Face Value

Looking good is a total picture and the face is quintessential to that image.  It can mean the difference in getting the job, the promotion, or even just being heard.  For example, if you are interviewing for a job, your face can project that you are on top-of-it or it can carbon date you back to the 80’s. Face it! That subjectivity about your image could cost you in a bias about your intellect.  Perceived face value is subjective and it manifests in the eye of the beholder.  Know how to project the best image for a great face value—getting hired and your paycheck could rely on it. 

I often hear from business women that they dress for success with wardrobe, hair and nails but go o’naturale on the face.  They are busy and have no time for the make-up routine.  Or, they fear makeup because of images they harbor of others’ makeup mistakes and shrink from using it.  Unless there is flawless skin, a minimal career look includes the correct foundation match, a blending eye shadow, mascara, cheek color and a lip product appropriately applied considering the occupation and company culture.  In a recent survey, the majority of women are not confident they have chosen the right foundation color or product for their skin type.

Makeup selection must take into consideration age, lifestyle, facial features, personality, etiquette, occupation and, most importantly, skin care routine.  Your skin care program can improve or undermine your makeup’s performance.  Skin that is not hydrated and too dry will not hold color long.  Skin that is oily can crease and smudge the color.  Seasonal changes and the aging process require a skin care and color image that adjusts appropriately. 

The key to keeping up face value is to update before you outdate. If you are a person who is not likely to change your look often, then a classic color palette with potential to kick it up or tone it down are for you.  If you are a diva of fun and play with trendy color and products, then you will want to try new things, but be wary as trendy is short lived.  A significant change in career or graduation from college is a time to update for that important interview or first day on the job.

Cosmetics have gone high-tech and it is important to have a beauty expert who can pull together a skin care program and a color image that fits your age, occupation, budget and personality.  They can keep you apprised of new product developments and color changes in fashion.  And, they can make all those adjustments when NEW comes into your life—new job, new marriage, new body or new baby.  Savvy women engage the experts!

Carol Leigh Mason, Ind. Sales Director, Mary Kay Cosmetics