Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Bronzer, Blush and Eyeshadow

What They Say: “Shimmer all year long with this glowing powder which highlights skin with five luminous bands of warm beige, sand and bronze. All shades blend together for the ultimate glamorous, tan glow. Use all over face as a bronzer, sweep over cheeks as a blush or use each individual shade as an eye shadow. Silky smooth texture for a radiant complexion.”

Alissa’s Opinion: I tried this out in Sunset Strip (bronzer) and Malibu Strip (pink sand bronzer). I really loved the “custom” part of this bronzer. The lightest shades can be used to highlight and the darker ones are great for contouring. When mixed together on a big brush, the effect is a great tanned glow. The pink tones in Malibu Strip really brought out the blue in my eyes when I applied it on my lids and Sunset Strip was great for both face and décolletage. The texture was smooth and the amount of shimmer was just right. You really can’t go wrong at this price.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at drugstores and superstores, as well as at physiciansformula.com)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Physician's Formula Summer Eclipse® Bronzing & Shimmery Face Powder (in Moonlight/Light Bronzer)

What They Say: "Provides a warm and vibrant bronzed complexion all year long without the harmful effects of the sun. ...Amazing bi-colored bronzer combines the perfect blend of pearlescent gold and warm bronze to create a light tan glow. Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Oil free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist approved."

What Melissa Says: I really think that some of Physician's Formula products are often underrated or passed over by people who haven't tried some of the line. Personally, I've found their powder products (mineral powder, blush, etc.) to be quite impressive, especially given the moderate price.

As an easily-accessible drugstore brand, their wide range of bronzers (expect to see more of them covered here on DeLush in the coming months) perhaps may give you so many choices that you aren't sure which to try. Let me clear up at least one question here: this version, especially in the shade I've tried, is absolutely PERFECT for those with fair to medium light skin who are gun=shy when it comes to bronzers. It is amazingly subtle, yet gives the faintest hint of glow. If bronzers typically just come out looking like too much on you, this is really something you should try.

I must emphasize that I don't want the word "shimmery" in the product name to throw you or scare you off. These powders are so soft and gentle, and even the shimmer portion blends beautifully onto your skin without being overbearing. You end up with a more radiant look, period.

Another winner in my book from this brand.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Dove Ultimate Clear Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant

What They Say: "Revolutionary new formula won’t leave white marks on clothes! Contains ¼ translucent moisturizers to care for your underarm skin. Provides powerful 24 hour protection."

Toya’s Take: With summertime here (unofficially), the heat and humidity are starting to go through the roof here in lovely Charm City. It’s time to gear up for the next few sweaty, sticky months. I’m not a heavy sweat-er, but anyone can look forward to perspiration if you try to make it through the summer months around here. For years, Secret has been my deodorant of choice, but I’ve found something better. Folks, meet Dove Ultimate Clear. It is the most awesome deodorant ever! It applies in a silky smooth manner and doesn’t sting like heck when you use it on freshly shaved armpits. It gives unbelievable protection – I remain fresh and dry all day. And the best part? No nasty white marks on my black tops! (I still haven’t figured out how to get those things off – I hear baby wipes are a good trick, I’ll have to try those.) This product has me sounding like a deodorant commercial! I’m telling you – this stuff is great.

Retail Price: $4.49 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere, and online at drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Sunsilk Hydra TLC 24/7 Creme

What They Say: "Rough Ends & Hairs That Stick Out All Over? Get soft hair that flows together.

Pesky little hairs sticking out every which way? Put those messy, bothersome hairs back in place with Sunsilk™ Hydra TLC 24/7 Creme with Nutri-Keratin. It's not a conditioner, not a gel - it combines the best of both. So it tames unruly flyaways for softer, more manageable hair that flows together.

What to do:
It's easy - just smooth 1 or 2 dollops through damp hair and style as usual. If needed, re-apply on dry hair for extra TLC during the day. For maximum hydration start with Hydra TLC Shampoo & Conditioner (or Multi-Symptom Masque)."

Melissa Says: Wow. I truly was skeptical that something so inexpensive could have such an effect on my hair. I apply it before blowdrying and just use a paddle or vent brush and voila - supersoft! As you know, my hair likes to have unruly ends that do this weird non-curl, wiry flying in the air thing. Right now, my hair has many ends of different lengths that are growing out, and I love that this helps my hair look more smooth and flowing, with no wiry ends giving away the different lenghts. It feels amazing, and even though the scent is a quite prevalent, I personally like it. It's kind of...well, it's "fresh" and similar to another shampoo scent, but I can't put my finger on which one it reminds me of. My husband commented on it without realizing it was my hair product, saying I smelled SO good, and asking what it was. So while some may not prefer to have something that lingers in that way, I'm keeping this a 5-lipper because it really just has amazed me in all ways.

...Smooth hair that flows together...that's exactly what it gives me.

Retail Price: $4.43 (available in drugstores and superstores everywhere - and now ON SALE for $3.82 at drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Cléo Shower Cream

What They Say: "Dermatological tests show that yogurt helps to improve the skin's appearance day after day and keep it looking young and healthy. The Cleo formula is enriched with cocoa extract which, thanks to it's nourishing, emollient and anti-oxidant properties, nourishes and protects the skin ...Infused yogurt properties have an espeically calming effect on dry or irritated skin."

About Cléo:
"Introducing Cléo, from Paglieri Profumi - a leader in Italian perfume and body care since 1876. This Italian bath and body line is infused with natural moisturizing extracts from yogurt to continually improve the texture and elasticity of the skin. Combinations of yogurt and vanilla, yogurt and berries, and yogurt and cereal make sweet scents for everyday shower cream, bath cream, body cream, liquid soap, and bar soap."

Melissa Says: I tried this in Chocolate, and this chocolate-creamy combo...it is GOOD. The formula lathers luxuriously and you don't need much on your bath pouf to last the entire shower. It really is so soft that I found myself always regretting having to rinse it off. The good news is that my skin still felt gently soft afterward. It wasn't an intense moisturization, which some of you may crave more of, but it was enough to make my skin continue to feel soft after the shower. The scent is there afterward as well, but is quite faint. That would be my only unfulfilled wish with this shower cream. For this price and the scrumptious feeling, I would still recommend trying this out.

Retail Price: $4.95 (newly available at drugstore.com!)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Almay Truly Lasting™ Color

What They Say: "12-hour color that loves your lips.

Treat your lips with TLC. Up to 12 hours of moisture-rich color. With a 99% moisture-rich topcoat infused with nourishing avocado and olive extracts, aloe, plus Vitamins A&E. Almay TLC provides incredible comfort and smoothness so lips stay beautiful and moisturized throughout the day. Available in 12 lip-loving shades ranging from soft shimmering neutrals to sweet brights.

For best results, apply Almay Truly Lasting™ Color lipcolor as follows:

1. Apply a thin, even coat of shaded lipcolor.
2. Wait until completely dry.
3. Brush on shiny topcoat to complete glossy look. Reapply topcoat throughout the day as desired."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Of all the long-last lip colors of this type, this one now stands out to me as a frontrunner. In addition to the fact that it doesn't dry out my lips at all, doesn't have NEARLY as strong a scent as many similar formulas and feels comfortable and light for hours, it's also relatively inexpensive and easy to find almost anywhere. I also liked the fact that the color was vivid yet just sheer enough that it didn't look painted on; it looks more like a normal lipstick shade than these long-last brush-on formulas tend to. It didn't bleed at all, either. The only thing I would note is that I wish the clear gloss lasted a bit longer...but even after the gloss wears away your lips are still comfortable and the color doesn't actually LOOK dry or start to flake off.

Retail Price: $10 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere, and also online at drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Freeman Barefoot New Formula Peppermint & Plum Softening Foot Soak, Shea Butter Heel & Callus Balm and and Softening Foot Lotion

What They Say: (about the Softening Foot Soak) "Softens rough skin. Revives tired feet. This pedicure soak, infused with peppermint and plum extracts, softens rough, dry patches on soles and heels, preparing feet for exfoliation.
Usage: Pour a dime sized dollop of soak into warm running water. Soak feet for 5 - 10 minutes. Rinse well. 5.3 FL OZ (156mL)"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Think of these products in degrees going from special occasion to everyday as we go down the list. For instance, I think this foot soak is for those days when you just need an extra dose of "me time", when you're prepping for a special event or the getting your feet ready for the beginning of sandal season. It smells wonderful and bubbles up a bit like a little bubble bath. Just put a little (I admit, I used more like a quarter-sized amount) into a running bath, and then fill it just enough to cover your feet. While I'm not completely convinced about how much more softening this would be than being in the bath for a period of time, it did seem to make it a bit easier to exfoliate rough patches in the bath I took afterward.

What They Say: (about the Shea Butter Heel & Callus Balm) "Relieves and repairs dry skin, cracked heels and calluses. Relieve and repair dry skin with this rich balm that is made with extracts of peppermint and plum and shea butter along with tea tree oil to soothe and relax tired feet.
Usage: Massage on feet, focusing on heels and rough areas. 5.3 FL OZ (156mL)"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Okay, now THIS balm is really luxurious AND I can see myself using it more often than the foot soak. When you massage it into heels and other dry spots, the minty-fruit scent is very relaxing, and you can feel it penetrate through the top layer of skin to really soften those areas and create a nice cooling sensation.

What They Say: (about the Softening Foot Lotion) "Restores moisture and softness. Stimulates tired feet. This invigorating lotion, with extracts of plum and peppermint, energizes aching legs and feet while smoothing dry skin on tough soles and heels. Now with tea tree oil to soothe and relax tired feet.
Usage: Massage on feet and legs, focusing on rough areas. 5.3 FL OZ (156mL)"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This is, of course, a more everyday lotion for the entire foot and ankle area. It's great as a quick moisturizer before slipping on those sexy foot-baring shoes, and it reall DOES invigorate - you get a bit of a mood boost from the scent, and also you'll notice that about a minute or two after you apply it, you'll feel a wonderful stimulating yet cooling sensation. I like to use this all the way up my calves, because it really feels SO good, especially at the end of the day.

Retail Price: $3.99 for each (at freemanbeauty.com or at drugstores and superstores everywhere) - you simply can't beat that price!

DeLush Ratings:
(Softening Foot Soak)
(Shea Butter Heel & Callus Balm)
(Softening Foot Lotion)

Review: Physician's Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free Mineral Loose Powder

What They Say: "For extra sensitive or breakout-prone skin!
- Minimalist formula helps reduce irritation and breakout.
- Offers the performance and coverage of a foundation with the blendability and natural finish of a loose powder in one easy step.
- Innovative sifter lid helps contain mess.
- Brush snaps in place for ease of use and convenient storage.
Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Oil-free. Talc-free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist approved."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Back in May of this year, I reviewed this talc-free mineral formula in compact powder form, and while I liked how the powder worked on my skin, I wasn't completely thrilled with the harshness of the applicator brush.

First of all, as far as wear goes, this loose powder form does it all. It softly mattifies my complexion without looking cakey or dry, maintains the look for hours, and doesn't turn color on my skin. (I tested both the Creamy Natural and the Buff Beige and found that the slightly darker Buff Beige magically pulled off an invisible coverage. So don't be afraid to buy two to test at home if you can't decide in-store and take back the shade that isn't perfectly right - they are used to getting cosmetic returns and most likely won't give you any difficulty. The right shade really does make a difference in how you feel about the product!)

I also think the packaging is pretty ingenious. The little applicator brush pops into a clasp inside the inner lid, which hinges up to reveal the powder and then pops easily shut when you're done to keep any mess inside.

I only really have two issues with this product. First of all, I still think the application brush is a bit too stiff and might irritate very sensitive skin (which is ironic since the formula is geared toward those with that skin type). The other slight issue is that this isn't really a container you can easily stash in a purse for touchups. Granted, I needed very few using this. And there are always oil absorbing sheets for carrying along as well. I suppose for a loose powder it actually travels relatively well if you need to bring it, because it's all in one container - brush and all!

Overall, a great powder for the price.

Retail Price: $9.95 (in drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Aveeno Stress Relief Body Wash

What They Say: "This soothing body wash helps to calm and relax you in the shower while cleansing and moisturizing, so your skin feels soft and smooth all day long. This unique formula combines natural colloidal oatmeal — long known for its skin-soothing benefits — with lavender and essential chamomile and ylang-ylang oils, which are known for their calming benefits. The creamy body wash gently lathers to cleanse, hydrate and soothe dry skin, leaving skin softer and smoother all day long. And, it's even gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Additional Product Benefits Include: lightly fragranced, soap free, dye free."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This is, simply put, a fabulous body wash. Add in the bonus of the low price and availability, and you really can't go wrong. The formula suds up incredibly soft, smells SO nice (not a "perfumey" lavender scent, but instead very subtle and soothing) and leaves skin softly conditioned.

Retail Price: $5.99 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Aveeno Essential Moisture Lip Conditioner with SPF 15

What They Say: "This unique lip treatment provides essential long-lasting moisturization to help condition and protect dry, chapped lips. With an exclusive combination of natural oatmeal and natural skin conditioners, including jojoba oil and shea butter, it restores moisture and locks it in long after applying. It contains UVA/UVB sunscreens to protect lips from the sun and is good for daily use."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: What can I say? It's getting colder and my lips are telling me they want to hibernate in lots of lip balms, so I keep finding myself pulled toward them. Some are better than others, some are mostly cute packaging with little benefit. This is fortunately one of the former of the two. This is not a fun, tasty treat for lips (which they say actually causes you to lick your lips more anyway, creating more chapping), but instead is a super-comforting, soft and long-lasting source of lip relief. This is a frontrunner in my balm rotation - it feels amazing and keeps lips moisturized for a really long time. Stock up for winter!

Retail Price: $3.39 (at drugstore.com and drugsores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

Review: Blistex Gentle Sense Lip Moisturizer

What They Say: "New! Hypo-Allergenic Formula. No flavors, fragrances, or sensitizing ingredients.

Everyday Care For Sensitive Lips.

Blistex® Gentle Sense™ delivers serious moisturization and protection with a gentle touch that will not irritate sensitive lips. It's gentle enough for everyone, even children, to use everyday!

Clinically tested non-sensitizing formula. Gentle Sense's™ hypo-allergenic formula is rigorously tested and clinically proven to be mild on lips.
No unnecessary chemicals. Gentle Sense™ contains no flavors, fragrances, colors or other unnecessary sensitizing chemicals that can irritate sensitive lips.
All natural moisturizers for gentle hydration. Gentle Sense™ contains two all-natural moisturizers for rich, comforting hydration.

Cocoa Butter - a rich tropical extract that moisturizes and protects dry lips.
Shea Butter - an African nut extract that moisturizes and tones lips while giving them powerful natural anti-oxidant protection.

Satisfaction guaranteed.

Carton is 100% recyclable."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Say hello to my new carry-it-everywhere balm. The product itself is actually clear. The smoothness and moisture is incredible, and lasts a long time, even through a meal. It's moisture-rich but also lightweight. This is by far one of those things I'd tell all my friends to try. (Which is why I'm telling YOU, silly.)

In fact, I'm wearing it right now. AND it's in my pocket.

Retail Price: $2.19 (at drugstores and superstores everywhere, and on drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Fall Product Review: Revlon ColorStay Soft and Smooth Lipcolor

What They Say: "The new long-lasting, comfortable color that's on everyone's lips. Women no longer have to choose between longlasting lipcolor and a comfortable feel. Hours and hours of beautiful, smooth color, thanks to SoftFlex™ Comfort Technology. Won't flake or cake. Whether you choose sheer or full coverage color, with 36 won't-fade shades, the pucker possibilities are endless."

Jen's Experience: For the most part, I've sworn off the super-longlasting lip products. My lips, like my skin, are dry and the products that claim to be long-lasting just tend to bring attention to the fact that my lips constantly need to be exfoliated. But, always a sucker for the latest Revlon lipstick, I decided to give this one a shot, and I'm actually glad that I did!

Okay, so I have to say, right off the bat that while this lipstick does seem to last longer than their standard lipstick (or most of the other lipsticks I own), it didn't really live up to the "ColorStay" name for me. That said, I generally got 3-4 hours worth of wear out of it before I had to reapply, which is pretty good.

I am in love with the color I chose, Smoothest Wine. It turns out that this is the best red I've used all season for my skin tone, and as a result, I wear it almost daily.

The lipstick itself is a vast improvement over their other ColorStay varieties, and even over their standard Super Lustrous Lipstick, of which I've always been a fan. The lipstick moisturizes and seems to smooth out the texture of the lips. It never bleeds, even in the deep color that I'm using. It also doesn't dry out my lips at all. Ordinarily, when I'm wearing lipstick, I feel compelled to re-apply constantly just to re-moisturize my lips. I don't feel that at all with the new ColorStay formula; my lips don't look or feel dry.

I have always used Revlon lipsticks to fill out my color wardrobe, because of their great colors, high quality and reasonable prices. Now with this new ColorStay formula, my lipstick collection just got an upgrade.

Retail Price: $9.49 (your local drugstore)

Rating:

Review: Maybelline Line Stylist

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:

Review: Booth's Original Bath & Body Oil

What They Say: "Booth's for over three decades. ...Is it a bath oil? Or a body oil? Because Booth's Original Bath and Body Oil is blended with lightweight sunflower and sesame seed oils, you can enjoy it as both. In warm bathwater, it soaks into thirsty pores. Massaged into dry skin, it quickly vanishes to leave a gorgeous, all-over glow. (Unless you're a guy, in which case it lease you with a healthy, all-over glow.)
Made in Canada.

Directions:
Pour 3 or 4 capfuls into a warm bath and soak for 10-15 minutes. Or massage directly into dry or damp skin, a few fragrant drops at a time."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: If you use this in the bath, you only need a quick squeeze or two into your running water. Trust me. It's true, this stuff is kind of slick and all, so if it makes you uneasy to think of wiping the tub down afterward, then maybe you don't want to use it as a bath oil. But hey, I really liked the incredibly smooth softness enveloping my skin, and the aromatic effect is incredible. This stuff smells so comforting and soothing. And the way it lingers on your skin? Yum. I was really pleased with how soft my skin felt even the next day.

If you want a less messy and more direct way of using the oil, just get a cotton ball, place it over the bottle and squeeze a little bit onto the ball, and rub that over your arms, legs, applying more to it as needed and then rubbing in the oil with your hand to spread it evenly. It's incredibly softening and soaks nicely into the skin.

I really love this stuff, especially for the price. I might stock up!

Retail Price: $5.99 (at drugstores and superstores, and drugstore.com)

DeLush Rating:

Revlon LipGlide Full Color + Shine For Lips

What They Say: "Glide on full color and shine with Revlon LipGlideTM. Just keep twisting our exclusive color-tip-pen until color appears. Ultra-reflective micro prisms provide full color and shine. Packed with vitamins C & E for smooth, soft, comfortable lips."

Jen's Experience: I'm not sure why I was surprised at how well this product works based on my previous experience with Revlon lipsticks. The sponge applicator takes some getting used to (and I'm still not sure I really like it), but the lipstick itself is wonderful. It provides the coverage of an opaque lip stick: super long lasting and really pigment intense color. At the same time, it's a little shiny, so I don't feel the need to wear gloss on top of it. This lipstick has a permanent home in my handbag. For what it lacks in the applicator, it makes up for in its long-wear color.

Retail Price: $5.39 (Walgreens or other drugstores)

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

Nexxus Therappe Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo

What They Say: "Encapsulated Lipids, Avocado Oil, and Polysaccharides attach to hair to bind moisture and provide time released hydration. Lively whipped bubbles along with a nourishing Botanical blend of Allantoin, Chamomile, Rosemary, Nettle, and Nature's own gentle cleanser, Soapbark, adds incredible softness. These unique ingredients and lubricating Emollients linger in the hair long after the super rich lather is gone. You will notice the difference in just one shampoo."

Jen's Experience: I bought this shampoo at the same time that I purchased their Diametress shampoo, thinking that this was a conditioner. But I liked the Diametress so much, I decided to keep this one to see how it worked. I loved the Diametress shampoo for the amount of volume and the shininess it lent to my hair, but the Therappe shampoo has taken my hair to an all new level.

My hair looked a lot healthier after the first time that I used it. Granted, I don't get the same level of volume out of this shampoo that I have with other shampoos, including their Diametress. And if I use a conditioner with this every time, my hair often gets weighed down. But I've found that with the use of body-building products like volumizing mousses and light hold hairspray, my hair looks thick and beautiful, like it would stepping out of a salon. It holds its style, and looks great for 2 or 3 days on one blow-dry.

For those of you currently using Alterna Caviar products (another of my all-time favorites) or considering purchasing them, I find that I have very similar results with Nexxus Therappe, for a much lower price.

Jen's Tips: Be sure to rinse this shampoo out thoroughly. Leaving any residue will weigh down hair excessivly. If you have hair that tangles easily like I do, use a leave-in detangler on the ends only rather than using a regular conditioner for best results.

Retail Price: $8.99 (Drugstores)

Rating:

Review: Aquafina Hydrating Lip Oil

What They Say: That's a great question - what DO they say? I had a hard time finding something online about this product. I even had to take my own picture! But hey, Aquafina isn't used to the beauty game yet, so I'll cut them some slack. Here's some info I managed to get for you - "The lip oil combines the brand recognition of Aquafina bottled water with a botanically enriched formula to soothe and moisturize lips. The new product offers a clean, refreshing taste. The semi-transparent crisp blue tube offers a 10g fill and features a slant-tipped, soft sponge applicator. Lip gloss lovers will appreciate the moisturizing benefits as well as the super wet shine."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This is actually a very soothing formula for lips. The first thing you'll notice when you apply it is the minty scent and flavor. If nothing else, you can always pull this out after lunch or dinner for a quick breath fix! But aside from the pleasant and not-at-all-overpowering minty-sweet taste, the next thing to notice is how well the coverage is. Lips are incredibly moistened and conditioned, and stay that way for quite a while. This isn't sticky at ALL or too shiny and gloppy. It actually gives lips a very subtle pretty shine. This is one of my new faves from the Drugstore!

Retail Price: $4.99 (at Wal-Mart and possibly other drugstores and superstores in your area)

DeLush Rating:

Drugstore Favorites Week Review: Maxeye Shadows by Max Factor

What They Say: "There′s a lot to love about our hot new MAXeye Shadows. From Metalicious to Pajama Party, our hot three-color combos come straight off the runway. They can be applied dry for a silky-sweet day look, or wet for those bold diva nights. Either way, they are developed for mix ′n match fabulousness, and engineered for MAXimum results. A perfect applicator? Our professional dual wet-dry shadow brush, available separately."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I decided to try these new shadow sets in two of the less neutral selections, Pajama Party and Gypsy Moon. But whatever shade you choose, I think you'll be happy with this new part of Max Factor's revamped line. The trio of colors in each little compact are perfectly matched, with two complementing colors that can be placed strategically or layered to create a new color, and a coordinating highlighting color for the inside corners of the eyes and the browbones. The powders go on very smooth and evenly and have really decent staying power and very minimal creasing. These shadows are very tastefully shimmery, just enough to give your eyes a subtle glow.

Retail Price: app. $5.00 (drugstores and superstores - readers in the UK, I don't think it's there yet, tell me if I'm wrong)

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Review: Nexxus Diametress Shampoo

What They Say: "Nexxus Diametress shampoo is enriched with Panthenol (Vitamin B-5), Proteins, and ionically charged NexxuSpheres® to build thickness and body into every strand. These remarkable ingredients combine to increase the diameter of the hairshaft, adding fullness to any hair type. Proteins and time-released Vegetable Ceramides give your hair strength and increased sheen. Expect sensational results even when used on baby fine, limp, or thin hair."

Jen's Experience: It seems like everywhere I go -- the drugstore, the grocery store, the mall -- I've been seeing Nexxus products. I'm not sure if the drugstores are supposed to be selling these products or if Nexxus has changed their direction to go more for mass-market retailers, but either way, I'm thankful, because without the extra exposure, I may never have tried this really fantastic shampoo.

I read that it was for fine or limp hair, and thought (sadly), "hey, that's me!" From day one, I love how much body it gives to my hair without drying it out or making it greasy. In fact, my hair looks good for a couple of days after I wash with this shampoo. Sometimes, I use conditioner with it (Aveda Sap Moss usually), but many times I simply spritz on some detangler when I get out of the shower. Either way, may hair is shiny and bouncy, and, well, healthy looking.

I usually steer clear of hair products I find in the drugstore, but this is one product that I am glad I tried!

Retail Price: $8.99 (Walgreens)

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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)

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Cover Girl Incredifull Lip Color

What They Say: "Full, Kissable Lips That Speak Volumes: Pump Up the Volume with Intense Moisture and Soft, Voluptuous-Looking Lips!

Providing a smooth feel upon application, NEW IncrediFULL lip colour from Cover Girl adds the appearance of volume while improving the contour of your pout with a defined lip line. IncrediFULL lips pump up the volume - - say more and stand out!"

Benefits
• Instantly makes lips look fuller then bare lips
• Enhances definition of the lip line
• Increases lip moisture with Glycerin – a humectant that pulls moisture from the air into lips & locks it in
• Contains Vita-Collagen complex with Vitamin B3, Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E
• Contains lip conditioning agents for a creamy, smooth feel
• Fights signs of aging, helping to smooth rough texture away & creating a fuller, smoother pout vs bare lips
• Provides a cooling, tingling, refreshing feel upon application that lets you know the product is working
• Gives lips 8 hours of moisture
• 24 Volumizing Shades

Jen's Experience: I am always curious when I see a reasonably priced drugstore product that claims to plump up my lips. But plumping AND 8 hours of moisture? That would be unbeatable!

I chose a shade called "Mauveful" because mauve usually looks great with my skin tone, but I can only describe this color as "trailer trash pink". Despite the fact that I can never wear this (at least alone with no opaque lip gloss covering it) outside of the house, I still highly recommend this product. I mean, really, this is a truly great lipstick, and not just because of the price tag. It lasts forever, maybe not 8 hours, but amazingly long, even if you eat, the color remains. I find it difficult to remove even with a washcloth. The plumping, unlike many similar products, actually works! With all of that, it seems like it would be drying, but it actually feels like I am wearing a light lip balm, especially with the tingling.

Now, I can't see "Mauvefull" looking good on anyone, but if you're willing to try out some shades, this is a lipstick you're sure to love.

Retail Price: $6.99 (Target)

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Prestige Cosmetics Waterproof Automatic Eyeliner

What They Say: "The no-budge, no-smudge eyeliner!", "Incredible long-lasting waterproof wear", and "Twist up self sharpening pencil provides precise application"

Jen's Experience: I have been getting more and more excited about eyeliners this season. I've tried some expensive ones and some not very expensive, and I have to say, this is one of the cheapest and one of the absolute best.

One of my main complaints with pencil eyeliners is that they often pull on my eye while I'm applying (even using short strokes), and often the amount of color I get is often pretty minimal. This automatic eyeliner goes on like a pen. It's so easy to apply; I am able to easily blend the line with my eyelashes and I'm able to adjust the width of the line easily. And because it's automatic, there's no point at which the pencil gets dull and the wood scratches my eyelid. (Ouch!)

I wish the color lasted a little bit longer. For me, it's good for 4-6 hours depending on my level of activity. A full workday at least would be optimal. But I'm ready to let that slide for its ease of application and the great color selection. I'm currently using gold eyeshadow with their Lightening (bright green) eyeliner, but now that it's on sale, it may be time to stock up on some new shades!

Retail Price: $4.99 (Walgreens, currently on sale for $2.99)

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Maybelline Full 'n Soft Mascara - Waterproof in Very Black

What They Say: