Have you ever been shocked to learn someone's age? Like, in an OMG-I-can't believe-how-good-you-look-for-your-age way? If you're like me, then your immediate reaction -- you know, after picking your jaw off the floor -- is to drill them about their skin-care regimen in the hopes that you can replicate their unnatural inability to age (or join whatever coven they've sold their soul to).

And that's exactly what I did when I met Mally Steves Chakola, the founder of M. Steves Skincare, at a Total Beauty-hosted event. According to her, she owed her impeccable skin to M. Steves Reviving Exfoliator, $48, so, naturally, I had to try it.

The product packs a three-in-one anti-aging punch, combining glycolic acid, microdermabrasion and a pore-purifying mud mask in one little jar (read: no witchcraft!). Though it might be some time before I notice its long-term effects, I can say that I see an immediate improvement in my skin after using it. My face looks fresher and brighter as soon as I rinse it off.

I'll definitely keep reaching for this exfoliator in the hope that someone will one day ask me about my skin-care secret. --Rose Curiel

I am often astounded -- and slightly intimidated -- by the specificity of certain makeup products: a highlighter just for brows, a mascara just for bottom lashes. What's next? Foundation meant exclusively for the left side of your face?

I prefer an all-purpose product -- it helps with my budget, my counter clutter and my sanity. So you can imagine how delighted I was when I got my hands on the Urban Decay Ultimate Ozone Multipurpose Primer Pencil, $16.

First, this product can be used as a lip primer to prevent feathering and help color stick to your lips all day. It can also double as an eraser stick for cleaning up eyeliner boo-boos or fallen eye shadow. I even use it to prime my eyelids, so my shadow stays pigmented and crease-free for hours. I'm sure there are even more uses for this genius little stick, and my inner multi-tasker is looking forward to discovering them. --Amanda Montell

I've had a bit of an obsession with dying my hair since I was 16. I've been just about every color in a crayon box -- red, blue, magenta and even a combination of brunette and black (it's okay to cringe -- I do every time I come across a picture that I forgot to burn).

Needless to say, my obsession hasn't changed over the years, though my color choices have (thank God). As you can imagine, my poor hair has taken quite the beating. Luckily, when my strands are screaming for some serious hydration, L'Oréal Paris' Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm, $6.99, comes to the rescue. It claims to repair up to one year of damage with a single use, and I can tell you from experience that it definitely does.

For my most recent hair change, I went from dark brunette to blonde, and you can bet I stocked up on this product before making the dramatic transformation. This balm has kept my hair smooth, healthy and even added a bit of shine when everyone thought I'd have serious breakage. For all the other hair color junkies out there, I've found our healthy hair insurance at an affordable rate. --Jessica Amaris