beauty tips

Going to the dermatologist for regular mole screenings is one of those thing that we know we should do but sometimes let fall to the wayside. Regularly checking in on your moles, however, is not only easy, but also smart. New or changing moles can be a sign of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Luckily, you can give yourself an at-home checkup with ease. And because it's Don't Fry Day, a day created by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention to raise awareness and remind everyone to protect their skin outdoors, there's never been a better time than now to learn how to do it. You just have to remember your ABCs.

If your mole displays any of these warning signs, then it's a good idea to get it checked as soon as possible by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma:

• Asymmetry: If one half of the mole does not match the other half, then it's asymmetrical and should be checked.
• Border: Look at the border of your mole. Is it ragged, blurred, or irregular? If yes, then go in for a checkup.
• Color: Healthy moles are one consistent color. But moles that have different colors or varying shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red can be dangerous.
• Diameter: Pull out your ruler. If your mole is larger than 6 mm, then make an appointment with your doctor.
• Elevation: Moles that are raised above the skin can be a sign of melanoma and should be checked.

Now, don't be nervous; not all moles that display these signs are linked to melanoma. But it's always a good idea to be safe rather than sorry, as skin cancer is usually fairly easy to treat and cure if it's caught early. Always keep an eye on irregular moles, and if you see a new mole appear, then go in for a check as soon as you can.

Not sure where to get screened? Visit the American Academy of Dermatology's website to find a free screening center near you. Beauty brands also want to help. In honor of Melanoma Awareness Month, SkinCeuticals is sponsoring free skin-cancer checks (with participating dermatologists). And for every SPF product L'Oréal Paris sells throughout the Summer, $1 will be donated to the Melanoma Research Alliance. How's that for a beautiful kickoff to a new season ahead?

In the beauty world, your face shape can determine many things from your next haircut to your makeup tactics. Finding the correct measurement is a simple equation of proportions. While the most common shape is oval, others include round, square, triangle, diamond, and heart. Want to find out what category you fall into? Grab a mirror and follow these simple steps to discover your personal shape when you keep reading.

Hair can take a beating during the warmer-weather months, whether it be from the sun, the chlorine in your pool, or your blow dryer when you try to wrangle your frizz. Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep your strands in tip-top shape. Kim Vo shares his tips and secrets for keeping your hair healthy this season.

• Mist facial SPF onto your hair: To give hair "just a kiss of that sunshield," Vo says you should spray a facial SPF "and walk into it like a fine perfume." Be sure to try a product that's lighter and formulated for your face, though; this way, you won't be saddled with greasy hair. We like Philosophy's Here Comes the Sun Age Defense facial sunscreen ($30).
• Invest in UVA/UVB sprays: For another option, try hair spray with built-in protection. Just look for UVA/UVB filters on the label, and spritz on for instant defense.
• Seal the hair cuticle: Cuticles are the hard, rounded scales that create the outer layer of your hair, and they often take the brunt of the elements. Damaged cuticles stick up and make the hair look bristly, not to mention give your color a shorter shelf life. That's why Vo stresses the importance of keeping them flat with the proper cuticle-sealing products and tools.
• Accessorize your armor: Just because you're nurturing your hair doesn't mean you can't get a little stylish. Vo suggests tying a scarf around your head for a fashionable twist on sun protection. Or, embrace the wet hair look by using a leave-in product, slicking back your strands to keep them in good condition.

— Additional reporting by Jaime Richards

Countless shirts have been ruined by an innocent hug that left a large foundation smear. While your first inclination might be to reach for the makeup remover, think again. The oil, which is meant for the skin, might actually make the situation worse. Save your shirts, towels, bath mats, and more with three tips for removing foundation stains. Just keep reading for the details.

We all know what a face moisturizer is and what it does, but serums, thanks to their price and texture variances, are in a more confusing category. Before you brush off this essential step in skin care, find out what serums do, how to choose one, and more, when you keep reading.

Like it or not, bikini season is around the corner, and that can mean red bumps around the bikini line after waxing or shaving. Before you head to the store for relief, take a look inside your medicine cabinets and pantries. We've gathered together some of the more unconventional remedies that can be applied post-hair removal. Find out these DIY treatments after the jump.

Ciaté is known for taking the nail-art trend from the streets to the comfort of your own home with its easy DIY kits, like this Very Colourfoil Manicure Set ($25). The end result is a colorful and intricate design that looks far more complicated than it really is. To see how to use this genius kit, just keep reading.