How to shop smarter...
1. Wash your brushes and wipe your make-up containers REGULARLY.
When you do this, you take stock of what you have and what you might need. Often you realize that that new item you've been really wanting is right there in your own collection! Plus, you can achieve a smooth, light application ONLY with clean make-up brushes so wash them every week or so...
2. Remove lipsticks and stuff from purses and cosmetics bags REGULARLY.
I am bad at this one. Most of my bags or coat pockets have a lipstick or lip balm rolling around in them somewhere. Of course it is nice to re-discover a product but it is better to have them all hang-out together as a family.
3. Read reviews...
Make-up Alley, Beautypedia, Amazon, Paula's Choice, Elle, MarieClare, Allure, Beauty Bloggers, Make-up Vloggers on You-tube...there are literally millions of reviews out there. When reading reviews remember that many products such as foundations work differently on different skin types. I find negative reviews of product packaging or faulty packaging to be the most accurate. If a few people have written that the product is hard to use or carry because of bad package design...it is almost always the case.
4. Get your make-up done on UNSPECIAL days...
MAC, Bobbi Brown, Nars (and almost everyother brand) make-up studios, hairdressers all do make up in Turkey. Some of these make-up artists are trained, some are naturally talented and some just completely suck. Plus, some are really good at teaching you how to use certain products and some are great at matching you with products that you actually need (as opposed to just making the sale). The way to maximize this entire experience is to experiment with brands, products and artists when you are not going to your sister's wedding or a high school reunion. Less pressure, more time, less psychological noise while you are making your decisions.
5. Ask your friends...
The best reviews and recommendations come from your friends....period.