Some holiday makeup tips to keep you and your skin looking FABULOUS:

Brush Cleaning:
You should clean your brushes once per week. Not cleaning your brushes can lead to blemishes and skin issues. I use the Bobbi Brown Conditioning Brush Cleanser which is only $16.50. You can also use mild household liquid soap, like baby shampoo.

• Squeeze a small amount of cleanser into palm of hand and wipe wet brush in palm to pick up cleanser. Gently massage cleanser through bristles, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a towel and shape as needed. Lay brush on a counter edge to dry.

Makeup Expiration:
Did you know makeup has a shelf life? Are you like me, and guilty of refusing to throw away those perfect shades? Using old makeup is bad for your skin! Go through those makeup bags…

• Lipstick: 1 year
• Eye makeup: 3 months
• Blush: 6 months
• Nail polish: 2 years (if stored properly)

Sharpening Liners:
Before sharpening your eyeliner or lip pencil, place it in the freezer for around 10 minutes. It will harden slightly and not break when sharpened. And here’s a bonus: Use an old toothbrush to clean out your sharpener.

Scars & Blemishes:
Lingering skin imperfections? Try tea tree oil. It has been proven to help reduce the appearance of scars and help clear up blemishes.

Lipstick on Teeth:
This seasons dark lip makes this an especially important tip. After applying lipstick, make an “O” shape with your lips, put your index finger halfway into your mouth and slowly pull out, letting your lips roll over the finger. Any excess color will glide onto your finger and not on your teeth.

Extra Soft Lips:
Want extra-soft, kissable lips? Use your toothbrush and brush your lips slightly before bed, add lip balm and awake with smooth lips.

Maximize Your Eye Shape:

• Small Eyes: Avoid using too much shadow or liner — heavy color will weigh your eyes down. To give a bright, open appearance, apply a light color onto your eyelids, use a darker color in the crease and use a highlighter under the brow.
• Round Eyes: Make eyes longer by using color all around and extending toward the outer corners. Use mascara on top and bottom lashes to create sharper, longer lines.
• Hooded Eyes: To reduce a heavy appearance, apply light colors onto your lids. Use darker colors from the center of the eyelid to the outer corners and blend.
• Large Eyes: Make your eyes pop by wearing a darker shadow on the lid and extending to the crease. Use a flat color under the brow to highlight.