Last night, I made my way over to Sephora on 5th Avenue for some advice from a respected source: Steve Ward. You might know Steve from VH1’s series, Tough Love, where he acts as host and relationship counselor to a group of ladies who need a lot of help in the love department. Steve was visiting the store to talk about dating and to give some advice on beauty.

So here’s what the love expert had to say about girls and makeup: “Less is more. What do you expect is going to happen when you have to take it off?”

He also noted that when guys take notice of us at the gym, we shouldn’t be mortified about our appearances. According to Steve, if a guy is attracted to you when you are sweaty and gross, he’ll probably be even more impressed with you when you are nicely made up to go out!

As for the dating advice given? Don’t talk religion, politics or money on the first date. And if you get stuck in traffic or get lost on the way to your date, don’t complain about it, because you’ll give the impression that you can’t be bothered to be there. In fact, Steve suggests no complaining at all on a first date. So leave your whiny side at home along with your pancake makeup, and let your true self shine!