Best Drugtore Matte Bronzer..Seriously!!

Physcians Formula Bronze Booster Glow- Boosting Pressed Bronzer ($13.29- Target.com)

With winter fast approaching, I've been on the look out for a bronzer that will still give me that summer glow, and can't believe I didn't discover this sooner! For sometime now, people have the misconception that bronzer needs to be really shimmery, but it doesn't! Shimmery bronzer should only be applied to certain parts of your face (ie- the apple of your cheeks), and if you're not careful it can also heighten the appearance of wrinkles and imperfections. Matte bronzer, on the other hand, is easier to work with when contouring and you can apply it evenly for an overall glow/tan. I also like it in Medium to Dark so I can use it as a blush. I recommend using a kabuki brush to help blend in the color..and remember a little goes a long way! The best thing about this product is that it reminds me of the Bobbi Brown Natural Bronzing Powder, which retails for $33, almost $20 more than this drugstore find!

Nice Nails!

Revlon Hot For Chocolate Nail Polish: ($4.79 Drugstore.com)

If you like dark nails, this is a new color I recently came across, and I love it! It's chocolate brown, so a variation from the dark purple and black everyone's been seen wearing. I also tried the Essie Little Brown Dress polish, which I love too, but this is a few bucks cheaper. Enjoy!

Favorite Drugstore Foundation!

Loreal True Match Foundation: $10.95 (Drugstore.com)

This is hands down my favorite drugstore liquid foundation. There's plenty of shades to choose from to help match your skin exactly and it goes on super smooth. It works with almost every skintype and also provides SPF, which we all should be wearing, especially on our faces! My favorite thing about this it doesn't flake or rub off. It's light and provides awesome coverage without feeling heavy. Definitely set it with some powder after applying to prevent creasing and to help make it last all day long! Considering how affordable it is, you can easily mix and match different colors to achieve the best look for your skin tone, without breaking the bank. Also, with summer behind us, many women might be looking for a lighter shade to fit their fading tans for the fall/winter ahead.

*Helpful tip: When trying to match your foundation to your skin, I've always found it useful to put a streak on your jawline and let it sit for a few seconds...it should almost disappear into your skin. If it's too orange/too light/too dark, keep looking or mix 2 colors together. It's ok for concealer to be a shade or 2 lighter than your natural skin, but not your foundation! Also- I've found it useful to sometimes swatch the foundation on your chest in months that you're maybe a little more tan or not your usual color. The last thing you want is your face to be a completely different color from your neck and chest! And, remember to blend foundation down to your neck for even application.

Clampless Curling Iron for Sexy Waves

Conair Infiniti You Curl Curling Wand: $39.99 (Amazon.com)

This is by far the best clampless curling iron I've ever used. I love the type of beachy curls these specific irons create, but I've never found one, no matter how expensive, to really help me achieve that "sexy waves" look. I'm planning to post a before and after pic of my hair soon to show what I'm talking about. I'll also include a pic of what my hair looks like when I use my regular 1'' iron for soft waves. These waves are a bit more sexy and wild..but very cute! The idea of it being clampless can be intimidating, but it's so easy to catch on with a little practice. The cone shaped rod also helps with wrapping your hair around the iron. I have to say hands down, one of the best out there for so cheap! I most recently purchased the Enzo Milano iron for $100, and this Conair iron blows that out of the water in relation to how quickly it heats up to how fast it curls your hair. I will say for those that have never used one of these irons before, you might get frustrated at first with figuring out how to hold the rod, but it gets easier, I promise! And, like any other iron, just be careful not to burn your fingertips when wrapping your hair around the rod. Some pluses are that it's Tourmaline ceramic, heats up to 400 degrees, and helps eliminate frizz.

Great Drugstore Dry Shampoo!

Tresemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo: $4.49 (Walgreens)

If you're like me, I don't wash my hair every day. Actually, I learned early on that it wasn't really good for my hair in particular because it tends to be on the dry side. However, most hairdressers I've spoken to say that hair is at its healthies when it's not washed every single day, regardless of hair type. Dry shampoo hit the scene as an alternative for those with oily hair who wanted to go wash-free for a few days, but have been a little pricey, until now. Tresemme has a new Fresh Start line that offeres a dry shampoo for under $5, and it's good! For those that are new to the concept of dry shampoo, it's basically a spray that gives you clean, fresh hair without actually washing it by removing oils and odor. It's also great for those that dye their hair or have highlights, because it helps maintain color with less washing. The scent is also great and not too overpowering. I used it after going to the gym when my hair is extra dirty and a little oily and it cleaned it up really well. I recommend spraying it not too close to your head and also letting it settle in for a minute or two before brushing it.

Face Highlighter/Illuminator for Summer!

Revlon Age Defying Spa Illuminator ($9.97 Walmart.com)

With summer already here, what better way then to add a cool product that helps you achieve that faux summer glow without actually having to spend hours in the sun while on vaca (I wish!). Not to mention, a product that prevents aging! I recently was looking for a great highlighter for my cheeks, something that gave me that "dewy" look, and I first came across the NARS Orgasm Illuminator and tested it while out shopping, but wasn't too crazy about the color or effect. I then found an ad for this Revlon illuminator and was excited it came in 4 different colors (Bare Light, Pink Light, Gold Light, and Bronze Light). For my skin tone (a little more olive), I chose the Gold Light and love it! It has an easy applicator that you can either brush on to the back of your hand to then apply to the apples of your cheeks or you can brush it directly onto your face. The 2 ways I like to use it best are either mixing it in with my moisturizer so you get a nice tint before you apply your face makeup or mixing it in with my foundation. You get a really pretty glow and a little goes a long way, so use it sparingly. At Walgreens, it's Buy 1 Get 1 Half-off at %$15 a piece. So you could get all 4 for a great price and mix-and-match. Happy summer ladies!

Fantastic Pencil Eye Liner!

L'Oreal Extra Intense Liquid Pencil Eyeliner: $8.49 (Drugstore.com)

I love pencil eyeliner, and always keep 2 in my makeup arsenal- one for a more dramatic look and another for a more natural effect. I generally use iiquid eyeliner on my upper eyelid and pencil for my lower and inner lid. I recently came across a fantastic pencil eyeliner that acts like a liquid liner. It glides on really smoothly and provides rich, bold color. L'Oreal Extra Intense Liquid Pencil Eyeliner is exactly what it claims it is- a liquid eye pencil. It's dry but looks like liquid. Be light-handed when applying at first if you only want a little color. If you want that smokey, Kim kardashian eye then this will definitely accomplish that. It's also smudge-proof so you rarely have to worry about looking in the mirror hours after applying and see dripping liner! Also, I used to swear by Lancome's Kohl Eye Pencil and now this is my go-to eyeliner, and it's more than half the price!

Some Solutions for Stretch Marks!

It's been awhile since my last post, so I wanted to make this one good! I think almost every woman, regardless of age or weight, has encountered the dreaded stretch mark! If not, then I hate you! Just kidding..but I am very envious =). Personally, I got a few at a very young age after my teenage growth spurt, which has made me very aware about the prevention and treatment of them at an early age.

Cocoa Butter, as many of us know, is a great product to help the elasticity of the skin, but it's primarily a preventative measure that will help keep stretch marks from forming, say after pregnancy and weight fluctuation.

Below are a few products/methods that I've researched and either tried out myself or have read some great reviews on. Now, I definitely don't expect any of these products to erase stretch marks, but they can help diminish the appearance and texture of them. And, remember, be patient, these won't fade or go away in a week or even a month..it's a gradual process. Also, you have a better chance of getting rid of stretch marks that are "fresh" or new. so get to it and good luck!

Body Focus Stretch Mark Improver, The Body Shop: $42.90

This cream is from The Body Shop and runs about $40.00 for 150 ml. The description states it "diminishes the appearance and improves the texture of stretch marks. A light, non-sticky yet richly moisturising cream that sinks in to leave your skin feeling instantly soft, smooth and supple all over. With regular use the appearance of stretch marks is visibly improved or reduced." From reviews and research I've done, a lot of women really like this product and started noticing a change after 4 weeks of use.

**UPDATE: I found Body Focus Stretch Mark Remover for much cheaper, only $13.95 on this site: http://gunera.auctivacommerce.com. Click here to purchase

Maderma Stretch Marks Therapy Advanced Cream Formula: $39.99 (Drugstore.com)

I discovered this product from a TV commercial and I instantly started researching it. It came out awhile ago, but I wanted to wait until I gathered enough research on product reviews to list it. Maderma's a great brand and I've used it a lot in the past for scarring, so I would think this would hold up to it's name, but a lot of reviews are just average. Most poeple have said it works best on new stretch marks and doesn't do much for existing or old marks. Most see results after 8 weeks of use.

Save Money on Your Mascara!

Every gal loves long, thick, full lashes and most of us are up for paying a pretty penny to ensure we achieve the end goal. Listed below are a few drugstore brands that match up to some high-end mascaras. All this is from personal opinion and research I've done on these particular products. Also, this is probably the biggest and best tip I've ever learned when it comes to mascara: all mascara is virtually made with the same ingredients, it's the brush or wand that you use that really makes the differene. So, if you really love your high-end mascara. Just save that brush applicator and switch it out with a less expensive drugstore brand. It's worth a try!

I still wanted to provide some alternatives to pricier, name brand mascaras. The most requested brand to copy has been find a good drugstore mascara that compares to Dior Show (pictured below):

DiorShow Addict Mascara: $24.00 (Sephora)

DiorShow is described as "a cult-followed mascara that leaves lashes ultra thick, long, and curled". Most research I've done on this leads to a few drugstore brands that compares to this pricier mascara. I've listed them below with descpriptions and price:

Almay One Coat Mascara: $6.99 (Walgreens)

I was surprised to read so much great stuff on Almay One Coat Mascara, especially as being a comparable product to DiorShow. It just seemed to "clean" or "natural" to give vavavoom to your lashes, but it seems to be the best for thickening your lashes. One con is that it won't add a lot of drama but a good choice for daytime wear. Also conditions lashes with aloe & vitamin B5 and rarely smudges or flakes.

CoverGirl Last Blash: $4.85 (Amazon)

Considered to be one of Cover Girl's best mascaras, this not only thickens lashes but really does lengthen them and holds that eyelash curl in that not all of us are blessed with. My eyelashes are stick straight! Apply more than 1 coat to achieve that "false lashes" look. One downside is that the brush is big so it may be hard to apply to your lower lashes, but you can always use another, smaller applicator for this area. I usually like to save some mascara wands from previous mascaras that I find easy to use. Just store them in your makeup arsenal. This mascara has been known to be stubborn when trying to remove, so it may require a little more attention than usual

Neutrgena Healthy Volume Mascara: $.7.74 (Walmart)

This is an awesome mascara. Provides great volume and thickness. If you get the blackest color it's very comparable to DiorShow. It's known for that fanned-out lash look without feeling crunchy.

Maybelline Lash Stiletto: $6.98 (Walmart)

This mascara definitely helps give your lashes length. It doesn't seem to give as much volume, but if you have that and only seek longer lashes, this is a great option.

Loreal Double Extend Mascara: $12.99 (Walgreens)

This mascara comes with a primer on one side and a mascara on the other. I just recently started using this and haven't noticed my lashes any thicker and longer yet but it claims to lengthen lashes up to 80%. A lot of customer reviews I've read say that it really does work and lengthen for good. I personally feel like this product gives me more volume than length though.

At-Home Hair Color

Revlon Color Silk: $3.99 (drugstores)
Click here to be directed to the Revlon color match chart

I generally get my hair colored and highlighted professionally, but there are those times when I just can't get to my hairdresser! When I'm in desperate need of a quick hair color fix, Revlon ColorSilk is awesome...and, boy is it cheap! I've found that brunette's generally have a harder time finding the right color to match when out of a box. Often times, it can be too severe or dark or a lot of red is added to your overall color, even if you started with brown or black hair. The cool thing about this particular brand is that it just gives you a subtle color change without being too dramatic. Even for women with really dark black hair, one application of this will gently highlight your hair. You might not notice the results immediately, but you definitely will over several washes and when out in the sun. It's semi-permanent, ammonia-free and is pretty good at covering stubborn grey hairs. I have naturally dark brown hair and use "Light Ash Brown" which gives me that perfect medium, golden-brown color.

elf Studio HD Powder

Elf High Definition Powder: $6.00

High-definition makeup isn't only for celebs on TV and the big screen anymore. With everything becoming HD these days, many makeup brands have followed suit by making the necessary changes to their products to ensure every person can achieve a flawless look...even more affordable brands! You don't have to spend a ridiculous amount of money to get HD quality products. Although I love elf cosmetics for being so friendly to my pocket, I haven't always been a fan of their products--that was until they launched their Studio line, which caters to the more "professional" consumer. This HD powder is made with Silica, which is known to help diffuse any fine lines or wrinkles that other powders may actually bring more attention to. It has a very silky, smooth texture that feels great on your skin. Just be careful not to be too heavy-handed with your application. It's stark white powder, so use it sparingly and you'll notice the effects within minutes of putting it on and even moreso with every use.

Here's what all the HD hype is about: When working with HD cameras, every wrinkle, crease and imperfection become visible and the makeup you try to cake on to hide this becomes even more visible than the blemish itself! To avoid this, HD makeup is formulated to be more sheer, but it still hides all your problem areas.

Beauty tip: I highly recommend using a large powder or kabuki brush to apply this. Don't use the little powder puff it comes with..it's too messy and won't give you an even finish. Use a small eyeshadow brush or applicator sponge for small areas like under your eyes or around your mouth where laugh lines form.

*IMPORTANT NOTE (taken from thebeautybrains.com): Some argue that silica based products aren't safe, but the kind of silica powder used in cosmetics is not a problem. Hydrated silica (aka silicone dioxide) is a mineral used in many mineral makeup products.This type of silica doesn’t react with lung tissue like the crystalline form does so these products are safe to use. Additional information on hydrated silica can be found at Cosmeticsinfo.org. (Cosmeticsinfo.org includes factual, scientific information on ingredients most commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products in the United States)

At-Home Facial Peel

Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Acne Mark Fading Peel: $29.99 (Amazon.com)

I'm always on the lookout for great "at home" products because I feel like I never have the time to actually go to a spa or salon and get facials or treatments done! Also, I've noticed since my skin is pretty sensitive, I sometimes like doing facials myself because if I feel it's too abrasive or irritating, I can stop right after starting. This peel by Neutrogena is a quiet, but powerful product. It's been on the scene for several years, but you don't hear too much chatter about it. I really, really like it. It wakes my skin up and provides an even skin tone when used regularly (2-3 times a week). Also, if you're a zit picker like me (I know..so bad), blemishes can leave marks. This peel really does lighten post-acne marks and skin discoloration such as rosacea. Also, I only could find the product online for $29.00, but I purchase it at Target for around $15.00, so check your local drugstore before buying online if you're interested!

Here's a little product description off the Neutrogena website: Use regularly and experience clearer, smoother, more even-toned skin.Inspired by dermatologist facial peels, this breakthrough formula is the first at-home peel of its kind containing a unique combination Neutrogena-exclusive CelluZyme® technology and Salicylic Acid. It treats acne and reduces the appearance of post-acne marks while working to help prevent new breakouts from forming and discouraging future marks. Use 1-3 times per week regularly for clearer, fresher, more even-toned skin.

Friday Fun Fact: Eyebrow Extensions

Click Here to read Marie Claire's Article on Bold Brows

Most women have heard of eyelash extensions, but did you know there's a new craze for eyebrow extensions? It's costly and pretty new, but it could save women a ton of time when trying to fill in their brows on a daily basis. Not all women need more hair on their brows, I'm constantly trimming mine! But, for those of us that are interested in bolder brows, here's a semi-permanent option. And, I'm sure it's only time until this procedure is seen all around the country and offered in your local salon, so keep your eyes open if you're interested!

Here's how it works: the extensions are individual hairs that are meticulously attached to your real ones with surgical-grade superglue — like false lashes but for brows. The only downside is that the results only last 14 days. But, with today's technology this is bound to change!

Adorable Dress for Less

Lulus.com: $48.00

This is a super cute dress that is very reminiscent of a dress that has recently been worn by many celebs on the red carpet.

Shadow Shields

Shadow Shields: $9.99 (www.dermstore.com)

Ever tried to do a really cool smokey eye and realized that you ended up getting just as much shadow below your eye than you did on your lid?! It's so frustrating, especially after you apply your foundation and concealer. Some people prefer putting on their eyeshadow first for this very reason- to prevent eyeshadow fall-out. But, if you're like me, you like to create a clean canvas before starting on your eyes. Well, have no fear ladies, Shadow Shields is here. This is a little secret tool I use with most of my clients when doing a dramatic eye. These disposable self-adhesives gently stick under eyes to catch falling pigment during eye makeup application. And, they won't pull at your skin or remove makeup you've already applied.

UPDATE: Ladies that Love the Lakers

Forever 21: $13.80

Forever 21: $14.80

Forever 21 has 2 more adorable Laker tanks featured on their site in addition to the purple one I posted yesterday:

Flowers for Your Hair

Single Cream Moon Orchid Silk Flower: $26.00
*Click on image to visit website

Many brides love accessoring their wedding day hairstyles with flowers. They make any hairstyle romantic and etheral. One common question is whether or not to use real or fake flowers. Ideally, we would be able to wear real flowers in our hair, but it's always a big risk--flowers can wilt, turn brown and fall out. No one wants their wedding portraits to feature a dull, lifeless flower. Silk, clip in flowers are a fantastic alternative to the real thing, and wow, do they look real! They stay in all day and night because they're clip-ons and they won't lose life or color.

Ladies that Love the Lakers!

Forever 21: $14.80

This tank is just too cute! I got a vintage Magic Johnson tee from Forever 21 a few years back and received so many compliments on it, so I jumped at the opportunity to add to my collection. For all of those that love the Lakers, or have husbands/boyfriends that love them, this Laker Nation racer tank is definitely worth the $15 bucks! Plus it's adorable =)

No More Concealer Creases!

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder: $22

It's happened to all of us at one time or another- you put on your under eye concealer and it looks perfect when you leave the house, and just a few hours later, it's smudged or creases have formed. This truly is a secret weapon at preventing any creasing under your eyes. After applying your concealer, dab a small brush into the powder and lightly tap of any excess. Then swipe right under your lash line down and across your entire eye.

*Alternative tip: If you don't want to spend this much on a powder just for your undereyes, Sonia Kashuk has a great loose powder that can also help set your concealer. Just match the closest color to your skin tone.

Sonia Kashuk Barely There Loose Powder: $8.99 (at Target)

The J-Lo Glow

Cargo Multi-Mix Bronzer: $28.00 ($18.99 on Ebay)

I think every woman has tried or at least wanted to achieve that golden glow Jennifer Lopez has become famous for ever since she graduated from being a Fly Girl back in the day. I've tried everything from powder bronzers to self-tanners, but nothing seems to really bring out that golden goddess look out. I received this Cargo Mulit-Mix Bronzer in an industry goody bag a few months back and have since fell in love. The multi-mix bronzer is paraben and oil free and also has vitamin E which provides great moisture.

It's in liquid form and very easy to use. You can wear it alone to get that sun-kissed, dewy look or, what I like to do is mix it into my foundation to provide an all over glow. Don't put on too much though because it's pretty dark. I'd say a quarter of what you put on in place of your foundation. It gives you a golden goddess look..you know the one where people ask, "did you do something different?" Or, "You look really rested and refreshed!"

Like other bronzers, it does have a little shimmer, but it's not what you think. It's so subtle and hardly noticeable and literally just makes you glow, like our girl JLo! Also, I've noticed that some powder bronzers can actually magnify wrinkles and imperfections, this definitely just makes you golden!

*Beauty tip: Use a brush like the one below from Sigma (Sigma SS188) or theMAC 188 to apply your liquid foundation. It's great when mixing different colors and helps you apply your foundation evenly. Start by dabbing all over your face then use circular motions to blend the foundation.

Mary Kay? No Way!

Mary Kay Signature Concealer: $10.00

I was a skeptic when someone introduced me to Mary Kay's Signature Concealer, not because I didn't think it would work, but just because I always associated Mary Kay with my mother's generation of makeup. So I thought it would be dated and not something I'd like. Boy, was I wrong. This concealer is so creamy and light--a little goes a long way. It comes in 7 different colors to choose from so there's something for everyone. The color "yellow" is great to brighten the undereye area, but if you have darker skin or dark under eye circles, you will want to mix this in with a darker concealer so it matches your skin tone. *Beauty tip: When applying creamy liquid concealers like this, squeeze a pin-size amount on your index finger and dot it under your eyes from the inner corner of your eye to the outermost part. Then blend with your finger in a patting motion. Your finger provides natural heat which will allow the concealer to be applied more evenly. If you're not comfortable with using your finger, a sponge or foundation brush will do the trick as well, just make sure you pat so you're not removing or wiping off the concealer you just applied.

Lashes for Less

Ardell Invisibands Eyelashes: $3.99

If you like the look of full, lush lashes but don't want to break the bank while doing so, try Ardell's Invisibands. These are amazing lashes that not only cost a fraction of MAC eyelashes, but I actually prefer the "Beauties" to any other brand when applying lashes to my brides. They're natural looking but provide that extra oomph and glamour every bride wants. They come in all different styles, but the beauties are the most natural looking for me. Also, the Invisiband allows the lashes to be easy to remove without pulling or tugging at your real lashes.

Everything Eyebrows

Cost: $4.99

Clear mascara is a fantastic alternative to more expensive eyebrow gel. Cover Girl makes one that doesn't get flaky or leave a sticky residue once dry. It helps keep stubborn stray eyebrow hairs in place all day long.

*Beauty tip: Instead of penciling in eyebrows or filling them in with a pencil try using a little bit of brown or black eyeshadow on top of the clear mascara. This will help better define your brows without getting that harsh, fake eyebrow look. Plus the mascara will help keep the color from running or smearing.

Sigma Makeup Brushes- As Good as MAC but Cheaper!

Sigma Makeup Face & Eyes Kit: $49

Where to buy: http://www.sigmamakeup.com/

Every girl probably has at least one MAC makeup brush, but they can definitely get pricey. These hand-made brushes by Sigma Makeup are fantastic in quality and provide the same if not even better results than some MAC brushes (in my opinion). The Face & Eyes kit provides the 6 most essential brushes to complete any makeup look, and they're professional! The packaging is super cute too which is an added bonus.

*My favorite brushes are the small angle brush used to apply gel or cream eyeliner and the pencil brush which is used to blend dark colors in your crease

The Yummiest Snack Ever! Kashi TLC Fruit & Grain Bars

I know this isn't a beauty product, but I had to share the tastiest, low-calorie treat ever. Kashi's TLC Fruit & Grain bars are delicious and only 120 calories each with 4g of protein. The Dark Chocolate Coconut is rich and truly satisfying for all you chocolate lovers. The Chocolate Rasberry is also a favorite of mine that serves as the perfect snack!

Keep Your Curls..All Day Long!

Cost: $26.99 (cheaper at Bed, Bath & Beyond and Drugstore.com)

The number one thing I'm told by my clients when doing their hair is that curls just don't last for them. I found this little gem a few years back when I was traveling and needed a cheap curling iron for the duration of my trip. Little did I know that this 1" Conair Infiniti curling iron would turn out to be my favorite styling tool to date. Not only does it keep curls in all day but it works on almost every hair type- super curly, super straight, frizzy or wavy. It's also ceramic, so safe to use frequently, or even daily. I have tested out many different curling irons ranging from every price range, and this is truly my favorite. It also comes with a protective heat cover and automatic power (for those of us that forget to turn off our electornics!).

*Styling tip: If you try the Conair Infiniti and still find it difficult to keep lasting curls, try pinning curls to your head after curling. Let them set for about 10-15 minutes while you apply your makeup or do something else, then let them out. Use your fingers to separate curls and even go over super tight curls with the curling iron. It may take a few minutes for the curls to loosen up, but they'll last all day!

My Mom's Secret Weapon- Vitamin E

Cost: $1.99

Many people already know that Vitamin E is a great product to help promote healthy, even-toned skin. But, most people I talk to take the supplements or squeeze the ointment from the little tablets to use as topically. Since I was very little, my mom always made me wear Vitamin E ointment, not lotion or cream, but ointment to bed. I didn't get it back then, but now I see it's benefits. It not only leaves my skin softer and my complexion clearer, but it gets rid of scars! Back when I was a tom boy, it would gradually lighten scars left from playing bumper bikes. Today, it helps get rid of scarring from picking zits, waxing, and even cuts from threading my eyebrows. And, it can be used anywhere.

One thing is that the consistency is almost like Vaseline, so it's best used sparingly and also most practical to use at night when you won't be wearing any makeup. But it's not for everyone..if you have very oily skin, it's worth a try, but your skin may not agree with it. Either way, it's worth a shot at $1.99 a pop and can be found at your local GNC.

*This is just my personal point of view and everyone's skin is different so people may react differently to this and any other product I list

A Perfect Primer on a Budget

Cost: $12.99 (at drugstores)

I read about Loreal's new, more professional "Studio Secrets" line awhile back and was eager to test out some of their products. Some people may not even think primers are necessary, and they truly aren't for everyone. But, they have been all the rage recently, so I've been doing a lot of research and testing on them.

For some background, most primers are made with silicone ingredients, which are mainly used to help makeup go on more evenly, and most importantly, help makeup last longer. If your skin tends to be normal (lucky you!) and not too dry or not too oily, you're probably ok without a primer. But for the rest of us, this is a perfect solution to help even out your face, or base, as I like to call it before applying the rest of your makeup.

Now, on to the product. Loreal's Studio Secrets Smoothing Resurfacing Primer is really great. The description statest that the primer "masks wrinkles and uneven textures in the skin, making the complexion feel smooth and soft, with a remarkable velvety touch." This holds up to be true on all fronts. I tend to have more dry than oily skin so a moisturizer is always required to hydrate my skin. I decided to test the primer without putting anything else on my face and it was so soft. It's foamy consistency glided on really smoothly and it really did offer a nice, even base for me to start with.

One con that I would point out is that because it comes in a little jar which requires you to touch the product with your finger each time you apply, perhaps a brush or little scooper would help keep the product hygienical and prevent any bacteria from forming. If only this came in a pump...it would be perfect!

Other Studio Secret Primers that are available (I haven't tried these yet). One offers Anti-dullness while the other 2 are Anti-Dull Skin for different skin tones: