relaxing Massage Oil

You'll need:
2 teaspoons (10 ml) castor, jojoba, soybean, or extra-virgin olive oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop German chamomile essential oil
1 drop geranium essential oil

To make:
Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly. Yields one treatment.

To use:
Use approximately 1 teaspoon (5 ml per foot and massage in completely. Inhale the aroma on your hands before you massage, and continue to breathe deeply, as these particular oils are extremely calming. Put on socks after massage to absorb excess oil and soften feet.

While most 17-year-olds are studying for their SATs, Chloe Kim has been preparing to kick ass and take names at the Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Like most world-class athletes, Kim has been preparing for this moment since she was barely out of elementary school… and she has the record-breaking stats to prove it.

At the tender age of 14, Kim became one of the youngest medalists ever at the American X Winter Games. She also garnered a perfect score at the 2016 Grand Prix, where she landed two 1080s in perfect succession and even qualified for the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, although she chose not to compete.

More: The Beauty Routine of a Busy Ballerina

Oh, and Kim is also the first American woman to ever win a gold medal in snowboarding at the Winter Youth Olympic Games. In short, this girl has got skills, and you’re about to see her everywhere! While her athletic prowess is certainly next-level, as a beauty editor, I can’t help but be intrigued by how she manages to look glowy after hours in the snow. Ahead, Kim shares the short list of products she uses to brave the subzero temps in Pyeongchang:

“As snowboarders, we’re constantly looking at products to combat all the elements for our skin and hair — the cold, dryness, high elevation, sun and wind take a toll. For my face, I am a really big fan of Laneige products. I use the BB Cushion every day because it has an SPF 50. It’s also super-moisturizing and gives a killer glow.”

“At night, I do a quick exfoliation, and I always use the Laneige Water Bank serum, which gives me the overnight moisture surge that I need while I sleep."

More: Everything to Know About the Latest Skin Care Obsession

“For my hair, I love the Paul Mitchell [Super] Skinny Serum. Since my hair never stays the same color for too long, it helps to keep my hair super-healthy. I can really feel how it conditions it, keeps it nice and silky, and helps to combat major frizz. I think it also helps me to dry my hair a lot quicker, which is important for me and the cold weather we train in.”

“I love makeup, so I also need good, long-lasting eye makeup while training. My go-to these days is Stila’s waterproof eyeliner and Too Faced mascara. Keeps it all in place while I sweat and in the elements.”

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

The world of makeup brushes is extensive. With 12 (or more!) categories of brushes and then multiple types within each category, things can get confusing. But even if you know all the brushes and what they’re for, the search for tips and tricks on when to use them, how to substitute or what secret weapons to have in your bag never ends.

So we talked to professional makeup artist Vincent Oquendo — who has worked on faces such as Bella Hadid, Ashley Graham and Alessandra Ambrosio — to answer the often-missed questions, such as what the real difference between brand-name and drugstore brushes is and just how far cotton buds can go when you’re in a pinch.

More: Your Complete Guide to Makeup Brushes & How to Use Them

Best brushes for beginners

Oquendo wants you to choose makeup brushes that are tailored to what you need. He recommends diving in with fluffy “feather duster” brushes because not only are they offered in different sizes that are perfect for eye looks, they can also be used on various parts of the face. Right now, he’s in love with the Nars medium brush and says, “[I'll sometimes take] that medium-size, dome-size feather duster for eye shadow and I’ll stick it in my concealer, and I’ll stipple that wherever the blemish is still visible.” Who would’ve thought?

You don’t have to splurge on your first set of brushes, either. Oquendo frequents Target and drugstores to test out brushes before dropping bills on name brands. Some of his favorites are EcoTools and Sonia Kashuk (above), both of which carry full sets for affordable prices. After that, you can determine which brushes you use most based on how beaten down they get and eventually opt for something more durable.

More: How to Wear Makeup Under Glasses

Brand-name vs. drugstore brushes

Although durability is one of the main differences between brand-name and drugstore, Oquendo told us the no-mystery secret: When paying for high-end brushes, you’re also paying for the “experience.” Once you become well-versed in using them, the brushes become the part of your arsenal you’ll want to show off most. So if you’re planning on displaying them, it’s best to have prettily designed brushes on your vanity.

“If [you want to know] if there’s a difference between quality of products, think about it like your pots and pans,” he says. In other words, buying makeup brushes is like buying new cookware. If you’re going to display your cookware on a rack and show it off, you want showstopper pots and pans. The same goes for brushes. But in each case, cookware and brushes alike, Oquendo says extensive research about the product is necessary.

This means looking up things outside the direct purpose of the product. For example, find out what your carbon footprint would look like buying from a company, if their product is safe and healthy and if they treat their workers right. It all matters in determining what kind of product you’re getting. Quality research also plays a huge role in your search. Reading reviews will tell you everything you need to know, like if a brush melts under heat and whether it has lasting power.

At the end of the day, Oquendo says to “mix your highs with your lows.” There’s no shame in buying from the drugstore or using cotton swabs for application. If makeup is something you care about, then think about going big and splurging. However, if you’re looking for something more low-key, there’s also nothing wrong with bargain-friendly ones.

More: The Newbie Beauty Finds We’re Already Loving in 2018

Beautyblender vs. foundation brush

The debate between Beautyblenders and brushes is never-ending. Oquendo advises using whichever suits your skin best. He finds that if you have dry skin or patches, the Beautyblender works better because it doesn’t push around product as much. But he warns that if you are using a Beautyblender, be sure to wet it first. He recommends keeping a cup of cold water near you to soak and then squeeze prior to application. The cold water helps to loosen your face muscles while not letting the blender absorb all the product.

If you’re stuck in the middle of a blender vs. brush debate, he says to first find out what type of skin you have, and then go play at Sephora. If nothing seems to be working, “you might be a fingers gal.” There’s nothing wrong with that either, and if you are the latter, be sure to try out his favorite, MAC Face and Body.

More: The Difference Between Red Carpet and Regular Makeup

Quick hacks

Oquendo’s been in the beauty industry since he was 17 years old and has picked up his fair share of tips and tricks along the way. For instance, one of his favorite hacks is always using a blush brush for liquid foundation application. If you’re looking for a “whipped mousse texture” to look like “fallen snow,” apply with a blush brush then “buff, buff, buff.”

Running out of uses for your fan brush? Oquendo never liked it, either, until he recently discovered an under-the-radar way to utilize it. “I put my contour on, and I take the fan brush and I knock a little bit of an extra dark contour right under the cheekbone, and it’s 3-D cheek. Obsessed.”

Lastly, you’d be surprised to hear that cotton buds are his secret weapon and that he carries “at least four different types of cotton buds in [his] bag.” In fact, he once did an entire makeup look using only cotton buds and eye pencils and even pulled off an entire day-to-night makeup change in less than 15 minutes using them.

“If you go into the drugstore, you can find them. They have really super-thin ones, which are great for lip liner if lipstick starts to feather; pointed cotton buds; and I have the cotton buds for babies, which are bigger, allowing for quick removal of makeup.”

Makeup brushes definitely have a purpose, but don’t let them overwhelm you. If there’s one thing we’ve learned from Oquendo, it’s that there are no rigid rules. Let them work for you the way you need them to, and if you end up not using brushes at all — hey, that’s fine too.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Maybe it’s just us — do you ever start planning your outfit from the bottom up? Shoes are probably one of the most important components of an ensemble, but how do you pick the correct bottom to style with them? Have you ever wondered, “Is it OK to have a 2-inch gap between the bottom of my jeans and my boots?” or “What kinds of shoes go best with culottes?” If you have asked yourself these questions, silently or aloud, you’re not alone. But we’re here with answers.

Below, we demystify the art of below-the-knee pairings by breaking down a few of the chicest pants-and-shoe or skirt-and-shoe combos.

The skinny or tapered pant

The popular skinny jean can be paired with almost any type of shoe, but there are some ground rules. Skinny or tapered bottoms should always hit at the ankle or at the top of the shoe. If you’re wearing an ankle boot, you can cuff your jeans; or pair a flat with your tapered dress pants. Another option if you’re trying to elongate the leg even more is to pair the pant with a pointed-toe pump. The extra skin and length of the shoe will instantly add a couple of inches of length to your leg.

More: 30 Things Every Woman Should Own by Age 30

The flared pant

There are three shoe rules — or options — when you’re wearing flared pants. The first is to have your shoes not be seen at all. If you’re wearing a big enough flare, the shoe should be hidden and the pant will graze the ground. The next option is to add a little structure with a pointy-toe pump. Last, you can opt to keep things casual with a flat or sandal.

The straight-leg pant

Straight-leg denim has become increasingly popular in the past year, and we’re loving the mix of sneakers, flats and slides for this style. It’s casual and effortless and will keep the focus on the straight leg. Below, check out a few low-key ways to style the look.

More: 6 Style Rules Every Woman Can Learn From Male Musicians

The crop-flare pant

These pants can be awkward when styling, so look for shoes that will help add some height or even boots that will allow for a couple of inches of overlap.

The mini

The miniskirt or dress is all about legs for days. Play up yours with a pump or a shoe that doesn’t “cut off” your foot or leg. That means avoiding chunky ankle or calf boots and looking for shoes that keep the attention on the mini. A pump or over-the-knee boots are a great option for keeping your legs looking long.

The pencil skirt

The best shoe to pair with a pencil skirt is a pointed-toe pump or strappy heel. This will elongate the legs since the skirt is hitting around your knee. Another trick to keeping your legs looking great is to style your skirt with a neutral or nude heel.

More: How to Style a Dress & Stay Warm During Winter

The midi

Look for shoes that add a little height. Platforms, open-toe heels and mules are a great way to give you a few extra inches, and again, avoid the dreaded cut-off-feet look.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Oh, handbags. Sometimes we have a love-hate relationship with them. We never mind spending a few extra dollars (or hundreds) for one because we justify it by saying “we’re investing” and “it’ll last for years”—but sometimes, that extra investment turns into caring for a child. The bag gets its own seat at a restaurant because it could never dare touch the floor. But there are actually more ways to keep your purse clean and organized and make it last for years. Here are our five tricks:

Pregame

Not literally even though I’m sure your bag would make for a great cocktail partner. Pre-protect your bag before taking it out. If your purse is made of leather, suede or a delicate fabric, apply a protectant product to shield it from spills, dirt and any fumbles throughout the day. You can also use these products regularly on bags you often wear.

Pouch it

Have you ever opened a bag to find ink stains, lipstick smudges or leaked fluids? Make sure you protect the lining and the inside of your purse by using pouches to organize all your contents. Have a beauty bag, a money or tech bag and a work bag with pens. By keeping everything in separate mini pouches, your purse will remain organized and clean, and it’ll be significantly easier to switch up your handbags throughout the week without having to completely dump everything and reorganize.

More: A Colorful Cross-Body Bag Is the Best Way to Brighten Up Your Wardrobe (& Day)

Store them properly

When you’re not using a bag, make sure you store it properly. Keep pocketbooks upright, detach any removable straps and coil them inside the purse (if you fold them or leave them astray, they’ll bend and crease) and stash them in dust bags or mini pillowcases before putting them away. Avoid squeezing them tightly on the shelf because they’ll scratch, and don’t store bags in plastic because plastic traps moisture.

Remove stains

Oops, you got a stain on your brand-new bag, but don’t worry. There are several at-home DIY stain-removal techniques to remove food, oil, ink and water stains that work well, but you can also take it to a professional for a deep clean.

More: 20 On-Trend Clutches to Add to Your Handbag Collection

Show a little TLC

To ensure your bags last for years, practice routine care. Definitely protect the material, store it properly and remove stains, but there are a couple of other tips and tricks to make sure your bags stay in tip-top shape.

• Wipe down the bags you’re currently using on a weekly basis. You can use a baby wipe to get rid of crumbs or dirt on the inside and use a soft cloth on the outside. But make sure you’re not overcleaning your bag either — constant washing will eventually lead to the destruction of your bag, so only clean it if you’re regularly using it.
• Avoid handling your bag with dirty, lotioned or wet hands.
• Rotate your bags regularly so they don’t wear out too fast.
• Don’t overstuff your bag. This will stretch your bag, rip the lining or deform the material.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Sometimes, it’s less about what you’re using and more about how you’re using it. Such is the case with facial oils. They hardly get a bad wrap, but knowing which ones work best for you is key to harnessing their many benefits.

Like with most skin care products, the best way to go about choosing one is considering your most prominent struggles, be it dryness, excess oil or fine lines you wish were a little less… fine. Ahead, board-certified dermatologist and founder/CEO of Curology Dr. David Lortscher shares which oils are best for each one.

More: 17 Masks That Brighten Up Tired Eyes

Aging skin

If wrinkles and fine lines aren’t your cup of tea, oils with antioxidants, aka the teeny substances that guard against damage, should be on your vanity. “Oils, especially those with protective antioxidant activity, may counter the appearance of fine lines and dark spots, as antioxidants can boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity,” says Lortscher.

Try this: Antioxidant Facial Oil, $24.99 at Mad Hippie

Dry skin

Dealing with flakiness or dry patches? Oils may be just what you need, but be mindful of how you apply them. This will determine the lasting power of whatever you choose to use.

“For those with dry skin, the humidity outdoors and inside can be very low in the winter, and our skin loses moisture to the environment,” says Lortscher. “For example, you can use a shower oil — apply only after your skin has been thoroughly wetted — or apply an oil while your skin is still a little wet after showering to ‘seal in’ the water.”

Try this: Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil, $52 at Fresh

More: The Product-Free Skin Care Advice Experts Swear By

Oily skin

Lortscher recommends looking for an oil that is lightweight and noncomedogenic — tea tree oil is a favorite. Be aware that a solution of 100 percent tea tree oil is very irritating and should be diluted. As a spot treatment, dilute 1 part tea tree oil with 3 parts oil of your choice, such as sunflower, castor, jojoba or hemp oil — just not coconut oil.

Try this: Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil, $40 at Sephora

Acne-prone skin

Contrary to popular belief, most oils are well-tolerated on acne-prone skin. However, Lortscher advises against using coconut oil since it’s extremely clogging to the pores and only worsens when used on a breakout. Instead, he recommends using something lighter weight with anti-inflammatory properties, such as tea tree oil.

“Patients with acne have been shown to exhibit inadequate levels of essential fatty acids. Using omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs such as found in rose hip oil may provide anti-inflammatory effect, which can help improve acne,” he says. “Note that the current guidelines for acne treatment published by the American Academy of Dermatology do not advise topical EFA for the routine treatment of acne. Although more research is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn, we currently have no objection to the use of rose hip oil by our acne patients.”

Try this: Rose Hips Nourishing Oil, $22 at Mario Badescu

More: How to Layer Your Skin Care Like a K-Beauty Pro

Sensitive Skin

Lastly, if your skin is prone to infection in the slightest, avoid essential oils altogether, which may cause irritation or induce contact allergies. This typically happens because poor-quality ones are widely sold.

“The difference in quality can be attributed to the addition of foreign substances, unintentional contamination by other substances, inadequate production or improper storage conditions,” says Lortscher. “When stored under too-warm conditions or exposed to light and oxygen, a chemical process occurs, changing the composition of the oil, which can produce strong allergens.”

In general, however, essential oils are considered to have a good safety profile, and when toxicities do happen, they are generally mild and limited to the skin. In short: tread lightly.

Try this: 100% Squalane Oil, $58 at Biossance

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

It’s a rare woman whose weight doesn’t change at all throughout the course of her adult life. Whether it’s due to lifestyle changes, the natural course of getting older, pregnancy or whatever, it’s part of most people’s life to deal with changes in your body at some point or another. While we hope women can embrace those changes in a healthy way and realize that it’s totally normal and OK not to remain at the same weight forever, we also recognize that weight fluctuations can make getting dressed a tad more challenging.

Fortunately, there are some strategies you can use to make your wardrobe a bit more versatile so you feel good in your clothes (and your skin) no matter what the scale says. In our view, owning clothes you love that fit your current shape is a sign of self-love and body-positivity and acceptance. Do you really need to keep those three pairs of jeans from college? Your college self — gorgeous as she was — is in the past. Keep the clothes that fit the current, beautiful you.

Ahead, check out five tried-and-true wardrobe rules that make dealing with weight changes less stressful and more stylish.

Rule 1: Do a closet audit

Look through your wardrobe and make three piles: keep, tailor, toss. Keep pieces that currently fit you and can last through weight gain/loss (we’ll talk about those in Rule 2). Choose pieces to tailor if you need an item taken in or let out. Your final pile should be pieces that don’t currently fit at all and may never fit again. Obviously, this last one doesn’t apply to pregnant ladies — don’t throw out all your clothes!

For example: Did you gain or lose a few pounds? Don’t keep those pieces “just in case” you go back to your old weight. Clean out these items so you can replace them with new items that fit you properly and you can actually wear. (If there’s a beloved non-tailor-able item that’s a smidge too small or big, hang onto it if you must, but limit it to one or two really special pieces you truly might wear again.) Size is just a number, and filling your wardrobe with pieces that fit you now will make getting dressed in the morning a lot easier and more fun.

More: 30 Things Every Woman Should Own by Age 30

Rule 2: Invest in transitional pieces

One major struggle about dressing during a transitional weight period is that if you shop for certain expensive investment pieces during this time, they may not fit you in six months. Instead, we suggest you invest in transitional pieces that will fit you now and later. These items have stretch, adjustable waists and can be flattering within a 10- to 20-pound range.

These items include:

• Wrap dresses, skirts and shirts: The adjustable waist is extremely flattering for all body types.
• Shift dresses: The shapeless silhouette is perfect for weight loss and gain. You can belt it to define your waist or let it hang loose.
• Knit and cotton fabrics: Jackets, blazers, dresses, sweaters and shirts in stretchy knit or cotton can work with a changing body.
• Stretch denim: Look for denim with a little stretch in the legs so they can transition with your body.
• Elastic waists: Look for dresses, skirts and dress pants with elastic waists. These will be forgiving with weight loss and gain and last longer than structured waistbands. You can also have your tailor add adjustable waistbands and additional buttons to bottoms that you need to expand or take in.

Rule 3: Visit your tailor

Tailors can help you completely transform your wardrobe. If you lost weight, make sure to take in armholes, baggy pants, waistbands and shoulders. If you gained weight, they can add width to your waist and take out seams on clothing to make them fit — and much more. If you have an item you want to keep, make sure to see if your tailor can adjust this piece to fit you properly before tossing or buying a new version. The price of tailoring is normally a fraction of the price of a new garment.

More: How to Figure Out (& Fix) Your Fashion Blind Spots

Rule 4: Stock up on budget-friendly essentials

If your current weight is temporary (like with pregnancy or adjusting to a new medication), stock up on budget-friendly essentials for that time, including everything from blouses and denim to fitted items — you don’t need to invest in high-sticker-price items. If your weight has been stabilized for about six months, then you can invest in those quality pieces, but save a few bucks during this transitional period.

The key as always is to focus on fit and proportion. Make sure to have a few well-fitting pieces on hand and remember they don’t have to be expensive. Also, since your body is changing, that means your bra size is probably changing too. Make sure your underpinnings fit correctly and you don’t have spillage or gapping because your undies can really help a shirt or dress fit better.

Rule 5: Accessorize!

Shoes, handbags, accessories and jewelry are great pieces to finish off any look. Most of these things will not change with weight gain or loss, so having a few pieces you really love can help you feel more confident in seconds.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

To me, shopping and dressing directly from store mannequins signifies the death of personal style. Yes, these outfits are convenient, artfully put together by talented people at J.Crew or whatever store you’re at — but they’re not a reflection of your personal style: It’s the brand’s projected style for the current season. So, how do you develop your own personal style rather than just slapping on whatever trend you’re seeing on social media? Ahead, we give five easy steps that will help you discover your personal style.

I would best describe my personal style as your grandmother’s vintage floral couch meets a rock concert. It’s a little feminine and even more edgy, and there’s a hint of vintage throughout my wardrobe. I love floral dresses and lace. I wear oversize rings on every finger — including a skull, lion and spike — and I thrive in '80s suits and dresses with shoulder pads, sequins and pleats.

Fashion is an industry, but personal style is what you do with the clothing, the trends and your own creativity to make it into something for yourself. While fast fashion stores do a great job churning out popular trend pieces, they don’t always help the shopper develop their own look. We know everyone’s personal style is more than just trendy, girly or modern — so what defines you as a dresser?

What makes you feel happy

First and foremost, what makes you feel happy? What stands out to you at a store, what colors pop or pieces look cool? What items in your closet do you wear the most? This should be the easiest step because it’s all about what you really like the most.

More: 30 Things Every Woman Should Own by Age 30

What makes you feel good about yourself

You know that dress that perfectly hugs your curves and makes your feel like a model? Or those jeans you literally cannot live without? What are the pieces you consider your safety net when you don’t know what to wear or the clothes that make you feel and look like a rock star?

For me, oddly enough, I feel sexiest in a graphic tee. That’s right — an oversize, shapeless Harley Davidson or AC/DC tee that I thrifted for a few bucks. It’s my go-to for work, date night and anything and everything in between. I also have a handful of pieces that make me feel great, if not fantastic, about myself. These are in my “main clique” of my wardrobe. They’re the pieces I wear the most and constantly have in rotation. It’s a mix of vintage finds, graphic tees, dresses, cool outerwear and statement shoes.

What don’t you like

This one should also be somewhat easy. For me, I know I am not a preppy person. I am not a minimalist. I don’t wear dainty jewelry. I don’t like super-tight-fitting clothes, etc. Not that any of these things are bad, but I’ve decided they don’t fit into my personal style and have moved on.

More: How to Figure out (& Fix) Your Fashion Blind Spots

Define your signature

Think of Iris Apfel, the queen of accessories, whose signature involves oversize round glasses and an armful of bangles or Kim Kardashian West with body-con dresses and neutral tones or Ariana Grande with the half-up, half-down ponytail or Diane Von Furstenberg with her famous wrap dresses. All of these ladies have one thing in common — they have a signature item. It could be an accessory, a color palette or a theme that stands out enough that people associate it with the person who wears it.

My personal style features a few signatures: rings, leather jackets and graphic tees. You can try making one color your signature color or pick a nail color, lipstick color, etc. Having a signature piece can help you tie your look together and help you feel more put together — but if you can’t pick one, don’t force it.

Don’t follow trends — integrate them into your personal style

Trends can actually really hurt your personal style. If you’re constantly trying to chase trends each season and only wearing the “hot” pieces on social media (aka OTK boots, baker-boy hats and fur coats), is that really your tried-and-true personal style for the next two, five or 15 years? Instead of looking like a walking trend report for the previous runway season, integrate trend components into your personal style. If you really don’t like the trend, skip it. It’ll be gone before you know it, and you can always wait 15 to 20 years for it to circle back around… seriously.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

What's not to love about a full-coverage foundation during the winter season? It’s essentially a blanket for the face that also happens to conceal random breakouts and even out skin tone. Unfortunately, it carries a couple of downsides. There are clogged pores if you’re not priming correctly underneath and the looming threat of it transferring to your clothes or worse — someone else’s.

Also, it can just feel heavy when using day after day. If your skin needs some breathing room but you still want the same benefits as foundation, most will recommend swapping it out for a concealer. And while that is the obvious and correct fix (besides going makeup-free when we feel like it), there are some caveats for ensuring it works with instead of against your complexion.

More: The 7 Best Concealers Makeup Artists Swear By

Choose your coverage

Like foundation, concealers are available in different finishes, from sheer to full-coverage. The type you use will depend on the condition of your skin. For instance, if it’s free of blemishes and you simply want to even things out, a sheer formula — similar to one you’d use on the under-eye area — will serve you best.

Natalie Soto, global makeup artist/educator for Jane Iredale cosmetics, stresses the importance of the technique you use to apply the product. “As the consistency of concealer can be a lot richer than foundation,” she says, “you should use a damp sponge in a tapping motion if applying it all over the face in place of foundation.”

Now, if you want to get fancy with a highlight and contour effect, know that you will need to utilize more than one shade.

“For contour, choose a concealer like Mehron Celebré Pro-HD Conceal-It and apply a shade that’s three shades darker than your foundation and on the cool side of the color wheel,” says James Vincent, Mehron Makeup artist. “Use this in place of contour powder for a more natural shape and shading that looks realistic and more elevated.”

And if you’re looking for a more bronzy and beachy effect, you can find something two shades darker and on the warm side of the color wheel.

But again, if you want to keep it simple, be sure to color-match your concealer to your skin tone. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a face that’s shades lighter or darker than the rest of your body. Awkward!

More: The Best Contouring Kits for Every Skill Level

Spot-treat, don’t spread

This is perhaps the biggest difference between foundation coverage and concealer coverage. Whereas the latter is typically applied all over the face and blended, concealer should instead be concentrated to the blemishes you wish to disguise.

For instance, if you have a pimple or dark spot on your cheek, instead of covering the entire area with concealer, you should dot each blemish and blend or build until it’s covered. The overall effect is that no-makeup-makeup look that tricks people into thinking you’re wearing nothing at all.

A great way to sheer out concealer for all-over coverage is by mixing a small amount of concealer with a pearl-size amount of your daily moisturizer or a facial primer (try Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer & Brightener).

If you’re going for that contour/highlight effect we talked about earlier, your concealer should be applied to the parts of your face that are hit most by sunlight.

Vincent says, “Use a powder brush to sweep it over the forehead, down the center of the nose, on the chin and the highest part of your cheekbone. You can’t believe how easy it is to get the most beautiful beachy effect.”

More: How to Enhance Your Eye Color With Makeup

Blend, blend, blend

So what does one do when you need two types of coverage in the same area? Well, you’ll need either two different concealers — sheer and full — or you’ll have to apply the same concealer in two different ways. Again, a heavier consistency is best for disguising blemishes, but blending out the surrounding area with a sheerer formula (i.e., a moisturizer blend) will ensure that the treated area doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb on your face. And like foundation, you’ll also want to seal in your coverage with a setting powder or spray.

If you have no idea where to start your concealer search, start with this list of makeup artist-approved brands.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

For most of our lives, we’ve bought our shampoos and body washes without batting an eyelash at the long list of ingredients on the bottle. And while we still swear by a slew of those same products, we’re also thankful for the long-delayed emergence of the clean beauty industry. We don’t need to wax poetic for long about why this moment is important. The answer is simple: We want a better understanding of the stuff we’re putting on and inside our bodies.

It seems we need a lesson on how to navigate it all. Is there really a difference among clean, green and organic? And if there is, is one better than the other? Ahead, Freedom Deodorant founder Ira Green helps us understand all the confusing language as well as where to start if we want to clean up our act in the beauty aisle.

More: The Quick & Dirty Gym Workout for a Smaller Waist

Natural versus all-natural

The only difference between these two terms is the addition of all. They mean the same thing and as of now, there are no FDA mandates on using the word natural. Unfortunately, this means the word is free for anyone to use, including brands whose products may not be so safe.

“You can have one natural ingredient and still call it clean or natural. Education comes into play with knowing and understanding the ingredients in your product,” says Green.

At the same time, just because a product can’t be called organic because of certification requirements (more on this in a sec) doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad for you. If you’re unsure of whether something is safe to use, the general rule of thumb is that the label shouldn’t look like gibberish.

“When looking at ingredients, you should be able to recognize the ingredients or be able to do a quick Google search, i.e., 'cocoa butter' or 'beeswax.'”

More: How I Made the Switch to Natural & Cruelty-Free Personal Care Products

Organic

Now, if a product is labeled “certified organic,” that means that the USDA has confirmed it is actually made with 95 percent organic ingredients. But beware: There should be a certification label on the product. If it says it’s made with organic ingredients but does not have the USDA certification, it’s not the real deal.

The irony of this process is that a lot of legitimately natural/organic products don’t have that USDA stamp because their ingredients — despite their benefits — do not have a long enough shelf life for USDA requirements. For instance, shea butter on its own is only stable up to six months.

“We at Freedom deodorants run into this issue, as baking soda, water or magnesium is not organic [they can’t be certified], even though all our products are so clean. You can actually eat them!” says Green.

Another important tidbit to remember is that the FDA is actually pretty lax when it comes to approving products for use. In fact, the FDA doesn’t do the testing itself; all it requires is that cosmetics in particular not be altered or misbranded.

For this reason alone, you may want to consider adding at least one clean product into your routine.

Cruelty-free

If a product is labeled cruelty-free (including Green’s Freedom line), this means its ingredients, formulations and end products have been developed without methods that require testing on animals. Organizations such as PETA and Leaping Bunny keep searchable running lists of companies that make this claim, and those that do may display a bunny symbol on their packaging.

More: 21 Natural, Organic Beauty Products to Buy at LeVert Beauty Right Now

Clean & green

There are so many words associated with the world of safer beauty products it’s become difficult to distinguish which ones fall under which category. According to Green, terms such as clean and green are simply marketing tools. Again, think of them the same way you would natural or all-natural.

These words can be used to describe something that includes just one true-blue natural ingredient or something that doesn’t have an ounce of the harmful stuff. But ultimately, there are no regulations that can technically keep any brand from using the terms. The only label that requires testing and a label to back its claim is “certified organic.”

More: 16 Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were Vegan

The no-no ingredients

With all that being said, there’s a laundry list of ingredients that are potentially harmful, regardless of whether the product is labeled “green,” “organic” or anything in between. Some of the bigger ones are:

Parabens: Preservatives that extend the shelf life of your products but can still enter the body through your skin and hair, causing a host of issues with your reproductive system. They come in a number of different forms and are usually a small part of product formulations.

Synthetic fragrance: The chemical compounds that determine how your product smells. Depending on the person and their body’s chemistry, any of these combinations can lead to irritation and allergic reactions.

Formaldehyde: In its purest form, this is a colorless gas that’s also used in paper and plywood. When used in cosmetics such as nail polish, it’s often converted to a gentler water solution, and with the help of preservatives (like parabens) is released in small amounts to protect against contamination. Unfortunately, it also comes with a host of potentially dangerous side effects, such as skin irritation and even hair loss.

Aluminum: An ingredient most often found in antiperspirants to decrease sweat. In short, what it does is shrink or plug up the underarm pores and inhibit bacteria so they don’t secrete as much. Decades of research says the ingredient is potentially linked to breast cancer since antiperspirants are applied so closely to lymph nodes near the breast and can also prevent the body’s immune system from freeing itself of cancerous bacteria.

Sulfates: This can refer to any of the following: sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium laureth sulfate. Sulfates are surfactants, or molecules that attract both water and oil. So when you scrub on your body wash or shampoo, sulfates help pull away the dirt or oil. And when you rinse it off, they also aid the water in washing it away. It basically helps boost the effectiveness of whatever product you’re using. Unfortunately, they can sometimes work so well they also strip your hair or skin of all its natural moisture in the process, leaving it dry and damaged.

More: Is This Weird Beauty Tool the Key to Great Skin?

Where to start

Now that you’re armed with a better understanding of clean beauty, you may want to experiment with one product (unless you want to make your products at home). Fortunately and unfortunately, this sector of the industry has grown so much it can be challenging to figure out where your transition starts. If you want to shop around, websites such as Safe and Chic and Credo Beauty can be trusted.

We’ve also got a handy guide here, but Green says the easiest thing to start with is your soap.

“Find a milled soap that doesn’t have synthetic fragrance. I see them everywhere. You use this every day. It’s a big change.”

Ahead are three must-try soaps, all of which are considered either “natural” or “organic”:

Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Peppermint Bar Soap, $4.69 at Target

Osmia Organics Oh So soap, $15 at Osmia Organics

Schmidt’s Fragrance-Free Soap, $5.49 at Schmidt’s Naturals

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

How many times have you asked someone for skin care advice and cringed the moment they said to drink more water, slather on the coconut oil or take off your makeup before bed? When you’re nursing issues that go beyond the occasional breakout or blemish, there’s nothing more frustrating than receiving such basic advice.

Yes, we know that doing any of those three things can contribute to healthier skin, but let’s be real: That simply isn’t enough for most. Black women in particular face a unique set of obstacles, such as discoloration, which means that when we’re done talking about our favorite hair products, we’re trading skin care secrets too. And while we admittedly eat up anything a celeb tells us about their regimen, we prefer hearing from women who don’t have 24-7 access to a glam squad.

So, if you’re hoping for a skin transformation of your own this spring, see how three 20-somethings finally beat their biggest skin struggles ahead.

More: 3 Millennials Share Their Go-To Workout Beauty Products

Name: Brettlin

Age: 27

Primary issue: Dryness

Routine: "For the majority of my life, I’ve had clear skin, but after puberty, I felt the need to develop a skin care regimen to combat dryness. After trying tons of products from Aveeno to St. Ives to Ambi (I had the worst reaction to their products), I stumbled upon Trader Joe’s skin care section! Now, my daily regimen is very simple, starting with Trader Joe’s Nourish All-in-One Facial Cleanser followed by a few spritzes of Trader Joe’s Rose Water toner and sealing it in with a little bit of Trader Joe’s Vitamin E Oil.

"I never would have guessed in a million years that their products would do the trick, but I love that my face is not too dry or not too oily as a result of them. Side note: Their Refresh Citrus Body Wash with Vitamin C and Coconut Body Butter are bomb.com! My skin is so soft all over and feels so good daily!"

More: 13 Subscription Boxes That Are Black Girl-Approved

Name: Danny

Age: 27

Primary issue: Adult Acne

Routine: "I started developing acne when I was 26… 26! It was awful. I was embarrassed and confused as to why this would happen to me going into my late 20s. I tried hundreds of dollars’ worth of products before I found ones that actually worked for me (also went vegan). I’m still dealing with a lot of hyperpigmentation and acne here and there, but it’s getting better. At night, I’m using Clear Skin Cleansing Bar ($24 at Urban Skin Rx).

"This stuff is amazing and formulated for women of color. It’s powerful, yet it doesn’t dry out my skin. I also love the eucalyptus smell; very calming after a long day. After that, I tone with Glossier Solution ($24 at various retailers). This toner has completely changed the texture of my skin. At first, I was scared at the idea of using an acid on my face nightly, but my skin really took to it. I’m running out of it, and I’m kinda freakin’ out.

"Next, I moisturize. I use Radha Rosehip Oil (14.95 at Radha Beauty). I found this on Amazon, and I’m so glad I did because it blends beautifully into my skin, leaving it hydrated and luminous. I have oily skin, so I was hesitant about using oil on my face, but this has helped balance out my skin’s oil production. I then spot-treat if I’m dealing with any breakouts. I use tea tree oil, usually from Trader Joe’s ($6.99) and De La Cruz Sulfur Ointment ($6.79 at Walgreens).

"They both work great at drying out those nasty pimples. About three times a week, I use a mask. It’s typically the same mask because I love it and it’s natural, which I’m all about, and it works at keeping my skin plump, clear and smooth — Stumbled Across Paradise Mask ($45 at Girl Undiscovered, but totally worth it). I found this when my sister left it at my mom’s house over Christmas.

"If I’m not wearing makeup that day, I don’t cleanse in the morning. I just don’t find it as necessary as I did when my face was extremely oily. If I am wearing makeup that day, I cleanse in the morning with my Urban Skin Rx bar and then tone with Thayers' Rose Petal Witch Hazel (yes, the one everyone uses and loves). I then moisturize with my rosehip oil (it sits nicely under makeup) and the final and most important step — sunscreen! I’m currently using Jack Black’s Oil-Free Sun Guard with SPF 45. Sunscreen is so important for those of us dealing with hyperpigmentation; don’t want those dark spots to get darker!"

More: 30 Iconic Black Beauty Moments We’ll Never Forget

Name: Dee Dee

Age: 29

Primary issue: Oily skin

Routine: "I exfoliate twice a week with a mixture of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda and Alaffia everyday shea-lavender body lotion. Then I wash my face with Alaffia body wash (shea butter and neem lavender) and use a dark-colored face cloth to lightly scrub off the soap. I have several rags, so I wash and replace my face rag two to three times a week. I replace all of my rags with new ones once or twice a year.

"I put the coconut oil around my eyes. I put Alaffia everyday shea-lavender body lotion to moisturize and Coppertone sunscreen lotion on top of that if I know I’m going to be in the sun for an extended period of time. At night, I put Garden of Life Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil all over my face and wipe it off with a damp face rag. After that, I put Dickinson’s witch hazel on either cotton balls or cotton pads and rub it all over my face and neck as an astringent. Lastly, I put on Alaffia everyday shea-lavender body lotion to moisturize."

Originally posted on StyleCaster.