The redesigned Clinique counter in Dillard's at the Shops at Willow Bend

The Clinique counter is getting a huge makeover. The cosmetics company known for its sleek, pale-green containers and white- lab-coated attendants is launching a worldwide initiative to redesign its counters and add amenities. Get your first look this week at area Dillard's stores.

The focal point of the redesign is a new Diagnostic Center, which will put clients face to face with trained consultants who will offer skin assessments. Each center will have a new magnification mirror that will let consultants and clients view the clients' skin up close, allowing both parties to participate and evaluate everything from oiliness to discoloration and breakouts. Consultants will then make suggestions and "custom-fit" clients with the proper Clinique products.

An added bonus: According to press materials, the consultants are trained not to partake in any "beauty muggings." That means zero tolerance for aggressive sales tactics.

David Ninh