Now I haven't tried this myself...
 

I heard from a girl friend of mine that coconut oil or raw shea butter can get rid of dark spots. Out side that, I would go to a dermatologist.

I'm gonna try to be consistant with the Clinique line that I just dropped a chunk of change on. When I was keeping up with it, I saw a difference. I just have to stick with it. I am part of the "Want Quick Results" club and I am trying to quit. Patience is the key.

I have been to dermatologists, but most fo the stuff that they give is just a pricy version of what is already on the shelves. I am going to make a routine for myself and see how it goes.

That's all it is...making a routine for yourself. I have been using Clinique's 3-step for a while and it's great. It has really made my face radiate, but lately, I haven't been using it and you can tell the difference. I need to gon' head and start that back up again. I have a question for everyone, too......I have never worn make-up before because when I was younger, I would go to mary kay parties and get my face made up, but my brothers always said I looked like a clown. My biggest fear with make-up is finding the right foundation. Every foundation I have worn on my face has been 'cakey'. The last place I went to have a consultation done was at the mac counter at Nordstrom's. It was alright, but it's just that foundation. Any suggestions?

Anyone use Aveda products?

Unless you need coverage with a foundation (for old acne scars, etc.) try a tinted moisturizer. Its basically moisturizer with foundation mixed it. Its perfect for the summer and wears very sheer and light.

I know Lancome has one, but to be honest, I haven't seen that many in shades for women of color, so if you are a darker skinned sistah, you may have a hard time finding one.

You can also just mix you favorite foundation with your favorite moisturizer (because that's all it is anyway).

Yeah, me too. When I was consistent with it, I saw the beauty in my skin. Once I slacked off, I DEFINITELY saw the difference. I have the 3-step and Advanced Stop Signs. Yesterday invested in the Acne Solutions cleansing foam, nighttime gel, and the Total Turnaround. Once I get back in the habit, I'm sure my skin will be great.

As for your question, do you want to wera makeup or feel that you have to wear it? I'm just curious. I don't wear foundation and all that other stuff, but simply use MAC blot powder to eliminate shine. My skin is too oily and I sweat too much to use foundations and other stuff, regardless of how light they are.

I use Aveda's Brilliant line of shampoo and conditioner. It's a bit pricey, but it works wonders for my hair.

I use Prescriptives' Tinted Moisturizer. They have shades in "our" skintones, unlike NARS (which has an AMAZING sparkly tinted moisturizer that is NOT DARK ENOUGH!)

Tinted Moisturizer is great- not cakey, but a great way to even out your skintone. I rarely use foundation because my skin is naturally pretty smooth, but when I do use it that's what I use.

To be honest, I really don't want to wear it. It's just something I thought would be nice for every now and again. The only 'make-up' (if you will) that I wear is Blistex or carmex. That's all I've worn practically all my life besides the consultation events I've told you about. I have worn mascara, eyeliner and eye shadow, but very seldom. I just wanted to get some suggestions just in case I wanted to get another consultation ;) . Thanks to everyone who gave me tips and such.