The world of cosmetics is all about balance—whether we’re talking budget (is that $39 lipstick really worth the price?) or blush (too much can be aging, too little doesn’t do those cheekbones justice). To help us sort through the makeup morass, we’ve turned to local makeup artist Debbie Federico (looksmd.com), whose client list includes Rachel Hunter, Cal Ripken, Paul Reed Smith, and Willard Scott.
Is expensive makeup worth the splurge? I can make people look just as good with cheap makeup as I can with expensive makeup, but there are some items where I think it’s better to get a more expensive line. Your face is like a canvas, so you want to start with the better quality concealers and foundations. More expensive eye shadows are also worth the splurge; they tend to have better pigmentation and more staying power. Drugstore makeup tends to flake.
What items are better to buy on a budget? You can buy cheaper lip glosses and mascaras, especially since mascara is supposed to be disposed of every three months. I was a makeup artist for the Miss U.S.A. Pageant, and Cover Girl sponsored the pageant, and I really liked using their lip glosses and lip liner.
What are common makeup mistakes? People tend to wear too much and don’t blend enough. The worst thing is when you see a blush line or the line of makeup under the chin. Also, I hate to see tons of makeup on young girls. They should start with just a little lip gloss or peachy pink on the cheeks—and that’s it!
Any tips on storing makeup? Makeup does not do well in extreme temperature, especially heat. To maintain freshness, keep your makeup dry and avoid sunlight. The bathroom really isn’t a great place to store your makeup because of the humidity. A drawer in your bedroom would be better.
Any final words of makeup wisdom? I like a natural look. You don’t want to hide behind makeup. —Jane Marion
WHAT YOU NEED:
We narrowed down a few picks to help you decide when to splurge and when to save.
Pop-Eye: Add color and definition to your eyes with this pencil, available in over 10 shades. MAC Powerpoint eye pencils ($15) at MAC Cosmetics, several locations including 618 S. Exeter St., 410-244-8016.
Bronzed Beauty: Get a perfect blend with this duo, available in three options. Nars Blush & Bronzing Duo ($41) at Sephora, several locations including 825 Dulaney Valley Rd., Towson, 410-337-7494.
Lash Out: Won’t smudge while giving lashes extra body. Cover Girl Remarkable Waterproof Mascara ($4.24) at Target, several locations including 3201 Tioga Pkwy., 410-369-1007.
