Chicago Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist - Ann Marie
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Tips: Acne/Blemishes

Q: Eek! I have a major zit and tomorrow I have to be onstage for a Miss Teen USA event. I need a quick fix – any suggestions?

A: Nothing is quite so bothersome as an unexpected bout of acne when you have a special event or important appearance to make. A good skin care regimen will do wonders for your skin tone. Being sure to remove makeup, cleanse and moisturize every evening before bed will help prevent nasty breakouts and clogged pores.

However, when you are in a zit predicament, here are some reliable steps to take to ensure that your skin appears clean and clear. It is always important, when applying makeup, to start with a clean, well-moisturized face. Take extra precaution to moisturize fully if you have applied any acne medication the evening before. It is a good idea not to apply any additional acne medication (that will further dry your skin) when preparing yourself the morning of a big event.

The best way to conceal a blemish is to start by covering the affected spot with a foundation that is about 1 shade lighter than your skin tone, being sure to blend very gently, so as not to rub the foundation into your skin. When you have applied this foundation, you may be able to see quite clearly where the foundation is in contrast to your skin. Follow this application with your regular shade of foundation, being sure to gently pat this foundation on the affected area, blending it into the first layer.

Powder and apply your additional makeup. If the blemish is really dark or difficult to conceal, try using a second layer of powder or a foundation that has some thickness to it, such as a full-coverage foundation stick or emollient-based foundation. This can be an especially helpful trick if you are appearing onstage or at any distance from the people you most want to impress. Stage lighting tends to be more forgiving of minor skin imperfections. Don’t forget, however, if you are appearing for a face-to-face interview, it’s important that your makeup appears glamorous and flawless. It’s easy to overdo it, so be sure to try these applications at home first.

If acne blemishes become a regular nuisance, it’s best to contact a dermatologist and see what they can do for you. Many will suggest topical remedies that can clear your skin within weeks and keep it clear for good. Rest assured, blemishes happen to everyone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fool them into thinking they don’t happen to you!

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