Don't give your colleagues a fright. You are bound to girl, if you don't listen to us. Dense makeup has a chance of smudging and running in the rains. And if you decide togo to work sans makeup, you run a higher risk of scaring your colleagues. So here are some monsoon makeup tips for those beauties who just can't let it run amok:

* Stay away from foundation this season, loose powder might be a better option. "Use powder only sparingly, just so much that is necessary to remove the grease off your face and nose," suggests Elizabeth Arden.

However, avoid using a compact as the moisture in the air makes it all cakey. A blush might work, you can try Lancome's Blush Subtil.

* If you love eyeshadows, stick to powder formulas since creams can melt off the face. Arden suggests using sheer and pastel eyeshadows. Shades of brown, pink and beige are just right for easy maintenance in the rains. However, a primer is a must before wearing eyeshadow to keep it long lasting. Try E Arden's Eye fix primer.

* For those girlies who just can't do without mascaras, worry not. Almost every cosmetic brand has a waterproof mascara to offer you. Waterproof mascaras like Lash Lift from Max Factor or Clarins Fix transparent mascara may come to your rescue.

* Says Meeta Awatramani, training manager, Clarins, "Try waterproof eye pencils, like kohls. If you like to the attention on your eyes, make sure you define them with a kohl or pencil." But puhleese, stay away from liquid eyeliners.

* Make sure you use water resistant eyebrow pencils.

* Because it's monsoons, you need to take extra care with your lipsticks. A lipliner is a must to prevent your lipstick from running out. Gloss them up. "There are some awesome colours from nudes to deep reds that give your lips moisture and hydrants to keep them healthy, at the same time don't run the risk of smudging," adds Awatramani.

* To be on the safer side, Max Factor suggests makeup that's bright but not dark, as dark looks scary if it runs. Opt for peaches, pinks and mauves. Look for lipsticks or lip-glosses that are non-greasy and water resistant.

* And, if you are scared to try out a new look for the season, you can head to Shoppers Stop for free makeovers and offers from leading cosmetic brands between July 6 and August 3 !

Emergency care
If you don't feel like splurging on waterproof cosmetics, we suggest you keep these things handy, just in case you become a victim of the deluge:
* Face wipes to keep your runny makeup in check
* Cotton balls to dab at your eyes or lips
* Makeup kit for a retouch
* Napkin to save you from surprise showers
* Face wash to completely take off your spoilt and cakey makeup
* Moisturiser to bring back the glow to your skin

payal.kamat@mid-day.com