Beauty Tips From Khush

It’s warming up outside. Swap out those dark eyeshadows and nail polish hues for spring’s ultra light — and bright — beauty trends.

Here are some make-up tips and tricks for fashionistas on a budget.

With the transition from cold to warm weather, what skincare advice do you have?

Put away the heavy creamy cleansers and moisturizers. For your cleanser, switch to something gel based if you have oily skin or a foaming cleanser like Purity Made Simple Foaming Cleanser. 

Also, exfoliate to get that winter dry skin off your face. You’ll want to use a scrub or at-home peel like Philosophy’s Microdelivery Peel. It is so gentle that your face won’t be red afterwards. It’s great for sensitive skin, but equally as effective on other skin types.

What make-up trends are hot this spring for women of color?

I think that a bronze-y look will always be amazing on women of color. This year, however, I think greens and golds for eyes or a pop of bright color on the eyes looks great. Everyone should have the Bobbi Brown Brights Palette.  It’s limited edition so grab it before it’s gone.

Neon colors were big on the runway. What beauty products complement this look without going over-the-top?

I love brights, but I do think they should be used in moderation. If brights on your eyes are too much, try a lip color or nail lacquer. The important thing with trends is to try everything — but in moderation. Don’t do brights all over like they do on the runway. How to make it successful for the “real-way” is to take one make-up trend and rock that.

For the ultimate recessionista, which cosmetics brands are best for quality products at a low cost?

L’Oreal HIP is absolutely great. They have really good pigment so I think you get the most for your money there. Also, CoverGirl is really starting to step their game up a bit. Lash Exact Eye Lights is my favorite mascara right now.

Manicured nails help to complete a stylish look. Any favorite brands?

I didn’t really used to be a polish freak, but now I so am. Nail polish is something that I do not skimp on. It has been my experience that drugstore polishes just don’t last no matter how great of a manicure you have. I prefer brands like OPI, Lippmann, CND and Essie for everyday manicures. 

If it’s a special occassion, I have a few Chanel polishes stashed away. Remember that you should never let the manicurist put lotion on your hands or nails before the manicure. It keeps the polish from adhering properly, and now I never do that. I also keep a top coat handy to re-apply after three days. This helps me get the manicure to last for a week.