Considering the number of alpha and beta hydroxy acid products I try, when the testing is over, my skin is always in need of a break. A super gentle routine is just the ticket to get my face ready for its next product review challenge. One of the basic cleansers I reach for is Neutrogena Extra Gentle Facial Cleanser (around $6 for 6.7 ounces, at drugstores). Although the name has changed (used to be Sensitive Skin Cleanser), this is still a great lightweight milky cleanser for any skin type that removes makeup easily, doesn't strip or dry, and leaves the skin feeling fresh and clean. When you are looking for a basic cleanser, this one is an easy choice.

To protect my skin and keep it moisturized all day, one of my favorite sunscreen-plus-moisturizer lotions is Eucerin Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 25 (around $7 for 4 ounces, at drugstores). Its complete broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection (thanks to its combination of octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide) and lightweight, oil-free formula has been recommended by dermatologists for years. You only need a tiny pea sized dab for your whole face, and the non-irritating and non-comedogenic (shouldn't cause breakouts) formula works well for any skin type.

I get email from readers like you every week asking what cosmetics I personally when I'm not testing new color. While I will admit my taste in colors changes from time to time, here is a peek into my basic, everyday makeup bag:

• Stila Complete Coverage Makeup in "b"
• Bobbi Brown Loose Powder in "pale yellow"
• Smash Box foundation stick in "Smashing Ivory" (used as concealer)
• Philosophy blush in "compassion" or Stila blush in "fade"
• LORAC eye shadow in "beige"
• Origins Brow Fix clear brow gel
• Origins Fringe Benefits mascara in "black"
• Nat Robbins HydraWear lipgloss in "chocolate kiss"

The Makeup Diva is in! If you are looking forward to summer but your feet aren't quite ready, don't miss this week's Ask The Makeup Diva column. Miss Diva makes giving yourself an at-home pedicure easy.