It's the little things that count -- the way you shampoo your hair, how much moisturizer you apply, exactly where you dot on your concealer. Coming up, a refresher course in the skin care, hair care, and makeup essentials that can make a big -- and beautiful -- difference in your looks.

Hair

Think you do everything possible to manage your mane? You may be doing way too much. These are the only steps that matter.

Shampoo review

Get hair soaking wet before applying shampoo. You'll need less shampoo as a result, according to international hair and scalp specialist Philip Kingsley, author of Hair, An Owner's Handbook (Aurum). Pour a little into the palms of your hands, rub it in, then smooth palms over the surface of your hair. Using the pads of your fingertips, massage lather into your scalp. Every now and then, run your fingers through your hair from front to back; this prevents tangling.

Rinse well

Will a final rinse of cold water make hair shiny? Some hair pros say yes, believing cold water flattens the outer layer of the hair shaft. The smoother the surface, the better it reflects light. Other pros say this is a myth. What's most important is that you rinse thoroughly, since residue from shampoo can dull hair's shine.

Conditioner cues

How much conditioner do you really need? A dime-size dollop, if hair is shorter than four inches long; the size of a nickel or quarter for longer hair, says hair pro Gary Howse, co-owner of Gary.Manuel Salon, in Seattle. Apply conditioner to the ends of your hair only.

Styling savvy

When using a volumizing or thickening spray, spritz it on the roots, then work it through your tresses. To prevent the greasies, all other products -- mousse, gel, styling cream, wax -- should be applied to the ends only, recommends New York City stylist Alan Whyte.