Melissa Tried It: Although I'm pretty loyal to my mascara, I do like to try out new ones that catch my eye from time to time. This one promises a dual-action brush that "stretches as it thickens each lash for dramatic length and volume". I would say, though it may not give the most volume I've ever seen, it's pretty impressive. Length is also well-delivered here, as well. I would say the only negative is that the formula can clump ever-so-slightly when applying multiple coats (which I did, of course), but a little swipe with your fingertip can correct that. Otherwise, it stays put for hours without smudge or flake and, as you can see below from the photo below of my lashes without the mascara (left) and with (right) adds both length and volume. $8.99, drugstores, etc.

DeLush Rating:

technorati tags: mascara, cosmetics, Maybelline, makeup

What They Say:

• Silky smooth, weightless cream formula with built in clump remover for no clumps.
• Ultra lengthening formula, now in waterproof, for better wear
• Patented shape-to-the-lash flexible applicator hugs each lash to separate at the root to elongate, accentuate and coat every single lash for perfect definition.
• Ultra even spacing between brush bristles ensures precise lash separation.
• Ophthalmologist tested, safe for contact lens wearers
• Available in Very Black, and Brownish Black

Jamie's Thoughts: I took this mascara on a trip to Florida during which I knew I was going to be swimming, sweating, potentially getting splashed by large, oceanic mammals, etc., and thought it would make the perfect testing environment. And it would have, if I could have stood to wear it the entire time.

While it makes good on the claim of being waterproof, I saw no visible "precise lash separation," nor did I feel as if it went on evenly or "hugged" my lashes. Instead, it was thick and sticky, tugged at my lashes, and after a long day, felt rubbery to the touch. As with many waterproof mascaras, I really had to yank at it with makeup remover at the end of the day to get all of it off my eyes.

Beware if you're someone who unconsciously rubs or touches their eyes throughout the day - my lashes were still oddly tacky midday, and when I went to itch my eye, I brushed some lashes together and they got stuck. I had to take a paper clip from my desk and separate them manually. Not ideal.

If all you want is a die-hard-won't-budge-in-moist-conditions mascara (and don't mind some of the possible downsides), then this is for you. Alas, it is not for me.

Retail Price: $7.95 (available at drugstores everywhere)

Delush Rating:

What They Say: "The only 2-in-1 concealer + highlighter to fully cover imperfections while adding a touch of radiance, giving you younger-looking skin instantly.

* Fully conceals: Ultra-coverage pigments with moisturizing glycerin provide complete, hydrating coverage.
* Visibly brightens: Light reflecting pearls visibly brighten and add a luminous touch to corner of eyes, cheek and brow bones and bridge of nose or to contour lip. "

Jen's Experience:  Of all the make-up items I wear every day, concealer is honestly the last thing I would normally buy from the drugstore. But that just shows how wrong I am about that, because I really do like this concealer from Maybelline. While I don't normally use this one when I get ready in the morning, the wand applicator is absolutely perfect for my purse, and I break this out any time I need to cover up a blemish midday or just need a boost to my skin tone. It's thin and doesn't quite last as long as some of my others, but the color match is excellent and it has good coverage. Now the highlighter, on the other hand, is really thin and doesn't have the same level of coverage as the concealer, so I haven't really used it very much. I would average out the two products and give it a 3, but I like the concealer so much that I really feel like it deserves higher. Even if you just need something for insurance for your handbag, this is worth checking out.

Retail Price:  $8.49 (Walgreens.com or your local drugstore)

Rating:  

What They Say: Mineral Power Finishing Veil Pressed Powder with micro-minerals provides a lighter coverage for a perfect finish.

Discover the power of micro-minerals:
• Finishing touch that perfects and sets makeup
• Provides the finishing touch for flawless looking skin
• Talc-free
• Fragrance-free
• Lightweight Feel
• Complete, natural coverage

For Best Results:
Sweep Finishing Veil Pressed Powder over foundation for a finished look or use alone for sheer coverage.

Sweep it: Sweep onto entire face.
Blend it: Blend for perfected skin.

What Lisa Says: For the price, this is an "okay" product. I used this over both crème and liquid foundations and it worked equally the same on both. My base was set and it did stay all day and did not budge. The packaging is great - a sturdy compact that flips open on top to access product and then slides sideways to reveal an area to store your sponge applicator and a mirror which is always handy. Again, I opted to chunk the applicator and opted instead for a brush. Using the applicator deposited too much product and from a distance, my make-up looked fine and it was a good color match but up close every tiny wrinkle and pore was accentuated. Using a brush minimized this somewhat but not enough for my liking. My skin tends to be dry and I have a hunch that those with an oilier complexion might like this product. Like the Natural Perfection Powder Foundation, this looked more like any translucent powder than a mineral product.

Retail Price: .32 oz./$8.99 (online at Walgreens)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: Mineral Power Powder Foundation with micro-minerals provides a more natural, healthier, luminous look.

Discover the natural power of micro-minerals:

* 100% natural mica creates a more natural luminosity
* Complete, yet refined coverage
* Provides buildable, even coverage
* Preservative-free, talc-free, oil-free, fragrance-free
* Medium to Full Coverage

For Best Results:
Use the 100% natural kabuki brush, included with the powder foundation, contoured for a natural finish:
1) Dip it: Dip brush into cap.
2) Tap it: Tap brush to remove excess.
3) Apply it: Apply to face using circular motion.

To clean brush, wash once a month with a mild shampoo. Allow to air-dry.

What Lisa Says: The first thing you'll want to do if you purchase this product is to ditch the brush that comes with it and opt, instead, for a good kabuki brush.

Another thing to keep in mind when purchasing is to select a shade lighter than you think you're going to need. This goes on darker (and a tad on the orange side) for my liking. The sample I received for testing was dark for my skin so I repurchased in what looked like more my skin tone and still it was too dark but I wore it anyway so I could report on application, wear, etc. The packaging is like most loose minerals: a small shaker jar with lid and a not so great kabuki brush.

I prefer medium to full coverage and had a hard time building that natural, luminous finish that most minerals impart to the skin. The result was a very matte looking finish that never quite covered any imperfections. It looked a bit caked on in spite of using a light touch as required by most mineral products. As for wear, it did stay on most of the day but I found that by late afternoon I needed to touch up. I have used other mineral lines and been able to successfully cover areas of hyperpigmentation, but I could never achieve that with this product.

With so many great mineral products out there, I just can't justify repurchasing OR recommending this one.

Retail Price: $9.99 (online at Walgreens)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "The most voluptuous lips ever!

• Plump up your lips... up to 30% more.
• Feel a tingling effect as active amplifiers instantly plump lips for a visibly fuller pout in 10 seductive plumping shades..."

Jamie's Thoughts: The pink color I was sent to review (shade number 105) was a lovely neutral - very versatile and could definitely be layered over other base colors, such as lip stains or lipsticks. I love this gloss on its own because it's not only (a) true to color, but (b) not at all tacky. This would be the perfect drugstore substitute for Mac Lipglass.

As for the plumping effect, I can tell you this: I felt the tingle for sure, but didn't really notice any noticeable plumping effect. Maybe a TEENY bit, but definitely not enough to justify the weirdo numbness and tingling that lasted for at least 10 minutes.

If you're really looking for a strong plumping product, this is not the holy grail. If you are, however, looking for something to give you a little extra "oomph" on an important day, this gloss gives great shine, and a little bit of amplification.

Retail Price: $8.49 (at most major retailers)

Delush Rating:

What They Say: "Mineral Power Naturally Luminous Blush with micro-minerals provides a soft, healthy glow to cheeks.

• Blends naturally with skin tone for a fresh flush of color
• Skin looks healthy and fresh
• Talc-free, lightweight formula
• Fragrance-free
• Oil-free

Melissa Says: This finely-milled powder goes on a little bit sheer and looks pretty and yes, a little bit luminous! Don't worry, it won't make your face shine...the luminosity is subtle and not shimmery. It also blends into the skin with ease and lasts well.

User Tip: A little goes a loonnnng way, so you only have to tap a bit into the lid before swirling your brush around. Fortunately, the way the interior is designed, not a lot of loose powder will get lost along the way.

Retail Price: $8.99 (at drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "This zero clump volumizing mascara creates voluptuous volume with clean definition.

* Patented shaped-to-the-lash brush
* Ophthalmologist tested, Contact lens safe
* Washable"

Melissa Says: In comparison to my experience with several Maybelline mascaras, this one was a disappointment. I actually thought this did clump a bit, but more of a concern was how it tended to separate my lashes into puny-looking spaced-apart pieces, actually doing the opposite of giving me more volume. True, some of the individual lashes looked thicker, but I didn't get the wall of luscious lashes that I have come to expect from many of the volume-boosting mascara formulas that do just that. And my lashes felt a bit brittle once the product dried, too.

Retail Price: $7.49 (at drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: (about the Pencil) "Makes it easy to evenly define and shape brows with a micro-precise pencil that produces natural-looking, smear-free results every time.

• Blends easily with brow hair
• No skipping, tugging or dragging during application
• Smear-proof formula wears all day and is water-resistant for stay-put color
• Safe for sensitive eyes
• Contact lens safe and ophthalmologist tested"

(about the Gel) "Effortlessly tames brows with a feather light, clear setting gel that keeps brow looking defined and 'in line'.

• For all hair colors
• Crystal clear gel sets instantly for perfectly defined brows
• Feather-light formula keeps brows soft and natural
• Hypoallergenic
• Safe for sensitive eyes
• Contact lens safe"

Melissa Says:
(about the Pencil)
This super-tiny pencil clicks up in very small increments so that you don't run the risk of losing any of it to breakage. As far as application and wear goes (I tested this in Medium Brown which worked very well but, you can see other shades here), it goes on just subtly enough to not look like you drew your brows on, and its size makes it even more workable on the outer edges of your brows where they taper into thinner areas. You don't have to worry at all about smudging too much color on the ends, which never looks natural. The close-tined comb on the opposite end puts the hairs into perfect position and helps blend the pencil a bit more. Though I have typically preferred powder when I enhance my brows in terms of creating a natural look, I actually really like this little, easy-to-manipulate pencil. I love the fact that it comes in several shades, so you have a greater chance of getting a natural-looking outcome.

(about the Gel)
This does the basic job, yes. But it's hard to get very excited about it. It does comb them into place, and the hold is quite light (not that I'd want to have stiff-feeling eyebrows). I do appreciate that it doesn't deposit too much gel, but instead just the right amount to add a little bit of control. I can think of several other products for keeping my brows in place, but this one also does the job just fine.

Retail Prices:
(Define-a-Brow Eyebrow Pencil) $6.95
(Define-a-Brow Gel) $5.99
(both at drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:
(Define-a-Brow Eyebrow Pencil)
(Define-a-Brow Gel)

What They Say: "This long-wearing foundation delivers 16 hours of flawless coverage. Super silky feel. Blends in one step. Won't rub off. Oil free. SPF 12 sunscreen.

For Best Results
Press center of pump down to dispense equal parts of the foundation and silky coverage extender. Apply to face and blend."

Melissa Says: This stuff really does feel amazingly silky immediately when applied. It's almost a superfine powder feel. The color you recieve on the skin is a little bit lighter than what the color looks like in the dual-chambered pump, so try to rely on any past shade choices you've made with Maybelline foundation and the name descriptions. Remember, you should be able to return a shade to the drugstore if you find that it doesn't work for you once you get it home, so don't be afraid to try your best bet.

The formula does stay on and stays true a long time, so from the perspective of lasting coverage, it's pretty impressive. However, I noticed that once it was on my skin it could take on a more dry appearance than what I desired. If you have any dry patches or crepe-y areas, I'm afraid this will only highlight that for you. It doesn't seem to be too forgiving on tired days when you need a bit of luminosity to look fresh. However, if you have very oily skin this might actually work very well as a stay-true, no-slip formula. If you're combo or normal, then you just have to be very careful about applying moisturizer prior to this foundation, and have a very light touch on areas like the undereyes.

That all said, it does have an incredibly light feel and blends nicely. If you're willing to give it a try given the description, you could end up with a workable option in the drugstore price range, but finding the right shade might take a couple of tries. (I was testing with Light 3 Natural Ivory, but I may have preferred Light 4 Nude - the shades don't exactly look the way they do on the website, so check them out in person at the store.)

Retail Price: $10.50 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:

• Double Duty that delivers both lasting shine and rich color
  
• Exclusive sculpting tip contours and glazes lips with the perfect amount of glossy color for no mess, no slip, no smear color
  
• Patent-pending shine formula that boasts supreme shimmer and shade
  
• Enriched with refreshing ingredients, including vitamin E, aqua-botanical extracts, algae and lotus flower extract
  
• Click and twist mechanism offer lips a healthy dose of fresh gloss with each application"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: While I don't have any issues to bring up about the click-up dispensing, I do have some with the product formula. It actually goes on very pretty and shiny, but the scent of the lip color is unpleasant. For the first hour or so, it maintains its look on the lips and feels quite comfortable, but I found that after that it quickly seems to dry up and disappear (even with lip liner). This was a real shame, because even though of course it isn't as high a quality color as something like M.A.C. Lipglass, it did look good while it lasted for the price.

Price: $5.49 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "* Ultimate, precise control
* No skipping, dragging, or pulling
* Silky soft, long wearing formula glides on for flawless application that won’t smudge or smear
* Washes off easily"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: The sheer thinness of this pencil made me want to give it a try. What impressed me once I did, in addition to the pencil itself, was the fact that the packaging is designed so well. You click very small increments up as you twist the narrow tube, and there's a long sturdy support stem for the product so the thin pencil doesn't snap or break off as you use it.

The pencil itself goes on quite smoothly and wears for several hours. This thin liner is the PERFECT size for lining the inner rims of your lids without accidentally touching your eyeball as you do! It does smudge off in the inner rims after a few hours a little bit, but it stays well in my opinion above and under your lashes.

Retail Price: $6.49 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Roll on for a sheer, loose powder look. Easy, no brush application. No spills or flaking."

Jen's Experience: I've been seeing these new loose powder eyeshadows everywhere, so I had to give this one a try. I tried out "Twirling Taupe", which is sort of a muted gold with tiny sparkles. I am a big fan of gold eyeshadow; I've got subtler shades that I wear to work and some really fantastic glittery ones for a night on the town. What I like about this particular gold is that it doesn't apply too much color at once. The roller ball tip forces you to put it on in layers. I find that you need to shake the container from time to time to keep the color flowing, but once you do, it applies easily, without requiring a lot of pressure on the delicate eye area. I was very pleasantly surprised at how long-lasting this product is. Without any base or powder it lasts 4-6 hours. Maybelline can count me in as a fan with this product -- I'm trying the lavender next!

Retail Price: $2.60 (Makeup.com and major drugstores)

Rating:

What They Say:
* 16 hours of stay-beautiful, luminous color that moves with your lips
* No caking. No flaking.
* Ultra conditioning for cushiony softness
* Refillable balm also sold

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Are you as wary of these "long-wear" dual formulas as I tend to be? And yet, they still keep appearing. So what's the real deal on Maybelline's new addition to the selection?

The color end contains a sponge applicator, and the formula on first application seems very light and comfortable. As you let it dry before applying the balm, it does become a bit tacky for a little while. You then apply the clear balm once the color is completely dry. This gives you a super-comfortable softness which lasts a bit and creates a very pretty shine. However, I felt the need to reapply the balm often. One other thing to note is that if your lips aren't exfoliated super-smooth before application, the color tends to emphasize lines and dry skin on the lips a bit.

If you're convinced that you need a long-wearing formula, you can give this a shot. You may find it fits your needs better than previous drugstore options, and it is definitely very pretty and light in texture. It is the most comfortable of these duos I've tried. But in my opinion, you can get comparable wear out of some regular lipstick formulas. This stuff made it through about 6 hours for me, through lunch and a very oily salad dressing, with several balm applications. However, I also tested a lighter shade, which may wear differently than the darker shades.

Retail Price: $9.98 (drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:

• Longwearing, strengthening nail enamel that delivers rich color and high shine
  
• Fortified with a unique iron-hard complex plus conditioning agents to help strengthen nails
  
• "Flexes" with the nail for outstanding durability and wear
  

Jen's Experience: One last way to get extra color in your fall and winter wardrobe is through nail color. Now, this wasn't exactly an original color that I picked out; the last 3 nail polishes I bought are within a hue of this one, Berry Persistent. But the most outstanding part of this nailpolish is how amazingly close it comes to the ever-popular "I'm Not Really a Waitress" color from OPI both in color and quality. I'm using this on my toes, so it will definitely last longer than it will on my fingernails, but I love the way it applies smoothly and dries quickly (but not so quickly you can't fix mistakes). The total drying time with a basecoat and topcoat was only about 15 minutes. And the final result? Looks like the finish of my car. Pretty good for an at-home pedicure.

Retail Price: $3.89

Rating:

Today is the first day of DeLush's Focus on Color. Throughout the month of February, we'll be highlighting lots of reviews of products that will help yank you out of the winter blahs with a dose of color! We'll also feature tips and ideas for incorporating color into your beauty routine.

I wanted to kick off this month with lipstick because it is one of the easiest ways to change your look and add to your makeup wardrobe.

What They Say:

• Features an active anti-chap ingredient that provides lip balm-like moisturization and improves condition of your lips and other active ingredients that absorb and lock in moisture
  
• Exclusive patent-pending gel-based formula glides on smoothly and easily over lips
  
• Moisturizes lips up to 8 hours
  After 3 days, lips appear healthier, softer and smoother and more radiant than before
  
• Non-feathering and non bleeding
  
• SPF 15 Sunscreen to protect lips
  

Jen's Experience: I have a whole drawer of lipsticks. Probably the majority of them are drugstore brands because you can sample a lot of colors inexpensively, and the quality is very often similar to department store lipsticks. This lipstick sounds great, since in the winter I often have really dry lips and when they get chapped, I can't help picking at them.

At the store, I was impressed that there was such a large selection of this particular lipstick, but I was kind of dismayed at the large number of very, very bright colors. I was looking for kind of a lilac (which, according to Allure, is apparently very "in" for lipstick right now), and chose Desert Bloom, which looks absolutely nothing like the color sample on their site.

My first impression after I got it home was that it is light and feels really good on my lips. As long as I am not eating or drinking anything (yes, even water), it stays on my lips and really does a nice job moisturizing. As soon as I take a sip of water, it somehow reduces the moisturizing capability and my lips become very dry.

The color itself really is a sort of lilac, but it is much more subtle than I thought it would be. It's almost a nude with a little bit of a purplish-blue tint. It makes me think that the bright colors on the display might not be so bad once I got them home.

My major complaint with this lipstick is the way it tastes -- very aloe-y. It may not be bothersome to everyone, but for me, it's definitely a turnoff. But if you don't mind it, this might be just the lipstick you need to expand your color horizons and experiment with your look.

Tips and Tricks: If you are very pale, try to find a lipstick with more yellow undertones to brighten up the face.

Retail Price: normally $5.99, free with rebate this week! (Walgreens)

Rating:

What They Say: Well, I couldn't find anything on Maybelline's website about this yet. And barely anything elsewhere online, either. So here's what the packaging says - "Sculpts extra-thickness; lifts up to 40%." As far as user tips, it also says "Sweep v-styling comb from root to tip to style lashes with beautiful, sculpted volume and lift. Apply additional coats and continue styling with the v-styling comb to achieve and open-eyed, super lifted-lash look. Do not let dry between coats. Removes easily with Maybelline Expert Eyes Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: First of all, of course, my experience is only with the waterproof version. Because for me, if it's not waterproof, it rarely stays on my eyes. I was really interested in the comb, and it seemed like something that might actually work well. On first application, I noticed the formula is quite glossy and not too thick. Okay, this wasn't too bad. Nice separation, nice shiny lashes. And really, a great amount of lift and definition. But then came the second coat (which, hello? I must ALWAYS do a second coat at LEAST). That's when it got a little messy. I made sure not to wait for the formula to dry, I did the second coat immediately. But I still got clumpage. The lashes sort of all joined into 5 or 6 clumps of lashes, and I had to use my fingertip to blot off the excess mascara to separate them. The more coats you use, the less pleasing the effect.

Overall, I would say if you like a semi-glossy look and are only interested in great separation (and if you normally only use one coat of mascara) this would work well enough for you. But if you really want thickness and like to use multiple coats, it's simply not worth the trouble.

Retail Price: app. $6.99 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:"
* For full, soft, thick healthy-looking lashes without the brittle feel
* Prevents loss of lashes with patented Quick Dissolve System which allows easy mascara removal
* Won't run, smear or smudge
* No clumps, no globs
* Contact lens safe and hypoallergenic
* Available in Washable, Waterproof and Curved Brush"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Okay, I know I've referred to this mascara before, as it is only my most trusted beauty product so far. I can't believe I haven't shared it with you yet! I've used this loyally for a few years now, though once in a while I switch it up for variety's sake and to try new things - but this is my GO-TO mascara when I just want to apply it quick and KNOW it will work.

I've gotten compliments on my lashes from department store makeup salesgirls, an esthetician at a spa giving me a facial who said she couldn't believe that it wouldn't budge after she had that hot towel sitting on my face, and others.

This mascara doesn't flake, clump, or smear. It builds fabulously for volume and doesn't get all hard and nasty-feeling when I apply my typical 3 or so coats (heh-heh). It looks soft and pretty. I love it. LOVE. Whenever people tell me "wow, you're lashes are so pretty!", I say "it's the mascara!". Really, anyone can have pretty lashes with this stuff.

Retail Price: $6.49 (drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:
"* Ultra-smooth application - glides on to define your eyes effortlessly
* Smudge-proof and waterproof formula stays put, and won’t budge until you want it to
* Self-sharpening packaging swivels up and down so point is always sharp and ready to define
* Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, ophthalmologist-tested"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I hate how messy liquid liners can be, and sometimes pencils either don't smudge well or wear off and crease. This one stays in a line where I want it to be, but when I want to smudge it a bit I get a nice smoky effect without it disappearing during the day.

Being a little closer to 30 than I'd like to be, I am also very aware of anything that pulls on my lids when I apply...but this goes on in a nice smooth sweep.

I LOVE anything that is swivel-up (who wants to have to sharpen?) and was pleasantly surprised by the punch packed in this drugstore find. Definitely in the ranks with the best as far as I'm concerned.

Retail Price: $6.79 (at drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "* Long wear, no crease eyeshadow * Fade-proof color * Dries quickly to a powder finish * Color will not smudge or smear"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Okay, all of you who've been wanting to see a really good drugstore product reviewed, here's one that I've found and love. True, it's not really brand new, per se, but the whole point of this site if for us to be able to tell our friends about great products. And YOU are our friend! So, I want to pass this on to you. If you haven't tried it, give it a shot. I constantly have problems with my shadow fading and creasing quickly. This one is a little tricky (only a LITTLE!), but is one of the most fade- and crease-resistant I've ever used.

User Tips: First of all, KNOW EXACTLY WHERE YOU WANT TO APPLY THIS ON YOUR LID BEFORE YOU START. Basically, this stuff dries from liquid to stay-put powder very quickly, and if you don't have it where you want it, you could miss the window. Next, once you apply a bit with the sponge applicator (don't put a HUGE glob on, but enough of a smear on your lid to spread where you want it), use your finger to spread it out quickly and evenly. Then, if you decide to add more color to make it darker or more intense, I've found it's best to pat-pat-pat over the first layer of color. If you try to 'wipe' it on in bigger strokes, it tends to adhere to the first layer more in some spots than others and be uneven. This could take a couple of times to practice, but it does come off with makeup remover or soap, so if you make a huge mistake, don't worry. Oh, and make sure to wash your fingertips after applying.

This might SOUND complicated, but it's not really that hard when you do it. After the first application I got the hang of it, and it was absolutely worth it. You can really control the intensity with this shadow, and it practically didn't budge at all.

Retail Price: $5.99 (varies) (drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

Jen's DeLush Experience: I normally would not have much of use for a product like this; I don't normally wear eye liner and I've not been one to fill in my eyebrows (they're thick enough, thank you).  But I got this as a free trial bundled in with my Maybelline XXL mascara.  And just in time.

A month or two ago I was plucking my eyebrows in a rush before I left for work and I plucked out a few hairs from the center of my left eyebrow that apparently formed the cornerstone of my brow.  They've almost grown back in good as new now, but when it happened, I reached for my sample of Expert Eyes and I was good to go! 

What I like about this product is that it goes on really smoothly, and you can easily vary the darkness and the weight of the line by changing your pressure.  I have even tried it as eyeliner once or twice and have been impressed with the results.  It bothered my eyes just a little, but it stayed put all day and didn't give me major football-player eyes like a lot of eyeliners do.

Retail Price: $5.49 (Walgreens)

Rating:

Because it takes a little more time to apply the cake mascara that I usually wear, I wanted to try another mascara that was easier to apply, but would give some dramatic results.

What They Say:

• Step 1 Lengthening Primer provides dramatic length
• Step 2 Volumizing Topcoat builds intense, visible lash volume
• Long lasting, no clumps, smudge-free
• Ophthalmologist tested, safe for contact lens users

My Experience: The idea behind this is great.  First, you put on this white microfiber material to lengthen and widen your lashes, and then you follow that up with the actual mascara.  It was super easy to apply and it goes on very nicely, even with a few coats of the microfiber base.  I was impressed that with all the layers, it still didn't clump easily.  The resulting lash volume is really awesome for a drug store mascara.  My only complaint is that it didn't seem to last that long on me because my eyes tear a lot.  It's less of a problem when I wear it out to a dark smoky bar, but it's not something I can really wear to work.

Tips:  Layer the microfiber base to get really good lash volume.  It's white, so you'll be able to see that you've covered all your lashes thoroughly.

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New York, New York, July 2009 [Ed. <----Yes, you read that right - July! Read on to find out why!] - Get ready to experience a breakthrough from America's #1 favorite mascara innovator. Introducing the most technologically advanced mascara yet from Maybelline New York, NEW Pulse Perfection by Define-A-Lash Vibrating Mascara - so good, you won't believe your eyes.

Maybelline New York's first-to-mass vibrating mascara delivers 7,000 vibrations per minute in 7 synchronized actions so lashes are transformed to perfection. The battery-powered mascara offers a patent pending vibrating elastomer brush, which gently pulsates against lashes. The horizontal micro-motion is designed to mimic pro makeup artist application technique (zig zag), and extend it to its maximum potential, mistake-free and effortlessly.

How it works. The exclusive formula features thickening agents, emollient waxes, film formers to transform lashes. It is completely buildable so you can apply, one, two or several coats, depending on your desired lash look. Upon contact with lashes, the Pulse Perfection vibrating brush works by uncrossing individual lashes for more perfect separation and definition. Simply push the button, and hold the wand steady as you slowly coat eye lashes, root to tip.

The result? 7 mascara must-haves:

1. Luscious thickness - the vibrating motion of the brush builds up the volumizing waxes for luxurious thickness


2. Luxurious length - lengthening and stretching agents are pulsed to their fullest extent as the mascara is applied, extending product beyond lash tip


3. Smooth separation - the brush's 7,000 vibrations per minute smooth out the emollient waxes and oils, creating a creamy texture that helps separate and uncross lashes for perfect definition


4. Intense color - the formula contains a highly efficient dispersing agent which helps enhance pigment color intensity


5. Shapely curve - the vibrating action of the Pulse Perfection brush coats each lash evenly, coaxing every lash to lift up and curve


6. Healthy luster - caring oils and intense pigments restore luster and shine to lashes


7. Perfectly clump-free lashes - vibrating brush uses horizontal micro-movements to smooth and even-out the formula as it pulsates its way through lashes

With NEW Pulse Perfection, lashes are:

• 13x thicker
• 75% visibly longer
• Deep color impact
• Totally clump-free

Now you can be the first to feel the vibe! In an exclusive online preview sale, one day only on May 18, 2009, consumers can visit Maybelline.com/pulse or a participating retailer to make the anticipation for NEW Pulse Perfection a reality: Target.com, Walmart.com, CVS.com or Walgreens.com.

"We pride ourselves at Maybelline on our ability to bring true innovation to consumers at mass," says Carolyn Holba, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Maybelline New York. "Over the past year, vibrating mascaras have proven to be a huge success in the prestige market. As a mascara leader, we are thrilled to be the first to introduce the superior vibrating technology of Pulse Perfection to mass consumers at a great price."

In sleek black and gold packaging, NEW Pulse Perfection looks especially luxurious. It is available for just $14.95 beginning July 2009 at mass market retailers nationwide. The mascara comes in two washable shades, Very Black and Blackest Black, and one waterproof shade, Very Black.

The NEW Pulse Perfection battery lasts a minimum of 130 applications. Assuming a consumer applies the mascara once a day, once activated, the battery will last 130 days, or over 4 months. (The average life of mascara is 3 months).

Maybelline New York is available in over 115 countries worldwide. Offering more than 200 products, Maybelline New York combines technologically advanced formulations with on-trend expertise to create accessible cosmetics with a spirited style. For more information, log onto www.maybelline.com also available in Spanish. Visit the My Color Advisor section to help choose and use the right shades for you! Maybe she's born with it, maybe it's Maybelline.