Bargain Balm
The new Earth to Skin line is free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petrolatum, sulfates, and gluten, and also doesn't test on animals. But what's really going to make you to a double take? The price. Our pick: Super Fruits Banana Brightening Eye Cream, $8.94, which illuminates and moisturizes with shea butter, squalene, and banana- and mango-extracts, while oh yeah, still costing less than ten bucks.
Artsy Makeup
Pop artist Ashley Longshore — known for her bright, bedazzled paintings, often of icons as varied as Audrey Hepburn, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Lil Wayne — has partnered with Maybelline and we are here for it. The Maybelline New York SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick x Ashley Longshore Full Collection Kit, $47.94, contains six shades of longwearing lipcolor, each emblazoned with Longshore's colorful, eye-catching designs.
Super Serum
When you're past the point of frou-frou, oh-that's-pretty-who-cares-if-it-works products, and want some serious skin care, this is it. Dermalogica Phyto-Nature Firming Serum, $145, is an anti-aging powerhouse stocked with hyaluronic acid (to hydrate), camu camu (to boost radiance), and Moroccan rose extract (to reduce the appearance of lines).
Curl Power
Designed specifically for textured hair by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, the new Pattern Beauty line of cleansers, conditioners, and treatments is all about celebrating (not "controlling") your curls and keeping them happy and healthy. The Jojoba Oil Hair Serum, $25, is loaded with a cocktail of nourishing oils, including safflower, olive, lavender, rosehip and, of course, jojoba. It hydrates, reduces breakage, and can be used on your hair or scalp.
Skin Saver
Toners are one of those things that often seem superfluous. But First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner, $22, is making a strong case for the extra step. The milky, alcohol-free formula is jam-packed with soothing colloidal oatmeal, hydrating honey and nourishing propolis extract, and leaves skin soft, not stripped.
