Best Beauty Buys
Instyle Magazine’s April issue is out! And that only means one thing: their list of best beauty buys for 2006 is out too. I always check their annual list in the hopes of trying something new since I’m not much of a beauty product junkie and I like to try products that have already been road tested by the experts. It also delights me when I find my faves included too.
I find this year’s issue to be a bit different. They don’t have hall-of-famers and they have lot of new products. Also, they didn’t include any foundation primer, which is a new beauty category that I’m interested in. No worries about that though because Blogdorf Goodman’s guest reviewer, cavewoman, has got us covered with reviews on 30 different primers so far and more to go. I’ve only used Laura Mercier and I’ve been happy with it so far.
At any rate here are my favorites beauty products that are included in this month’s Instyle issue:
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
I wear this in the summer. It gives a sheer coverage with adequate sun protection (SPF 20). Laura Mercier recommends setting it with loose or transluscent powder so that it stays put all day. I usually do away with the powder though since it usually gives my dry skin a less dewy look. If I do, I fluff it on lightly with a huge brush.
Laura Mercier Undercover
Instyle has actually listed only Secret Camouflage. This product has Secret Camouflage and Secret Concealer in a convenient mirrored compact. Secret Camouflage is to hide skin imperfections like sun spots. Laura Mercier recommends applying this with a Secret Camouflage brush for a precise application. I have this brush but sometimes I get lazy and apply it with my pinky finger and blend it in. Secret Concealer is for undereye coverage. I also apply with my pinky finger. Both should go over foundation, not under it. Then set it with transluscent powder.
Lancome Bi-Facil Double Action Eye-Makeup Remover
I usually get this for free from my mother-in-law who is a Lancome junkie. She can’t resist their free gift with purchase events yet she ends up with stuff that she never uses, such as this gem of a product. Good for me! I’ve broken down and bought it myself though as it effectively removes eye make-up while being gentle and hydrating without being oily.
Kerastase Nutritive Masquintense Intense Enriching Treatment
This is my once a week hair treatment that leaves my hair silky smooth and manageable. I used to have really dry hair from overprocessing and coloring. I’m glad I found this product. Incidentally, Kerastase is owned by L’Oreal and I’ve found that L’Oreal Vive Smooth-Intense shampoo and conditioner have similar ingredients and results as Kerastase’s Nutritive line. I still have to try their masque to compare with this though.
Kerastase Nutritive Serum Nutri-Sculpt
I use this silicone-based serum to give my hair shine and a polished effect. Just a few drops goes a long way as I only apply to the ends of my hair. Silicone tends to dry hair though so use sparingly and only as needed. I also alternatively use Bain de Terre Recovery Complex Anti-Frizz Shine Serum, which is not in Instyle’s list but should be. I use this when my hair is damp to seal in moisture and prevent drying. As usual, a little goes a long way. I love that it doesn’t feel oily like Biosilk Silk Therapy yet gives a silky smooth finish.
Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm
I use this when I want my hair to be straighter than usual and to banish the frizzies. I like that it is lightweight and is not greasy.
Later, I’ll list the products that I haven’t tried yet and have just added to my beauty wishlist. Most likely, I’ll get them at Nordy’s beauty event!
