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What is a CCO?

What is a CCO?
CCO stands for Cosmetics Company Outlet.

What products do they carry?
CCO's sell Estee Lauder owned companies cosmetics, usually for 30% off the retail price. This includes discontinued items as well as some current ones. They do not have sales and they also impose a limit of 3 of the same product. Some of the brands include:

  • MAC

  • Stila

  • Estee Lauder

  • Clinique

  • Bobbi Brown

  • Origins



Where can I find a CCO near me?
You can go to www.outletbound.com to look for the closest outlet near you. In the "locate-a-store" field, put the name Cosmetics Company or Estee Lauder, and you will get a listing of all the CCO's. Some CCO's are inside outlet stores such as Saks off 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Nordstrom Rack/ Last Chance. Others are free standing CCO's.
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Deciphering MAC batch codes

MAC has been using a 3-character batch code since the year 2000. To determine when a product was made, you will need to check the batch number, which is printed on the label on the bottom of the jar.

The first character represents which run the item was made, the second character represents the month, and the third character represents the year.

Thusly, B54 means the second run on May 2004.
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Difference between eyeshadow and pigments

MAC Pigments are NOT loose eyeshadow. While many people use MAC Pigments primarily as eyeshadow, they have many more uses, and some are not safe for use in this manner. MAC Pigments are highly concentrated color powders which are a multi-purpose product. They have a variety of uses including eye, lip, face, hair, body, nails, etc. Many pigments carry usage precautions and are not safe for use in certain areas (eyes, mouth).

For more information regarding pigments, please take a look at the Pigment FAQ, here at mac_faq.
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Mixing medium formulas

Mixing Medium/Water-Base
A clear viscous liquid mixing medium, much like the old stand-by mixing mediums from theatrical cosmetic companies such as Mehron and Ben Nye. Safe for use in the eye area, and the entire body. Comes in a 50ml bottle/1.7 fl oz bottle (same size as the Studio Moisture Fix, Select Tint, etc.).

Mixing Medium/Alcohol-Base
A clear gel mixing medium, akin to spray-on hair gel in texture. Even once mixed with other products, this ultra light gel dries quickly upon application with minimal transference and great wear. For use on body, from neck down. Not for use in the eye area. Comes in a 50ml bottle/1.7 fl oz bottle (same size as the Studio Moisture Fix, Select Tint, etc.).

Mixing Medium/Face and Body
A milky, semi-opaque, liquid mixing medium. Similar in texture to the Face and Body foundation. It offers sheer, even coverage and long-wearing attributes. Can be used to create custom body lotions or use to thin down foundations including creme foundations. Used alone it creates a satin glow on the skin. For use anywhere on the body, including face and eye-area. Comes in a 50ml bottle/1.7 fl oz bottle (same size as the Studio Moisture Fix, Select Tint, etc.).

Mixing Medium/Eyeliner
A colorless, translucent creme mixing medium for the creation of customized eyeliner shades. Non-irritating and suitable for all skin types. It is packaged in a small tube (similar to the MAC PRO Gloss size).

Mixing Medium/Lash
A colorless mixing medium base that can be used to create unique customized shades on the lashes. It is packaged in a small tube (similar to the MAC PRO Gloss size) for quick and easy blending. Mixing Medium Lash provides superior adherence of color, plus extended wear, curl and lengthening. It also strengthens and conditions the lashes and is suitable for all skin types.

Mixing Medium/Gel
A clear, alcohol based gel, for the greation of large quantities of body paint, or for creating glitter gels for hair effects. Very similar to a medium to firm hold hair gel in consistancy. Humidity and water resistant. Comes in a 120ml/4 fl oz. bottle, the same size as the Face and Body foundation.
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MAC mascara formula breakdown

Mascara N
Mascara N makes use of a dramatically new shape of brush plus a new wiper system which delivers superior mascara for those who desire an "all-in-one" las product. The "hour glass" shaped brush delivers different amounts of mascara to just the right places onthe lashes. A precise amount is deposited on the center lashes and inside and outside lashes to give a magnificent contrast to the entire lash line. The formula has a conditioner which helps coat the lash and give it lustre and definition. Smudge resistant, long wearing, safe for contact lens wearers.

Stands for Mascara Natural. Has a natural-glossy finish, similar to Clinique's Naturally Glossy mascara. Is a basic, simple mascara. Origionally available in Black, Dark Brown, Mahogany, Violet, and Navy. This formula has been discontinued in many shades, and may soon be discontinued entirely. Hourglass shaped brush.

Mascara X

Mascara X builds dramatically longer, thicker and glossier looking lashes. The softer fiber of the football-shaped brush delivers maximum payoff on the lashes. Mascara X doesn't clump or smudge, is ophthalmologist tested and designed to be long-wearing. It builds and strengthens lashes with a vegetable derived protein and contains Panthenol to condition the lashes. Easily removed with Pro Eye Makeup Remover, it's available in Black and Dark Brown.

Stands for Mascara Extra/Extreme. It builds color and volume. This is a thickening mascara. Again, a good basic mascara which is safe for contact lens wearers. Football shaped brush.

Mascara S
Mascara S is designed for people who prefer just a hint of color and texture on their lashes. The delivery systed of a wide spiral brush and wiper combination provides a sheer application of product. Just the right amount of product is deposited to achieve the most subtle and perfected lashes. Mascara S gives a minimal enhancement to each lash while the brush helps separate and finishe the lashes so they are more defined.

Stands for Sheer. It gave a sheer hint of color, similar to lash tints, which added a slight natural looking definition without the appearance of mascara. Brow set gives a similar result, though not quite the same. This formula was great for natural makeup, men, and photography of children. Loose spiral brush.

Pro Lash
Lengthening, thickening, non-flaking, non-smudging... totally hard-wearing. Sassy and lush. Works on the catwalk, soups up the sidewalk. Tested and approved by Artists. Industrially packed; commodity-priced. Gives you attitude. A real hardworking mascara that is lush and luxe in its finish. Good to layer. Apply one coat of Pro Lash for enhanced, defined lashes. For more drama, build up the layers. To layer - apply, allow to dry, then apply again. Pro Lash works the hardest when applied right from the roots of the lashes to the tips. For volume, apply Pro Lash to the top side of the lashes first, and then to the under side.

Adds some length, and thickens the lashes. This is a good mascara for semi-full lash looks. A bit heavy for the natural look, though it can be toned down with a clean mascara wand to remove excess product. Does have a tendancy to clump and flake on very dense lashes. Hourglass shaped brush.

Pro Lash Color
A real hardworking coloured mascara that is lush and luxe in its finish. Good to layer. Apply one coat of Pro Lash for enhanced, defined lashes. For more drama, build up the layers. To layer - apply, allow to dry, then apply again. Pro Lash works the hardest when applied right from the roots of the lashes to the tips. For volume, apply Pro Lash to the top side of the lashes first, and then to the under side.

Brightly colored version of Pro Lash. Hourglass shaped brush.

Splashproof Lash
Waterproof, long-wearing, length-defining, lash-thickening, and formulated to last. Won't clump, flake, or blot! Takes the splash! Go swim!

Waterproof version of the Pro Lash formula. Some may find this formula a little drier than the standard Pro Lash. If applied quickly after curling lashes, may assist in maintaining curl throughout the day for stubborn lashes. Requires an oil-based cleanser to remove. Hourglass shaped brush.

Pro Longlash
Goes the distance. Makes lashes luxuriously long and silky: no spikes! Luxury and longitude in a pro-proven formula. Accelerates lashes into length, smooth and fast. Smooth silky finish. Wears long (all day!) Go the distance: bat-a-lash!

Lengthening version of Pro Lash. Has a tendancy to clump on very dense lashes. Can weigh down thin lashes, causing them to lose curl. Narrow football shaped brush.

Fiber Rich Lash
Fibre-rich. Good for you. Keeps lashes fit. Makes them strong, fat, well-defined. Adds muscle to short and fine lashes. Creams on. Clump proof...Spike-proof! The difference fibre makes is amazing. Add it to your lashes' diet!

Fiber Rich Lash utilizes small fiber particles to enhance the length of the lash by adding material on to the lash. This can cause clumping if not used with a lash comb, and is something to be cautious with if you are a contact lens wearer. Bush is a standard mascara wand with scattered extentions to some of the brush bristles.

Zoom Lash
This instant volume mascara power-lifts the lashes into length, curls them up...builds them faster than you can wink! Precision control wand glides smoothly down lashes to provide a gorgeously silky upward “sweep”. Smudgeproof and long-wearing!

Lengthening and supposedly curling formula. Many find that this formula is too wet and thus smudges and diminishes curl. Others find this formula to be brittle when dry. Standard straight mascara brush.
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Contouring to "correct" various face shapes

The following is a guide for corrective makeup (also known as contouring) for a variety of face shapes

Key: (Please note colours shown are for demonstration purposes only!)

Contouring - brown
Highlight - yellow
Blusher - green


Round Face Shape

Contour: Sides of jaw, temples and neck
Highlight: Centre of nose, centre of cheeks, chin and forehead
Blush: Just under the cheekbones round face

Heart Face Shape
Contour: Temples and chin
Highlight: Lower cheeks on jawline
Blush: On the cheekbones

Long Face Shape
Contour: Forehead by hairline, lower cheeks, chin
Highlight: Above cheekbones and temples
Blush: On the cheekbones


Oblong Face Shape

Contour: Sides of jaw and temples
Highlight: chin, temples and above cheekbones
Blush:On the cheekbone


Pear Face Shape
Contour: Sides of jaw and neck
Highlight: Centre of nose, centre of cheeks, temples
Blush: At the very side of the cheekbones


Square Face Shape
Contour: Sides of jaw and temples
Highlight: Centre of nose, centre of cheeks and chin
Blush: On the sides of cheekbones

Images courtesy of http://www.movingmakeup.co.uk/lessons.htm
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Estee Brands "Gone but not forgotten" programme

The Estee Brands "Gone but not forgotten" program offers you the opportunity to request a search for, and potentially purchase, a product that has been discontinued within the last 24 months. At the completion of a search (approximately four to six weeks), you may have the opportunity to purchase up to six pieces, depending upon availability. To initiate a search, contact the customer communications office at 1-800-387-6707, option 7.

At this time, the only accepted methods of payment are credit or debit card. Packages are shipped via UPS, and can be delivered to any street address within the continental U.S. for a flat shipping fee of $5.00. You will be contacted directly by mail with the results of your search. You are under no obligation to make your purchase.

While your search is underway, it is recommended that you contact the direct mail service for MAC to inquire about any remaining inventory they may have in their warehouse. They may be reached at 800-387-6707, option 6. Also, you may wish to contact our M.A.C Pro Stores. The contact information for the closest location to you may be found on the MAC website www.maccosmetics.com.



From http://www.elcompanies.com/the_com…:

Gone But Not Forgotten


Searching for your signature scent? Reluctant to part with that perfect shade of foundation? The cosmetics industry discontinues products to bring to our consumers the newest trends, innovation and cutting
edge technology.


The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. understands that the discontinuation of a beloved product or shade can be frustrating and that searching for a replacement can be both daunting and time consuming. We take your concerns to heart and offer you, our loyal consumers, the opportunity to search for products that have been discontinued within the last 24 months. The Estée Lauder Companies' Gone But Not Forgotten program is an industry first!

Our Gone But Not Forgotten team will search high and low for your discontinued product and, if we find it, you may purchase up to six pieces (depending upon availability). Please keep in mind, a search can only be initiated for products in a participating brand's regular product line; searches cannot be initiated for seasonal or promotional products. So which brands participate? Our Gone But Not Forgotten program consists of the following ELC brands: Estée Lauder, Clinique, Origins, Prescriptives, Bobbi Brown, Aramis, MAC, La Mer, Jo Malone, Donna Karan, Rodan + Fields, Tommy Hilfiger, Bumble and bumble, Lab Series for Men, Michael Kors, Darphin, American Beauty, Flirt! grassrootsTM and good skinTM. The Gone But Not Forgotten program is available to all consumers within the contiguous United States.

To initiate a search for a discontinued product, please call us at (800) 216-7173 between 9am and 5pm EST, Monday through Friday.

We look forward to hearing from you!
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MAC "bible" (Product Knowledge Manual)

The document often called the "MAC Bible" is the Product Knowledge Manual, a training guide and product content book. It is given to MAC employees at the beginning of their employ, and is to be returned at the cessation of employ. It is a document to which Estee Lauder and its subsidiaries hold the copyright, and reproduction, sale, and other forms of distribution of the document are copyright infringement. Copyright infringement is in many jurisdictions, such as the United States, a strict liability tort or crime, also known as theft and piracy. CDs, files, and other forms of duplication of the document is illegal. Copy and distrobution of the document is grounds for termination of employ with MAC.

It is becoming increasingly common to find copies of this document being sold and otherwise distrubuted which not only contain the illegal form of the MAC product knowledge manual, but also other cosmetic books by authors Kevyn Aucoin and/or Bobbi Brown. Copies of these books are not associated with MAC, and have been obtained illegally.