Can you feel the recession biting? Is it time to tighten your cosmetic purse strings? Yes? Then start with a stocktake! Get clear on what you already have in your makeup collection before your next trip to the cosmetic candy store.

Drag out everything, including the long-forgotten items buried in the beauty product graveyard, right at the back of the bathroom cupboard. It’s time to resurrect some of these pre-loved treasures.

Tough times call for creativity. C’mon girls, let’s experiment!

Do it differently!

If the product was relegated to the darkest corner of the deepest drawer because it didn’t deliver the desired effect first time round, try something new. Don’t forget: when it comes to makeup, the method of application has a big impact on the finish. For example, if your powder leaves the skin with a cakey finish, trade the powder puff for a brush. Want a better color pay-off from your eyeshadow? Pat on the color with a firm, flat, dense-bristled eyeshadow brush, instead of blending it with a sponge-tipped applicator. Need more coverage from your powder foundation? Apply it with a sponge and use a dabbing motion to work it onto the skin, instead of long, sweeping strokes. To get a smooth, sheer finish from a liquid base, choose a sponge specifically designed for blending, and before use, dampen it slightly with water to prevent it from absorbing too much product. (more…)