You’ve been there. Your makeup looks decent in the bathroom, and in fact, you’re getting pretty good at this. Hours later at the office, you get a glimpse of yourself in harsh overhead lighting and think, “How in the world did I think it was okay to leave the house like this?”

Never look in one mirror and assume that all is well. First, apply makeup as usual and get bathroom lighting approval. Remember that direct overhead lighting will always look the worst – especially recessed overhead lighting. Then, take a handheld mirror and check your work outside. If it’s dark out, stay indoors and use the flashlight on your smartphone for extra illumination. If nothing else, buy a lighted makeup mirror – some of these have settings which mimic various kinds of light.

Just be sure to heed the most important beauty tip of all time – do NOT get a magnifying mirror. It just isn’t worth the grief.