Dear Lucy,
For the longest time, I had acne on my face. Over the past year though, I switched dermatologists and I am responding very well to the treatment my new derma has prescribed. The cystic acne is all gone. I am so happy and so much more confident now. The only thing left for me to fret about is the marks. They are not deep, but I am bothered about how red they still are. I want to know what can be done to make them completely disappear and, more importantly, what foundation will give my skin natural but full coverage. I don’t want to look like I have makeup on, I just want to look flawless.
Eliza Rose
I am very glad to hear that you are now enjoying smooth skin after having cystic acne for a long time! Although it may sound shallow, a smooth complexion is a confidence booster. I think you will benefit a lot from IPL. Please ask your dermatologist about it. After I had given birth and I was working on removing all the red marks brought about by pregnancy acne, IPL was my best friend. When I completed the series of sessions, the red marks had faded significantly. To make the journey to being flawless more graceful, use Bobbi Brown foundation stick (available at Rustan’s Makati). I love it because it covers so well but looks so natural. I prefer to put just a light dusting of loose powder instead of pressed powder that has a tendency to make skin look dry and cakey when used over foundation. You can also try loose mineral foundation, it covers very well, but skin looks naturally dewy.
Lucy
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Bye-bye, dry hair!
Dear Ms. Tingting,
What product would you recommend to moisturize dry hair? Any product that’s best for removing mascara at night?
Shelley
For dry hair, use Phyto 7 Creme de Jour Hydrant Aux 7 Plantes or you can try putting a little amount of Suave on dry ends of your hair.
I suggest you take plenty of vitamin C that helps in the development of healthy collagen, which is necessary to hold body tissues together. Vitamin C deficiency can cause split ends and hair breakage, which are easily reversible with increased or normal vitamin C levels. Take 500 mg. of ester-C in the morning and 500 mg. more at night.
For removing mascara, Lancome’s Bi-Facil Instant Cleanser for eyes (available at Rustan’s) is best or you can use Johnson’s Baby Oil, which is readily available in any store.
Tingting
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‘I wanna be a model’
Dear Rissa,
I’m a fourth year high school student and I’m planning to get into modeling. I’ve been complimented on my good height and good looks so I feel I have potential. I want to do ramp or print modeling, and hopefully some commercials. I’m planning to sign up soon with an agency. Since you’ve been modeling for a long time already, maybe you can give me advice and share things you’ve learned through the years. What should an aspiring model like me keep in mind if she seriously wants to get into modeling? What traits or kind of behavior should I possess to do well on the job? Also, I’ve never been to a casting or go-see. What advice can you give if I get rejected for work?
Erica
First, take good care of yourself. Models have the license to be vain. After all, your looks will be your source of income. Invest in a healthy lifestyle — religiously care for and pamper your skin, visit your dermatologist, work out regularly, eat healthy food but know how to reward yourself with sweets and treats, drink moderately, and avoid smoking. Remember, your face is the makeup artists’ canvas and your body is the mannequin that will give life to the designers’ clothes. For models, consistently looking good is not an option; it’s an expected responsibility.
Promise yourself to finish school. Although modeling is seen as a glamorous profession, it can only take you so far. It’s important to invest in quality education and never stop school just to model. It’s sad how some models today completely set aside their studies. They should realize they can’t depend on modeling forever. Models have a lifespan of eight to 10 years, so you have to prepare yourself for a more stable second career.
It’s also very important to seek your parents’ approval. These are the same people who will be your best and worst critics and will support and guide you, whether you succeed or fail.
It’s also essential to capitalize on individuality. Don’t copy or try to be/look like another model. Create your own look, your own walk, your own trademark. Be original. Stick to who you are, capitalize on your uniqueness as an individual to establish your identity as a model.
Develop and possess the following:
1. Confidence. If you have no faith in yourself and can’t convince yourself you’re a model, you certainly can’t convince others.
2. Punctuality. It is said that whether you’re a model, an actor, a journalist, a doctor or a businessman, being on time is the first sign of professionalism. But keep in mind that being a professional model isn’t just about being on time.
3. Dedication. Always seek to improve and update yourself. There will always be a newer and better model every day. You have to possess a dynamic quality and constantly reinvent yourself. Fashion is always changing, so should you.
4. Passion. You have to love what you do. If you don’t, you’re in the wrong industry.
5. Humility. The moment you let fame get to you, that’s the end of your career. Your success is not yours alone. Remember, your career was beautifully choreographed with the help of directors, designers, producers, magazine editors, makeup artists, photographers, and many more. Know how to be grateful.
Lastly, never take rejection personally. Rejection doesn’t always mean you aren’t good enough or pretty enough. You simply might not have had the look they were looking for. There will always be a right project for you. Wishing you all the best and good luck!
Rissa
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Send e-mail to tingtingcojuangco@yahoo.com, ltg@pldtdsl.com, and stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com