Make-up

Have a Mary Kay party, they will let you do a hands on try and show you how to apply make up, then you can decide what you like and buy that. Plus it is fun!

I'm not really the best source for an answer, all I wear is eyeliner and lipstick - maybe mascara for a special occasion like a wedding.

My suggestion would be to start small. If you've never worn any before (ever?) you can go to any of the cosmetic counters in the department stores (like Macy's etc) and they will do a 'makeover' on you.

Don't get sucked in to buying all the layers of products though, go for the tips in how to apply makeup. Really, we're most of us beautiful the way we are, we don't need ten layers of stuff on our face to make us look pretty.

I think Clinique is having one of those specials right now where if you buy $22 or so worth of product, you get a free samples kit with lipsticks and powder. That's the only time I buy their stuff, otherwise it is way too pricey for my tastes.

Hate to say it, but also check out the 'makeover' sections of your local women's mags (and their websites) - go for ones who have models in the pics who have the look you're going for. I like Real Simple (www.realsimple.com), their models look clean and freshly washed, like they are going to work, not like they are going to a bar.

Good luck!

T., I am a MK consultant, and we have a new line of mineral powder products (foundation, eye/cheek color), and you can put on as much or as little as you want (more for intense color, etc.). Most of our products are lightweight, and I can match your foundation color perfectly to your skin tone. As far as color is concerned, MK consultants teach you how to put your make-up on, so you never have to worry about how to recreate the look at home. You'll already know! Also, I always give my customers print-outs that show you how to apply the colors to your eyes, etc. Please contact me if you're interested, and I'll schedule you for your personal facial and makeover. I have to admit - it is a ton of fun! Have a great day! M.

I know that this is an old post but I just came across it. If you are still looking for a good make-up, I think I may be able to help. I am a consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics as well as Avon. Both are very good products. If you are still looking or are interested in have a free consultation/make over, I would love to meet with you. Send me an email and so that I can give you more information about my products.

Hi,T.! The idea below about seeking sale deals where you also get free samples is great. And I agree that Mary Kay is a good brand and an MK consultant could help you decide on products and shades. Also: Pick a few things that work with all your needs rather than lots of different colors and products. For instance, talk to a consultant at a department store makeup counter about what "neutral" lipstick shade works well on your face--rather than picking a pinkish one plus a wine-colored one plus a reddish one, etc. etc. It's easy to end up with lots of pretty shades of eye and lip makeup that you don't ever use; better to have a few neutrals you can use all the time. Also, this may not matter to you if you're not sensitive to scents, but be aware that most cosmetics have scents in them that can conflict with each other, and with your cologne if you wear any. If you're wearing scented foundation plus scented powder and lipstick, others can definitely smell it all on you and you can smell it on yourself! I'm very sensitive to scents and use only unscented makeups (Almay is one company that makes unscented everything). But that's just me! Have fun with this and please report back on any great finds.

I recently starting wearing the Loreal Mineral make-up after using Mary Kay for years. The Mary Kay is great also but this make-up is really light and doesn't look like you are wearing make-up.

Good luck and have fun!

i love bare escentuals. i will never buy any other make-up. it lives up to all its promises. it is FABULOUS and in my opinion impossible to not put on right. the shades work with all skin tones and it is light as a feather on but provides amazing coverage. i have used it now for two years. it is awesome!