What can I do to keep my toes looking freshly polished between pedicures?

-Kelly

Kate responds

It’s that time of year when you need to keep your feet in sandal-ready condition. Re-apply a topcoat of polish about a week into your pedicure. It freshens up the color, and adds another layer of protection. I love Sally Hansen’s Sally Hansen Salon Speed Shine 10 Day Top Coat in-between pedicures.

How old is too old to use that white eye shadow in the corner of your eye trick? I’d like to use it to have bright, shining eyes, but I don’t want to end up looking trashy (I’m 35.)

-Nicole

Kate responds

I’m a big fan of swapping the white shadow for a hint of pale gold sparkle. It instantly updates your look while still keeping eyes bright. Try LORAC Glam Rocks Loose Metallic Eye Shadow in Metallic Gold.

I’ve decided to grow my bangs out. How long will it take my fringe to get to a point where I can tuck it behind my ears – is there an average length of time?

-Nicole

Kate responds

I’m in the process of growing out my bangs too, so I completely understand what you’re going through. Hair grows approximately one half an inch per month. At that rate, you should be able to tuck your hair behind your ears in about three months. I’m a big fan of sweeping bangs back with a few bobby pins or a clip (clips are very on-trend for Spring). Henry Bendels has a fabulous assortment of designer headwear to keep you looking chic while you wait.

What are 2-3 new products that I need for spring to update my beauty look?

- Melissa

Kate Responds

Spring is the perfect time to experiment with new trends and colors. For lips, I’m loving a glossy coral such as Chanel’s Acqualumiere collection in Candy Glow. For eyes, experiment with shadows in pops of colors. L’Oreal HIP high intensity pigments come in a array of fun-to-try shades that last all day into night.

The must-have beauty accessory for spring—the headband. Try a headband that contrasts your hair color to make the accessory stand out.

I have really thick hair and I straighten it. I limit blow drying to twice a week and straightening to two times a week with a quick touch up on the in between days. But my hair still feels dry and broken at the ends. Is there anything else I can do?

- Nicole

Kate Responds

Keeping heat-treated hair super-healthy and gorgeous takes a few important steps. Try an everyday moisturizing shampoo and conditioner such as Tresseme’s Vitamin E Moisture Rich Shampoo and Conditioner. For super-dry hair, a once a week deep conditioning treatment such as Paul Mitchell’s The Masque will deliver much-needed nourishment to styled tresses. When using tools such as straighteners or dryers, be sure to apply a treatment such as Nexxus’ HEAT PROTEXX before styling.

What is the best oil free foundation makeup?

- Aimee

Kate Responds

For super oliy-prone skin, your best bet is to start with a foundation primer such as Smashbox’s Anti-Shine.. For foundation, look for one with oil-free properties with a light finish that won’t clog pores like Elizabeth Arden’s Bare Perfection Makeup.

My question is how do you remove makeup without damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes?

- Haley

Kate Responds

Oil-based cream eye makeup remover is best for the sensitive skin around eyes. I like Mario Badescu’s Eye Makeup Remover Cream.. Make sure to apply cleanser with a cotton ball or pad and hold cleanser on eye for a few seconds to allow product to absorb. Wipe clean and finish with an eye cream after cleansing the entire face.

What organic lip stick would you recommend for dry lips?

- Nicki Ambrogi

Kate Responds

Nvey Eco’s Organic Lip Lustre is made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, honeysuckle extract, coconut oil and orange essential oil. The high shine gloss comes in an array of colors and glides on smooth. Check it out at Sephora.

%{color:blue}Hi Kate! I am in my early 30’s and have started to notice more uneven skin tone and red/sun spots on my face. I don’t like to wear heavy foundation but hate how my skin looks so ruddy all the time. What are your thoughts and suggestions?%

- Brande

Kate Responds

You’ll want to look for cleansing products and moisturizers that soothe your skin – scope out the label for natural ingredients and anti-oxidants.

I also love the at-home treatment of boiling a pot of chamomile teat, let set to cool, soak a cotton ball in the tea and then rub over your face as an at-home toner once a week.