1. Know What You Want Ahead of Time



Go through magazines and find someone with your body and skin type who has had a makeover. If you are considering a hair makeover, as well, then look through hair magazines for women with your hair type.

2. Create a Daily and Weekly Ritual of Beauty

Once you know what you want, create a daily skin care ritual and a once a week pampering session. At the very least this should include - cleanser, moisturizer and an at home facial. If you have acne try Proactiv Solution 4-piece with Daily Oil Control

3. Head to the Counter

Go to the Beauty Counter at any Major Department Store and have them give you a free consultation. You do not need a million products! Start with the basics - powder, lip liner, lip gloss, blush, a basic eye shadow pack and mascara.

4. Practice Applying Makeup

Spend 10 - 15 minutes a day practicing applying your makeup for the first week. Remember to always apply, at the bare minimum, some lip gloss and mascara before leaving the house. Get out the magazine that you found with the look you want and practice recreating it.

Tip - Just remember that these models have been digitally enhanced so go for as close as possible without beating yourself up if it is not exactly the same.

5. Gut Your Closet once every 6 months

Go to your closet right now and give away anything that you haven't worn in the last two years. Throw out the shirts and jeans that are falling apart or that are so faded that you can barely tell what color they are. And get some good sturdy hangers to hang your clothes on. Finally budget some money to get a few key pieces to complete what is left of your wardrobe.

Tip: Set up a savings account that has a certain amount automatically taken out of your paycheck each week. You decide the amount. Then treat yourself every 3 - 6 months to a new outfit or pampering session.

Take these basics and use them on a daily basis. The beauty industry knows that being beautiful is about enhancing what you have. Take their little secret to heart and practice it daily.