April 2009

 $$$ Tarte Smooth Operator Oil-Free Foundation with SPF 20 ($35). Smooth Operator feels and performs less like a foundation and more like a tinted moisturizer. This lightweight formula blends easily into the skin, providing sheer coverage without feeling oily or appearing obvious on the skin. The moisturizing formula leaves a satin finish that wears well for hours. Adding to this, Smooth Operator includes a mineral-based broad-spectrum sunscreen. This is highly recommended for those with normal to slightly dry or slightly oily skin. The shade range favors light to medium skin tones; there are only a couple options for darker skin tones. One caution: The citrus extracts have a small potential to be irritating, but this effect should be offset by the soothing agents that are also in this foundation.

WORST
 Dr. Hauschka Regenerating Serum ($85 for 1 ounce). This product is a big deal for the company because, according to their Web site and the photo they use, domestic doyenne Martha Stewart says this serum is a "must-have". Stewart may know how to refinish furniture, run a multimedia empire, and be home in time to prepare a six-course gourmet meal, but her endorsing this product is proof she knows nothing about good skin care.
          Without question, this insanely overpriced product is one of the most unimpressive serums around. The second ingredient is alcohol, so expect irritation, inflammation, and free-radical damage. Quince seed has no special benefit for skin, while most of the other plant extracts are there for fragrance, not anti-aging efficacy. Actually, quince seed has constricting properties and as such is an irritant (Source: www.naturaldatabase.com). This serum is absolutely not recommended. If you want to spend in this price range, consider the vastly superior serums from MD Skincare by Dr. Dennis Gross, Estee Lauder, or DDF