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Natural sponges should be thoroughly rinsed, wrung, and left to air-dry. They should be replaced when they begin to break down and shred, about every nine months to a year. Synthetic sponges should be well rinsed and drained. Bacterial invasion is not such a problem with these, germs don't breed as readily in artificial fibers. These should be replaced when they don't rinse well. It's easy to overdo it with a synthetic sponge. There are ones formulated to be gentle (they're labeled that way), but even these should be used with lots of water and cleanser to protect the skin from abrasion.

Skin-type recommendations----They are especially useful for oily and nonsensitive faces, for they effectively remove dead skin cell buildup. Sensitive, easily irritated faces should not use cleansing brushes and sponges, a fingertip lathering is adequate for good cleansing of sensitive skin.

# How to Choose a Moisturizer #

(1) Don't be swayed by the price tag. Price is not a reliable guide to the quality of a moisturizer. Outrageously expensive ones are not necessarily any better than inexpensive ones. In fact, some of the low-cost body lotions are fine facila moisturizers. What counts is how well you like the product.
(2) Read the ingredients label. As you know, ingredients are listed on the label in order of descending concentration. The ingredients near the start of the list represent the largest percentage of the product. If you know your skin is sensitive to a certain ingredient, try to look for products that either do not contain the offending chemical or list it near the bottom of the list of ingredients on the package.

In general, avoid these ingredients at the top of the ingredients list if you are acne-prone:
Beeswax and other waxes; Isopropyl palmitate; Isopropyl mysristate; Oleic acid; Stearic acid; Mineral oil; Lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol; Hydrous wool fat; Petrolatum; Spermaceti, also listed as "synthetic"; Butyl stearate; Ammonium lactate; Linseed, sesame, olive oil; Sorbitol.
Avoid the following if you have sensitive skin:
Preservataives (parabens); Lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol; Hydrous wool fat; Fragrances and scents; Propylene glycol.

# Guidelines for Using an Overnight Moisturizer #

Use one if you wish. Do not use one if you tend to have acne breakouts. Don't feel you have to use a moisturizer specifically labeled for such a purpose, your day moisturizer may work just fine. An overnight moisturizer doesn't have to be greasy; a light one is certainly adequate (especially if you've got a humidifier going) and may be more cosmetically acceptable. It may save you from having to wash grease stains off your pillowcase! Finally, don't feel compelled to spend big money for an expensive overnight product. Inexpensive ones may be just as good gor your skin. Want something heavy, "rich", and not at all pricey? Try cold cream.

# Tips for Powder Perfection #

(1) Opt for loose rather than pressed powders. A loose powder contains more air, so it's easier to apply lightly. Pick one that is labeled "translucent", it lets your natural skin color show through. You'll use less, and less is healthier for skin.
(2) Apply with clean soft brush, soft so it doesn't irritate skin and clean because a buildup of skin oils on bristles can cause the powder to turn an off color. Needless to say, brushes should be stored in a makeup bag, not let loose in a purse, and should never be lent or borrowed, as infections can be spread.
(3) Apply powder with sweeping motions, from the center of the face out toward the hairline.
(4) Finish by buffing away the excess. To achieve a delicate, transparent effect, take a clean brush or cotton ball and gently smooth over the powder with small circular motions.
(5) For pressed powders, press the powder into place; don't rub a puff over the skin. Don't store the puff in the compact; skin oils can accumulate and turn powder an off color. Best to toss the puff and use cotton balls.

# Cosmetic Camouflage--How to Hide what You Hate #

Makeup not only plays up great skin, it can help conceal skin flaws and transient facial crises. Here's a rundown of the most common:
(1) Undereye Circles----Use a concealer (a cream or stick product that is more opaque than foundation) in a shade lighter than your skin (or foundation). Don't cover the whole undereye area, this may only accentuate the problem. Apply only to the dark circle, using a small flat brush, then apply foundation.
(2) Large Pores----Less makeup is the key to minimizing large pores. Apply a sheer matte foundation and blend it subtly, using a wedge sponge. Top with loose translucent powder. Be sure to buy a finemilled powder. A coarse one can exaggerate pore size. Test powder by rubbing it between the thumb and index finger, a finely milled product should feel silky, with no distinct graininess.
(3) Acne----Disguise a blemish by dabbing on a medicated coverup. Be sure to dab the coverup right on the very top of the pimple, not the surrounding tissue. On unblemished skin, these medicated products cause dryness and flakiness, more unsightliness. Then cover with foundation. Don't use a regular concealer, the oils contained in it could make the blemish worse.
(4) Acne Scars----Light casts shadows in the depressions left by acne or other injuries. Use a stick concealer and gently roll the color into the skin depression. Smooth out with foundation. Or mix a bit of loose powder into your usual foundation for a matte, heavier makeup. Spot-apply to scars. Keep makeup finishes matte, luminescent finishes can highlight imperfections.