We asked for your beauty problems and offered to bring in the experts to solve them. Today we’re launching a series of mini make-overs featuring readers who wrote in for help.
OUR first reader in the spotlight is Karen Rausse, 54, who has an unusual problem – ‘cholesterol spots’ around her eyes.
“I can’t seem to camouflage them,’’ she said. “Please help, I’m fed up with people saying I haven’t blended my foundation in correctly.’’
Karen, a mobile hairdresser in the Colne Valley, says she’s had the blemishes removed twice with a minor surgical procedure but they simply grow back.
Cholesterol spots, also known as xanthoma, are small, soft, yellow raised bumps around the eyes. Up to 50% of people with this condition have elevated cholesterol levels.
We took Karen to see Jo Burke, award-winning Max Factor consultant at Boots in Huddersfield.
Jo suggested that Karen tries using a moisturising compact foundation rather than a concealer.
“A concealer might be too heavy while the Miracle Touch foundation gives good cover while feeling light on the skin,’’ said Jo.
Using a brush to apply foundation is also a useful trick for anyone who wants flawless coverage.
“You can use the brush to get into difficult-to-reach areas like around the nose and for Karen it means she can work over and around the cholesterol spots, getting a much more even finish than if she was applying foundation with her fingers,’’ explained Jo.
“A brush also means that you use less product.’’
Karen usually wears a little make-up but doesn’t feel too confident with mascara.
After Jo showed her how to apply it with a ‘sawing’ motion, Karen said she’d be giving it a try herself.
Karen’s new look was completed with a dusting of mineral powder and the new Masterpiece Colour Precision eyeshadow.
“They’re fabulous,’’ said Jo. “You only need the tiniest bit and can pat it on with your finger for a really soft colour. It stays on for hours without a touch-up.
“By using eye make-up, Karen can attract attention away from her cholesterol spots.’’
Karen, who lives in Slaithwaite, was looking forward to showing husband Attilo her new make-up.
“It’s lovely,’’ she said “I’ll definitely be trying to do what Jo has done.’’
lWe’ll be running our mini makeovers on a regular basis. If you’ve got a beauty problem let us know. Everyone who takes part gets a goodie bag of samples and products. Email hilarie.stelfox@examiner.co.uk