Fashion & Beauty

7 New York bars that actually make you prettier

Makeup salons are the city’s latest affordable luxury, the next best thing to having an on-call pro. These chic studios offer professional color applications ranging from eyes-only to the full-on Kardashian treatment.

Think of them as cosmetics version of a local nal place of blow-dry bar — which means quick and inexpensive, averaging around $50 for a full face, and you’re in and out in 45 minutes. Added bonus: There’s no awkward product-hustling at the counter.

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

174 Ludlow St., 212-675-2404

David Phelps for Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
OCC sessions start with lip color. The shade you choose, whether it’s a neon pink or a subdued nude, signals how daring you’re willing to get. It’s a smart strategy for a brand known for its vibrant colors. Applications feel like a tutorial: When one eye is done, artists ask if you’d like to try applying shadow and liner to the other. OCC has a prototype of its upcoming mascara stashed behind the register to beef up your lashes. A full face is $75, redeemable in product, and walk-ins are welcome. www.occmakeup.com

Benefit Cosmetics

168 Court St., Brooklyn, 347-464-0804

Courtesy of Benefit
Benefit’s philosophy is all about brow power. Shape them up, and the rest of the makeup can be minimal. A festive, girly energy fills the store, so getting pretty is fun. A quick mini-makeover is free with any of their waxing and grooming services. An a la carte makeup application is $60. www.benefitcosmetics.com

Blushington

Le Parker Meridien, 119 W. 56th St., 646-410-2208

Courtesy of Blushington
A Drybar blowout, Tenoverten nails — and now, a face by Blushington. Open since July, the elegant, peach-toned Blushington completed Le Parker Meridien’s transformation into a one-stop beauty destination. Ask their friendly artists for custom makeup, or pick from a dozen predesigned looks in their photo menu. The “Pure & Natural,” Blushington’s most popular option at $55, is a 45-minute full makeup session. Meaning it’s pretty, but more suited to night than day. “On the Move,” which is just $25, is a better bet for a fresh face. www.blushington.com

Make Up For Ever

8 E. 12th St., 212-941-9337

Courtesy of Make Up For Ever
In this pro shop, products favored by those in the know — like Embryolisse moisturizer and Alcone makeup-remover cloths — are available for purchase. Makeup artists here will pass down pearls of wisdom, like how to create a smoky eye by blending out a soft kohl pencil with an eyeshadow brush. The $75 fee covers a product purchase. www.makeupforever.com

Pucker

129 Grand St., 212-334-3690

Courtesy of Pucker
Co-founders Hiyam McKelvey and Julio Sandino have considered the going-out girl’s every need. Marble-and-wood makeup stations stocked with indie makeup brands line the main floor. Downstairs, Pucker gets next-level: There’s a shower, spray-tanning, dressing rooms, a hairstylist — and clients can even leave their heavy work totes for next-morning pickup. But all these work-to-nightclub amenities don’t overshadow the masterful makeup itself. Creative director Sandino, whose contouring takes cheekbones to new heights, handpicked all the studio’s artists. A 60-minute session is $60. www.pucker.co

MAC Makeup Studio

825 Lexington Ave., 212-371-2480

Courtesy of MAC
MAC’s buzzy energy extends to this new location. Stop in on a whim or book an appointment online. Runway inspiration shots are shown on iPads, and the artists are savvy enough to transform them into something wearable. Lighting is fluorescent bright, so if the makeup looks good in-store, it’ll be gorgeous in more flattering conditions. Focus on one feature for $10 to $15; full makeup is $60. www.maccosmetics.com/macmakeupstudio

Rouge New York

130 Thompson St., 212-388-1717

Sarah Mechling
Music and conversation blend into a delightful hum in this intimate, six-station studio. Makeup artists share thoughtful skin-care advice while creating radiant complexions. Pricing depends on makeup intensity: The $25 “Touch Up” beautifies you in minutes, while “You . . . Only Better,” $50, is just the right amount of color for an interview or daytime date. Temptu airbrush foundation is included in the next two more deluxe options — a plus, as other salons usually charge extra. Unlimited monthly memberships are $250. More good news: A Midtown East location is opening in November. www.rougeny.com