John,

I have quite an oily t-zone and find that when I apply my foundation the shine starts to break through after about 3hrs. I have done everything that I can think of - not apply make up until at least 1/2hr after moisturiser (oil absorbing), using Laura Mercier primer, Prescriptives oil free foundation (virtual skin) and a powder. Is 3hrs a reasonable break through time? Is there an alternate foundation that I can use that doesn't cake-up and won't make me look greasy?

Hello,

Truthfully? 3 hours is not all that unusual. Probably a pain in the neck, but long-term, it will help the skin to age more slowly. Control is the most important issue. Have you tried any of the skincare ranges that help to slow down the oil production without stopping it?

Natura Bisse Stabilising products, Sisley Tropical Resins, Lancôme Controle, and the new Clarins Truly Matte range all really will help. I personally love the Shiseido Men's Anti Shine Refresher and find it really does help to slow things dramatically. Plus it can be re-applied throughout the day so you are not caking on more and more makeup. I also find that the Becca Pore and Line Corrector works better than the matte primer. Use it in the affected are and apply makeup over it.

For events, use a very fine layer of the Sisley Tropical Resin Mask underneath makeup like a primer as it also works wonders - my own discover for a news anchor that ended up glossy in the middle of interviews!

Finally, Clinique and Lauder both have foundations that use technology developed for absorbing oil slicks at sea that you could try samples of. One or a combination should help you to stay fresher looking for a longer time. Good luck and let me know how you get on.

Best, John
 

Hello John,

I am so glad that I found this website.   I am hoping that you can tell me the damage (if any) caused by acrylic nails.  The girls in work have lovely French tips and I'd love to have them, but I've been told that they'll leave my natural nails 'mushy' and bendy!  Is there a way to prevent this, as I would be devastated if I ruined my natural nails, which are short but in good condition?

Thank you very much for your advice.

Stacey

Stacey,

I hope this makes you feel better - I have been told by one of the best nail technicians in the UK that this is a complete myth. There is no reason for artificial nails to cause any damage whatsoever other than having a bad nail technician do them. If you go somewhere good and reputable, acrylics, gels, and extensions should never ever damage you natural nail. Nor do you need to give them time in between. They must be applied and removed correctly. So go ahead and make an appointment with a great nail artist and have the nails you want. Spend a little more money and buy peace of mind at the same time...

Regards,

John

Got a beauty question? ASK JOHN