Wonder Lift ($34)
Wonder Lift is a brand new addition to BeneFit Cosmetic's skin care line, which promises to tone, firm, and de-puff the under eye area and complexion. While it's not a face-lift in a tube, this product is terrific.

This clear facial and eye toning gel is to be applied in the morning and evening after cleansing, or during the day when your skin starts to look tired. Upon application, you can't help but notice the awesome aroma of Raspberry along with the soothing extracts of Chamomile (an exclusive blend of collagen from plant fibers is another key ingredient). You immediately experience a cool refreshing feeling, and quickly, the gel begins to tighten, and the magic begins. In a matter of seconds, your skin feels like silk, is not at all tight, and you just feel as though your entire complexion has more oomph, because it does. I can't explain why this works, but who really cares so long as it does?

I was initially apprehensive to try this product because I have super sensitive skin, but for those of you who also do, don't fret. I have allergic reactions to many products, but didn't have a single one with this gentle gel. I loved the way it felt so much that I couldn't stop feeling my face, or looking into every mirror I passed because I just had a great glow.

It's moderately priced compared to going under the knife, and without a doubt, I already know, it's highly addictive. This will be one more tube that I tote around in my bag because I'm already in love.

Makeup Remover & Brush Cleaner, Baby! ($21)
I've always wondered why anyone would spend money on high-end makeup removers or blush cleaners when good old Johnson's Baby Oil and baby shampoos have always done the trick for me. Then I realized that I have dry skin so the additional oil isn't something that will hurt my skin type whereas a woman with oily skin can do without it, but why a pricey blush cleaner?

When those great gals at BeneFit Cosmetics came out with another cool creation, Makeup Remover & Brush Cleaner, Baby!, I decided to see if I was missing something.

I fell in love with the lavender fluid as it's such a calming color, and my brushes have never been cleaner after being swished around in the solution and then set to dry. I give this a standing ovation as the brushes all looked brand new, and there wasn't a trace of color to be found on any of them.

I then decided to use the product to remove my makeup after a long day, and found that it was a little harsh for my skin type, and when I dabbed my eyes with a cotton pad saturated with it, I experienced an unpleasant stinging sensation. It does successfully remove facial makeup, but I strongly suggest keeping this away from sensitive eyes.

Perhaps a two-in-one product can't always do both tasks equally as well, but if you are searching for the way to give your brushes the best cleaning they've ever had, this is a winner.

review: 11/02

Frostings (Holiday 2002)
Those dynamic dames have another hit on their hands with their holiday release of Frostings, a 2002 limited edition foursome. Who can argue that all of the products created by Jean and Jane come in the most marvelous packaging, and can anyone possibly turn down their purring trademark kitten who has more adventures under her belt than I do? Hey, she's been to Paris, and I have yet to take that trip.

Frostings, appropriately named for the chilly climate to come, are a boxed set containing two pots of eye powders, and two pots of lip creams. The shadows in Frosty Amethyst (best explained as being the most gorgeous gray mixed with lavender), and Frosty Tourmaline (a perfect, pretty peach) are great worn together, or alone. The powders are long lasting, crease free, and can be applied lightly as a wash over the lid, or more heavily for a dramatic look. I wear the Amethyst from lid to crease, and then lightly apply the Tourmaline beneath the brow toward the inner eye for contrast. I have also come to prefer powder over pressed shadows as you get more bang for your buck as so little needs to be used per application, and a pot lasts forever.

The potted lip cremes in Icy Orchid (a perfect plum) and Icy Petal (a radiant rose) are easy to work with, long lasting, and can be worn alone, or over lipstick to enhance the shade. I'm very biased here as plum and rose are the only shades I wear on my lips, so for me, this is such a terrific twosome.

After using the products, I definitely think this set is a "must have" for you and all of your BeneFit buddies. It's a purrfect holiday gift, and an awesome addition to any makeup collection. And the price is right at $32 because you are getting a fabulous foursome, with each pot for only $8.

Frostings are available at BeneFitCosmetics.com, and at all stores that carry this line.