Melasma and makeup artist/makeup store

Question

I will be in HKG and I am looking for some makeup artists or makeup cosmestic stores who can educate me on what products and shades to use to hide the melasma on my cheeks.

I want to avoid places like Sephora as I don't think the people that work there are knowlegeable enough for this kind of request.

Answer

If you are looking for professional advice and personalized makeup solutions in Hong Kong to help conceal melasma on your cheeks, there are a few options beyond large chain stores like Sephora:

1. High-end department store beauty counters – Many department stores in Hong Kong (e.g., Lane Crawford, Harvey Nichols, SOGO) have dedicated beauty counters with trained makeup artists who can provide personalized consultations. They often offer color-correcting techniques and foundation matching specifically for concerns like melasma.

Lane Crawford – known for highly trained makeup consultants and premium brands.
Harvey Nichols – offers makeup tutorials and one-on-one consultations for skin concerns.
SOGO Beauty Halls – houses multiple high-end brands with professional makeup artists.

2. Specialized makeup studios and freelance makeup artists – There are makeup artists in Hong Kong who specialize in corrective makeup, bridal makeup, or editorial work and can advise on coverage techniques for melasma:

Book a session with a freelance makeup artist via Instagram or local platforms (e.g., MakeUpHK, Honeybees.hk) – you can request a consultation focused on color correction.
Some studios offer short workshops or private lessons for individuals, demonstrating product selection, application methods, and layering techniques to effectively conceal pigmentation.

3. Korean and Japanese cosmetic stores – Certain stores specializing in K-beauty and J-beauty products provide knowledgeable staff who are experienced with pigmentation issues. Brands like Shiseido, HERA, Clé de Peau, and SUQQU often have consultants who can advise on color-correcting products, concealers, and foundations suitable for melasma.

Shiseido Boutique (various locations) – offers professional makeup consultation.
HERA stores – Korean cosmetic brand with staff trained for individualized makeup needs.
Clé de Peau Beauté counters – premium brand with highly trained consultants.

Tips:

Book an appointment in advance, especially for private consultations or studio sessions, as these are in high demand.
Bring your usual skincare and makeup products so the artist can see your typical routine and match products appropriately.
Ask specifically for color-correcting techniques and coverage options for hyperpigmentation/melasma.

By targeting these specialized consultants rather than general retail staff, you’ll get expert guidance on selecting the right shades, formulas, and techniques to minimize the appearance of melasma.