Beauty editor Juana Parathyras answers some of your biggest skin and make-up questions, while debunking a myth or two

Q I’m very self-conscious about the stretch marks on my stomach and thighs. Is there a cream that will make them go away?
A Stretch marks are often caused by significant weight fluctuations, such as pregnancy or weight gain and loss, but they can also be due to hormonal changes that occur during a normal growth spurt, which  causes the skin to stretch and scar. The bad news is, no treatment or cream exists that can completely remove stretch marks. There are, however, a few tricks you can try to make them less noticeable. Morning and evening applications of tissue oil may help to soften their appearance. The more invasive and expensive options would be laser therapy, which can tone down red marks, and microdermabrasion, which can diminish the appearance of white marks.

TIP
When stretch marks first appear, they are often red or purplish in colour. Once they mature, they
turn white.

Q I often find that foundations go grey on my dark complexion. How can I avoid this?
A The main cause is a white powder called titanium dioxide, which is used as a pigment and to thicken foundations. Have a look at the ingredients list: the further down titanium dioxide appears, the better. Also make sure you do a proper colour test before buying any foundation. Ask the consultant for a small tester so you can try it out at home. Apply the product to your jaw and blend it into your skin – the colour should melt away. A perfect match means you can’t see the foundation. If possible, look at the colour in natural light rather than bright, artificial light that may distort it.

 

Laying The Foundation

• Liquid (medium to full coverage) These are often the most mois-turising formulas, so dry skin will benefit from the satin finish. Oil-free options will work wonders for oily skin that needs a matt finish.

• Cream (light to medium coverage) This is slightly heavier than a liquid foundation and works well on dry skin. Steer clear of cream foun-dations if you have oily or combination skin to avoid the product from sliding downyour face.

• Dual-finish (medium coverage) These liquid-to-powder or cream-to-powder formulations are great for combination skin. It’s not the best option if you’re looking for heavy coverage or if your skin is dry, as the foundation will only dry it out even more.

• Tinted moisturiser (minimal to no coverage) This is perfect for problem-free skin or if you don’t want to wear too much make-up. It will give you a slight glow and cover where you need it.

• Mineral-based (light  to medium coverage) This is a good choice for acne-prone or sensitive skin, as the gentle ingredients are non-irritating. It works well for oily skin as it will mattify, plus it has a built-in SPF.

 

L’Oréal Lumi Magique foundation R189.95

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse R154.95

Sleek Oil Free Crème to Powder foundation R139.95

Sleek Luminous pressed powder R99.95

All available at selected Foschini stores