skin and makeup library

Skin and makeup have an interesting relationship because certain makeup, while improving your skin's outward appearance, actually harms it at the same time. This section covers everything to do with the relationship between skin and makeup.

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5 Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics

Like us, the Egyptians used cosmetics to accentuate beauty and to protect skin from the harsh climate. What perfumes, soaps and makeup did they use?

5 Iconic Cosmetics

Certain cosmetics, just by their name or signature packaging, entered our childhoods and came to symbolize the very essence of femininity and beauty. We've got five famous products that have set themselves apart from the pretty-making pack.

Can I become addicted to lip balm?

Constant use of lip balm is a very real part of many people's lives. But is lip-balm addiction a valid medical condition?

Could I be allergic to makeup?

You were so excited to get that bronzer as a gift with purchase with your new mascara. But every time you use it, your face itches like mad. Could you be allergic to your new makeup?

Fact or Fiction: Lip Plumpers

So -- you'd like to look more Angelina Jolie-ish, but you don't want to get injections in your lips. There's a huge variety of over-the-counter lip plumpers out there. The jury is still out on how well they work, but they could be worth a try.

How does makeup affect your skin?

Most of the time, makeup doesn't have any major negative effects -- other than maybe the early-morning frustration of applying it. However, it could cause a few skin reactions.

How does wrinkle-minimizing makeup work?

Wrinkling is a natural part of the human aging process, but that doesn't stop people from trying to keep skin smooth and youthful. Although there are many lifestyle choices that can reduce wrinkles, people also turn to makeup as a solution.

How Eyelash Bars Work

There are times when a few simple strokes of mascara just won’t cut it, and you just need something more theatrical and glamorous. When you want a little makeup fakery, head to the eyelash bar -- where eyelashes, not cocktails, are on the menu.

How Lip Enhancement Works

Women have been using color to increase the visual impact of their lips for hundreds of years. But now color isn't enough -- women want fuller lips, too. What's the answer to this beauty quest?

How Lip Plumpers Work

Luscious lips are a big business -- just take a look at Angelina Jolie. For the rest of womankind's mere mortals, cosmetics are a popular way to achieve a plumper pout.

How Lipstick Works

Nothing can brighten up a woman's (or a man's) face quite so fast as a little slick of lipstick. But if crushed beetle shells mixed with wax aren't your thing, we can teach you how to make your own.

How much is too much when it comes to makeup?

There's a fine line between just enough and too much makeup. But knowing where that line falls can be tough.

How Natural Cosmetics Work

Cosmetic labels printed with botanicals and promises of ingredients that are "all-natural," "organic" or "inspired by nature" might seem promising. But what's inside the bottles?

How Nude Makeup Works

The simplistic look of nude makeup is a classic that rarely goes out of style. Learn tips and tricks for letting your natural beauty shine.

How often should I reapply my makeup?

Before you leave for work, you probably spend some time in front of the mirror so that you leave looking fresh and flawless. But by lunchtime, a glance in the mirror reveals the staying power of your makeup leaves something to be desired.

How Stage Makeup Works

No matter what part you're playing, stage makeup helps you look your best. But how do you know what type of makeup to use, and how much? As it turns out, it's a bit of an art and a science.

How to Brighten a Dull Complexion

Your complexion says a lot about your health and mood -- a bright one means health, happiness and good rest, whereas a dull one tells people that you're tired and worn out. But a little research can reveal a few tricks to combat a dull complexion.

How to Choose the Right Bronzer

The paradox of a suntan -- it makes you look healthier, but it's actually unhealthy for you. Get that sun-kissed glow from a bronzer, instead. A good bronzer can make you look like you've spent time in the sun even when you haven't.

How to Create Smokey Eyes

Take a look in any fashion magazine and you'll probably notice many of the models inside with dark, mysterious eyes. Just how did they get that smokey eye look?