How to Apply Conditioning Products

For the best results, keep your skin in great condition!

Many of the problems we blame on our makeup – it looks blotchy or it looks cakey, – are really caused by poor skin condition. A healthy diet, plenty of rest, drinking lots of water, and consistent skin care can give you the glowing complexion you’re looking for. Follow these easy steps to great looking skin:

1. Cleanse your face
A thorough cleansing is a must for keeping your skin in great condition. A gentle cleansing solution or bar is best — avoid harsh detergents that will strip the oil from your skin and leave it tight and dry. Always be sure to remove all traces of makeup before bedtime.

2. Exfoliate your skin
Gently exfoliate every day to make your skin as smooth as possible before you apply your makeup. There are many different ways to exfoliate including scrubs, masks and glycolics or AHAs. Be sure to use a scrub that contains microscopic beads, which will roll gently over your skin to remove dead, flaky skin cells without scratching or irritating. Don’t use anything that feels sharp or rough on your face!

You can use a mask several times per week to loosen layers of dead, flaky skin. Again, don’t try to use anything too harsh or you are likely to get irritated skin instead of the healthy glow you are seeking!

Glycolic acid or fruit acid creams can be used to exfoliate your skin overnight. After thorough cleansing, apply these creams to your face avoiding the delicate area around your eyes. NEVER use any glycolic or fruit acid creams near your eyes! The cream will gradually dissolve dead skin cells to reveal new skin underneath. If you have never used an acid before, mix it half and half with your favorite moisturizer for about one week before using it full strength.

You may find that when you begin exfoliating there will be lots of flaking skin at first. As time goes on, and your skin condition improves, you should not have to exfoliate as often to keep your skin silky smooth.

3. Toning
After cleansing and exfoliating, you may want to use a toner to close your pores and prepare your skin for makeup. There are many different types of toners to choose — but be sure to avoid toners containing alcohol, which can dry your skin.

4. Moisturizer
After cleansing and exfoliating, you should always apply a moisturizer. A moisturizer does not have to be heavy to work well. In fact, it should absorb into the skin rather than laying on top. Linda’s Cream Gel Moisturizer is ideal to wear under Natural Cover because it absorbs quickly and is never greasy. If you choose to use another kind of moisturizer, be sure it does not contain large amounts of oil, or it may interfere with your Natural Cover application.

5. Eye Area
Skin around the eyes requires special attention to keep it wrinkle free and moisturized, since there are no oil glands in this area to provide natural moisture. There are many kinds of creams to choose from — some are suitable for day wear, and others are more heavy and concentrated making them ideal for night time moisturizing. Choose an oil-free cream if you would like to wear it with Natural Cover during the day.

6. T-zone
For some of us, the skin on the forehead, nose and chin (“the T-zone”) may be oily while the rest of the skin is dry. If may be best for you to avoid applying moisturizer to this area prior to applying Natural Cover. However, make sure to exfoliate regularly to keep this skin in tip top condition. Before you apply your makeup, you may want to try Oil Control Complex. Just a few drops will help control “oil break-through” in problem areas.