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Beauty Advice: When Less is More

Sometimes in our quest to realize our most beautiful selves, we make a few mistakes and overdo the simplest things. Whether it's overuse of a beauty product or taking too much from here or there, these blunders are just enough to undermine our best intentions. Below are ten scenarios when the "less is more" philosophy should apply to our beauty routine.

1. Makeup

If you apply makeup with a heavy hand, you'll look overdone and perhaps "cheap." Besides, too much foundation and powder tends to accentuate fine lines and wrinkles; something we'd rather hide.

2. Haircut

If you ever remember asking for a trim and walking out with
a full-fledged haircut, you can relate to this one. You will
only get your money's worth if you choose a stylist that
respects your wishes and follows directions precisely.

3. Eyebrows

Over-plucking eyebrows is one beauty blunder that takes a
long time to fix. Set your guide and pluck unwanted hairs
with caution. Whatever the technique, it's much easier to
trim it down than grow in sparse areas.

4. Face Cream

Slathering on moisturizing or anti-aging face cream too
often is not beneficial. Most likely, you will end up with
clogged pores and breakouts, which may cause permanent
scarring. Of course, less is more and you'll save money
when you apply just enough on a damp face.

5. Acne Medications

Similar to using face creams, too much of a good thing can
cause a "rebound" effect. Use directions for acne medications as a general guide and customize to fit your own needs.

6. Hair Care Products

If, while on the mission to combat frizz and mold your hair
into the perfect hairstyle, you apply every styling product
you can get your hands on, your hair will look heavy, dirty
and lackluster. It's best to stick with only two products --
and that includes hairspray.

7. Manicures and Pedicures

Cutting fingernails and toenails too short not only hurts,
it often leads to ingrown nails. Worse yet, is biting them
to the nail bed. If you're a do-it-yourself kind of gal,
resist the urge to cut them too short. If you need to start
anew, even them up to the shortest nail only if it's of
reasonable length. Otherwise, leave the others a little
longer until the shorter one catches up.

8. Cosmetic Surgery

Fixing what you perceive is a flaw is one thing, but
becoming a plastic surgery junkie is scary indeed. Every
surgery has risks and the results may not be what you
anticipated. All you need to do is take a look at aging
celebrities. Some of them must regret going overboard!

9. Sunless Tan

Acquiring a tan sans sun is smart, however, too much of a
good thing looks artificial and tacky. Use sunless tanning
lotions in moderation and get an airbrush tan for special
occasions. Always check the results in natural light before
heading out the door.

10. Hair Color

There's nothing wrong with a dramatic change if your new
hair color compliments your skin tone. Sometimes though,
the change is too drastic. If you're concerned, try doing
it in steps with semi-permanent haircolor until you find
the perfect shade.