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Personal Grooming Techniques and Adaptations
Feeling confident about your appearance boosts your self-esteem, which, in turn, fuels your ability to overcome obstacles in your path.
Dental Care
- Place your index finger next to the bristles of your toothbrush as
a guide for applying the right amount of toothpaste and keeping the
paste in place.
- Remember color contrast techniques. Select a toothbrush color that varies from the color of your counter top, or place your toothbrush on a washcloth of contrasting color when dispensing toothpaste. If your toothbrush bristles are white, use colored toothpaste.
Hair Care
- Consult a hair stylist or barber for an easy-to-manage style.
- Distinguish shampoo from conditioner bottles with rubber bands or place one in a different shape/size container. You can also simplify things by purchasing brands that combine shampoo and conditioner in one container.
Makeup
- Consult with rehabilitation teachers at your vision rehabilitation agency for instruction in selecting and applying makeup.
- Bring along a trusted friend when shopping for makeup, so
you're sure to receive honest opinions about which colors suit your
complexion. Switching to softer shades will make blending easier.
- Differentiate your favorite lipstick shades with rubber bands: red = no band; pink = one band; coral = two bands, etc.
- Store liquid foundation and nail polish in the refrigerator. The cold will help guide your application.
- Use your fingers as applicators, instead of brushes and sponges, to help control amounts more easily.
- If you wish to use nail polish on your own, use softer shades
such as clear, off-white or pale pink. If possible, visit a nail salon.
- When applying nail polish, place a small amount of petroleum jelly on the skin and cuticle surrounding each nail. If you accidentally get polish on this area, it will wipe off easily once the polish has dried.
Take Note
- Magnifying mirrors are sold in many department stores and
pharmacies. When selecting a mirror, keep in mind that the
magnification can sometimes cause distortion or glare.
- Mascara
and pencils for eyes, lips and brows are difficult to use tactually, so
they're not generally recommended. But with practice and patience, some
people do master these tasks.
- Many people find powders easier to apply than creams, and better for providing color control.



