DEAR SHOPPING: My daughter is turning 13 and will be allowed to wear makeup soon. We want her to have a fresh appearance and not be too overdone. We also are looking for a makeup line that is kind to her skin. What do you recommend?
– Penny, Sacramento
DEAR PENNY: First things first. Your daughter needs healthy skin before using makeup. She should be using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (Cetaphil is good). It also comes in an anti-bacterial formula if she has occasional breakouts. And she needs sunscreen – at least SPF 30. Teaching her to care for her skin is more important than the makeup she's wearing.
I recommend she keep her initial makeup routine simple: a stick foundation only for covering a blemish because she really doesn't need an overall foundation. You could opt for a tinted moisturizer because it's lighter. Stay away from bright eyeshadows and lipsticks. They look garish (on just about any age). Sheer blushers or "stains" impart a natural color to cheeks, and lip gloss or a tinted lip balm is better than a lipstick. Mascara is OK, but maybe just for special occasions.
You can always go to a department store or Sephora and have a makeup artist do her makeup, but she needs to be able to do it herself. So simple and less expensive are good ways to start. Some lines to consider: Mark by Avon's C-Thru-U Beautifying Sheer Tint for face ($8), Neutrogena's Moisture Shine Tinted Lip Balm SPF 20 ($7.49), CoverGirl LashExact mascara ($7.49) and – for a splurge because it lasts a really long time – Tarte Cheek Stain ($28). Most of the products are available at drugstores; the cheek stain at Sephora.
DEAR SHOPPING: I have been looking for Revlon ColorStay eye and lip makeup remover for several months. I wonder if Revlon has stopped making it or is making a replacement product.
– Lorain, Sacramento
DEAR LORAIN: I checked with the Revlon consumer hotline, and the ColorStay remover has been discontinued. Unfortunately, there is no substitute within the Revlon line. The representative suggested Almay Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover Liquid or the Almay Oil-Free Makeup Remover Towelettes, each $5.99.
Send questions to Shopping for Answers, P.O. Box 15779, Sacramento, CA 95852, or e-mail shopping@sacbee.com.
