Photogenic Ultra Comfort SPF 15 ($33.50)
For the most part I have been happy with the foundations I use (Cover Girl Aqua Smooth, Sonia Kashuk Hydro-Tint, Jane Iredale Amazing Base), but I kept hearing good things about Photogenic Ultra Comfort. It's not often that I find a foundation I like that also suits my dry skin.

After using Photogenic Ultra Comfort for a few weeks, I find I really like it. It glides on easily (I prefer a sponge or thin layer with a foundation brush), doesn't settle into fine lines, keeps my skin hydrated all day, and at the same time doesn't cause breakouts; having both dry skin and a tendency toward cosmetic acne creates a challenge with most foundation for dry skin. The coverage is on the sheer side of medium and is slightly buildable. It has decent staying power even without powder (which I never do) but feels completely natural on the skin, like there is nothing there (only better). The SPF 15 sunscreen protection comes from octinoxate 2%.

I found a pretty good color match with Ultra Ivoire 2, a cool shade that is the second lightest shade; there are 10 shades total to choose from. You can learn more or purchase online at Lancome.com.

review: 5/03

Since starting Cosmetic Connection and The Cosmetic Report, I can hardly remember what it's like to have a "regular" skin care routine. Trying so many different products means a different routine from week to week! My last attempt to have something "regular" - Origins skin care pair for sensitive skin - ended up getting returned because the products started to dry my face out. I recently gave it another shot with products from Lancome designed for normal-to-dry/sensitive skin.

I've found that after trying so many different cleansers and toners from a variety of lines, my decision to buy or not to buy really comes down to personal preference. Just like many other cleansers, Lancome's Galatee Douceur worked well to remove all my makeup, it dissolved mascara very quickly without rubbing, and left my face feeling soft and clean. It is a milky cream formula, best for someone with dry patches or an overall dry skin. The Tonique Douceur was also similar to many other alcohol-free toners I've tried. It has a slightly sweet floral fragrance, and it would probably be good for any skin type, unless you are very oily and are looking for something more astringent.

In addition to trying the basic cleanser and toner, I also tested Lancome's Bienfait Total SPF 15 lotion and their new Primordiale Yeux Visibly Revitalizing Eye Treatment for 12 days. After using both products, I've been really happy with Bienfait Total. It is a lightweight lotion with a good daily sunscreen that I've found is a great transition product for spring from heavier winter creams. Since it is lightweight, I can use it all over my face without my forehead or chin getting shiny, but it is still moisturizing enough for my cheeks. My skin is going back to combination (normal cheeks and slightly oily T-zone) - a sure sign of spring!

Primordiale Yeux, however, did not impress me. I'm really not convinced that it has done anything to change the fine lines and beginning wrinkles around my eyes. For that matter, I'm not convinced that any eye cream can really do that! This one from Lancome is a fine moisturizer for the eye area, but that's about it. If you can get a sample, try it just for fun, but it's really not worth $40.

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