Best of: Free Makeovers

Abrasive winter weather and Butler all-nighters accompanied by Kant and de Tocqueville can be trying on skin. Fortunately, most department stores, as well as specialty stores, offer the perfect antidote: free makeover services for the cash-strapped customer willing to sit through the sales pitch.

M.A.C.

With a plethora of lipstick and eye shadow shades that run the gamut from “Viva Glam Gaga” to “Russian Red,” as well as Holy Grail items such as “Mineralize Skinfinish Natural” and “Studio Fix Powders,” a trip to the M.A.C. counter (113 Spring St., between Mercer and Greene streets) is a surefire way to give any downcast face an uplift. Professionally trained makeup artists offer free makeover assistance upon request, but for more tailored guidance, the store offers 45-minute application services ($45) or 90-minute makeup lessons ($90) with add-on goodies included in the price.

Frédéric Fekkai

There’s a loophole to receiving complimentary services from pop culture’s favorite French coiffeur, who keeps a salon and spa from inside the hallowed Henri Bendel (712 Fifth Ave., between 55th and 56th streets). Apply to be a model for Fekkai via their website, and if selected, receive tri-monthly hair care—gratis—as a bonus for fulfilling the hairstylists’ needs. The star-quality shop also offers private stations for mani/pedis and facials, as well as a separate men’s wing.

Molten Brown

The London import Molten Brown (515 Madison Ave., between 53rd and 54th streets), specializing in spa and salon services, understands the draw of a soothing massage and the sweet siren sound of “complimentary.” For a quick break from the hard knocks of life, the store’s free half-hour mini-facials include all the primping basics: cleansing, toning, exfoliating, and mask. The boutique also offers free makeup applications and even hand massages on appointment.

Benefit Boutique

For speedy fixes to specific trouble spots, make a visit to a Benefit counter (454 West Broadway, between Prince and Spring streets) and ask for a five- to 10-minute “Make-Upper,” the store’s free makeup application service. Whether the beauty issue involves blemish scars or stubborn under-eye circles, a consultant will direct any make-up novice to the right products and the proper way to apply them. To get a self-start on achieving flawless skin, scope out the Boi-ing “industrial-strength” concealer ($19) and the Benetint lip and cheek stain ($29).