Merle Norman Cosmetics

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been on a mission to find the perfect foundation/​powder to give me that flawless look. My skin is dry and oily, fair and red, and far from easy to match. I’ve never been completely satisfied with anything and have spent so much money trying to find «just the right coverage».
Upon the recommendation of a friend, I stopped in to the Merle Norman Studio (located across from Park Mall, just down from Jason’s Deli). I guess I’ve been out of the loop, but I’ve never heard of this make up… apparently it has been around since the 1930’s which is incredible, but also the source of this make up being labeled «old lady» make up I’ve heard… cause the ladies who loved it back then STILL love it today and now I know why!
I arrived, excited to find the perfect foundation and ready to end my life long quest… a tad dramatic maybe, but truly it’s been an impossible mission! I was greeted by Deni, who, along with her husband, are the sole owners of this and their other location on Oracle. I was disappointed to hear that I needed an appointment to be properly color matched since sometimes it can take some time and she doesn’t like to sell products without knowing that it is perfect for her customer. Thankfully, she agreed to start with me and if her appointment arrived in the middle, we’d just stop and continue another day. Her appointment was a no show, so I was in luck, but I would recommend making an appointment before you stop in.
Deni has been doing this for years and knew what colors to try on me. Her mother was the original owner and she has since taken over, so she really knows her stuff!
She had me put the foundation on myself, which was nice, since it gave me confidence that I could recreate the look at home. We stepped outside so she could decide between 2 colors out in the sunlight and natural light, which was great. She was 100% committed to making sure I was happy and I could tell she takes her time and does this with every customer.
When all was said and done, I ended up with an amazing daytime lotion (PREVENTAGE™ Firming Defense Crème Normal/​Dry Broad Spectrum SPF 15), a creamy foundation (TOTAL FINISH® Compact Makeup) and a powder foundation (Ultra Powder Foundation), both in Ivory and both absolute perfect color matches. I’ve been wearing them for a while now and still absolutely love them.
You can determine your level of coverage very easily depending on the way you apply them and how much you use. I’m so impressed with these products and can’t wait for others to try them and fall in love with them as well!