Looking Younger

Earlier, I told you that I really enjoyed makeup artist Robert Jones's new book, Looking Younger.

Chock full of application techniques and aha-moment tips, I thought I'd share some of my favorites right from the book. Oh, and lucky us, Robert even provided some quotes just for Bella readers (check out number two and three):

1. Don't follow brow trends. Embrace the natural shape of your brow.
2. "It is true, the sun is your enemy, but you can still enjoy it," Jones says. "Sunblock is a must — at least SPF 30."
3. "Exfoliating at least three times a week will keep your skin constantly regenerating and looking its most youthful," Jones adds.
4. If you are trying to decide between foundation shades, pick the darker one. Lighter shades can be aging.
5. Use a bronzer every day. Going without it is like running around naked, Jones says. For a more natural look, he recommends choosing one that's just one to two shades darker than your skin tone.

To see the rest of Robert's advice, read more

I know what you're thinking: "I don't need to look any younger, so this book, Looking Younger ($13.17) is just not for me."

Well, don't judge a book by its cover. Although written with an older audience in mind, this isn't an old fashioned makeup guide. Author Robert Jones, a painter-turned-makeup artist, explains in great detail how to choose colors, formulations, and application techniques based on your needs and facial structure.

With over 20 years of experience, Jones has created an encyclopedia of the ins and outs of makeup. His focus is to prevent you from making beauty mistakes — like inadvertently aging yourself with wrong choices — which spans all ages. While some parts may not be applicable to the under-30 crowd, let's face it. We all age. D'oh, even right now.

My favorite part? The magnificent tips he provides. And although not a quick read, for this price it's worth it just for the wonderful nuggets of information alone, particularly an eye makeup chart complete with shadow and liner choices. All in all, Looking Younger is like Makeup 101 and beyond for the mature (and not-so-mature) crowd.