I get dozens of questions every week from readers like you asking about foundation - what are the best brands, colors, formulas for every skin type and beauty concern you can think of. I've tried more brands than I can count, and I know there are even more out there that deserve a look. Over the next few weeks, I plan to bring you a review or two every issue of a new or especially worthwhile foundation (and hopefully even some to avoid).

This week's foundation can, in my opinion, be added to the "avoid" list. Much like the Revlon Even Out makeup I reviewed in September 18th's report, Almay's new Amazing Lasting Sheer Makeup with SPF 12 (around $8.50 at drugstores) makes me wonder who could possibly use such a sheer foundation. If your skin is so perfect that you need no coverage, why bother with foundation at all? The long wearing benefits are really meaningless because the makeup doesn't cover anything! I'm afraid Amazing Lasting Sheer gets a big thumbs down :(

For makeup that really does perform, I highly recommend checking out these great makeup kits from Profaces. Created by a group of professional makeup artists in New York City who needed colors that would work on a variety of skin tones, these color palette kits are a makeup artist's (and makeup enthusiast's) dream. Every kit is customizable and refillable with classic colors that will work on a wide range of skin tones. The ten and fifteen color makeup kits come in a lightweight, hard-shell case that is thin and durable. All of the makeup is hypoallergenic and free from animal testing. Here are the kits I've tried:

4 color kit ($39.95)
This is a small square compact with 3 neutral shadows (light cream, medium brown, and deep gray) and 1 blush (medium rose). The kit is mirrored with a magnetic closure and comes with a velour travel pouch. I love this one for travel, and even just in my makeup bag for an easy 1-2-3 makeup look.

10 color kit in light/medium or medium/dark ($89.95)
Mixing and matching is half the fun, and this kit gives you plenty of colors to choose from. Each kit has 10 colors for either light to medium, or medium to dark, skin types (depending on the kit you select). The colors range from light cream to darkest black, with a great selection of pinks, peaches, plums, and browns. They can all be used for as eyeshadow, for eyebrows, as eyeliner and as blush. This kit is all you need for simple, classic makeup every day.

15 color kit ($119.95)
This makeup kit combines the best colors from both of the 10 color kits, for a mix of light and dark shades including white, cream, brown, plum, pink, peach, and grey. All of the colors can be used for as eyeshadow, for eyebrows, as eyeliner and as blush. For the women who changes her makeup style frequently, or who loves to mix and match her own colors, this is the kit to have.

For more information on Profaces, who they are, how they got started, and their products, visit the website at http://www.profaces.com.

All of our reviewers have been busily trying all the makeup and skincare we can, and now we can bring the reviews to you! Don't miss our newest entries including Chantecaille makeup, Victoria's Secret makeup line, and private label salon skin care from Hollywood facialist, Steven Miller. You'll find these and much more on our Product Reviews page.

Are you pregnant, thinking about getting pregnant, or know someone who is? I've gotten quite a few email from moms-to-be like myself, so this month I am thrilled to offer you a collection of product reviews on all the skin care goodies for this wonderful time in your life. From cooling leg gels to moisturizing belly creams, I've got a little something for all the beauty challenges you'll be facing. Stop by today!

October's Feature: Pregnancy Skin Care

Ask The Makeup Diva is going strong and getting a ton of great questions, like "How do I get rid of pimples?" and "Is there a cleanser that will remove all my makeup?" Find the answers to these and many more of your toughest beauty challenges at Ask The Makeup Diva. Be sure to sign up to get The Diva free in your mailbox every week.