Advice

Have some questions about make-up? Feel free to send Cait any inquiries you may have regarding any make-up or skin related issues to info@caitmizzi.com

Q: Is there a difference between moisturizer and primer?

A: There definitely is! A moisturizer is a complex mixture of natural or artificial ingredients specially designed to make the external layers of the skin or epidermis softer. This is done by increasing its water content externally (hydration). Some of the agents used to accomplish this may be oils, humectants, emollients or lubricants. Each of these may have additional effects on the skin. Such as creating barriers between pollution and our faces, repairing scaly irritated or dry skin and postponing the aging signs that we see in our skin as we grow older. The additional benefits of these agents may direct us toward the products we chose for our individual needs.

Now, although a primer may contribute to the soothing or protection of the skin it generally does not moisturize at all. A primer is used as the last step before foundation or any other make-up is applied. Primer will help in filling fine lines, pores, and softening the appearance of any other unwanted texture in the skin. In my opinion, this is one of the most important steps to achieving a flawless complexion.

Q: I have VERY oily skin and I find it really embarrassing, what can I do so that it looks less oily?

A: Well, let me start off by saying that you shouldn’t be too embarrassed by your oily skin! Oily skin actually ages much better then non oily skin! So be fortunate that you will look young well beyond your dry skinned peers!

As for decreasing the appearance of oils on the skin, don’t fret – you have many options!

Firstly, make sure that you are properly hydrated. Sometimes your skin can appear oily but is actually dehydrated. The pooling of oils on the surface is the natural way of your skin overcompensating for being thirsty. This re-hydration process can be done by consuming lots of water, and moisturizing.
Now, many people have naturally oily skin regardless of dehydration in the epidermis. Naturally oily skinned people should always attempt to purchase oil free products (I am sure that goes without saying).

Start off by using a great cleanser, an excellent option would be MAC Green Gel Cleanser. It is light weight, very refreshing and contains Algae and Cucumber extract that’s soothes and leaves the skin clean and protected. Continue moisturizing with an oil free moisturizer, I really like MAC Oil Control Lotion or Kiehl’s Facial Fuel SPF15. Then, when choosing a foundation try and pick something that will not add to the moisture on the surface of the skin. You may be more inclined to use a powder based foundation like MAC Studio Fix, but I do realize that this is not suited for everyone. If you require less coverage you could just apply MAC Select Sheer Pressed Powder for minimal coverage OR, for more coverage you may need a cream based foundation. This is fine, as long as you are setting it with a powder and absorbing the shine through out the day. This can be done by touching up with MAC Blot Powder (one of my absolute must haves) and carrying a pad of MAC Blot Film around with you. These are so handy! They come in small sheets that you literally soak up the shine with. They will not disturb or alter your make-up through out the day and are perfect for on the go woman AND men.

Follow those steps, and you will be on the road to matte in no time!