How Not to F*ck Up Your Face

If you’re a woman with a face, chances are you’ve got a lot of feelings about it—and those feelings can shift by the year, the day, or even the hour. I’m here to help you understand those feelings and, ideally, move them in a more positive direction. You may also have questions about how to care for your face—your skin, your brows, your lips, or even your “elevens.” (If you don’t know what elevens are, don’t worry—I’ll explain.) If you’re wondering how to apply makeup, especially as you age, you’ll find insights here. Curious about aesthetic treatments like fillers, neuromodulators, or lasers? I’ve got you covered—or I’ll find someone who does. My aim is to shift the beauty conversation away from self-criticism and toward self-compassion. So while you’ll find plenty of practical advice—on eyeliner, moisturizer, and more—you’ll also find a kind, experienced voice here, one that wants to help you make choices that support and enhance your self-worth. If my name rings a bell, it might be because I was the beauty director at *O, The Oprah Magazine* for nearly 16 years, where my monthly “Ask Val” column reached thousands of readers—maybe even you. It was an honor to serve you then, and I hope to continue that work here, with the same dedication and care.