So…what exactly is the Monday Poll?
Great question! Despite its name, it’s not an actual poll with clickable buttons. Instead, it’s just a collection of somewhat random questions that I’ve been sharing on this blog every Monday morning for what feels like a million years (since 2007).
1. When was the last time you enjoyed spending a significant amount of time outdoors?
Yesterday morning. Connor had a sleepover with a friend the previous night, and the girls wanted to play outside, so we all gathered in the circle. The girls engaged in play and artistic projects; I walked Marnie and threw her ball for her countless times, LOL!
2. Do you prefer sleeping on your back, stomach, or side?
Most of the time, I sleep on my back. But if my sinuses are congested (thanks allergy season), then I switch to my side.
3. What is something lovely about today?
Well, I get to spend it with the people I cherish the most – Connor, El Hub, Marnie, and Rosie.
4. What’s a pair of shoes you find yourself wearing frequently?
I have an old pair of worn-out white Converse platforms that, honestly, need to be replaced. They are comfy and match almost everything, so I keep reaching for them.
5. What’s something you wish to achieve this week?
I really aim to support Connor as much as I can this week. She’s finally ready to progress from the junior dance team, and her auditions for the serious competitive team are on Tuesday and Wednesday. So, we’ll be going to bed early each night, eating plenty of healthy food, and boosting each other for a fantastic week ahead.
Your local beauty enthusiast,
Karen
P.S. Here are the questions to copy/paste with your responses in a comment. Catch you later.
1. When was the last time you spent a good amount of time outside?
2. Do you sleep on your back, your tummy, or your side?
3. What’s something beautiful about today?
4. What’s one pair of shoes you wear a lot?
5. What’s something you hope to accomplish this week?
**Weekly Beauty and Makeup Q&A – Volume 880**
Welcome to Volume 880 of our Weekly Beauty and Makeup Q&A! Whether you’re an experienced beauty lover or just starting your adventure into the realm of cosmetics and skincare, this week’s edition is filled with expert advice, product suggestions, and practical tips to ensure you look and feel fantastic. Let’s dive into your most frequently asked questions from this week!
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### 1. **What’s the best method to keep foundation intact all day in hot weather?**
**Answer:** Maintaining your foundation on hot and humid days can be tricky, but with the right preparation and products, it’s completely feasible.
**Tips:**
– **Begin with a mattifying primer**: Seek out oil-controlling primers that assist in holding your foundation and minimizing shine.
– **Opt for a long-wear, oil-free foundation**: Formulas labeled “long-wear” or “transfer-resistant” are designed to endure heat and sweat.
– **Set with a translucent powder**: A light dusting of setting powder on top of your foundation helps keep it in place.
– **Finish with a setting spray**: A quality setting spray can seal your makeup and provide extra protection against melting.
**Product Recommendations:**
– Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Primer
– Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
– Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
– Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
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### 2. **How can I avoid my mascara from smudging beneath my eyes?**
**Answer:** Smudged mascara is a frequent concern, especially for those with oily skin or eyes that water easily.
**Solutions:**
– **Choose a waterproof formula**: Waterproof mascaras are less prone to transfer or smudge.
– **Prime your under-eye area**: Apply a lightweight setting powder or an oil-absorbing primer under your eyes prior to mascara application.
– **Consider skipping mascara on lower lashes**: If smudging is a recurring issue, forgo mascara on the bottom lashes or use a tubing mascara that forms smudge-proof tubes around lashes.
**Pro Tip:** Throughout the day, use blotting paper on your under-eye area to manage oil accumulation.
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### 3. **What distinguishes chemical exfoliants from physical exfoliants, and which is more effective?**
**Answer:** Both types of exfoliants aid in the removal of dead skin cells, but they function differently.
– **Physical exfoliants** utilize tiny particles or tools (like scrubs or brushes) to manually remove dead skin.
– **Chemical exfoliants** employ acids (like AHAs and BHAs) to dissolve the connections between dead skin cells, making them easier to shed.
**Which is superior?** It hinges on your skin type:
– **Sensitive or acne-prone skin**: Generally, chemical exfoliants are milder and more efficient.
– **Normal or oily skin**: You can benefit from either, but steer clear of harsh scrubs that could cause micro-tears.
**Popular Chemical Exfoliants:**
– The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
– Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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### 4. **How do I select the appropriate blush color for my skin tone?**
**Answer:** The right blush can enhance your complexion and give you a radiant look. Here’s a quick reference guide:
– **Fair skin**: Soft pinks, peaches, and light corals
– **Medium skin**: Rose, mauve, and warm apricot
– **Olive skin**: Terracotta, berry, and golden peach
– **Dark skin**: Deep fuchsia, tangerine, and rich plums
**Application Tip:** Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending upwards toward your temples for a natural lift.
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### 5. **What’s the most effective way to clean makeup brushes, and how frequently should I do this?**
**Answer:** Unclean brushes can contain bacteria and contribute to breakouts. Regular cleaning is key.
**Cleaning Procedure:**
1. Rinse the bristles with lukewarm water.
2. Apply a gentle cleanser or brush shampoo.
3. Swirl the brush in your palm or on a cleaning mat.
4. Rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles.
5. Lay flat to dry on a clean towel.
**Recommended Cleaning Frequency:**
– **Foundation and concealer brushes**: Weekly
– **Eye brushes**: Every 1–2 weeks
– **Powder brushes**: Every 2–3 weeks
**Recommended Products:**
– Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner
– Real Techniques Brush Cleansing Gel
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### 6. **How can I ensure my lipstick lasts longer while keeping my lips hydrated?**
**Answer:** Long-lasting lipstick doesn’t have to come at the cost of dry lips.
