Expert tips

Earlier today, we were pondering a profound (at least, I like to think it was) question: How important is it to practice what you preach? By this, I mean, do you care if the person giving you hair advice is bald? Or the makeup tips you're getting are coming from someone who, frankly, looks a bit disheveled?

I think it, obviously, depends on the situation. I know plenty of bald hairdressers whom I would still listen to because they spend their lives styling other people's hair. On the other hand, there are quite a few YouTube videos out there where women are giving decent advice (check out our faves here), but often they look like they just rolled out of bed or worse.

What do you think? Will you listen to a potentially good makeup tip no matter what state the person giving it is in? Or do you find beauty advice from un-put-together people a bit sketchy?

Read More »

You've probably seen the video -- Susan Boyle

shocks the judges and the world on "Britain's Got
Talent" with an amazing rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Miserables. Why so shocked? The truth? Because of her looks, ohhhh, and the wacky personal 411 she shared before taking the stage (like, I'm 40-something and never been kissed). So what's a star-in-the-making to do? Start with expert beauty tips. If Miss Boyle follows these mini makeover suggestions, she's sure to wow everyone -- even before singing a note.

Tip 1: We all need an expert brow shaping. Even if you plan to maintain the shape of your brows yourself with a kit like this, having an expert create the initial flattering (less caterpillar-like) shape is essential.

Tip 2: Find a haircut that flatters your face shape. Not sure what that style would be? Check out this guide.

Tip 3: A skin tone-flattering hair color can take years off your looks. Can't afford salon color? Try one of these reader-approved boxes. Oh, and don't forget to follow these tips when using it.

Tip 4: Master the art of contouring. If you're going to be photographed or perform onstage for millions of people, it's essential. Follow these steps to look like you've had plastic surgery -- without going anywhere near a needle or knife.

Tip 5: Bright lights plus pasty skin equals scary (especially in photos or on television). This is the reason why celebs are so self-tanner-obsessed. Use one of these tanning products to avoid looking like these oompa-loompa-orange celebrities.

• Even these stars needed makeovers before they became famous

• Want to transform your look? Get help here

• Hate makeovers, but love beauty products? Win a $5,000 Sephora shopping spree here

Read More »