A Fool-Proof Guide to Shopping for Makeup

Many women I know think that shopping for makeup is about as pleasant as a trip to the dentist—and I understand why. I still remember a time when I was 16 and went to the department store for some beauty advice. I ended up with brown shading on my nose to make it look smaller and shimmer highlighter that was supposed to create the illusion of cheekbones. The good news is that a trip to the counter can be a positive experience. Follow these tips and you'll always get exactly what you want.

Before you even think about walking into a department store, have an idea of what you plan to buy. Go through your makeup bag to get a sense of what you have and what you still need. You'll avoid coming home with a new purchase that looks exactly like something that's been collecting dust in the bottom of your makeup bag for the last five years.

Hit the makeup counter during off-peak hours to get the most attention from a salesperson. Avoid high traffic times like lunchtime or the weekend when things are so busy that it's often hard to ask for help to begin with.

Shop for makeup when you're bare-faced. You'll instantly be able to tell if a makeup shade is right – or totally wrong for you. 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 color in, or if you need to add other makeup to make it look good, don't buy it.

Always check your reflection in natural light to get the most accurate idea of what a makeup shade looks like on you. The fluorescent lighting in department stores is really harsh and can skew how things look.

If you want your makeup done at the counter, ask a salesperson whose look appeals to you. If you like how they do their own makeup, chances are you'll like how they do your makeup. It's important to be able to relate to the person who is doing your makeup and you should feel comfortable putting yourself in their hands.

Most makeup companies offer free makeovers and you are under no obligation to make a purchase. Don't let a salesperson pressure you into buying something you're not sure of. Thank them for their help and tell them that you need some time to think things over.

Most large cosmetic companies will accept returns if you are dissatisfied with a product. If you have a bad reaction to a product, or the packaging is damaged, don't hesitate to take the product back to the counter where you bought it.