Hey Mary,

-Jenna

Hi Jenna,

It's nice to hear from someone your age! Teenage girls glow with youth and beauty, and so does their skin. For teenagers, makeup should be used to enhance natural beauty, not to take its place. So, young women out there, when you start wearing makeup, keep it simple. Don't overdo it; you're beautiful as you are! I know you want to look your best, so these tips can help you make the most of your youthful beauty:

• Before applying any makeup, use a quality cleanser and moisturizer for your face.

I recommend Lavanya Sunbrella moisturizer because it includes an SPF of 30 that you can wear all day long and will protect your skin from the sun. Even though you're young, now is the best time to start taking care of your skin.

• Then, begin with a quality concealer to cover any blemishes, such as acne, scars, or other imperfections.
• Most teenage girls do not need foundation. However, you can use foundation if desired to even out the skin tones of your face. Again, use a quality product, especially if you are prone to oily skin. When choosing a foundation, experiment to find a color that is as close as possible to your natural skin tone. As you apply the foundation, use primarily upward motions. Make sure that the foundation is applied evenly (especially check the jaw line!), and gently blend the foundation, especially around the edges, for a natural look.
• Dust on a light coat of powder to reduce shine, particularly on areas such as the nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin.
• When choosing blush colors, stay with light pinks and peaches that will look natural and complement your natural skin tone. Gently blend with an applicator or a cotton ball.
• Lip color should also be a natural light pink or similar shade, which will enhance your youthful appearance. Lip gloss also looks great!
• Eyeliner is generally not necessary, but if you do want to use it, carefully line the lashes with a subtle black or gray. Then, gently smudge the line for a natural look.
• Use only a light coat of mascara if desired to accentuate your eyes. Black and brown are the most common shades.
• For eye shadow, many colors can work well. Experiment to determine what you like. The most natural shades are again pink and peach, but light blues, purples, and browns can also look great.

Learning the art of cosmetology can be a bit tricky at first, but you'll get the hang of it. Be patient with yourself, and don't worry if you make a mistake. You'll be a pro in no time! Just remember, most important is the beauty that comes from within—the beauty that comes from you being you. Makeup simply adds to that beauty.