Beauty FAQ
Straight answers to the beauty questions we hear most, from how much sunscreen to use and when to start retinol to how long makeup lasts and whether expensive products are worth it.
These are the questions we hear most. Each answer is short, with a link to the full guide.
General information only, not medical advice. Patch-test new products, and see a dermatologist for acne, rashes, hair loss or anything that worries you.
Skincare
What is the minimum routine I need? A gentle cleanser, a moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning. Everything else is optional. See routine order.
How much sunscreen should I use? Most people use too little. A commonly used guide is about a quarter teaspoon for the face, or the "two-finger" method of two finger lengths of lotion for face and neck. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends about one ounce, roughly a shot glass, to cover exposed areas of the body. See sunscreen.
Do I need sunscreen indoors or on cloudy days? Clouds block only part of UV, and UVA passes through window glass. If you sit near windows or go outside, daily sunscreen is a good habit.
When should I start retinol? There is no single age. Many people add a retinoid in their twenties or thirties for texture and early signs of aging, or earlier for acne with a doctor's guidance. Avoid retinoids if pregnant or trying to conceive unless your doctor approves. See retinoids.
Can I use vitamin C and retinol together? Many people use vitamin C in the morning and retinoids at night to reduce irritation. See mixing actives.
How long until a product works? Moisturizers feel good right away. Actives such as retinoids, vitamin C and niacinamide usually need several weeks to a few months of consistent use.
Makeup
How long does makeup last once opened? Look for the open-jar symbol with a number, such as 12M, meaning 12 months after opening. The FDA suggests replacing mascara about every three months. Throw out anything that changes smell, color or texture.
How do I find my foundation shade? Test on your jawline in daylight and choose the shade that disappears. See foundation shade matching.
How often should I wash my brushes? Foundation brushes and sponges about weekly, others every one to two weeks. See the brush guide.
Is it bad to sleep in makeup? It can clog pores and irritate eyes. Remove it, even if it is just a quick cleansing wipe followed by a proper cleanse in the morning.
Hair
How often should I wash my hair? It depends on scalp oiliness and texture: from daily for fine oily hair to every week or two for coily hair. See washing and conditioning.
Are silk pillowcases worth it? They can reduce friction and frizz, though research is limited. See silk pillowcases.
Is it normal to lose hair every day? Yes. The American Academy of Dermatology says it is normal to shed about 50 to 100 hairs a day. See a dermatologist if you notice much more shedding, bald patches or thinning.
Tools and money
Do gua sha and jade rollers really work? They can temporarily reduce puffiness and make a relaxing ritual. They do not permanently reshape the face. See gua sha how-to.
Are expensive products better? Not necessarily. Many effective ingredients, such as sunscreen filters, niacinamide and retinol, are available at every price point. Pay for formulas and textures you love using, not for marketing.
What does "dermatologist-tested" or "clean" mean? These terms are not strictly defined in US regulations. Check the ingredient list instead.
Look up unfamiliar words in the beauty glossary.