With skincare-infused make-up and hybrid products on the rise, how can professionals decide when to rely on prep versus when make-up itself can do the heavy lifting?
-Aastha Rathore, Rajasthan
Prep remains the foundation for any good make-up if you want good results. Hybrid products are wonderful enhancers, but they work best on skin that is already balanced, not problematic. When skin has concerns like dehydration or sensitivity, or when make-up needs to last longer, then prep goes a very long way. So, on healthy, well-maintained skin, make-up can be lighter, but preparation is what will ensure the longevity of your make-up.
What factors should determine foundation selection today? Is it coverage, undertone accuracy, skin condition, or longevity? How can artists prioritise the finish without overloading the skin?
-Ruby Saxena, Dehradun
For the foundation selection, the skin condition should always come first. Once we understand the skin condition, then the undertone accuracy becomes non-negotiable. Coverage and the wear time of the make-up can always be adjusted based on the occasion and the client’s comfort. The goal isn’t always maximum coverage; it’s the right amount in the right places. If you overload the foundation, it doesn’t look refined, or it doesn’t wear well.
How can make-up artists build trust during consultations, especially when they need to gently disagree with a client’s reference images or unrealistic expectations?
-Antra D., Gurgaon
Trust comes from communication and not contradicting. You can’t get into a debate or a contradiction with your client. I acknowledge that they are drawing inspiration or have expectations. You must explain how you can adapt the inspiration to suit their skin, features, and condition. Clients appreciate honesty when it is paired with a solution rather than flatly telling them ‘no’. A direct refusal is not the solution to this.
How should make-up professionals price their services in a way that reflects skill, time, prep, and expertise, rather than just the final look?
-Ashish Samyal, Jammu
Make-up pricing is often judged by the final look, but true value lies in the entire process. When a professional communicates clearly and their pricing reflects consultation, preparation, hygiene, product knowledge, and experience, clients understand the difference. An artist who confidently explains what the service includes builds trust. Clients are willing to pay more for expertise, comfort, consistency, and the assurance shown through a refined, professional process.
What are the most overlooked hygiene and kit-maintenance practices that directly impact skin outcomes and professional credibility?
-Sanya Dixit, Hyderabad
Hygiene goes far beyond just having clean brushes. Even today, hygiene is often overlooked, especially in how cream and liquid products are handled. Double-dipping into jars or scooping with fingers contaminates products and can seriously harm a client’s skin. Decanting and sanitising should be non-negotiable standards. Most of us tend to clean bristles but ignore handles, which can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Powder products and puffs also need attention. Reusing applicators, especially on different clients, transfers bacteria and oils back into products. Eye and lip products are especially sensitive, yet usage periods are often ignored. Regular replacement of eye and lip products and use of disposable applicators are crucial. Clients may not understand technical details, but they notice cleanliness. Hygiene isn’t just about safety; it directly impacts skin results and professional credibility.
MEET THE EXPERT
Vaishali is a qualified cosmetologist and nutritionist, and the founder-director of LTA School of Beauty. With 14 years of salon experience and global training from CIBTAC and CIDESCO, she empowers thousands of professionals through expert programmes. As India’s official beauty skill expert for the National Skill Development Council, she has represented the country at five WorldSkills competitions and served at international skill events, championing strong foundations and career-ready training for students.
To participate in Ask Our Expert and get your questions answered by Vaishali K Shah, message your query to @pbhjindia on Instagram or email to afrin.idex@gmail.com. *Questions have been edited for clarity and length.