If you're 25 and reading this don't go away mad, just go away...young and beautiful. It's not that these five emergency beauty tips can't be helpful, but rather, you possess some advantages - say collagen, for example - and probably don't need to look more youthful.
Then again, in all fairness, women of all ages work rather hard - I'm looking at you, especially, moms - whereas age plays little role regarding the establishment of - or lack thereof - a healthy beauty routine.
Personally, while I have been able to help others look their best, I have had times in my life where an anti-aging beauty routine meant I ditched my ponytail and sweats to meet the unspoken dress code standards at a Chinese buffet restaurant.
But whether it's Ms. Murphy's Law or not, it's during these times of utter glamor neglect that an important event arises - say a wedding - or when an important person enters your life suddenly - one whom you want to look your best for (high school sweetheart anyone?).
It is with these panic-stricken moments in mind that the following emergency age-busting beauty tips can help.
Exfoliate your skin: If there is one beauty product I can't live without it is my Olay® Regenerist Microdermabrasion kit. It's the next best thing to a spa facial and erases years off of my Irish sun-sensitive skin. Note that if you are prone to breakouts or have sensitive skin it's best to test the product well in advance of a hot date.
Use age-defying makeup: Many brilliant choices are available for women today in regards to anti-aging cosmetics. To minimize wrinkles, beat dark circles, and conquer uneven skin tone, I use:
* Maybelline - Instant Age Rewind ® Eraser Treatment Makeup
* Physicians Formula: CoverToxTen50™
* Almay Bright Eyes ™ equivalent concealer and eyeshadow
* Bronzing powder (optional)
The first two products can get me to pass for a 30-something quite nicely - taking at least a decade off of my appearance. Optimally use an anti-aging and firming moisturizer prior. L'Oreal Advanced RevitaLift ® Double Lifting Intense Re-Tightening Gel & Anti-Wrinkle Treatment happens to provide instant gratification.
As far as undereye concealer, - Almay discontinued the Bright Eyes ™ line - look for a product designed to combat your particular problem and learn proper application or it simply won't work.
See your hair stylist: This is an essential trip if your tresses have been neglected. I recommend banishing signs of dry and brittle hair foremost - to include cut, conditioning and shine treatments. If you're less than 25% gray, consider highlights; if more, select a flattering hair color or make the most of your silver locks by eliminating yellow tones and dullness. Also, here is my secret weapon product for youthful looking hair: Hask® Pure Shine® Spray-On Luminator.
Color me beautiful: Raise your virtual hand if your a fan of Carole Jackson's revolutionary book and timeless beauty classic, Color Me Beautiful. While you might be able to nab a copy of the 1987 publication - a worthwhile endeavor - you can establish your season, makeup and clothing color recommendations online .
Meanwhile, the main goal here is to avoid colors that enhance flaws. Black may be slimming but it also accentuates age in many people. Pure white can wash away a healthy glow. Until you learn more about color analysis, grab an honest friend - one with a sense of style, please - for feedback.
Glow and smile: What they don't teach much of in beauty school is how to best achieve a natural glow and sparkle - the quintessential hallmarks of youth. While we can't reasonably undo life's stresses in a day, we can get the blood pumping and our minds in a better place be it from music, sex, exercise, a roller coaster ride, or any other passion. Engage. Just know that youth doesn't lie in a bottle or cookie jar. Immerse yourself in beauty, laughter and love on your special day to best combat the effects of age.
