December 2007
BEST
DIOR Pro Cheeks Ultra-Radiant Blush ($30) has a spongy texture that turns into an airy cream-to-powder blush that’s a cinch to apply and blend. In fact, if you’re new to this type of blush; this is almost foolproof and the translucent colors look remarkably natural. (It’s still blush, though, so “natural” is a relative term.) Among the four shades, the only non-blush tone is Limelight, which is opalescent, very pale pink, and best for highlighting, if used at all. Find It!

WORST
CLEARASIL Ultra Acne Solution System ($24.99 for the kit) comprises four items in a kit designed to address the causes of facial acne and to help combat them. Step 1, the Stay Clear Daily Face Wash, is similar to the Ultra Acne Clearing Gel Wash above, but this one adds polyethylene (plastic) beads to the mix so it’s a cleanser/scrub. It is still too irritating due to the menthol, so we’re not off to a good start. Step 2 involves the Stay Clear Daily Toner, but here, with alcohol as the second ingredient, it’s a problem for all skin types. Things begin looking up with Step 3, the Stay Clear Daily Lotion, a 0.5% BHA lotion with a pH of 2.3. The pH allows the salicylic acid to exfoliate skin, which is considerably more irritating than a pH of 3–4, and 1% salicylic acid would probably be better. The only product that deserves consideration is the Step 4 Quick Start Treatment Cream . This is a simply formulated 10% benzoyl peroxide lotion that has a slightly absorbent matte finish. The 10% benzoyl peroxide is a potent disinfectant for blemishes, and in general it is best to start with lower strengths to see if those work for you without the more pronounced side effects associated with a higher percent, such as dryness or flaking. All told, with three out of four products in this system faltering, the conclusion is: Ignore this kit and keep in mind that individual benzoyl peroxide products are available from Clearasil, Neutrogena, other drugstore lines, and Paula’s Choice.