Benefit Hoola Bronzing Powder

Warning:  if you are not fair-skinned, this isn't for you.  Just don't want to waste any one's time.  If you are fair-skinned and want just a little boost, you might want to consider this.  I like it because it gives a very natural look.  You can use it all over your face, just on your cheeks, nose and brow or only on your cheeks as a blush.  It's a very neutral color.  It's also layering so you don't get big streaks of it across your face (if that's the look you're going for...sorry).  I don't think anything looks exactly like a real tan except a real tan and we all know that's a dermatological sin.  But, if you are looking to add a bit of color during the winter months or even inside under harsh fluorescent lights, this could be just what you're looking for.

If your skin is a little darker, don't feel left out.  You could use this as an every day powder.

http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/hoola

Mascara Wave #7 - Urband Decay Supercurl Curling Mascara

This mascara is great but I would never buy it.  That's odd.  Let me explain.  My biggest problem with my eyelashes is volume.  They are long enough and they have a natural curl (don't hate) but there aren't many of them.  This mascara has the comb-like brush and goes on very nicely.  It gives a lot of length and definition.  Unfortunately, it doesn't really plump them up.  It also looks super dark.  That surprises me.  I usually think black is black.  Well, somehow this black is black-er.  It doesn't smudge and, they sell the trial size online for $10.  I wish more companies did this.  One thing I am discovering about mascara is that 3 months is the max time you should use the same tube.  A trial size is really all you need.  So, if you are looking to take your lashes to great lengths, give this a try!

http://www.urbandecay.com/mascara/1_501,default,sc.html

The Mascara Wave #6 - Benefit BAD gal Lash

In my opinion, Benefit has some of the cutest packaging/marketing.  It's kitschy enough for the younger crowd but not too juvenile for those whose 20s are just a spot in the rear view mirror.  Unfortunately, I have found that what is on the package is often more appealing than what is in it.  The same goes for this mascara.  There's nothing wrong with it.  It's got a really nice, full brush (which I'm learning I prefer) and goes on pretty well.  No significant smudging or flaking.  However, there is nothing that makes it stand out either.  It doesn't give the plumping effect of their "They're Real!" mascara.  For $19 you can find something better or, you can get the same results with something from the drugstore.

http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/badgal-lash-mascara