8 Smart Beauty Tips When Buying Cosmetics

Many women think that shopping for makeup is about as pleasant as a trip to the dentist. When Karen was 16 and sought beauty advice at a department store, she ended up with weird brown shading down the sides of her nose (to make it look smaller) and shimmer highlighter on her cheeks (supposedly creating the illusion of cheek-bones). Looking back, she realizes that her experience could have been very different if she had taken control instead of putting herself at the mercy of the salesperson. So, before you visit the cosmetic counter, do your homework and figure out what you want. So, here are 8 smart beauty tips buying of makeup.

1. Plan ahead. Have an idea of what to buy. Go through your makeup bag and make a list of cosmetics that are running low, as well as any new products you'd like to try. If you've used up a favorite, bring it with you. If it's been discontinued, you can ask the salesperson to suggest something similar.

2. Avoid rush hour. Skip high-traffic times like lunchtime or the weekend, when stores are so busy that it's hard to even ask for help. Instead, hit the makeup counter during off-peak hours, when you'll get a salesperson's full attention.

3. Get naked. Shop for cosmetics barefaced. Why? The right makeup enhances and complements the natural coloring of your skin, eyes, cheeks, and lips. If you have to work to blend a too-bright color, or if you need to add other makeup to make it look good, don't buy it.

4. See the light. Step outside before you buy. Some colors may seem natural under the store's fluorescent bulbs but could look artificial in real-life lighting.

5. Love her look. If you want your makeup done at a counter; ask a salesperson whose look appeals to you. If you like how she does her own makeup, chances are you'll like how she does your makeup. That's not to say you shouldn't ask a man for makeup advice; some of the most talented makeup artists I know are men. Either way, it's important to feel comfortable putting yourself in his or her hands.

6. Just say no. Most makeup companies offer free makeovers and expect you to buy the products used. But you are under no obligation to make a purchase. Don't let a salesperson pressure you into buying something you're not sure of. Ask if the company offers samples of the products you're interested in so that you can road test them (many give samples of skin care products and foundations). If not, say thanks for the help and mention that you need time to think things over.

7. Counter offers. Don't be tempted by the "gift with purchase" offers. The free items may not be right for your skin type or coloring.

8. Learn to return. Most large cosmetics companies will accept returns if you are dissatisfied with a product — even if the package has been opened. If you have a reaction to a product or the packaging is damaged, don't hesitate to take the product back to the counter where you bought it.