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Dilemma of the Week:
My Department Store Makeover Left Me Looking Ridiculous
Makeup artist Deborah Grayson solves
one beauty dilemma each week.
I took advantage of a free makeup application offered at a high-end department store while visiting New York City, and I looked ridiculous afterward. Worse yet, I spent over $100 on cosmetics, because I felt pressured by the makeup artist. Needless to say, I ran right back to the hotel to scrub it all off.
I'm sorry you had such a rotten experience, but allow me to spill the beans here. Most of the folks working behind department store cosmetic counters aren't makeup artists; they're sales consultants. They do have the best intentions, but the fact is, they may not be properly trained in applying makeup for all skin tones and face shapes. Also, most of them work on a salary-plus-commission basis, so they're encouraged heavily to sell, sell, sell.
Here are a few tips to follow if you'd like to try the department store route with better results.
<LI>Rather than go to a brand, scan the floor for a makeup consultant whose style you admire. Chances are she'll apply your makeup in a similar manner.
<LI>Go to your favorite makeup counter and inquire about a resident makeup artist. Some of the more expensive lines will hire an expert to endorse their products.
<LI>Inquire about any special events or promotions where a professional makeup artist may be present. You might be asked to make an appointment in advance.
<LI>Have a consultation before any application begins, stressing what your needs are and what you're looking to achieve. Tell them you are not interested in buying that day, if that's the case.
<LI>If you're having the application in order to learn technique, be sure the consultant knows this, so that you'll be free to check the mirror periodically and ask questions about application, color choices and method.
<LI>Never allow yourself to be talked into purchasing a product you don't want. If you're invited for a free session, it should remain free <NOBR>--</NOBR> no strings attached.
<LI>Be aware of the consultant blending two or three types of foundation, lipstick or eye shadow to create a look. If she blends colors while applying them to your face, it's likely you won't be able to duplicate the look easily at home.
Don't be afraid to have the consultant stop if you're uncomfortable or to ask to remove the makeup she's applied. This is your right, and believe me, you're not going to hurt her feelings. You are only asserting your needs, which are of the utmost importance. After all, this is your face <NOBR>--</NOBR> not hers
My Department Store Makeover Left Me Looking Ridiculous


one beauty dilemma each week.

I took advantage of a free makeup application offered at a high-end department store while visiting New York City, and I looked ridiculous afterward. Worse yet, I spent over $100 on cosmetics, because I felt pressured by the makeup artist. Needless to say, I ran right back to the hotel to scrub it all off.
I'm sorry you had such a rotten experience, but allow me to spill the beans here. Most of the folks working behind department store cosmetic counters aren't makeup artists; they're sales consultants. They do have the best intentions, but the fact is, they may not be properly trained in applying makeup for all skin tones and face shapes. Also, most of them work on a salary-plus-commission basis, so they're encouraged heavily to sell, sell, sell.
Here are a few tips to follow if you'd like to try the department store route with better results.
<LI>Rather than go to a brand, scan the floor for a makeup consultant whose style you admire. Chances are she'll apply your makeup in a similar manner.
<LI>Go to your favorite makeup counter and inquire about a resident makeup artist. Some of the more expensive lines will hire an expert to endorse their products.
<LI>Inquire about any special events or promotions where a professional makeup artist may be present. You might be asked to make an appointment in advance.
<LI>Have a consultation before any application begins, stressing what your needs are and what you're looking to achieve. Tell them you are not interested in buying that day, if that's the case.
<LI>If you're having the application in order to learn technique, be sure the consultant knows this, so that you'll be free to check the mirror periodically and ask questions about application, color choices and method.
<LI>Never allow yourself to be talked into purchasing a product you don't want. If you're invited for a free session, it should remain free <NOBR>--</NOBR> no strings attached.
<LI>Be aware of the consultant blending two or three types of foundation, lipstick or eye shadow to create a look. If she blends colors while applying them to your face, it's likely you won't be able to duplicate the look easily at home.
Don't be afraid to have the consultant stop if you're uncomfortable or to ask to remove the makeup she's applied. This is your right, and believe me, you're not going to hurt her feelings. You are only asserting your needs, which are of the utmost importance. After all, this is your face <NOBR>--</NOBR> not hers