Seductive Style: Grooming Tips For Two - Brief Article

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to renew the romance in your relationship. Whether you're planning an exciting evening on the town or a quiet table for two at home, this is the perfect time for the new Black woman and the distinctive Ebony man to get ready for a year of togetherness.

When you pay attention to the details of your physical appearance, you place yourself in the proper frame of mind to relax and enjoy an intimate encounter with the one you love. Ready to get in the mood? Light some candles, put on a soothing CD, and follow this step-by-step guide to start the night off right.

Advice For The New Black Woman:

Fill a bathtub with hot water but not too hot!--and add your favorite bubble bath or scented oil. While waiting for the tub to fill, remove your makeup and wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Apply a cooling mask to the face that can be left on for a period of time (avoid products that dry stiffly on the skin, such as those containing clay). Test the bath water with a finger or toe before entering; if necessary, wait a few minutes or add cold water to adjust the temperature. Once you've submerged your body into the tub, place an inflatable pillow or a rolled-up towel behind your head for support. Relax for a few minutes, letting your mind unwind as your skin drinks in the moisture. Using a mild soap and washcloth, gently cleanse your body.

Now is the perfect time to shave your legs and underarms. Lather the area to be shaved. Using a clean blade, shave in smooth, even strokes. Avoid back and forth motion or shaving the same area repeatedly, as both actions can cause nicks and bumps. Rinse the blade frequently to prevent clogging.

Dry yourself with a warm towel. Pat the skin gently; avoid rubbing, which can cause irritation. Moisturize immediately with a generous application of lotion or cream. Rub additional lotion on the knees, elbows and other areas prone to ashiness.

Remove the facial mask and apply a light moisturizer to your face and neck. If necessary, groom your eyebrows with tweezers, paying close attention to symmetry and achieving a natural shape.

When applying makeup, think about what type of lighting you'll be in. For example, a night spent in dimly lit jazz clubs demands a more intense application, while an evening spent at home requires a lighter approach. Choose a foundation that suits your complexion, following with a light dusting of powder. Apply mascara, eye shadow, and eyeliner in that order. If you wear blush, apply lightly, gradually building intensity to achieve the desired effect. Finally, accentuate your lips with lipliner and lipstick in a complementary shade.

For a quick manicure at home, moisturize your hands and cuticles. Try one of the new fast-drying nail polishes, available in dozens of beautiful shades. Correct any mistakes with a handy polish remover pen, or dip a cotton swab in polish remover.

After your nails are dry, style your hair. Consider doing something out of the ordinary to commemorate the occasion. Women with long hair should try a dramatic upsweep, leaving a few select strands loose along the hairline. Shorter styles can be teased up to add volume, or slicked back for a glamorous look.

When you're ready to get dressed, consider what kind of outfit you'll be wearing. A form-fitting dress requires seamless undergarments that will not show through. A sheer creation necessitates a slip. Designs that dip low in the front should be worn with a plunging bra or bustier; a backless ensemble needs a convertible bra that can be adjusted accordingly. For a dress with thin straps, wear a strapless bra.

To put on pantyhose with ease, stretch them out gently. Roll the foot of one leg to the waist, then step in and slide the pantyhose partially up the leg. Repeat on the other side, then pull up to the waist. For a sexy alternative, consider wearing stockings with a garter belt.

After you've slipped into your dress, apply your favorite perfume. Check your hair, makeup and nails one last time before you meet with your special man.

Advice For The Distinctive Ebony Man:

Step into a steamy shower to open the pores, Lather up a washcloth or loofah sponge to cleanse the skin, being careful not to irritate or rub the skin too vigorously. Use a pumice stone to smooth away rough spots on your feet.

Immediately after your shower is the ideal time to as the heat will soften the bristle and prevent the razor blade from pulling and cutting the skin. Rub shaving cream onto the wet skin and generate a good lather Rub in a circular motion pushing up against the grain of the beard. On your face, shave with the grain in small, downward strokes. On the neck, shave up. Dip the blade into hot water frequently to remove buildup. After shaving, cleanse the skin with cool water or a mild astringent to close the pores and apply moisturizer.

Men with sensitive skin or who are prone to razor bumps should consider using an electric razor. Beards, mustaches and sideburns should be carefully trimmed, as well as any errant hairs protruding from the nose and ears.