ESTÉE L AUDER

The morning I visit Estée Lauder at Smith & Caughey’s, the counter is bustling with women my age and older popping in for advice and trying on new shades. I lap up the friendly environment and as I make myself comfortable on a stool, am treated to their signature Power Nap Facial. Think buttery cleanser, plumping essence, iconic Advanced Night Repair Serum (yes, you can totally wear it during the day), topped off with a lifting and firming cream. My skin is plump and glowing. A digital iMatch foundation finder hits upon my perfect shade – it’s a bonus to not have to step outside into the natural light. Education Manager Hayley brushes on the longlasting formula followed by concealer in a slightly cooler shade to brighten my eye area, including my eyelids to ensure my eyeshadow doesn’t budge. Next, Hayley expertly applies eyeshadow in a mix of textures, but matt for under the brow, and reaches for the eyeliner. Disclaimer: I have never worn eyeliner in my lower waterline, ever, for fear of making my already round eyes look rounder, and smaller. But Hayley reassures me that it’s purely a myth, “It actually makes them look bigger,” she explains. “The trick is to soften it with a halo of eyeshadow underneath.” Lash primer and mascara go on next. “Always black to make your eyes pop,” says Hayley. Bronzer and blush follow with Hayley working the bronzer right into the hairline and around the jawline to give my face dimension. Next a peachy highlighting cushion is blended into the high points of my face. I’m sold!