Canadian Living : Style : Beauty : How to get the most out of the beauty counter

How to get the most out of the beauty counter

With their perfect makeup, the staff at beauty counters can look intimidating. Here's how to score at the counter with confidence.

By Kat Tancock

Dos and don'ts at the beauty counter
Here are some dos and don'ts for getting the most out of your beauty counter experience.

DO be specific about what you're looking for. "Let the consultant know your likes and dislikes," says Gibson. "Let them know what you're looking for and if it's for something specific like an event or to match a certain colour."

DO ask a lot of questions. "Ask as many questions as you can so that you feel like you are with someone that is looking out for your needs and not just selling the latest item," says Gibson. DeBelder agrees. "If you want to buy the right cream or foundation for your skin," she says, "I recommend that you take the time to talk to the guide and offer as much information as is needed."

DON'T be afraid to state your opinion. "It is definitely more difficult if you have a customer who wants to leave all the decisions up to the artist," says Gibson.

DO make an appointment. Beauty counters can get busy, and the only way to ensure staff have enough time to focus on you is if you book them in advance. If you must visit at the last minute and need custom advice, try to visit during slow periods -- that means not showing up at lunchtime, after work or on Saturday afternoon.

DO make sure you know how to use the products you buy. "I think it is very important that customers inquire about the right usage of the products," says DeBelder. "Customers sometimes forget the order and frequency of usage of a product or they apply the product in a very wrong place."

DON'T buy a product you're not crazy about. "If you don't love what has been suggested," says Gibson, "then keep looking!"

DO have fun and keep an open mind. The ideal customer, says Gibson, is "anyone who is open to suggestion and works with the artist to make sure they get what they want. Makeup is fun," she adds, "and artists love when customers feel the same way!"

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