Dear Damone

Dear Damone,

I have the hardest time getting waxed...anywhere! The pain is just too much for me to bear. Now that the weather is getting warmer, it is time to brace myself once again for the dreaded bikini wax. Any suggestions to help ease the pain would be greatly appreciated.

— Sarah, age 35, San Diego, California

Sarah, I asked around and found out that if you wax on a regular basis, then pain is less severe. It seems the longer the hair grows in between appointments, the more friction between the hair and the wax. It is also best not to shave in between appointments. These days, most aestheticians tend to have numbing spray to help ease the pain. You also may want to take a small dose of Advil or Tylenol 40 minutes before your next appointment. I have many friends who swear by this. Sometimes pain for beauty is a reality!

Dear Damone,

I have seen a lot of women lately wearing bright, fun colors on their nails. What are your thoughts on this trend, and do you think it is acceptable for women in their 40s, working in a corporate office?

— Marina, age 42, Denver, Colorado

Marina, I absolutely love the idea of women showing different parts of who they are by their choice in nailcolor. I recently designed my own nailcolor with O.P.I called "Damone Roberts 1968" ($9 at DamoneRoberts.com). The color is a soft green with a warm undertone to work on all different skin tones. The idea is to wear a fun, current color, yet still stay comfortable with the softness of the shade—regardless of age or work situation. Go for it!

Dear Damone,

The thought of going to a cosmetic counter absolutely terrifies me! I am a germaphobe and can't help but think of all the other mouths, eyes and hands that have been in the display unit. How do you suggest I get over this? I always have to return my products because the colors do not work for me. I need to start trying them on before I buy. Help!

— Diana, age 29, Oakland, California

Diana, the germs that sit on cosmetic counters are alive and kicking. I have found the safest way to try on lipstick is by carrying your own little spray bottle of rubbing alcohol to saturate the tube before using a disposable lip brush. When trying mascara, use a disposable wand every time you dip back into the unit. Disposable sponges are best for foundation. Apply gloss, eyeshadow and blush to your hand to see how the tones work on your skin tone, instead of actually on your face. Be safe!

From cosmetic acupuncture to snake venom, our beauty editors take the plunge to see what works—and what doesn't

What aspect of your beauty routine do you need help with? Ask Damone your question.