The gold standard in hair removal
HI, Ms. Rissa!
My 12-year-old daughter is so conscious of her underarm hair. I can’t advise her on what to do with it because I have no hair in my armpit. I do not know which is safe and convenient for tweenagers these days. Please help me decide by discussing the many types of hair removal and their effects. How about IPL or laser? Wax removal? Or the use of razor blade? Jesilyn Tadeo
I also remember the first time I was conscious of body hair. As a teen, I first opted for shaving. It’s quick, inexpensive, and easy to do at home. All you need are quality razors and shaving cream. The downside to it is it doesn’t last too long and stubbles reappear quickly. There’s also the possibility of nicks, cuts, and irritation on the skin.
Waxing is another option. This makes use of sticky resin that binds to the hair, which is then pulled out at the root. It costs more than shaving, but hair-free results can last over two weeks and all you need is a wax strip kit. Waxing can cause pain and soreness, so for first-timers, it’s best if you have this done at the salon so that you’re in the hands of professionals.
I’ve tried both shaving and waxing. For many years, these were my staple hair-removal methods. It was only recently that I tried laser hair removal and to be honest, I’m wishing very hard I did it ages ago! It may cost so much more than waxing or shaving, but results are so worth it! I opted to try it before my wedding. I was first undecided where to have it done, but my friends who already tried laser hair removal recommended I go to Skin Dermatology and Laser Center at The Spa, Bonifacio High Street at the Fort, Taguig (look for Dr. Raissa Francisco-Pasion. For inquiries and appointments call 403-8000 or 0917-8092399). Funny thing is, they did not have their laser done there, but they wished they had gone there! Apparently, the machine they use at Skin is the gold standard for hair reduction. Even a dermatologist (who offered her own laser services in her clinic) said it was indeed the gold standard.
I am so happy I went to Skin at The Spa. The diode laser for hair reduction was safe and fast. Both my underarms would take less than 30 minutes and there was no downtime. You can easily resume regular activities. As for the ouch factor, I think waxing even hurts more than laser! In as little as two sessions, I already saw results. I was not completely hair-free, but I could see bald spots. For optimal results, six to eight sessions are required. Treatments are spaced out to every three to four weeks so now is the best time to have your underarms done so you’ll be hair-free in time for summer. I was honestly so happy with the diode laser results for my underarms that I am now having my legs done. RISSA
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Pants can be downright flattering
Pant-astic: The boot cut is universally flattering. Make sure the length can accommodate your heels and get a structured cut.Photo from www.customdresspants.com Dear Lucy,
I want to wear pants to work, but I am not so tall. Should I just stick to skirts and dresses?
Andie
I love wearing pants! I think that especially when you’ve chosen the right cut and material, pants are lengthening and downright flattering! I wish I knew what your body type is, but generally speaking, the boot cut is universally flattering. Make sure the length can accommodate your heels and get a structured cut. Locally, Randy Ortiz makes the best pants. The rise is also an important factor to consider. Unless you are very fit in the mid-section, do not get a very low rise. Best to choose a mid rise so that your waist is contoured and you have the freedom of wearing a tailored or relaxed top tucked into it. Cinch the look with a sleek belt and edit your accessories well. For work, nothing too much all at one time. Lucy
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Brushing up on makeup
Make Up 101: Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual teaches you how to do makeup techniques, from the basic (like how to apply the perfect base) to the more advanced (like smoky eyes). Hi, Regina!
I’ve never really worn makeup before, but I’d like to start. What’s a good way to learn?
Nina
Starting with the basics is your best bet. Get a good blush (peachy pink shades are universally flattering), pick up some lipstick or lip gloss of your choice, learn to curl your lashes (the Shu Uemura eyelash curler is a cult fave, and it lasts practically forever), then learn how to apply mascara without getting it all over your lids. Once you’ve got that down, you’ve got more than enough to go by day to day. Eyeliner’s the next step up the makeup ladder. (It’s harder than it looks, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to do it even in the car.)
Most learn by trial and error, and YouTube tutorials can be pretty helpful. You’ll eventually learn how to work your unique facial features and develop your preferred application techniques as you go along. (I still apply eye shadow with my fingers like I did when I first started experimenting with it in my teens, even though I own tons of brushes. To each her own!)
If you want to get ahead of the grade curve, though, one thing I’d suggest is to pick up a practical book on makeup by a professional. Some of my favorite beauty books are by celebrity makeup artist Bobbi Brown. Her books, like Makeup Manual, Beauty Rules, and Pretty Powerful, explain color selection and teach you how to do makeup techniques, from the basic (like how to apply the perfect base) to the more advanced (like smoky eyes). And her instructions are applicable for whatever makeup you own. As a bonus, the books aren’t just about makeup. They also cover topics on health, confidence, and empowerment. Great volumes to have on your shelf! REGINA
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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil. Send Regina Belmonte your questions at vivatregina.tumblr@gmail.com or tweet her @vivatregina.
