Those rows of brightly colored eye shadows, glittering lip-glosses and perfectly pressed blushes are the girly-girl version of a little kid cut loose in a candy shop. I can spend hours analyzing the pros and cons of mascaras that thicken, lengthen, moisturize or maximize lashes; or take days deciding which is the perfect shade of red nail polish. As a result of all of that pondering and testing, here are the top 10 best makeup products that I cannot live without for 2011 (or at least this month).
1. Per-Fékt Skin Perfection Gel: I cannot sing the praises of this miraculous product enough. Per-fékt is like an invisible second skin that helps smooth, disguise and correct complexion imperfections such as enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Enriched with a powerful pack of antioxidants to help repair, protect and fight future environmental skin damage, Per-fékt also helps maintain hydration, leaving the skin with a healthy glow by locking in moisture. Your skin will look perfect (pun intended). $58
2. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer: This is an eye prep product that provides smoother, longer-lasting and absolutely crease-proof eyeshadow. One of the things I love about this product is that it comes in a few different colors and you can wear it sans eyeshadow or liner. There are three different full size shades: Original dries invisibly; Sin is a shimmering champagne hue that doubles as a highlighter; Eden is a matte nude shade, which brightens and evens skintone, making it ideal for more mature lids. $29
3. Anastasia Brow Gel: Put and keep unruly brows in their place with this unique, non-flaky, non-clumping brow gel. It comes in tinted versions as well. Just another necessary tool for a flawless face. $21
4. Stila Kajal Kohl Eyeliner in Topaz: Line this on the lower inner rims of your eyes and you will look instantly awake and refreshed even on a few hours’ sleep. It is the secret weapon of makeup artists everywhere. $18
5. Lorac Multiplex 3D Lip Gloss: I’m obsessed. Lorac has some awesome pink glosses and liquid lipsticks that have real staying power. The gloss re-textures the lips and smoothes away imperfections, allowing color to appear more vivid and luminous. It combines a liquid lipstick and lip lacquer for high-impact color and a 3-D holographic effect that will make your pout stand out. $22
6. Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes Eyeliners: These award-winning, creamy eyeliners are waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof. The shades you can choose are endless, plus they glide on effortlessly with intense and long lasting color. $17
7. Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder: Get ready for your close-up with this universal translucent finishing powder, which can be applied over foundation or worn alone. This microfinish powder slightly mattifies the skin without changing its natural tone, softening the appearance of imperfections and completely evening out the complexion, creating a glowing, radiant look. $30
8. Stila Illuminating Powder Foundation: I have yet to find a better powder than this one by Stila. Let your inner radiance shine through with this unique all-in-one powder foundation. Illuminating Powder Foundation minimizes skin imperfections while maximizing sun protection with SPF 12 for ageless, timeless skin that simply glows. $28
9. Nars Orgasm Illuminator: Light the skin from within with this complexion enhancer. Deceptively sheer and decidedly luminous, it magically transforms your skin from ordinary to extraordinary – lusciously radiant. Flirt with foundation; go it alone; go neck-and-neck with your décolleté. The effect is blush-worthy. $29
10. DiorShow Black Out Mascara: DiorShow Black Out Mascara gives your lashes a little more oomph and a lot more drama. Intensified by ultra-black kohl pigments, the formula glides on smoothly and draws each lash out to show-stopping lengths. I have had a love affair with this mascara since its launch. $24
11. Expressive Fortunes: Just for a little lagniappe this month – I think these are the cutest Valentine gifts ever! Nothing says “love” like a giant chocolate-dipped fortune cookie! www.expressivefortunes.com