New Year beauty blunders

A lot of people want to start the New Year fresh. Sometimes in anticipation of getting that fresh start quick decisions are made. If they are not well thought out, these decisions can easily turn into major beauty blunders. Such blunders can turn hopes and dreams for that fresh start into nothing more than fairy dust.

Here are some of the most common beauty mistakes made at the beginning of a new year.

#1 – I cut my long hair super short and I hate it. What do I do now?

Making a decision to cut your hair should never be done spur of the moment. It should be considered thoughtfully over a period of time before taking the plunge. However, if the deed is already done, there are certain things that you can do until those luscious tresses grow back out.

Invest in hair extensions. There are plenty options on the market today; both human and synthetic. Some of them are even quite affordable. If you feel the need to find in comfort in your "old" look, choose extensions that most closely mirror your old hairstyle. Otherwise, look for extensions that are the same color as your hair but offer a different style. For example, if you hair is straight, try wavy or curly extensions for something new. Look for extensions that are slightly shorter than your normal hair or try ones that are a shade lighter or darker to add highlights or lowlights. Have fun and experiment.

Get your hair trimmed regularly as it begins to grow. People who rashly cut their hair short sometimes think they don’t need to cut their hair until it grows all the way out. While that may work for a chosen few, it won’t for most. Dead ends should be trimmed regularly to allow the hair to grow out healthy and shiny.

#2 – I got my ears pierced on a dare, but the ears are not level. How can I fix the problem?

Unless the piercing is obvious, it is often better to do nothing at all. Chances are no one will notice but you. People will look at your earrings; not your ears. However, if the problem is obvious, then you might want to deal with it.

Opt for shepherd’s hook or lever back earrings instead of studs. Earrings that dangle won’t allow the problem to be as noticeable. If, however, you are set on wearing stud earrings, use a plastic disc back on the ear with the lowest piercing and a standard backing on the other ear. Disc backs tend to hold the earring up and tight against the piercing while simple backs allow them the ear to "droop" slightly. That often allows the ears to look straighter than they actually are.

If the problem really bothers you, it is also possible to get the ears repaired. A good cosmetic surgeon can stitch up the holes leaving very little, if any, evidence behind. The cost will likely range between $350 and $600 depending on the area of country in which you live and the doctor chosen to do the repair.

#3 – I want to look younger. Is a facelift the only option?

No! Facelifts should always be the very last option. There are lots of other options in today’s beauty world. These include firming creams and potions, skin surface botox, microderm abrasion and even handy dandy exercise machines designed specifically for the facial muscles. I recommend checking any or all of these out before leaping into surgery.

There are hundreds of skin products on the market today and many are as good as they are affordable. If you are experiencing the first signs of aging, they may be all that is required. Some of them firm and lift. Others fill in fine lines and wrinkles. Still others smooth the skin surface and return a natural youthful glow. Skin surface botox products are particularly good at hiding those early aging signs. Prices range from just a few dollars (as little as $10) to hundreds of dollars.

Microderm abrasion systems remove all traces of dead skin, smoothing out any minor flaws or skin discoloration. Most of these systems also come with their own skin care products to make the skin as soft, supple, and youthful as possible. These systems range in price from around $29.99 to $359.00.

#4 – I got the exercise equipment I wanted for Christmas but I hate it and don’t use it. What now?

Try using the equipment in a different way. For example, if you received a treadmill as a gift, use it while listening to your favorite CD or watching your favorite shows on TV. The distraction will help you get through the exercise routine with minimal discomfort.

Work out with a friend. Exercising alone is boring as well as hard work. However, if you can do it while conversing with a friend about your favorite subjects of the day, it can help to pass the time quickly.

If you just won’t use the piece, then so be it. But don’t give up on an exercise routine. Try something different until you find something that you do like and will do regularly. For example, if you like to dance, then choose a dance style exercise program. There are dozens on the market today. I’m sure you can find one that is perfect for you.

#5 – My wardrobe is boring. How can I make use of some of the trends without spending a lot of money or making useless purchases?

One word - - accessories. In today’s economy, most people can’t afford to buy the latest fashion. They have to make do with what they already have on hand. That’s okay. With a few choice accessories, almost any wardrobe can be updated.

Stick to neutral colors like black, brown, gray, beige, and white. They never go out of style. Then add pops of color to neutrals to express the trends of the day. Choose those clothing pieces that have a tailored cut like men style trousers and blazers, pencil skirts, button down shirts, and cardigans. It is possible to add accessories to these pieces to create the trendiest of styles.

Choose accessories that can be used over and over again like great leather boots, belts, and bags. These investment pieces can be added as you can afford. Look for scarves, hats, gloves, and jewelry pieces that represent the colors of the day to add the pizzazz you want to express your own personality.

The key to avoiding beauty blunders is to think things completely through before making a final decision. While some things can be taken back, like a piece of exercise equipment or a poor wardrobe purchase, others cannot (like a haircut). Be certain that you know what you want before you move forward with any decision. That is the best way to stay away from those beauty mistakes.