Just Say No (thank you)

When a mama's feeling not so up-to-date on her makeup, it can be a nice little pick-me-up to sit down at a makeup counter and have a professional make you look fabulous and oh so au courant. Yet when once she's given you a make-up induced glow, you know she's going to give you the hard sell. How do you bow out gracefully and still walk away with dignity? Total Beauty has some great suggestions for dealing with those awkward moments.

Scene: You've just received a free half-hour makeover and mini-massage at a department store counter. The make-up artist looks you square in your newly smoky eye and asks, "So, which of these fabulous products would you like to take home today?"

Fact: This is a classic counter tactic. Makeup artists don't spend 30 minutes giving you tips, tricks and samples purely out of the goodness of their beautifying hearts. They work on commission. Although you're not obligated to buy anything, it is sort of expected. If you receive a free service that takes up more than 10 minutes of his or her time, be prepared to fork over approximately $1/minute for a product. Or don't accept the "free" service at all, because the hard sell is part of that freebie. Either purchase the cheapest product, or pick out an item you know you love.

If you blaze without buying, a makeup artist is left with one of two conclusions: She did a terrible job or you're a sample grifter. So, confess if you have no intention of buying a product -- if you simply want to test the brand or need a free glam makeover before a big night out. As awkward as it might sound, total honesty up front helps you avoid the truly awkward moment of walking away without spending a dime. This way, the makeup artist knows to hook you up, but still keep an eye out for potential customers. "You'll get the service because you might turn into a regular buyer, but she won't feel bad about stepping away to help other people," says Bobbi Brown makeup artist Mark Hopkins.

How to escape gracefully: Depending on how you feel about the makeover or service, there are tactful ways to say, 'Thanks…but no thanks.'
· "I'd like to see how it wears before I commit to buying more."
· "I have sensitive skin, so I need to make sure I don't react to any of the products."
· "I don't want to buy everything at once, but if you write down the products, I'll be sure to mention your name when I come back to buy them so you get the commission."
· "I want to use up the products I have at home before I start a whole new regimen."

So next time you have the opportunity to have a visiting make-up artist give you a new look, don't shy away. Take advantage of the rare chance, but be ready to say "NO" if you're not ready to plunk down a bundle on new products. Select only what you really want, and be confident in your decision. You'll feel better about yourself, and will avoid spending money on products you didn't really want.

Article from TotalBeauty.com.
Photo courtesy of Carmindy.com.