If your gums are very sensitive, rub a very small amount of aloe vera gel on, and let it sit for a few minutes before washing it off. Aloe vera strengthens gums, and it's especially good to use before using any bleaches or other whiteners on your teeth.

Whenever you can, try to drink a mug of hot (not boiling!) water first thing in the morning. This helps clear out impurities in your body, especially your skin.

Having trouble with your foundation? You might not be spreading it out enough. When you dot it on your face, do so in as many places as possible -- not just four or five. If at all possible, use a cosmetic brush instead of your fingers -- this spreads out the foundation even more, and you'll end up using less.

Have a color you like, but it's a little too bright? Add a tiny bit of concealer, either before or while you apply the lipstick. This will tone it down a bit, and it's much more complementary to the rest of your makeup.

If you're not in the habit of plucking your eyebrows, be sure to give them extra attention. Use a clean toothbrush to brush eyebrows and keep them looking neat. Even if you do pluck your eyebrows, it's a good idea to do this; the little bit of extra effort can really improve your overall appearance!

Make sure you use lotion right after you shower -- most moisture is lost withing two hours of bathing, so use a water-based moisturizer as soon as possible afterwards.

If you wake up with a "rat's nest," try switching to a silk pillowcase. This keeps your hair from staying in one place all night and tangling up.

Even if you have oily skin, you need to remember to moisturize! If your skin is too dry, your pores will open up, which can not only look like blackheads, but also increase the likelihood of getting them. Look for an oil-free moisturizer and use it regularly.

What does changing your pillowcase have to do with health and beauty? Everything! Think of everything you use in your hair and on your face ... where do you think it goes at the end of the day? Change your pillowcase often -- about every other night is good -- to prevent breakouts.

If you're using self-tanner this winter, make sure you apply it right! Use a natural sea sponge to apply the lotion. This ensures that it goes on evenly and helps you avoid those annoying orange streaks.

If you are prone to blemishes, you may notice they get worse in the winter. This is because your skin gets dry when exposed to cold air, and produces more oil to compensate. After washing your face and applying any medication or astringent you might use, put on some exta lotion to keep your skin moisturized.

Be careful of scrubs and exfoliants that use things like ground-up walnut shells. They are likely to have sharp edges and can irritate or even cut your face, especially if you have sensitive skin. Look for a cleanser that uses "microbeads"; since they are perfectly round, they'll do their job without irritating your skin.

Wet your cosmetic sponge a bit first before applying foundation. This will help your foundation glide on more easily, and saves time in application.

Before applying mascara in the morning, heat it up a little first. Warming it up in your hands or somewhere near your body -- still closed securely, of course -- is enough. A little body heat melts any clumps that may have forme

When trying out recipes for homemade masks and facials, be sure to find out what different ingredients do. Honey has been known to cause spots for some people. Check and see how different ingredients affect you before you start mixing up your own homemade remedies -- not everything works for everyone!

Even if it isn't bright or overly sunny out, wear at least SPF 15 when you go out -- either sunscreen or foundation with sunscreen in it. UVA and UVB rays can still hit you, even on cloudy days.

Before you shave your legs, use an exfoliating scrub to soften the skin -- and remember to rinse it off first. Your legs will feel smoother, and your shave will last longer.

If you have problems with breakouts, check the ingredients in your makeup! If it contains lanolin or mineral oil, it may be clogging up your pores and causing blemishes. Consider switching to a water-based foundation.

There's a reason it's called "cold cream" ... to keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator. This keeps it from going bad, and also feels nice and cool when you use it.

Use Epsom salts and your favorite fragrant oil to make homemade bath salts for yourself, or to give as a gift. Make sure to watch out for possible skin allergies depending on what kind of oil you use.