As I'm sure you've figured out by now after visiting Cosmetic Connection and reading all of our reviews, we get pretty excited about makeup! In the coming weeks I plan to share with you some of the products that I find useful, time-saving, or just plain fun (like the new spring colors coming out soon). I hope you enjoy it!

Since having my baby, I really don't wear lipstick anymore, but I sure go through a lot of lipbalm. I've got a tube or jar of a different brand of lipbalm all around the house, in my office, in the car - you name it, I've got it. One of my favorites for when my lips feel really dry and cracked is Remede Hydralock Lip. This rich cream acts more like a moisturizer than most lip products I've tried, sinking in to relieve dryness and make your lips feel more supple. It also helps your lipstick last longer, too. Remede products are available at Bliss Spa in New York City (1-888-243-8825), and through the Bliss website at http://www.blissworld.com.

Don't let the fact that it's winter fool you - it's still important to use a sunscreen every day under your makeup (or in your foundation). Daily use of a broad spectrum product can prevent premature aging of the skin caused by sun damage. That's a good enough reason for me to use one! I recently discovered Lyphazome Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 and have been really pleased with how it feels on my skin. It lightly moisturizes without feeling heavy or greasy, is waterproof and sweatproof, and has broad spectrum uva/uvb protection. This is a great year-round choice for all skin types. I got my Lyphazome from the Steven Miller Skin Care website.

One of the few beauty routines I've stuck with since having a baby is keeping my eyebrows well groomed. Even if I leave the house wearing no foundation or lipstick, I always comb through my brows, pluck any stray hairs, and finish them off with a clear brow gel. I've tried a few of the drugstore brands, but they just don't hold as well or look as natural as Brow Shaper from Sebastian's Trucco makeup line. It looks natural, not stiff or sticky, and it holds well all day. You can learn more about Trucco cosmetics at http://www.sebastian-intl.com/pro/tru/html/tr_1.html

I'm always excited about welcoming new Panelists to our happy (and busy) little "family". Our newest member, Aina, offers her opinions on cosmetic lines for women of color this month with an investigation into Black Opal and Fashion Fair. You won't want to miss this!

February Feature: Cosmetic Lines for Women of Color - Part Two

Learn more about Aina and the rest of the Cosmetic Connection Product Panel at http://www.cosmeticconnection.com/panelists.html

Our Panelists have been busy little bees lately, reviewing up a storm. Check out our new reviews of Alchemy from Bigelow Chemists, Beauty by Tova, Urban Decay, and Bath & Body Works Clear Face skin care line.

Looking for a particular review, or curious if I've ever reviewed your favorite brand of lipstick? Try out our updated search function on Cosmetic Connection that will make your quest easier. Simply click on the "search" button on the front of Cosmetic Connection (in the yellow channel), or use this direct URL: http://www.cosmeticconnection.com/search.html