by Kristeen Mandak

Created on: May 30, 2009   Last Updated: May 31, 2009

Whether you are a glamour guru or not, there are a few beauty essentials every woman should have to help keep her skin healthy and beautiful. Not everyone likes makeup (after all, the natural look is in), but still, there are a few products you should have on hand to enhance your features, and to use for special occasions.

Cleanser

A cleanser should be used twice a day, at night and in the morning, in order to get rid of excess oil, makeup, and bacteria that accumulate on your skin. A bar of soap simply does not do the job. Look for a cleanser specific to your skin type. For dry skin, you want one that does not strip your skin of all oils.

Toner or Freshener

An acne controlling toner or a basic freshener is the second essential to have, and is used after cleansing. They remove anything that the cleanser missed, and prep your skin for your moisturizer.

Moisturizer

For dry skin, using a moisturizer is a given. However, many women with oily skin skip this step, for fear of adding too much oil back on their faces. The truth is that, no matter what your skin type, everyone needs a moisturizer. They key, again, is to find one specific for your type of skin. There are great oil-controlling lotions that still replenish the skin with just the right amount of moisture. Skipping out on a moisturizer actually does more damage than good to oily skin. When skin gets too dry, pores work on overdrive and produce even more oil to replenish itself, which can result in breakouts.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen should be applied every day, whether you are in the sun for long periods of time or not. UV rays can damage exposed skin even through a car. An easy solution is to use a daily moisturizer or foundation that contains a sunscreen in it, with a minimum SPF of 15.

Foundation

Not only does foundation even out your complexion, but it helps to block free radicals in the air. With so many different options, there is bound to be a favorite for every woman. The least time-consuming foundation would be a mineral powder one.

Mascara

The easiest and quickest way to enhance your eyes is with mascara. There are a plethora of options for every lifestyle, from lash-lengthening to waterproof. If black is too dramatic, try a dark brown shade. Some even come in fun colors, too.

Blush

Blush is a great way to enhance your cheekbones and give you that look of being awake. Look for a natural looking shade; think a pale pink for lighter skin and a heavier pink or plum for darker skin.

Natural Colored lipstick or lip-gloss

Moisture for your lips is essential, as they are one of the most sensitive parts of your body. A natural shade of lipstick is a great basic to use without looking overdone. If you are not a lipstick wearer, opt for a tinted lip-gloss or chap-stick.

Red lipstick

For special occasions, red lipstick is a simple way to look instantly glam. Also, it looks great on everyone. With such a dramatic shade on your lips, there is virtually no need to use much makeup elsewhere; a little blush and mascara does the trick.

Bronzer

Bronzer is usually a summery essential, but used the right way, it is a great way to enhance certain features all year-round. Just a little bit on your cheekbones and temples gives your face a whole new life. You can even use it in place of eye-shadow if you're pressed for time.

Of course as our beauty needs grow, the number of products we take on follow suit. Yet for even the most conservative of beauty product users, these ten essentials will make every woman look and feel great.

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