Thread: Make-up for my mom

My mom is in her early 50's and is in dire need of better make-up. Since her birthday (and Christmas) is coming up, I’d like to help her out. Here are her concerns.

1. She has super oily skin (as do I); and
2. Dark puffy eyes.

I was thinking of getting her a really good primer, eye cream and concealer to start. Can anyone recommend any specific brands for her.

I’ve done a little research; however, I’d love for any additional advice from anyone else with these issues.

Thanks.

Originally Posted by Kristen81

My mom is in her early 50's and is in dire need of better make-up. Since her birthday (and Christmas) is coming up, I’d like to help her out. Here are her concerns.

1. She has super oily skin (as do I); and
2. Dark puffy eyes.

I was thinking of getting her a really good primer, eye cream and concealer to start. Can anyone recommend any specific brands for her.

I’ve done a little research; however, I’d love for any additional advice from anyone else with these issues.

Thanks.

Book her a consultation at her nearest MAC outlet. I don't know what it's like in the US but here in the UK, you pay a £25 consultation fee, when you book, and that will be refundable against any cosmetics you buy as a result of that consult.

But first, make sure that she will actually appreciate this sort of thing as a present. My Dad's ladyfriend keeps buying me presents that consist of "skin firming lotion" or "anti-ageing cream", which I can laugh about, and I know she doesn't mean it in quite as tactless a way as it seems. But really!

Bea's suggestion of M.A.C. is a good one, and I'd like to add a recommendation for visiting an Aveda concept salon. I love Aveda for everyday makeup and save the M.A.C. for stage most of the time. Clinique is also a good one with great products for oilier complexions (like mine!) and can be found in many department stores.

I agree with the MAC consultation. Their stuff doesn't scream "old fart" like some brands do, it's quite good quality and the MUAs seem knowledgable. Try to get an appointment on like a Tuesday or Wednesday when there are fewer people about.

Their Studio Sculpt foundation covers a lot without looking too caked on and you don't really need a concealer with it. I wear it as my regular foundation (I'm in the same age group as your mom.)

For dark, puffy eyes, try using a very light-coloured eye shadow over the lid, up to the brow with a slightly darker shade in the crease and a dark shade just as a liner. Think eye lightener, not eye shadow.

Mac foundation runs about $30 and the eyeshadows are about $14 each.

If your budget is small, try the Boots No. 7 foundation and eye primer. The foundation doesn't cover as well as the Mac but it's good and it costs about $14. The eye shadow primer is about $7 or $8 and the eyeshadows are about the same. These are available at Target and sometimes there is an MUA available to help.