There's something alluring about a makeup counter. Whether is a makeup mega-store like Sephora or the beauty section of a department store, all those pretty products lined up in a row can be hard to resist. Temptation is especially high when makeup counter employees lure you in with free makeovers and bonus gifts. But how do you know your getting the best deal? There are a few makeup counter shopping tips that you should know. Click through the slideshow to discover the three biggest ripoffs you might be falling for at the makeup counter.
[Images: Shutterstock]
"Free" Makeovers
Free makeovers at the beauty counter are rarely ever free. There's usually an expectation that you will at least buy a certain amount of product when you sit down for a makeover. According to About Style, you don't have to buy something if you only try a item or two at a counter, but for a full makeover the unspoken rule is that you purchase a couple of items.
Gifts With Purchase
When you go to the makeup counter, have a budget in mind. Cosmetics salespeople work on commission, so don't be surprised when they try to sell you on more products than you need. One of the ways they do this is by offering gifts with your purchase. If you spend a certain amount of money on a brand. However, you don't want to buy products you don't want or need just to get a free makeup pouch. Go to the makeup counter with an idea of what you want and this will help you resist the urge to buy whatever the salesperson suggests.
Going At The Wrong Time
You want to be cautious of when you're going to the beauty counter. Weekends and after work are the busiest time for a makeup counter, so if you want a full consultation, these aren't the best times to shop. In order to get the best customer service, you want to go at an off-peak time. After all, the benefit of shopping at a cosmetics counter is that you get to consult with an expert.
