Myanmar women have found it is best to stick to products that suit their skin type. Pic: Hein Latt Aung

EVERYBODY — from business women to movie stars to the girl next door — knows about the various advantages of western cosmetics.

“New and improved makeup can make women look more beautiful than ever before,” says makeup artist December Nhin. “By hiding imperfections it gives them a confidence boost.”

Film actress Nawarat says she has makeup to thank for transforming her into her various characters.

“We use makeup to characterise the actors. It’s not just about making us look beautiful,” says Nawarat.

But Myanmar women are quickly learning that jumping on the cosmetic-brand bandwagon does have its downsides.

Daw Ei Ei Nge, commun-ications manager of the Parkroyal Hotel in Yangon, says that after years of using expensive cosmetic brands, her skin is less than grateful.

“I used to buy expensive products and have found that quality isn’t necessarily reflected in the price tag,” says Ei Ei Nge. “Now I’m convinced that many cheap products available in Myanmar are just as good as the expensive ones, if not better. Cosmetics and beauty products should suit your skin.”

Dr Khaing Khaing Zaw, a dermatologist at the Kembangan Pacific Asethetic Centre in Bahan township, agrees and says women should take advantage of products on offer that will improve their skin rather than only choosing pricier and more attractive products.

“There are so many products out there that focus on improving the appearance of your skin long term with SPF and UV protectants, as well as vitamin-enriched creams and cosmetics,” said Dr Khaing Khaing Zaw. “But women still need to choose what is best for their skin type, such as pressed foundation over liquid found-ation if you have oily skin.”

Ei Ei Nge says now she only picks prod-ucts that will benefit her skin.
“I have something for everything. Rehydration creams, anti-wrinkle creams, undereye gels for dark circles and depuffing, freckle faders and pimple removers all line my shelves.”

Ma Saw Theingi, a makeup artist at Spirits beauty salon in Yangon, drives home the importance of keeping your skin as clear as possible.

“Taking care of your skin not only keeps it healthy, but it also makes makeup application that much easier,” she says. “If your skin is smooth, it glides on effortlessly and you only need one colour of foundation for complete coverage.”
She suggests the widely known three-step skincare routine: cleanse, tone and moisturise morning and night.

Ma Saw Theingi believes that Myanmar women lack crucial knowledge about cosmetic application and skincare.

“I see many women every day who think they know how to apply makeup, but they are harming their skin. I think this comes from the generations before us who only used Thanaka, which needs be applied vigorously. This method can create lines and wrinkles at a young age.”

Refrigerating make-up is another mis-conception.

Says student Ma Kabyar May Oo: “I used to keep my makeup in the refrigerator because my friends told me it would last longer. The colours changed and I had to throw it away.”

Most products will last up to a year if they are kept in a cool, dry place, but this is easier said than done in Myanmar. The year-round humidity means products have a shorter shelf life than in cooler countries.

Unfortunately, shops that stock these products aren’t as worried about the weather as they should be.

Ma Saw Theingi warns buyers to check the expiry date on everything before purchasing.

“If it doesn’t have an expiry date, test the makeup by applying a small amount to the back of your hand to make sure it is the right colour and texture. With foundation, make sure it blends well with your skin tone.”