Prom Spot - Prom Beauty: How to Speak "Makeup Artist"

Control freaks and beauty novices, beware: If someone else will be doing your makeup, be sure you speak her language. To wit: One person's "light smoky eye" is another person's "Amy Winehouse eye." Always bring pictures of looks you like and know your makeup lingo. Here are the best words to use in order to get what you want!

If you want your makeup to look like you're really not wearing makeup, say…

• "I want to look natural."

HINT: If you've never worn makeup, tell her.

If you want her to cover up that zit-zone around your chin but you'd die before you actually say that, say…

• "I have problematic skin. I need full coverage."

HINT: Makeup artists really aren't grossed out by skin issues. (We asked.) And they always clean their brushes, but if you're still worried about bacteria, ask them to use a disposable sponge instead.

If you loved Jennifer Hudson's makeup in Dreamgirls and want to copy it, say...

• "I want my eyes to look dramatic. I like the '60s Dreamgirls look."

HINT: Skip the false eyelashes -- with dramatic eyes, this combo can fall in that scary area between junior beauty pageanter and transvestite.

If you don't want clown lips, say...

• "I want everyday lips."

HINT: Tell her what colors you NEVER use.

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--Heather Levine

Sources: MAC Makeup and Daniel Merced for Giorgio Armani at Bloomingdale's

Photo: Veer