No, you did not miss an issue of The Cosmetic Report last Friday. Since I just got back from vacation on Sunday, this week we'll bring you a "Happy Monday" and a "Happy Friday"!

Back about a month ago, before I declared my face a test-free zone for a few months for skin care products, I had the opportunity to try a vitamin E skin care line called L'Evantage. If you are looking for a truly natural skin care routine, L'Evantage just might be it for you. All the products contain natural vitamin E extracted from sunflowers, and they are free of the gums, synthetic waxes, mineral oil, harsh chemicals, fragrance, or preservatives that many mainstream products contain. L'Evantage also does no animal testing and the products contain no animal-based ingredients. The prices are a little high in my opinion, but I did see a noticeable improvement in my skin after just a few days. Here's the skinny on their basic skin care:

Herbal Wash ($16.95 for 4 ounces)
Even if you shy away from foaming cleansers, this one will change your mind. Whether you use it with their sea sponge or alone, it does a great job of removing makeup and daily grime without drying or stripping the skin. Herbal Wash does contain quite a few botanical extracts like spearmint, orange, ylang ylang, and lavender, so be cautious if you have sensitive skin.

Botanical Spray ($18.95 for 4 ounces)
I have a hard time recommending an aloe and rosewater spray that costs almost $20, but there's no denying it does feel great on the skin. While I liked it, I would sooner buy something less expensive and put it in a spray bottle.

Moisturizer ($22.95 for one ounce jar)
The L'Evantage day moisturizers come in two strengths: one for sensitive skin (less strong) and one for normal skin. I tried the "normal" version and was very pleased with the results. After just a few days, most of my acne blemishes cleared up, and my skin had a healthier, more even-toned glow. The cream is lightweight enough for most skin types (may be a bit heavy for very oily skin).

Night Renewal ($26.95 for one ounce jar)
Like the day creams, the night creams come in two versions: one for younger skin (25-50) and one for more mature skin (50+). The reasoning is the older the skin, the more damage it could have from the environment and various irritants. The Renewal version I used is for younger skin, and again, I was impressed with the improvement I saw in my skin. It is a bit heavier than the day cream, but doesn't feel overly oily or greasy.

For more information about L'Evantage, or to order products, you can find them online at http://www.levantage.com

Tired of all the flowery, girly smelling body products on the market these days? Heavy Duty, a new company from California, has responded to women (and men) who are sick of smelling like a rose garden with their "automotive" approach to fragrance. Hand Gear hand cream ($15 for 3.5 ounce tube) does a great job of softening your hands without a greasy afterfeel. The fragrance does take some getting used to. For more information or to order, call 1-888-960-8900, or visit online soon at www.heavydutyco.com

August is the last big travel month of the summer - are you packed and ready to go? This month's Feature offers some handy tips and product recommendations for a fool-proof travel cosmetic kit for summer, or any time of year.

August's Feature: Travel Essentials
http://www.kleinman.com/cosmetic/feature.html