A few thoughts from my experiences. For one, I was much like Column and Jenni NZ until my early 40’s. I wasn’t interested in wearing makeup because of the potential messages conveyed and particularly the example it might set for my daughter, who does not use makeup. I rethought my use for two reasons. One, I love colors. Two, I love my eyes, which are a unique color. I chose to play with make up in order to please myself, and it makes me happy. I can take it or leave it on any given day which means there is no pressure about it’s use. Secondly, I chose the SA very carefully. I started out at mall makeup counters, but would only work with someone I felt had a look I really loved. They are hard if not impossible to find, but I found two. One is at the local Mac counter, and another was at Bare Essentials. Thirdly, I would never have my entire face done at once. I agree with statement above, that finding products is a time intensive ordeal. It’s about trial and error, but also one step at a time. I have a simple skin care regime. Soap and water. I have mild rosacea, so I use a good moisturizer and mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen can make skin look pasty white, so I do need a tiny bit of foundation to mix with the screen otherwise I wouldn’t need any. My skin doesn’t have discolorations that I feel any need to cover over, etc. Foundation is not something that is easy to find. I learned that it’s best to try a couple samples at a counter, write down what they are, and head out of the store with the stripes on my face so I can see them in daylight. Then if I think it’s a good match, I go back and ask for a slightly larger sample, which most counters can figure out how to manage. I try the stuff out for a few days, and if it’s good, than I purchase. I found one that works with my sunscreen and I’m done. The same process works for anything else, really, however, I have now pretty much figured out what I like and don’t buy anything in the mall anymore. I get everything online. I keep my look minimal, and limit it to eyeliners made out of fun shades of mineral eye shadows that make my eyes sparkle, my sunscreen mixed with the foundation to return my natural skin tone, mascara (I like navy), and I have a favorite lip gloss. I don’t use blush or an eyebrow powder very often, no bronzer, no highlighter. I don’t feel the need for anything fancy. Many days I go with less. My eyeshadow/liner colors have been chosen because they remind me of a clear Mediterranean Sea. It’s consistent with the rest of my wardrobe. It makes me happy. If you don’t like it and it’s stressful, why bother. I love looking at my makeup kit. It’s like a paint set. It looks pretty, I find it fun and even a relaxing way to start my day.
