Kristine Shirk, makeup artist at Bealls. – taosnews

Shirk is offering complimentary make-up sessions every day — and a gift with purchase, starting Oct. 27 —to those interested in bringing out their best features with a freshened fall look.

Beautiful skin, never out of style

Before getting into makeup as such, let’s have a word about skin care.

“Nice, hydrated skin is always in fashion,” Shirk said. “I recommend you start your make-up routine with a good moisturizer. Before using anything else, wait a bit to let the moisturizer sink in.”

This is also a good time to apply Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum, which has won 55 worldwide awards. It can be worn day and night.

“Then go for the eye cream,” Shirk said. “Eyes are the first areas to age so we need to pay special attention to them.”

Even though summer is over, don’t put the sunscreen away.

“If you practice winter sports, like skiing or snowboarding, you will need it,” she said, “UV radiation intensifies in the mountains because snow acts like a giant reflector and the skin burns fast, even on cloudy days. Cover all exposed areas like nose, ears, and even hands to avoid sunburn.”

Foundation is considered a canvas for the rest of the makeup. Liquid, cream or powder, it smoothes the skin texture and covers minor imperfections.

“Getting the right foundation, one that matches your skin tone, is perhaps the most important step in applying makeup,” Shirk said. “Choosing it can be tricky so try different shades until you find the perfect one.”

Sara Barraza is doing just that. The Inspired! teacher took the afternoon for herself and sat at the Estee Lauder counter with Shirk, experimenting with new products.

“There is something to be said for treating yourself to a new style,” Barraza said. “Feeling bonita, pretty, puts me immediately in a good mood.”

After foundation comes concealer, which should be one shade lighter than your natural skin color.

“Dab it to hide under-eye circles and other areas that may need some help,” Shirk said. “But be careful not to overdue. It is intended to cover little blemishes, not the entire face.”

A touch of blusher and, if desired, powder, will contribute to a flawless look.

“Now, a good lipstick creates definition and enhances your features,” Shirk said, choosing a color named “Tumultuous Pink” for Barraza. “Our lipstick bullet is perfectly shaped to sculpt the curves of the lips.”

Next, she begins to apply mascara on Barraza’s upper and bottom lashes.

“Mascara is a must-have,” Shirk said. “It makes the eyes look bigger and brighter in an instant. Start at roots and work your way up, using a wriggling motion.”

Shirk likes to go for the natural look first, then show her clients how to take it right into the evening.

“A thicker line with the eyeliner will give you a more evening look,” she said. “You can always extend it, to create a cat-eye effect. A smokey eye and simmering red lips will add a glamorous twist to the daytime makeup. It’s all about experimenting and having fun!”

“I feel renewed and pampered,” Barraza said, once the session was over. “I will do this more often, for sure.”

Shirk has been in Taos since August and says that living here is “like having a vacation every day.”

“Fashion in Taos is casual, cool and comfortable,” she said. “I like that. Come visit me at Bealls and let me help you enhance your natural beauty.”

Bealls is located at 710 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos.