Yet another sample courtesy of the Clinique web site, this time for their brand new Long Last Soft Shine Lipstick. This new formula from Clinique is part of the next wave in lipsticks that are long wearing like the ultra-mattes (ColorStay, Colour Endure), but not as dry or cakey. After wearing the tester for upwards of four hours, I must say it was pretty long wearing. Long Last Soft Shine goes on like regular lipstick, and really feels like regular lipstick. I found that lightly blotting the top layer of moisture off helped the staying power considerably. I even test-drove it on my husband's cheek - no imprint! Could this be a winner? Try it for yourself.

Clinique always seems to be coming out with something new. Their Exceptionally Soothing Lotion (or cream) for Upset Skin is supposed to be a treatment product to relieve red, itchy patches on sensitive skin. I tried both the lotion and the cream, and I can't say that either one really helped relieve any itchy or red spots on my skin that much. With the main ingredient being hydrocortisone, which can be found in your average over-the-counter drugstore itch lotion, I'm not sure why Clinique believes their $30 formula is so much better. Clinique has actually been liberal with sample packets of this product, so if you have sensitive skin, I'd say try it for yourself and see if you think it's worth $30.

During my recent test of self tanners, for my final product, I chose Clinique Self Tanning Body Balm (US$14.50) on the recommendation of the saleswoman that it would be the most natural looking of their self tanning products. Most of their others, she said, result in fairly dark color that might not suit someone who either hasn't tanned before, or who has fair skin. I really wanted to find something subtle that I could wear on my face and all over when I need just a little color, and that wouldn't scream "LOOK AT MY TAN"! That's just what I got with this product. The pump dispenser is great for easy application, and the balm itself is more moisturizing than most self tanning lotions I've tried, which is nice for a drier skin. If you already tan, you can also use this product as a daily moisturizer to soften your skin and help prolong your tan.

While I was at the Clinique counter picking out my self tanning balm, I realized I was still looking for a good, reasonably priced eye makeup remover that is gentle enough for contact lens wearers. Was I ever disappointed with Rinse-off Eye Makeup Remover (US$11). I've tried ones that have a slight tingle, but this was an awful burning sensation that was definitely not what I had in mind as "gentle"! What actually amazed me the most was the complete lack of surprise from the Clinique salesperson when I told her why I was returning it, as if she expected it would burn like that! Run, don't walk, from this product!