If you walk in, the counter isn’t busy and an associate offers you a mini-makeover, go ahead and indulge. But, as a courtesy to the person who gets paid on commission, make it clear from the get-go how much (or little) you’re ready to spend. Say: “I’m sorry, but I only have budget for lipstick now. I promise to look for you when I’m ready to shop for foundation.’
However, if the makeup counter is packed with customers (particularly on weekends and holidays) and you know you can’t spend on anything, pass the offer for a demo to give the associate a chance to approach another client.