Maybelline Lash Stylist
I enjoy using this mascara because at the end of the wand, there is a comb instead of a brush. Traditional mascaras with a brush create clumps where as the lash stylist comb prevents them from forming. I favor this product because you can gradually build the intensity of the look you want to achieve from natural, slightly enhanced lashes to a sultry, femme fatale look. I would like to claim that this product magically transforms your lashes from puny to stunning but I would be lying to you. No matter how magnificent a product is, correct use is imperative for its purpose to be fulfilled. If you want a simple look (slightly darkened lashes with a little oomph) curling your lashes isn't necessary. However, if you want the look of endless lashes, investing in a lash curler would be wise. Apply the product with care! It is very important that you don't rush the mascara application process. Every time you begin beautifying your lashes (if you decide to curl them, do so before applying), make sure that the wand is free from residual product. Scrape off excess on the sides of the tube opening. Once the comb is excess product free, begin applying. The beauty of the comb vs. the brush is that it's easier to darken, build up, and separate your lashes in one fell swoop as opposed to needing to use multiple items such as the curler, mascara itself, and a lash separator. If that hasn't convinced you enough, it costs between $5-7 (depending on which drugstore you check out). Rite-Aid has an excellent cosmetics return policy so if you want a risk free purchase, I highly recommend Rite-Aid as a source.
Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover (liquid)
This works really well and the fact that it's a mere $5 make me love it more. I normally only need one saturated cotton ball to remove all my eye makeup (primer, eyeliner, MAC luster shadow, and mascara) and an occasional Q-tip (one saturated side is more than enough) to remove residual makeup from under my eyes. I am also a contact lens wearer and this product has never caused irritation to my eyes. My skin is also dry but the oil-free formulation doesn't cause dryness to my eyelids (I must be honest and say that Almay's oil-free eye makeup remover pads did though). I must say, that with all eye related products, you must be careful and have some common sense. As gentle as this product is, do not deliberately put it in your eye. If product accidentally gets in your eye, it's gentle enough to not sting badly but please don't, that's just stupid. If my review isn't enough for you, it is the #1 selling eye makeup remover in case you didn't know.
Kiss My Face Lip Balm
My lips tend to get dry pretty easily (ordinary ChapStick doesn't work for me at all) so it's very important that I use a lip balm that really works. This wonderful tube applies a sheer layer of appeasing yet not addictive flavors (so you're not tempted to lick the product-sounds gross but admit it, you would if it was fruity or had a dessert taste) so the product lasts a lot longer. It has SPF 15 and the product line is all organic; this one in particular has 70% certified organic ingredients. It contains beeswax, coconut oil, natural vitamin E, and aloe vera just to name a few of its great contents. It is a bit pricier compared to $1 bin lip balms (around $4 + tax) but believe me, it's worth it. I bought this tube two months ago and there's still a lot left! I use this product everyday, multiple times a day not always because I need to, I just love it so much! It helps to maintain soft, supple lips that set up a desirable canvas for lipstick application and a desirable mouth to kiss. Even though $4+ seems like a lot to maintain healthy, attractive lips it honestly isn't because it is an investment. Your lips have the most fragile skin on your face. Don't you notice how your lips are affected by your environment first? This product is worth every penny, go out and buy it!
Cetaphil
My skin is really dry (sometimes I get cracks in my skin texture) and I do have occasional breakouts (thanks to PMS). I've actually tried Kinerase (a high end moisturizer priced at $117+) and I did see improvement in my skin tone, texture, and how it retained moisture. However, the improvement in my skin was slight and the amount of product lasted a couple of months. In order to continue to see results would mean shelling out over a hundred dollars every few months and quite frankly, it's not worth it. Unless you're in the top 1% of the wealthy population, I don't recommend spending that much on one product. My interest in Cetaphil began with Calista Flockhart (known as the main character from Ally McBeal). She swears by the product line and used nothing else (I'm not sure where she stands now but I'm sure she's still using it). Her skin has a smooth, flawless, even texture and a youthful glow (at the time I saw the Allure article at least). Makeup looks absolutely stunning with beautiful skin and I desired to attain it.
