PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15

What They Say: "This water-based moisturizing formula filters both UVA and UVB rays and provides the SPF 15 protection recommended by dermatologists. It absorbs quickly and is a non-comedogenic product so it won't clog pores. Its light formula is ideal to use every day, even on sensitive skin."

Jen's Experience: For those of you with sensitive, dry skin looking for a nice moisturizer that isn't too heavy but doesn't leave your skin dry or irritated, this drugstore moisturizer may just be what you're looking for. I love the pump dispenser, which doles out the perfect amount for my face in a single pump. It absorbs into my face enough to moisturize and keep my make-up from sliding off, but retains just enough slip to make my foundation glide on. It is completely fragrance-free, too, which is a quality I like in my facial products. Overall, this is a big winner in my book and one of the best drugstore products I've tried in a long time.

Retail Price: $8.99 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

Apivita Age Management Face Mask, Multi-Vitamin Caps, and Express Whitening Mask

About the Age Management Face Mask: "Benefits: Moisturizes and heals the skin while offering anti-oxidant protection against the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Active Ingredients: Orange, lemon and nutmeg essential oils, ginkgo biloba, white tea and green tea extracts, osmopour, unicotrozon.

Usage: After exfoliating the skin, apply a rich layer with circular massage strokes for 3 minutes. Leave on for another 3 minutes, then rinse off with water."

Jen's Experience: It's hard to say whether or not a product prevents fine lines and wrinkles, so I will just tell you about my immediate experiences with this peel. I used this in the evenings after washing and exfoliating. You have to rub it in for 2-3 minutes, which is kind of a lot of work. (Plus, three minutes on each area of my face or just three minutes total?) While I am rubbing it in, it kind of burns, which I guess is a good indication that it's working. After leaving it on for 3 minutes, I finally get to remove it. My face is pink and definitely feels tighter, but my face is so dry I can't help but want to slather as much moisturizer on it as humanly possible. By morning, there's no major difference in the appearance of my skin other than some slight irritation here and there. Overall, since it's hard to tell whether this prevents wrinkles and it doesn't seem to do much for the moisture level in my skin, I find this product hard to recommend, particularly for dry or sensitive skin.




About the Multi-Vitamin Face Capsules: "Benefits: Brings out natural glow and revitalizes skin, leaving skin texture smoother. Protects from premature aging.

Active Ingredients: Pure blend of Vitamins C,E,F , borage oil, corn and centella extract.

Usage: Apply every day (or night) to cleansed skin. Follow with multivitamin face cream."

Jen's Experience: This product seemed like a daytime serum, so I was all over testing this one out. I used one capsule over my clean face and under a layer of moisturizer each morning. Breaking open the capsule, you get a small amount of a substance that smells and feels suspiciously like olive oil. I apply it over my face, paying special attention to the drier areas. I honestly see no difference in the appearance of my complexion, but I will say that it gives an extra boost to whatever moisturizer I am using, but I will also say that it really needs to soak in before I apply make-up because this extra-moisturizing combo really makes my foundation slide off. I think this product is a good addition for those with very dry winter skin, but for most other skin types, an extraneous item for your morning routine.

Price: $32.00 (BeautyExclusive.com)




About the Express Whitening Mask: "Benefits: Deeply exfoliates, renewing skin. When used regularly, diminishes the appearance of liver spots, scars and other marks. Whitens the skin, enhancing natural radiance.

Active Ingredients: fruit acids ( Glycyrrhentic acid and salicylic acid), Vitamin C, bisabolol, essential oils

Usage: Apply an even, rich layer to clean, moist skin, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water."

Jen's Experience: With all the whitening products that have hit the market lately, it's hard to find one that really makes any sort of difference to my skin. I've used this mask a few times, and already I'm a fan. Now, I have to qualify that by saying that I haven't actually seen a major difference in any of the discolored areas that I was really hoping to get lightened, but what I do see is a dramatic difference in my complexion. Even the day after using it, my skin looks brighter and clearer, almost like I'm well-rested or something. I did see some problems with it drying out my skin, especially around the jaw-line, so those of you with very dry skin, be sure to proceed with caution, but those with other skin types should definitely check this product out.

Price: $24.00/box of 12 treatments (Apivita)

Age Management Face Mask:
Multi-Vitamin Face Capsules:
Express Whitening Mask:

Apivita Aromatherapy Age Management Face Cream

What They Say: "Benefits: Offers anti-aging protection and deep hydration. Tones and revitalizes skin while protecting from harmful UV rays.

Active Ingredients: Orange, lemon and nutmeg essential oils, ginkgo biloba, white tea and green tea extracts, osmopour, unicotrozon."

Jen's Experience: When I first got this product, I was totally impressed. Great, botanical ingredient list, gorgeous packaging including a nice big glass jar, all for a pretty reasonable price. Although the smell is really lovely and the cream feels good when I apply it, I am really disappointed in this face cream overall. I have to use a ton of it to cover my face, and even still, my skin just drinks it right in, leaving my skin feeling dry moments after I apply it. Applying foundation overtop is like applying it over my bare skin; I wish it had just the slightest amount of slip to it. Perhaps this is better for those with normal or oily skin, but this is definitely not a product I recommend if you've got dry skin.

Retail Price: $34.00 (Apivita and some Bath and Body Works stores)

Rating:

Holiday Gift Guide Review: Elemis Radiant Skin Normal to Dry Gift Set

Available at TimeToSpa.com
$100.00

Make all the beautiful people in your life glow that much more with this Radiant Skincare Gift Set.

Contents:

• Rehydrating Ginseng Toner (400ml)
  
• Rehydrating RosePetal Cleanser (400ml)
  
• Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (15ml)
  
• Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask (15ml)
  
• Papaya Enzyme Peel (15ml)
  

Elemis Rosepetal Cleanser
"Elemis Rose Petal Cleanser replenishes moisture, removes the day’s impurities and adds life to your complexion."
For those of you who are a fan of Mario Badescu's Make-Up Remover Cleanser, this is another product you may want to try. This cleanser does a great job of cleaning my face each night, but the creamy texture leaves my skin so hydrated, I could probably skip my regular moisturizer every now and then. The delicate rose fragrance makes this cleanser even more pleasant to use. ($33.00)

Elemis Rehydrating Ginseng Toner
"Extracts of tonifying Korean Ginseng, Quillaja Wood and Sweet Betty Flower revitalise and nourish the skin, whilst thoroughly removing any last traces of cleanser. Perfect for re-hydrating dry and mature skin."
I always like to use a toner to remove the last traces of make-up I may have missed as well as any remaining cleanser. What I really like about this toner is that it, like the cleanser, leaves my skin feeling very hydrated. It doesn't strip my skin and it doesn't even sting. It's hard to be able to say for sure, but I've also noticed that the brighteners and serum that I have in my skincare routine seem to absorb better when I use this toner, giving extra benefit to my skin. Even if you're not interested in trying the whole gift set, this is one product that I would recommend purchasing for yourself! ($33.00)

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
"The ultimate Elemis anti-ageing skincare treatment cream, Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is Clinically proven to reduce the depth of wrinkles by 19% and increase hydration and moisture levels by 10%."
They're making some pretty big claims there, and I can't completely substantiate them, but I will say that my skin has been remarkably good about retaining moisture since I've added this product to my nighttime routine. Like most moisturizers in the $100+ price range, you only need a little for a very noticable effect. ($124.00)

Elemis Exotic Cream Moisturizing Mask
"This light creamy mask contains a dynamic blend of Mimosa, amino-acid rich Honey, immune-boosting Sea Rocket, Orange and Bergamot. These work together to leave skin super-moisturised and enriched. For optimum penetration of its active ingredients, the mask may be left on overnight."
I haven't yet tried this mask on overnight, but when I wore it in an extended bubble bath, I have to say that I was very pleased by how much it hydrated my skin. The effect was present long after I had rinsed off the mask. Of all the products, I was least pleased with the scent of this one, but overall, a worthwhile product, especially for those who suffer from dry skin in the winter months. ($73.00)

Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel
"Natural fruit enzymes of exfoliating Papaya and calming Pineapple, smooth and clarify the complexion. This rinse-off exfoliating cream contains nourishing Milk Protein, Anti-Oxidant rich Vitamin E and marine algae to moisturise, repair and protect skin. Perfect for complexions which are sensitive or mature."
This is my absolute favorite product in the set, less because of the way it works than because of the absolutely delicious smell. I am in absolute heaven when I'm wearing this peel! I am not sure that it did a lot to hydrate my face, but I will say that it did leave my skin looking more radiant, which was the whole goal of this gift set. For the fragrance alone, a tube of this fantastic peel would make an excellent gift. ($42.00)

Jen's Overall Experience: This skin care set from Elemis would make a wonderful gift for anyone in your life who has dry or mature skin. While the bottles themselves don't look all that impressive, the products inside are some of the best skin care products I've ever used.

Cleanser:
Toner:
Moisturizer:
Moisturizing Mask:
Enzyme Peel:

Review: Bioelements Probotix Anti-aging Serum

What They Say:

• Intensive overnight treatment
  
• Contains a blend of probiotic actives immersed in nourishing milk proteins to help prevent wrinkles and loss of firmness
  
• Creates an environment within the skin that allows it to regain its natural microflora balance and become more age-resistant
  
• Clinical testing on topical probiotics shows that it helps strengthen skin, enabling it to resist aging at every stage of the process - from early to mature
  

No artificial colorants.
No synthetic fragrance.
Not tested on animals.

Jen's Experience: Sometimes it's hard to tell if skin care products are really doing what they're supposed to be doing, since everything you put on your face from your cleanser to your foundation can affect your skin in one way or another. Plus, how can you tell if something is making your skin more age-resistant?

Well, what I do know is that it's certainly not all the Halloween candy or my general stress level that is making my skin look so clear right now. I've been using this serum in the evenings for about a month now after cleansing and before my nightly moisturizer, and for the most part, my other skincare products and foundation cosmetics have remained pretty much the same. The most noticable difference to me is that in the past month, my skin feels much less dry. My night-time moisturizer seems to be working better as a result of this serum. I've also noticed that my skin is less irritable, resulting in a more even skintone. My skin is just healthier looking. If better-moisturized skin and clearer skin are the keys to anti-aging, they've definitely got a winner here. But even if the results I'm seeing don't slow the aging process, I still think this serum is still an excellent choice for your skin care routine to improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Retail Price: $65.00 (select spas and salons)

Rating:

"Support the Cause!" with skyn ICELAND

This month, $5 from each Detox Kit sold will go toward the fight against breast cancer.

Stress deprives skin of nutrients, moisture and oxygen. And when skin is starved, it's less supple, drier, more prone to irritation, inflammation and premature aging. The Detox Kit gives stressed skin a fighting chance. Over the course of five days, these four products work in harmony to help heal exhausted, irritated and depleted skin so it emerges soft, clear, fresh and glowing.

Each kit contains:
- Glacial Face Wash with Biospheric Complex
- Arctic Face Mist with Biospheric Complex
- The ANTIDOTE Quenching Daily Lotion with Biospheric Complex
- Oxygen Infusion Night Cream with Biospheric Complex

USAGE
Take a break from your current skincare regimen and use for 5 days to restore skin’s equilibrium.

PRICE
$45 USD (at skynICELAND.com)

Review: Skyn Iceland Arctic Face Mist

What They Say: "Symptom: Irritation, inflammation and itchiness due to a surge in stress-related histamines.

Solution: Arctic Face Mist instantly helps soothe and stabilize irritable skin with a cooling burst of beneficial mineral water. Tone and texture improve dramatically. Vital nutrients and minerals help energize and boost skin for a radiant, healthy glow.

How to: For an icy burst, spritz lightly on irritated facial skin any time you need to cool down. Avoid contact with eyes."

Jen's Experience: I got this product and immediately took it to work, where all the stress happens. I don't know that I really have a lot of irritable skin problems due to stress, but my face does start to feel warm get a little pink sometimes when my stress level is high. So, now when I'm feeling flushed, I turn to this.

The mist is really fine, so it doesn't make my make-up bleed or anything (thank goodness) and, in fact, it may even set it a little. I can't say whether or not it's decreased my skin's irritability (mostly because my skin doesn't seem to be all that irritable to begin with), but I will say that the mist cools my face a little, the crisp -- not exactly aromatheraputic, but not unpleasant -- scent calms me down a little, and the whole process makes me take 10 seconds away from my routine to pamper myself.

If you travel a lot, and they ever manage to allow all toiletries back on the plane (this product is a little over the 3 oz limit at 3.7 oz), this is a product you'll want to add to your carry-on. Otherwise, it's certainly not a necessity, but for those who could use a little more "me" time at the office, it's nice luxury.

Retail Price: $35.00 (Skyn Iceland)

Rating:

Chanel Sublimage Essential Regenerating Cream

What They Say: "The ultimate in skin rejuvenation starts with one unique plant-the Vanilla Planifolia-unearthed in the farthest reaches of Madagascar.

A specific patent-pending polyfractioning technique created by CHANEL Research results in powerful anti-aging: Wrinkles, loss of firmness, dehydration, lack of radiance and inconsistency in pigmentation are pinpointed at once for regenerating action.

Skin becomes beautifully taut. Silken and supple. Glowing with the look of good health."

Jen's Experience: I was in Saks Fifth Avenue in Birmingham, AL one day and the sky fell out, leaving me trapped in my favorite department store (the horror!). I had been looking at nail polish at the Chanel counter, but when the rain started, it turned into a mini-makeover session with their Chanel representative. We started talking about skin care products, and she told me about this new product that would be coming on the market in September, Chanel Sublimage. As I was paying for my order (which grew in proportion to my time at the counter that day), she handed me a gold box with 0.2 ounces of Sublimage and said, "treat this like gold."

After getting the moisturizer home, I discovered that her imperative could be taken several ways. It was like gold because the product was still months away from market (this was June), and not many people had access to the samples of it yet. It was also valuable just from the sheer price tag. The tiny portion I received was worth approximately $42, but a full-sized container available for purchase is $350. Now, those are valid reasons why this product should be treated like gold, but I found the most value in Sublimage because it's really an amazing product.

I have never used La Mer or Sisley or any of the others that approach this price range, so I have nothing to compare this to, but here is my experience. First off, this high-quality moisturizer lasts a very long time. I've worn it to bed nightly for over a month, and I still have some moisturizer left in my container. If you regularly buy department store moisturizer and spend $40-50 per container, you may find that even with the price tag that it's not a bad value.

The moisturizer itself smells of roses. A small amount spread on the face imparts just enough moisture to hydrate the skin without feeling greasy or tacky. I get a rosy glow right after I put it on, which tells me the product is penetrating the surface and working. My dry, sensitive skin loves this product, but even if your face is oily, I can't see where this product would impart oil to your face.

I am such a fan of this moisturizer, I would recommend it to anyone who can afford the price tag. This is a splurge that is worth every penny.

Retail Price: $350/1.7 oz (Chanel)

Rating:

Peter Thomas Roth Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30

What They Say: "This moisturizing sunscreen permits minimal tanning, protecting the skin with antioxidant micellized vitamins A and E and an SPF 30. Fragrance free, PABA free, non-comedogenic."

Jen's Experience: I first tried this sunblock when I received it as a sample with a Sephora order. I put it in my stash of facial moisturizers and then ended up taking it on a trip with me. Even though I believe this product is designed to be for the body, I used it on my face, and found that I really liked its cool, creamy feel when I applied it and the ongoing moisture it gave to my face. I've used it since by the pool and by the beach, and found it really easy to apply without looking white like a ghost, but that it gives excellent sun protection as well.

I'm now using this as my every day facial moisturizer and I'm loving it. It gives an excellent base to my make-up, gives my dry skin just the right amount of moisture, and provides all the sun protection I need on a daily basis. It's even gentle enough to use under the eyes, and actually turns out to be a very good eye cream! This is a product I highly recommend for its all-around use as sun protection as well as for your general moisturizing needs. It's not often that I find such a versatile product for such a reasonable price.

Retail Price: $26.00 (Peter Thomas Roth)

Rating:

Review: Olay Touch Sun of Daily UV Facial Moisturizer

What They Say: "Olay Touch of Sun daily UV facial moisturizer plus a touch of sunless tanner gives skin a sun-kissed glow. A new daily moisturizer designed to give your skin what it needs most to look healthy - moisture, vitamin E and SPF 15 UV Protection - while gradually enhancing skin's natural color and tone with a touch of sunless tanner for a sun-kissed glow every day. After a few days, you'll notice soft, moisturized skin with subtle color enhancement. With daily use, you'll see beautifully even-toned skin with a natural sun-kissed glow day after day. Dermatologist tested. No streaking or orange. 24 hour moisturization. Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). Light, non-greasy."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: After just a couple of days of using this moisturizer, I notice a difference (now, if you have darker skin than I do it may take a day or two longer). This stuff soaks into your skin well but in my opinion does look a little slick for a while but when I apply makeup over it it's fine and I don't feel like it makes my face oily during the day. The color is pretty close to natural, but perhaps only a little tawny. But overall, it's so safely subtle that it helps add a bit of natural color under some makeup if you slather SPF on your face every morning (good girl!) and therefore don't have much of a natural tan. The scent is nice and not reeking of that tanning product smell that you can get often. Results last about 3 days or so after you stop using it, depending on how much you've built up your color.

Retail Price: app. $12.00 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Seabreeze Naturals Products

Naturals Foaming Face Wash
"Nurture your skin with sea-based minerals and nutrients combined with mild antibacterial agents that leave you clean and free of breakouts. Sea Breeze Naturals reaches down into pores, washing away problem-causing dirt, oil and the germs that cause blemishes without drying or irritating your skin.

This daily cleanser provides a foamy lather that helps keep skin balanced and super clean. It removes dirt, oil and make-up and the dead skin cells that can dull your complexion, without over-drying."
Did you have some SeaBreeze astringent under your counter as a teenager when you first started to get acne? Well, I did, and I remember how much that stuff stung, so when I first got this to review, I thought all of the products would kill my sensitive skin. Turns out this product, which isn't even their product formulated for sensitive skin, is great for my skin. It doesn't seem to be very foamy to me, but it really does provide a good clean that works to remove make-up, even stubborn under-the-eye make-up and lip stains. I wish it were a little more viscous so that it would be easier to apply, but that's s a small wish for a terrific all-around drugstore cleanser.

Naturals Purifying Clay Cleanser

"Nurture your skin with sea-based minerals and nutrients combined with mild antibacterial agents that leave you clean and free of breakouts. Sea Breeze Naturals reaches down into pores, washing away problem-causing dirt, oil and the germs that cause blemishes without drying or irritating your skin.

This unique facial cleanser provides a light lather that purifies by reducing oil while it gently exfoliates for clean, smooth skin. It removes dirt, oil and make-up and the dead skin cells that can dull your complexion, without over-drying."
I like to think of this product as a clay mask for the impatient. This thick cleanser is certainly the consistency of clay, and provides that deep, down clean feeling in my pores without having to wait 10 or 15 minutes. I also like the clean, ocean smell of this product as opposed to the strong smell of a traditional clay mask. Now, this isn't one that you'll want to use around your eyes, so I don't actually use this every day, but more when I feel that I need a little more intense clean, 2-3 times a week. At that frequency, it's great for preventing little breakouts and also doesn't irritate my sensitive skin.

Naturals Oil Removing Astringent

"This is going to make a splash! Only NEW Sea Breeze Naturals captures the nutrient power of the sea in a new skin care line with cleansing, healing, super-hydrating sea minerals to optimize your skin's performance and make it healthier than ever before.

-Five natural sea minerals help draw in moisture for continuous condition.
-Ion-balanced to boost cellular metabolism, restore health function.
-A protective barrier neutralizes free radicals, allergens, and pollutants.

See what your skin can be...Acne Prevention Formula with Sea Minerals & Nutrients"
This isn't the same astringent that graced your countertop when you were 15. Although it still stings a little bit, and the strong smell could pull someone out of a fainting spell, this particular version strikes me as being much more gentle than previous versions. It always surprises me when I use a toner or astringent how much makeup I missed with my regular cleanser on the sides of my nose or on the edges of my face. This is the final step in making my face clean and blemish-free.

I just want to say one more thing: I've been jumping around between a lot of cleansers lately, so I may have desensitized by skin to a degree. But normally, starting a new skin care routine like this with all new products would cause some degree of irritation. I think it's a testament to the quality of these products that I've been irritation and blemish-free since I started using them.

Naturals Hydrating Moisturizer

"Sea Breeze Naturals Hydrating Moisturizer completes your skincare regimen by keeping your skin nourished and in perfect balance. The special blend of Sea Minerals and Nutrients combined with Vitamin E, work to thoroughly hydrate your skin where it needs it most to improve its overall condition and texture. Natural, oil controlling ingredients reduce shine, for a clean, matte finish without clogging pores. "
This thick moisturizer is terrific for my dry, sensitive skin. It feels light and soothing and its soft scent is very clean. I'm always surprised at how thick it is when I apply it, but how well it sinks into my skin, leaving it soft and moisturized but not at all greasy. This makes it a great moisturizer to use under make-up. I would love to see a version of this with some SPF built-in so I could use this in the daytime!

All products retail price: $5.99

Ratings:
Naturals Foaming Face Wash
Naturals Purifying Clay Cleanser
Naturals Oil Removing Astringent
Naturals Hydrating Moisturizer

Review: Philosophy Hope in a Jar

What They Say: "Hope in a Jar is a daily high-performance moisturizer. Formulated with lactic acid, beta-glucan, and multitopical antioxidants, results can be seen and felt within days. For normal to dry skin."

Jen's Experience: After this was named one of Oprah's Favorite Things for 2005, I knew I wanted to try this, and after we received a request to review it from one of our readers, that gave me just the push I needed to go out and get some. Since it doesn't have any sun protection in it, I have been wearing it only at night. In the past month, I haven't really had a major skin dryness, irritation or a lot of blemishes, so from that perspective, I guess it's doing its job. I like the texture of it; it's thin, so I feel like my face can breathe but at the same time, I sense that the coverage is good. What I don't particularly like about it is the smell. I don't think facial moisturizers should be perfumed at all, but this stuff has a really off-putting scent to me that lingers, which is not so good right before I go to bed.

I guess I was just expecting more from this iconic product, and I set myself up for major disappointment. I've had similar results from drugstore products but with a more pleasant fragrance, so I really can't say this is one I would spend my money on.

Retail Price: $35.00 (Sephora)

Rating:

Review: Dove Energy Glow Brightening Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15

What They Say: "NEW Dove® Energy Glow™ Brightening Moisturizer for normal to dry skin improves skin clarity by revealing more evenly-toned skin. It brightens skin, leaving it fresh, soft and youthful-looking. To help maintain that beautiful radiance over time, it protects your skin with SPF 15, vitamins and an energy-rich moisturizer."

Jen's Experience: As a moisturizer junkie, I am always thrilled to find a great product at the drugstore, especially one with a reasonable price. I was in search of a good facial moisturizer that would wouldn't irritate my sensitive skin, would work great under all my makeup, and would really deeply moisturize my often dry skin. I love how thick this moisturizer is and how well it soaks into my skin. I stay moisturized but not greasy. If you've got more normal or oily skin, I would think this product would just be too much. For dry and sensitive skin, though, this product is top notch. Who says you have to pay a fortune for a good quality moisturizer?

Retail Price: $8.99 (Drugstore.com and drugstores everywhere)

Rating:

Korres Wild Rose 24-hour Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin

What They Say: "Wild Rose oil is a natural source of vitamin C, which demonstrates significant repairing activity to fine lines and skin colour disorders. The extract of the desert plant Imperata cylindrica ensures 24-hour moisturising by continually regulating the cellular water equilibrium. Due to its antioxidant capacity, the combination of Grape seed and phytic acid enhances the longevity of the skin.
Use: After the daily cleansing, apply to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Contains: Wild Rose oil, Moist-24 (Imperata cylindrica root extract), Grape seed polyphenols, Olive oil, phytic acid, natural sunscreen Titanium dioxide. Dermatologically tested. Mineral oil-free. Silicone-free. Propylene glycol-free. Enriched with active plant extracts. 40ml / 1.35 fl oz

Hot Tip: Clinically proven to provide 24-hour hydration. Enhances skin resistance to UV radiation preventing the creation of brown spots."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I am most often put off by anything that has to do with rose scent. For some reason, I can only think of the really strong and obnoxious smell that some women insist on dousing themselves with and then possibly rolling around in. Not to say that all things rose are "bad". I just haven't had good experiences. This cream is different in that sense. The fragrance is quite mild and subdued. The formula doesn't scream "ROSES! I MUST SMELL LIKE I BATHED IN ROSES!"

This moisturizer also really calms my winter skin. It's not so thick that my face feels greasy, yet it is substantial enough that I like to use it as a nighttime moisturizer. (I really prefer a stronger SPF for daytime use, but layered with an oil-free sunscreen this really does keep your skin hydrated comfortably throughout the day without creating an oil-slick on your face.) However, my skin does tend to change in the summertime and becomes more oily, so this may be too heavy for me to use during the day then. If you typically have extremely oily skin, I would recommend you try something formulated specifically for your skin type instead.

Retail Price: $27.00 (sephora.com)
(And for our friends in the UK who told us they would love more info on where they can purchase products, you can email the London Korres store at info@korresstore.co.uk or call +44 207 58 16 455.)

DeLush Rating:

Bibo's Got You Covered for Winter Skin Care

Amazing Grapes Moisturizer and Positive Outlook Eye Renewal Cream
"These two products are phenomenal! I am constantly using them on the set and continue to be impressed with the results," says Sharin Helgestad, who uses the combo on celebrities like Molly Sims, Vanessa Marcil, and Nikki Cox on the show "Las Vegas".
..."The great thing about both Amazing Grapes and Positive Outlook is that together they act as a preventive as well as reparative agents," says Helgestad. Amazing Grapes prevents negative sunlight exposure while repairing damaged cells and Positive Outlook reduces fine lines and repairs skin's surface.

Bibo's Amazing Grapes Green Grape Oil-Free Moisturizer for Normal to Oily Skin SPF 15
What They Say: "Refine and de-shine skin with this lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that performs an amazing balancing act. Green grape promotes cell health and repair, and works with SPF 15 to prevent future damage. Skin looks fresh and healthy, feels soft and smooth."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I've been using this as my morning moisturizer for a while now, and I can't say I'm anything but impressed! First of all, the fresh scent is energizing, and the light, non-greasy lotion soaks right into my skin and helps it feel soft and calmed. I feel like my face is parched without it.

Retail Price: $11.50 (go to bibocosmetics.com to find a salon or Beauty Brands location near you that sells Bibo products)

DeLush Rating:


Bibo Positive Outlook Guava Enriched eye Renewal Cream
What They Say: "Renew the delicate skin around your eyes with this gentle all-in-one eye cream. Intensely moisturizing guava helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles, soothe puffiness and promote firmer looking skin. Eyes will look bright and fresh, skin will be soft and smooth."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This cream truly is revitalizing. With its crisp but subtle fruit scent and its ever-so-slight brightening sheen, you get an immediate eye boost. You'll also feel a subtle firming of the eye area when it is applied. I like to use this as a morning eye cream mostly, because it's not heavy at all and is great for under makeup. One tiny drawback - make sure to carefully apply evenly, or you could get a bit of excess sheen under your eye after the product has soaked into your skin.

Retail Price: $11.50 (go to bibocosmetics.com to find a salon or Beauty Brands location near you that sells Bibo products)

DeLush Rating:

Clinique Moisture Surge Extra Thirsty Skin Relief

What They Say: "Rapidly boosts skin's moisture level, restoring balance. To comfort, soften and smooth in a flash. Plump up fine dry lines. Oil-free. For all skin types. Use under or over makeup, or as a mask.

Use daily for immediate moisture boost, even over makeup. Pat over face and as spot treatment around mouth, neck, crow's feet. Use as a refreshing, moisture-intensive 5-minute mask. You may prefer to wipe skin with water-dampened 100% cotton ball before makeup application."

Jen's Experience: Last year I showed up at the Clinique counter with exceptionally dry skin. I bought several of their products in an effort to improve the situation, and as I was checking out, their representative suggested this product.

I use it when my skin is at its driest. I generally apply it in a thick layer before I go to sleep, hoping for a miracle when I wake. And, well, there's never been a miracle, I don't think, but I would definitely say I've seen some improvement. However, I've seen more drastic overnight change with other moisturizers, such as Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Skin Transforming Complex Nightly Renewal Cream.

Retail Price: $31.00 (Clinique.com)

Rating:

Malin + Goetz Facial Moisturizer

What They Say: "Our oil-free, residue-free moisturizer scientifically synthesizes natural vitamins E and B5 and soothing chamomile with absorbent fatty acids. Gently and effectively hydrates and ph balances all skin types, unlike traditionally greasy pore-clogging oils, for an intensely nourishing treatment, reducing epidermal irritation for the most sensitive of skin. Perfect foundation for immediate make-up application. Natural fragrance and color. Easily integrated into daily maintenance and prevention regimen."

Jen's Experience: With winter on its way, normally I have to go for the really super-thick moisturizers so that I don't get skin that's downright flaky and scaly. When I first started using this face moisturizer, I didn't think it would hold up to my winter needs. It's creamy, but it's thin enough that I only have to use a bit to cover my entire face and neck instead of half the container. My face feels like it can breathe when I am wearing it, instead of feeling smothered under layers and layers of moisturizer. And amazingly, even though the air is cold and dry, my face stays moisturized from morning to night.

I love the way this moisturizer feels on my face, I love the way my make-up glides on when I'm wearing it, and I really love that my face has been clearer and more radiant since I've been using this in my daily routine. In short, Malin + Goetz's Facial Moisturizer is a tremendous find.

Retail Price: $45.00 ( MalinandGoetz.com )

Rating:

Skin Lightening Products: Do They Really Work?

I am always trying to even out my skin tone. While concealer and foundation will do the trick, it would be more ideal to resolve the problem from within so that I could go without make-up and still feel like I can face the world. I bought two products to try to resolve two very different problems: RoC Correxion Eye Cream for my undereyes and Porcelana for some other areas, particularly an area of darker skin on my upper lip.

RoC's Correxion Eye Cream is "specially formulated for the delicate eye area, it visibly reduces wrinkles around the eyes and crow's feet in 12 weeks. In addition, it evens out dark circles and reduces puffiness in 4 weeks." I've probably had dark eye circles my whole life, but I first noticed them when I was in college. While they really come out when I haven't gotten enough rest or am dehydrated, they're probably inherited and therefore the best I can hope for is improvement, not perfection.

According to Allure magazine, the best help for improvement for undereye circles is retinol, which will help thicken the skin, and hopefully hide the broken blood vessels that cause the dark circles. Most retinol products are not for use around the eyes and will cause major irritation and drying, but this product was designed particularly for the undereye area.

I've seen some pretty good results with this cream wearing it both morning and night for about six weeks. It doesn't provide the results that I saw with Shiseido's Super Eye Contour Cream, but the results are pretty impressive for its $17.99 price tag. My only complaint is that it doesn't wear well under make-up. Perhaps wearing an eye cream that is specifically designed to be worn under makeup would be better for daytime, but this would be at the expense of having the benefit of the retinol twice a day.

Darker skin areas can occur for several reasons: age spots, freckles from sun exposure, or hormonal changes. This product claims to help fade dark spots for all of these reasons. "Porcelana® Fade Dark Spots Nighttime Treatment uses an innovative combination of the active ingredient, Hydroquinone, antioxidants, and botanical extracts to fade dark spots and other skin discolorations while moisturizing and firming your skin."

I bought this Porcelana cream specifically to help fade some darker skin on my upper lip, but I also put it on some freckles on my forehead that are the result of too much sun exposure. My results have not been at all what I was hoping for. After 3 months of use, I've seen very little to no improvement on the freckles on my forehead. From time to time, I've thought there has been some improvement on my upper lip, but since the discoloration seems to be hormone related, the darker color always comes back in full effect.

So do these drugstore skin lightening products work? I wish I could report some miraculous effects, but so far, I'm not impressed. For now, it looks like make-up is the way to go for hiding flaws with skin tone.

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Aveeno Positively Radiant Anti-Wrinkle Cream

What They Say: "This anti-wrinkle cream is clinically proven to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles and even out tone and texture for youthful, naturally radiant skin. This non-greasy formula contains a unique blend of naturally active ingredients — a Total Soy Complex to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles and even out tone and texture combined with Vitamins B5 and E to enhance skin's natural renewal process. For best results, use at night in conjunction with POSITIVELY RADIANT™ Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 during the day or use twice per day."

Jen's Experience: I've been having really good luck with drugstore moisturizers for a while now, so I thought I would try to extend my good fortune and try for one more reasonably priced, yet effective moisturizers. This was kind of a departure from my usual picks though since it doesn't say sensitive or dry skin anywhere on the package.

Since it's still warm and humid outside, I can get away with that. My skin hasn't been excessively dry since I've started using this, but I definitely can tell the difference between this and deeper moisturizers like I've used in the past. This is just enough to keep my skin from getting scaly.

I like that it has virtually no scent and that it absorbs quickly, without leaving my skin greasy in the least. It doesn't leave a residue on my face that I feel like I need to wash off when I wake in the morning like some of the retinol-based moisturizers do.

I don't know that it has made my face particularly more radiant. Or that it's preventing wrinkles from popping up. There's nothing terribly extraordinary about this product. It's just a basic moisturizer for normal skin. But if that's all you need, hey, the price is right!

Retail Price: $13.99 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer

What They Say: "Neutrogena Healthy Skin® Enhancer is an alternative to foundation that provides everything you need for softer, healthier and younger-looking skin in one beautiful step.

This dermatologist-developed formula contains a vitamin-rich Retinol treatment to visibly smooth fine lines and reduce signs of aging. It nourishes skin and protects against future sun damage with a weightless SPF 20 moisturizer. Each skin-enhancing shade provides a sheer tint of color for a more even, naturally beautiful look.

Available in six sheer shades. Each shade works on multiple skin tones for easier shade selection.

Enjoy the power of three daily essentials in one beautiful step."

Jen's Experience: I love a good tinted moisturizer in the summer, one that will even out my skin tone but let my face breathe when it's 90 degrees with 100% humidity. But not when it makes my face look bluish, like this stuff does. Yes, when I am wearing this, I look a little deathly. I even went back and got a darker shade. No dice, still blue.

I love the concept of having a retinol moisturizer with a nice tinted moisturizer with SPF, but only if it looks great, too. The coverage of this stuff is great. But sadly, I don't think a blue cast is in this season. Maybe it's just me.

Retail Price: $11.29 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

Shiseido Bio-Performance Super Eye Contour Cream

What They Say: "This powerful blend of the most technologically advanced ingredients is the latest addition to the Bio-Performance line. The multitasking formula helps treat and prevent fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and dark circles. Texture is easily absorbed and never sticky. To Use: Apply as the last step of your skincare routine. Gently massage cream into eye area with pads of index, middle, and ring fingers. Can also be applied to lips for exceptional smoothing benefits."

Jen's Experience: I am always in need of something to fix the dark circles under my eyes. Since I am generally white as a sheet, my dark circles make me look like some sort of ghoul who was recently brought back from the dead. Estella said, "this made me weep with joy", so you know I had to try it.

I wasn't impressed with this at first. It wasn't making a dent in the dark circles under my eyes. Then it occurred to me, maybe if I actually slept more than 4 or 5 hours a night, maybe I would stop looking like such a dead thing. Once I moved into the 7 or 8 hours a night vicinity, I became very, very impressed with this product. This improved my dark circles so much that I barely needed concealer. The other magical part of this product is the way it reduced all the fine lines and made my eyes look less puffy. I never even knew I had puffiness around my eyes until I started using this and saw the improvement. And yes, it also does a great job smoothing out the skin on your lips as well. Paired up with lip plumper, and it's pretty unstoppable.

So, there was definitely some weeping with joy involved, but I do wish that it could erase the dark circles when I'm severely sleep deprived. Especially for the price tag.

Retail Price: $52.00 (Macy's and other major department stores)

Rating:

Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Skin Transforming Complex Nightly Renewal Cream

What They Say: "Neutrogena® Advanced Solutions™ Skin Transforming Complex Nightly Renewal Cream delivers the ultimate combination of anti-aging ingredients to help fight the multiple signs of aging and transform skin to look beautifully healthier and younger.
This replenishing anti-oxidant formula contains a unique Micro-DA Retinol complex, with the highest concentration of pure Retinol from Neutrogena, that works with your natural nightly repair cycle to stimulate skin's surface cell renewal process while you sleep, smoothing away the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It infuses skin with essential moisture to help restore elasticity and youthful radiance. See results immediately."

Jen's Experience: I've tried expensive department store moisturizers and other drugstore moisturizers, but I have never quite found the one for me. And normally, things that contain retinol turn my skin bright pink and cause more than a little tingle. But this one, I feel, is different - and better. I started using this about 8 weeks ago. Even during the first few days of use, I didn't have any problems with redness or irritation. In the morning, my skin always seems really soft, and I can tell in the shower that it is nicely moisturized. And my skin is definitely clearer since I've started using this.

Recently, this product even helped me through another round of poison ivy. Normally, if I am lucky enough to get any on my face, the redness lasts 3 weeks. By using the Skin Transforming moisturizer at night, I could see visible improvement every morning. That's enough to tell me that it really is transforming my skin every night.

Tips: Avoid getting any in the eye area. It will cause a great deal of irritation and redness that lasts quite a while.

Retail Price: $23.99 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sheer Moisturizer

What They Say: "This sheer moisturizer combines chemical-free, full spectrum SPF 30 sun protection with certified organic white grape and pomegranate juices, vitamin antioxidants, and essential nutrients to replenish and protect for optimum antiaging benefits."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I really don't know how to guage a sunscreen's main purpose - protecting against sun damage - without doing some sort of fancy schmancy scientific tests, of which I have no knowledge to actually complete. So I will take their word for it that if it says SPF 30, that I'm probably getting some serious sun protection. Now, it's the rest of the whole experience that I can atually tell you about.

With its citrus ingredients, this smells completely fresh and energizing, which is a wonderful bonus to applying sunscreen each morning. (It's also an incentive for us lazy types who can use all the incentive we can get.) The texture is so light and smooth, and doesn't leave my skin feeling or looking greasy. I love the pump; it's easy and mess-free. I really feel like my skin wakes up after I've put this on.

And if the idea of fresh, organic ingredients makes you excited, this brand which was recently voted the top Organic Beauty Brand by Style.com is a great way to go.

Retail Price: $29.00 (juicebeauty.com and sephora.com)

DeLush Rating:

Lumene Cleansing Dream Mist

What They Say: "For all skin types - excellent for sensitive skin.
The fresh water spray soothes the skin and restores moisture instantly. Can be used to freshen up at any time. Alcohol-Free. Dermatologically tested.

Effect:
Leaves skin feeling pleasantly relaxed and refreshed.

Technology:
Natural antioxidants protect the skin against free radicals. Arctic spring water freshens and moisturizes.

Application:
Use several times a day to freshen up at any time, even over make-up:

* On the go: Use water spray on the train, car or after a flight to rehydrate and counteract travel fatigue.
* On the beach: Instantly cools sun-stressed skin
* At work: Water spray rehydrates the skin suffering from dry office air and display terminal work.
* At home: Water mist can be used as normal facial tonic after cleansing.

Close your eyes and spray the face well, pat dry excess. Do not use the can in a horizontal position while spraying."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Hmmmm...I've seen this brand in the drugstores lately and have really wondered what to think about it. Is it wrong for me to be attracted to its serene blue and white packaging? Well, that's not all I was looking at when I decided to try this facial mist. Especially with the summer heat, I've been looking for a way to refresh my skin even after I've got makeup on.

This mist goes on cool and super fine - so as far as freshening up goes, it's a winner. My husband felt it as he sat next to me in the car and some wasped over...he said "hey, that feels good!" And it seems to be very clean and pure. Also, I was concerned that this would add a lot of unwanted greasiness to my already combination skin (which acts up in the summertime). I've used this for about 2 1/2 weeks at least once a day, sometimes 3 or 4, and haven't noticed a significant increase in oiliness, which has made me very happy.

I have a feeling that I could get more prevalent moisturizing effects from another mist, which I'm going to look into in the near future. What I mean is that aside from just depositing water, perhaps something that deposits moisturizing ingredients as well. I hear good things about Clinique's facial mist. However, at the price, and for the purpose of adding some cooling moisture, this is an very acceptable option. I think I'll give Lumene's other products a try as well...

One big negative? Hellooooo? The spray canister is HUGE. I've put it in my large purse at work every day, but I'd love to see them make a travel size for smaller handbags or packing ease. It's about the size of a medium hairspray bottle. It's do-able, but would be better if it were a bit more portable.

Retail Price: $8.99 (drugstores)

DeLush Rating:

Olay Complete Plus Ultra Rich Day Cream

I spend an unreal amount of money on moisturizers.   A lot of highly recommended moisturizers are so expensive, and you've got to have your day moisturizer with SPF in it and the night moisturizer with some kind of magical retinol-type ingredient in it.   I decided to stop the madness for once with this last moisturizer purchase, and pick out something from my drugstore's shelves. 

What They Say: "Designed for maturing skin. Revitalizes the skin's appearance with a hydrating complex of vitamins E and B3, pro-vitamins B5 and A and intensive Olay moisture. Provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB (SPF 15) protection to minimize, even help prevent age spots and future skin damage to keep your skin stay younger looking. "

Jen's Experience: I'm so picky.  But I have to be, because my skin dries up if I look at it funny.  On the other hand, if I get something too oily or harsh, I break out like crazy (and then I have to treat the acne and I get dry spots....you see the problem here).  This moisturizer claims to be for very dry skin, so I thought I would give it a shot.  A lot of rich moisturizers don't work well under foundation.  Lucky for me, this one works great.  When I first got it, I thought it would be too thick.  I applied it and my skin instantly felt more hydrated.  Yet within minutes, the moisturizer soaked into my skin, leaving it hydrated but not at all greasy.  And, although it is quite rich when I am slathering it on, I still feel like my face can breathe! I applied my makeup with no problems, and made it through the day without developing any patches of dry skin.  For dry, sensitive skin like mine, this product is a miracle.

Retail Price: $9.49 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

H20+ Waterwhite™ Lite Pore Minimizing Gel

What They Say: "For less visible pores and a luminous complexion, apply this oil-controlling gel day or night. Performing triple duty, it refines and minimizes the appearance of pores, controls and prevents future breakouts, and brightens complexions. This pore minimizer promotes brighter, radiant, and more even skin while also guarding against future production of irregular pigmentation. Absorbs instantly with no product after feel."

Jen's Experience:  I was shopping in Las Vegas when I stumbled on the H20+ store.  If you live in a major city, you're probably familiar with this store, but for me, it was all new and shiny.   They were advertising their pore minimizing gel in the window, and I was drawn in like a moth to the flame.  I complain a lot about my skin being dry, but around my nose I have some largish pores and I think it takes away from the overall appearance of my complexion.

Long story short, this was not the solution to my problem.  I like the texture of the gel.  It's very thin and cooling, and makes my skin feel great.  For about 2 minutes.  And then it dries out and leaves my face feeling really tight.  Not only that (as if that wasn't enough of a deterrent), it also dries my face out so much that it gets flaky.  Eww.  If you have dry skin, this is not the product for you.

This product may work very well if you have dry or even normal skin.   In fact, as a pore minimizer, it works very well and does help foundation to go on more smoothly.   Perhaps as the humidity rises with the temperature this summer and my face becomes a little less dry, I can give it another shot.

Retail Price: $35.00

Rating:

Hard Candy Hint Tint in Sugar Cookie

A while back I wrote about tinted moisturizers, which are a great solution for a light, breathable way to improve your complexion, particularly in the summertime months.  At the first hint of turning warm, I picked up Hard Candy's answer to the tinted moisturizer, their Hint Tint.

From the Hard Candy website: "This is the newer version of the ever popular Hint Tint. This ultra-sheer, oil-free tinted moisturizer gives just a hint of tint to even out skin tone, plus it provides protection against those nasty UV-A and UV-B rays. Contains physical sun-blocking ingredients, but zero chemical sunscreens, so it won’t irritate sensitive skin."

My Experience:  I have a ton of terrific things to say about this product, but I do want to lodge a complaint about the lack of sunscreen in this product.  I really can't bring myself to wear this outside during sunny daylight hours without knowing that it will provide the protection of at least an SPF 15 sunscreen.  So I end up wearing moisturizer with sunscreen under this moisturizer, and that kind of defeats the purpose. 

OK, now that I've got that off my chest, this is really a terrific product.  I have tried several different foundations and this actually lasts much longer than any of them.  I like the color on my face, and I like how even my skin tone looks.  It blends really nicely, but it is so sheer that it is really natural looking.    It even does a decent job of covering up my undereye circles.  I haven't quite decided about the smell, but "Sugar Cookie" is quite apropos.  On one hand, it smells delicious, but on the other hand, I am not sure I like walking around smelling like a Yankee Candle.    As for its moisturizing properties, I find that my skin stays pretty well moisturized throughout the day when I am wearing this, almost moist to the touch.  That's fantastic for my ultra-dry skin, but if you're skin is oily, it might be too much for you.

Overall, I think it is an excellent product, but the lack of sunscreen really bothers me to the point that I am hesitant to recommend it to you for all your tinted moisturizer needs.

Retail Price: $16.50 (HardCandy.com)

Rating:

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Blemish Cream

What They Say: "Neutrogena Healthy Skin^® Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Blemish Cream is the only anti-aging treatment that combines the #1 wrinkle fighter with the #1 blemish fighter in one easy-to-use formula.

Retinol, the purest form of Vitamin A, works deep within skin's surface where wrinkles develop. Salicylic Acid, a proven acne-fighting ingredient, penetrates deep into pores to treat blemishes and help prevent future breakouts. This light, oil-free formula glides on easily and absorbs quickly with no greasy residue.

Skin is clearer, softer and smoother. Fine lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced."

Jen's Experience:  After I finished my RoC Night Cream, I wanted to try something new that was perhaps a little less harsh on my sensitive skin.    I liked the fact that Neutrogena's product also contained salicylic acid, because I often apply that before I go to bed as well.    Since I've started using this, I have had some minor breakouts here and there, but definitely an improvement over a standard night-time moisturizer.  This has never been never harsh to my skin - no redness, no bumpiness and no flakiness at all, even when I first started using it.  It soaks in pretty quickly after I apply it, but it does leave my skin feeling soft even by the morning (although, sadly, not as soft as the RoC Deep Wrinkle Moisturizer).  The only thing I can't really comment about too much is the wrinkle-fighting aspect of this moisturizer.  My fine lines are around my eyes, and I use a different product there.  All in all, I've been really happy with this moisturizer, and I would recommend it to anyone who is worried about both wrinkles and acne.   

Retail Price:  $11.99 (Drugstore.com)

Rating:

RoC Age Diminishing Moisturizing Night Cream

What They Say: "With Soy Complex & Vitamin E

Revitalizes skin tone, visibly reduces wrinkles and improves firmness

With time, the signs of aging become more visible because melanin, a natural pigment that forms even skin tone, becomes unbalanced and collagen, proteins that give skin strength and suppleness, becomes depleted.

RoC® Age Diminishing™ Moisturizing Night Cream with Soy Complex and Vitamin E is an optimal blend of active proteins, essential lipids, and antioxidants that helps to balance and even skin tone, diminish the appearance of wrinkles, and improve skin firmness while you sleep.

This gentle, nourishing night cream is enriched with extra emollients to replenish the moisture your skin needs to look its best. With continued use, you will notice the following results:

* More even skin tone and texture
* Diminished appearance of wrinkles
* Visible reduction in age spots and blotches
* Improved skin firmness
* Softer, smoother and more supple skin

This exclusive formula is:

* Oil-free
* Hypoallergenic
* Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I would love to tell you that I used this and it made my skin look gorgeous, so you could run out and get some. Because simply put, I usually LOVE RoC products. I've been looking for a really effective hydrating face cream to use at night that would give me glowy skin in the morning. When I saw this fairly new cream from RoC, I thought the search had ended.

Perhaps it does improve skin texture. Maybe it really does help even out those fine little lines. I'll just never know it. Why? Each time I use this cream my skin feels immediately tight as leather, which could be considered a plus on the aging front, but on top of that, my face becomes incredibly dry. I simply cannot stand the way my face feels; it's entirely too uncomfortable.

I tried. I wanted to give it a good run. But anything that makes my face feel that way is simply not worth it. Especially when I know there are nighttime creams out there that will actually make my skin feel good. So far, my favorite has still been Origins' Night-a-Mins.

Retail Price: $13.99 (drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Benefit Eyecon

What They Say: "With fading action! Fade those dark circles... this amazing treatment with extracts of orange, apple fruit and japonica leaf really works! 'Pack your bags, take off your shades', because eyecon de-puffs under the eyes and fades dark circles while it nourishes and smoothes the entire eye area."

Jen's DeLush Experience: I wasn't really prepared to try a new eye cream just yet, but I was in New Orleans when I lost my Neutrogena undereye cream and was forced to to get something new.  I was intrigued by the description on the Benefit website, so I thought I'd give it a shot.  I've been using it now for about a month with mixed results.  I have very dark undereye circles if I don't give them a lot of attention, and I am starting to get fine lines around my eyes.  The Benefit cream seems to do a lot for the fine lines, but I am not convinced that it is working on my undereye circles.  I saw a lot of progress with the Neutrogena Radiance Boost Eye Cream, to the point where I felt like I could go without concealer if I'd gotten enough sleep the night before.  After a month of using Eyecon, I always feel like I need to wear concealer.  I believe it does a lot more than a standard eye cream would do for my circles, but I just was expecting more out of this cream.

Tips:  Use both morning and night for more fading action.

Retail Price: $26.00

Rating: 

Lancôme Aqua Fusion Cream SPF

What They Say: "Infuse your skin with moisture! This ultra-charged moisturizer delivers 16 skin-essential elements including Calcium, Zinc and Manganese to keep skin hydrated all day. Oil-free, water-smooth texture leaves skin glowing with health. SPF 15. "

My Experience:  Since the beginning of winter, my face has been unbelievably dry.  My normal moisturizers just weren't doing the trick, and would often leave me with dry patches by lunchtime.  When I read that this product is supposed to continuously moisturize your skin during the day, I had to give it a try.  My experience with it has been mixed at best.  Let me just say first that it feels very cooling and luxurious on my face -- it feels really, really good.  It's easy to put a lot of it on your face.  I've been using it for a little more than a month on a daily basis, and I've used up more than half of the container.  It goes pretty quickly.  When I put on too much, it doesn't dry well, and when I apply a base or foundation on top of it, it doesn't mix well and creates clumps of makeup on my face.  Not too attractive, I tell you.  When I put on too little, I don't notice that it moisturizes as well, leading me to believe that I am right in being kind of heavy handed.  My only other complaint is that it smells rather strongly of cucumbers.  If you're a big cucumber fan, this may be for you, but I thought the scent was a turn off.

Tips:  Experiment to find the smallest effective amount of moisturizer for your skin type.  I like to apply a smaller amount right after I get out of the shower in the morning to trap in some of that moisture and reduce the need to layer it so heavily.  I then blow dry my hair and get dressed before attempting to put any makeup on top of it.

DeLush Rating:

Clinique Daily Eye Benefits

What They Say: "Helps restore firmness, reduce puffiness, and minimize appearance of dry lines around eye area. Soothing. Invisible on."

My Experience:   I often have really dry skin around my eyes, as well as dark circles, especially when I'm not getting enough rest.  This was recommended to me at the Clinique counter to resolve these issues.  I used it about six months, mostly in the morning underneath my makeup for the day.  While it does give a nice base to concealer and eye makeup, and it does help with dryness, it does not help with dark circles and also didn't help with or even disguise the lines around my eyes.   So Daily Eye Benefits didn't really provide much in the way of...um...benefits.

Tips:  If you are using it under makeup as I did, make sure you give it a few minutes to soak in before applying makeup on top of it.

DeLush Rating:

Nivea Soft Intensive Moisturizing Creme

What They Say: "NIVEA Soft is specially formulated with:

- Jojoba Oil that nourishes the skin.
- Vitamin E that protects the skin's natural structure

This unique formulation is quickly absorbed to leave your skin feeling soft and supple. NIVEA Soft Intensive Moisturizing Creme is pH neutral and dermatologically approved."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I'm a fanatic about body lotions and moisturizers. This one is very fluffy and soft upon applying, though I typically opt for those that feel a bit more substantial on. However, this was a refreshingly nice option for when I am looking for a lotion that is more undetectable, yet does leave skin nicely soft. The scent was pleasant but in my opinion could be better.

Retail Price: $6.34 (drugstore.com or drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

From the RoC Website: " The formula contains a combination of RoC® Retinol and a mineral complex of magnesium, zinc, and copper that has been optimized to provide visible reductions in even deep wrinkles. RoC® RETINOL CORREXION™ Deep Wrinkle Night Cream is formulated to work through the night when your skin is most receptive to repair and renewal. As you apply, the upper layers of your skin are firmed, leading to a visible reduction in expression lines. Then, through the night, the formula works to smooth even your deep wrinkles."

Jen's Experience:  This product was recommended to me by a friend of mine who raved about how it made her skin super soft and was really working to reduce the expression lines in her face.  So, of course, I ran out to get it immediately.  I had never used a retinol-based product before, so I wasn't really prepared for the way my skin reacted the first time I used it.  It felt really tight and it burned my face like I'd lit a fire.  It does say on the packaging that some redness and irritation is common in the first few days of using it, but I just wasn't sure how much irritation was too much.  I ended up burning my chin to the point where it was raw.  (Full Disclosure: My face was already super dry from another product I was testing, and this may have been a result of combining the two products.  I have been unable to reproduce the situation.)  After my face recovered, I have been using it daily and have been happy with the results.  My face really is a lot softer and my skin looks firmer and more healthy.

Tips:  If you have sensitive skin, you will want to consider breaking in this product slowly.  Build up the frequency until it no longer causes irritation when you apply it.  Also, as with any retinol product, make sure you use at least SPF 15 during the day.  Not that you aren't already, right?

Rating:

Neutrogena Radiance Boost Eye Cream

From Neutrogena: "Neutrogena^® Radiance Boost^® Eye Cream reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around your eyes for a fresh, vibrant look.

This ophthalmologist-tested formula contains PROTIENT^™, a powerful anti-oxidant that works immediately to help alleviate puffiness and help fade undereye dark circles. It also significantly reduces the appearance of fine lines, soothing and moisturizing the overall eye area. This luxurious, lightweight cream is suitable for contact lens wearers.

Revitalize the appearance of your eyes and brighten your look in just one week."

My Experience:  I am always looking for products to cover up my dark under-eye circles, but I had long given up on getting rid of the circles themselves.  I'd tried expensive creams and miracle Vitamin K solutions, all of which didn't solve the problem or caused irritation that probably worsened the problem.  When I saw this product from Neutrogena that claimed that it would improve my under eyes in less than 28 days, I had to try it, and I am really glad that I did.  Within one week I saw a drastic improvement in the coloring under my eyes, and after three weeks, if I got enough sleep I could actually skip concealer and use foundation instead.  That's pretty miraculous considering I've been wearing concealer daily for probably 10 years.  It didn't really do anything for the fine lines around my eyes, but I didn't really buy it for that either.  I'll let my night moisturizer take care of that.

Tips:  The tube recommends using the cream twice daily, which I did for the inital 28 days.  I have switched to using it in the mornings only underneath my makeup and I haven't seen any degradation in effectiveness.

Rating:

Reviewed By: Jen

Origins Have a Nice Day Supercharged Moisture Cream - SPF 15

What They Say: "Your skin hasn’t a care in the world when stimulating Ginkgo Extract, firming Birch Extract and nourishing Soybean Oil fortify it with everything it needs to face the day in a positive way. Origins potent blend of UV protectors, including nature’s own Titanium Dioxide, defray the rays. Vitamin E stops environmental no-goodniks. Skin runs smoothly sun up to sun down. And one whiff of the gung-ho Grapefruit aroma gives you a sense of can-do optimism."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This is one of my winter-time staples, for those days I want a thicker moisturizer to start the day with. It smells incredible and wakes up me AND my tired face.

Retail Price: $31.00 (origins.com)

DeLush Rating:

Clinique Moisture On-Call

What They Say: "Firms dry skin as it rehydrates for greater comfort, improved elasticity. Triggers skin's ability to build and hold moisture."

My DeLush Downlow:  This was part of the solution to the great poison-ivy-right-before-the-wedding debacle.  I went to the Clinique counter to see if there was SOMETHING they could do to hide the mess in case all the moisturizers I was using didn't work.  I was impressed enough to keep on buying it, long after the dryness had dissipated.  It feels cool and applies really nicely.  I think I like it more for the summer months though, and I might seek out a new, more intense, moisturizer for the colder months.

Tips:  Although on of the benefits of using this moisturizer is how much it improves the application of your foundation, I do recommend putting it on a letting it dry a little before you start applying foundation on top of it.

Rating:

Reviewed By: Jen

L'Oreal Transformance Skin Perfecting Solution

What They Say: "At last, the skin you've always wanted. Ultra-soft. Ultra-smooth. Newly even. Virtually poreless. Flawless.

Transformance is a light moisturizing treatment that softly hydrates for visibly more radiant, even-toned, and ultra-smooth skin. Use Transfor-mance after your cleansing and toning routine - alone or under your favorite moisturizer. Create your personal regimen according to your skincare needs."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I've been using this moisturizer for about 2 months now, and I do believe it has improved the texture of my skin. My skin type is normally combination with a bit of oiliness on the nose and forehead. I think this lotion feels wonderful, and when I think my skin is dull and drab, this always makes me feel like I look more fresh. I'm not sure scientifically how much improvement it's had on my skin, but I plan to continue to use it. I've noticed smoother texture, a brighter complexion, and less fluctuation in oiliness/dryness.

User Tip: Don't get it in your eyes, it really stings. ;) Also, the bottle is small, but it spreads nicely and covers well. I use it morning and night, whenever I feel I need it.

Retail Price: $15.99 (drugstore.com and drugstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

Sephora Brown Milk of Palm Luxurious Body Lotion

What They Say: "Rich and emollient, Sephora's Brown Milk of Palm Bath Collection is sensuous, tender body care that is enriched with palm milk, known for its highly effective skin nourishing and hydrating properties.

Lock-in moisture as you impart a healthy glow to the skin with the luxurious body balm or velvety body lotion."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I love this lotion so much that I sometimes don't want to use it because I don't want to run out of it! It's SO silky and fluffy, yet has a wonderfully lasting effect on the skin. And the smell? OH. MY. It somehow becomes an incredibly chocolate-y/marshmallow-y/yummmmm-y smelling magical potion that puts me in the best mood. Definitely worth a try!

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*Update 10/08/05: Unfortunately, this item is no longer available from Sephora.

Aveda Tourmaline Charged Hydrating Cream

What They Say: "Feel energy from nature. Finely-powdered tourmaline-a naturally energizing mineral- mixed with marine and plant extracts and 11 powerful anti-oxidants. Hydrating. Protecting. Infusing visible life and radiance into your skin so it glows."

My DeLush Experience:  I think this moisturizer has some sort of magic in it.  It virtually fixes my sensitive skin breakouts.  It even makes poison ivy less itchy.  And when I wake in the morning, I do feel like my skin is more radiant as a result.  And like nearly everything at Aveda, it smells wonderful.   Bonus.

Tips:  I find it a little too greasy for everyday use but I do use it as a night moisturizer when my skin is in need of some R&R.  I generally apply two coats:  Once my skin drinks in the first layer, I apply another coat on any breakouts.

Rating:

Reviewed By:Jen