#Beauty/Cosmetics

How far would you go to have that look?

And what is the occasion that deserves the extra time and care?

A lot of us only think of looking our best to please others. Sometimes as soon as you put make-up on you hear some friend ask if you have a new boyfriend or about leaving your partner.

Loving yourself requires taking time to pamper yourself, search for the make-up that suits you and applying them with care. My mother taught me that looking my best was important as part of my self-worth.

In choosing make-ups, go for those that enhance different skin tones and does not cake-up when exposed to the moisture in the air but blends into the skin, improving look and appearance.

#Shop around for quality

Make-up just like skin care products require care and thoughtful decisions when you are purchasing. Quality does not mean high price. There are many products in the market and with the internet, it's easy to make a good choice. One thing I have learned is that when you leave the shopping till last minute because there's an occasion to attend, you are likely to end up with what might not after a second thought look right for your skin type. For example Europeans and Africans have multiple skin textures and tones, meaning that what suits 'A' might not suit 'B.'

There are professional Beauticians that also advice and help make good choices. Sometimes they expect you to book for consultation.

#Make careful considerations

Most of us purchase products without thinking how it might affect us.

• Do you have skin allergies that you should consider?

• Will the product look good in a hot temperature or very cold days?

• What is your skin type?

• Is your skin blemished which could affect the finished look after application, because you have spent unnecessarily time trying to cover the blemish?

• How is your daily skin routine to help improve texture and appearance.

• Do you use products that are right for your cleansing regime?

• What benefit are you hoping for?

These and many more are worth considering to avoid damage to your skin and feel good about yourself without using products that make you look like someone else. Never expose your eyes or skin to harsh products.

Cosmetics/make-up should enhance your looks and promote confidence and beauty.

Also with the right products you are able to get the look you want without relying on a professional to help you look your best each time.

#Looking good does not mean layers

Most of us think that to look good, we must put layers and layers of make-up. This could with time have adverse effect on the skin as it makes it difficult for the skin to breath leading to blemishes.

Sometimes having the right frame of mind is what we need so as not to over-rely on make-up to super-charge and change us into this new person we have been dreaming.

Before relaxing and making decision for a product ask for samples if possible. Apply when nowhere to go and get used to seeing yourself wear it.

#Careful choice and patience is needed

I remember the first time I bought waterproof mascara, I soon realised it was not for me as I used to suffer from hay-fever. It made my eyes itch and once the problem was identified, I stooped using it. Besides, with sensitive eyes it required cleansing regime that made the allergy worse.

Decision to look good should not outweigh concerns for health and safety.