Which makeup counter?

[KrankedUp]

I need a makeup overhaul and in need of new foundation/blusher/eye shadow. I currently have a mix of MAC, Estee Lauder, Benefit, none of which I love. Which makeup counter would be the best to visit to get a good range? I'm 40 something, warm toned but with terrible greasy skin, acne and crater-like pores you could land a moon buggy in.

Shameless bump. I live in a reasonable-sized city so have a good choice of department stores and makeup shops like Urban Decay, Bobbi Brown, MAC, Kiko etc. I just have no idea where would best suit me.

Get samples of various types of makeup’s from all different counters. I find the likes of MAC and benefit target the younger market with heavier kinds of colours etc. Try Clinique, Lancôme too!

I recently had a makeover from Charlotte tilbury and really liked their look light foundation. Really lasts on my greasy skin but doesn’t feel too heavy.

If you have money to burn I'd go to Space NK - they'll use a range of products from different brands and listen to what you want rather than just doing a house look.

I have oily acne prone skin and Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet Foundation is ace.

I would agree with Anna Magnani! Space NK have a wonderful selection of really great brands and I’ve found the people who work there are super helpful!

Urban decay are brilliant- I use the one in John Lewis. Don’t be put off by the edgy brand- they do very flattering neutrals. I love their makeup quality/ longevity and I think prices are reasonable compared to other brands of similar quality

Urban decay have two really good base products that are kind to imperfect skin and create a smooth look- the naked foundation and tinted moisturiser called one and done (which has a flattering flawless Matt finish - I wear it everyday).

Thanks for the suggestions. I'd never thought of Space NK but there is one near me which is good. I'm prepared to pay a reasonable amount if I'm sure the colours are right but I'd never really considered brands like Chanel as they never seem to be mentioned on here. I want a natural look though and not bothered about mad eyebrows and contouring.

Hourglass, Becca and Charlotte Tilbury are good place to start.

Go and have a makeover at one of the beauty counters. It’s quiet at this time of the year and most of the sales assistants really know what they’re talking about. They’re happy to talk to you about your skin and make up requirements. I almost bankrupted myself after a makeover at the Chanel counter in a House of Frazer after a make over a few years ago, but I used it and loved it all. You don’t have to buy anything, though it’s good form to buy at least one product.

Also, to you knowledgeable ladies, how does it actually work? Do you just wander in or make an appointment? Do they do it with the whole shop gawking at you??

I was wandering through doing Christmas shopping and was just browsing at the products when they offered to show me the products. They are usually happy to do this but it’s been a few years since I’ve had the opportunity to indulge so have been using the same products for ages so badly needed a wee update.

At Bobbi Brown you can book a complimentary makeover, which is sometimes easier if you are going at a busy time. Just ring up the store and they will tell you their availability.

However often the makeup artists will ask you if they can help and they will find shades that suit you and apply it for you.

Have fun!

I have a family member who works for MAC and she says their largest proportion of customers for makeovers is women in their forties.

This means she has lots of experience when it comes to giving me makeup tips!

It's not just for the younger generation at all.

Thanks for all the tips. I will start looking round some at the weekend!

I had a make over with Barre Minerals and love the natural look. It also lasts all day (which as I need as cant be asked with touching up!)