The 30 Best Beauty Tips I’ve Learned in 13 Years as a Beauty Editor
From skincare to makeup to self-care, these tried-and-true lessons have helped me feel my best inside and out.
As I get ready to celebrate my 38th birthday (with multiple slices of my mom’s chocolate cake), I’ve been reflecting on how lucky I am to love what I do. For the past 13+ years, I’ve tested countless beauty products and shared my learnings as an editor. Along the way, I’ve picked up insider tricks, hard-earned lessons, and plenty of trial-and-error wisdom.
High school me lived in blue eyeshadow and a flat iron. College me slept in makeup and wondered why I had acne. Even early-career me overdid product sampling and underdid hydration. Thankfully, my routine has evolved—and so has my understanding of beauty as both outer care and inner wellness.
So, in honor of 38 years, here are 38 beauty lessons—from skin and hair to nails, makeup, and self-care—that have genuinely made me look and feel better.
Health & Self-Care
Drink water daily (half a gallon is a good goal). Your skin will thank you.
Cut back on alcohol—it dehydrates skin and makes you look tired.
You are what you eat: fresh produce, lean protein, and healthy fats support glowing skin, hair, and nails.
Book an annual dermatologist visit for a skin check—and rebook before you leave the office.
Treat yourself to a weekly “everything shower” with your favorite products.
Beauty sleep is real: aim for 8 hours to reduce stress and dark circles.
Skincare
Keep eye patches in the fridge to fake a full night’s sleep.
Wear sunscreen daily—yes, even on cloudy winter days.
Never sleep in makeup. Clean skin = healthy skin.
Double cleanse: oil-based first, then water-based.
Don’t pick pimples—use a pimple patch instead.
Check labels: opt for clean, cruelty-free products.
Apply a rich night cream before bed for overnight repair.
Try peptides as a gentler anti-aging alternative to retinol.
Botox isn’t essential—regular facials can be just as effective for healthy skin.
Haircare
Switch to silicone-free haircare for natural, bouncier texture.
Healthy hair starts with scalp care—use a weekly scalp scrub.
Don’t overwash; dry shampoo and hair accessories are your friends.
Get regular trims—longer doesn’t mean healthier.
Don’t cut your own bangs. Period.
Always apply heat protectant before styling.
Curl the front pieces away from your face to frame it beautifully.
Nail Care
For chip-prone nails, try custom-fit nail stickers instead of gels.
Use a crystal nail file to protect brittle nails.
Beauty & Makeup
Bold brows are timeless—just groom and enhance with brow gel.
For false lashes, apply while looking down into a mirror for precision.
Clean your brushes often to prevent breakouts.
Toss expired products (yes, even your beloved old palettes).
Find a signature scent—it makes a lasting impression.
When it comes to makeup, less can be more. Hybrid products like tinted moisturizers with SPF save time and space.