Giorgio Armani Beauty Compact Cream Concealer

I've been wearing Giorgio Armani Beauty's cream foundation ever since it was introduced. Now, it seems to have been discontinued. I guess my consolation was the introduction of a new Compact Cream Concealer ($42). I found it while browsing Sephora and ordered my shade, #2, immediately.

Described as a high-coverage spot concealer, it's perfect for the sun spots I have to cover with something. One is near my left eye, and its appearance really bothers me.

Compact Cream Concealer is an instant corrector that completely hides imperfections, dark spots, and blemishes. Its customized precision applicator is said to offer high coverage and a thin texture for a flawless-looking finish. I'm not a big fan of the applicator. I use my own (Bobbi Brown) touch-up brush.

This concealer is available in six shades, all of which have a matte finish. If you are a fan of Giorgio Armani foundation, you will love this new concealer. It stays on all day, just like the foundation, and it has provides excellent coverage for those sun spots. I hope you don't have them, but most people who came of age when suntans were considered beautiful - and before we all knew the danger of the sun's rays to our skin - has probably already developed the keratoses that resulted from our adoration of the sun.

I'm hooked on Armani's new concealer. I didn't see it on the Armani Beauty Web site, but it's available at Sephora.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Guerlain Face Collection 2016 - Multi-Perfecting Concealer and New Complexion Brush

With just one application of Guerlain's Multi-Perfecting Concealer ($40), achieving silky-smooth coverage is easier than ever and just seconds away. This concealer glides on seamlessly and fuses with the skin, creating incredible coverage that leaves the skin looking fresh, young, and even.

Unique Features

• An ultra-light texture that allows for buildable coverage
• Soft-focus powders that blur, smooth, and conceal instantly
• Linseed extract and decongesting agents minimize the appearance of dark circles and imperfections
• Calms and hydrates skin for a long-term effect
• Easy and precise application

Test Results
Guerlain's test subjects observed...

• 100% consistent and homogeneous application
• 100% seamless application, no matter what the imperfection
• 100% instantly luminous results
• 97% instantly natural result with no mask effect
• 97% easily adjustable coverage
• 94% dark circles instantly corrected

 If you can't see the shade range immediately above, just click on the photo to enlarge it.

Guerlain's new, innovative round-tipped Complexion Brush ($52) will make foundation application easier. In one stroke, your foundation will apply quickly and faultlessly, leaving an enviable complexion. The synthetic, soft, gentle bristles hold just the right amount of foundation and intuitively follow the face's curves for a fabulous, even application.

These new products are available (officially August today, although my Neiman Marcus has it already) at Guerlain Boutiques, select Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's, Dillard's, and online.

Photos courtesy of Guerlain

Eve Lom Brilliance Cover Concealer Broad Spectrum SPF 15

I've found a "new-to-me" concealer I really like for very specific reasons. For the same reasons I like it, others may not like it at all.

Eve Lom's Brilliance Cover Concealer Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($40) is available in six shades (good range, but not fabulous). I purchased the lightest shade, Alabaster, at Neiman Marcus.

This concealer is designed to dramatically reduce the appearance of skin imperfections and signs of aging, with this smooth, creamy formula. A powerful light-diffusing ingredient gives a soft-focus effect, instantly covering imperfections and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and large pores. Meanwhile, plant extracts hydrate deep down and encourage cellular renewal to repair, strengthen, and discourage new wrinkles from forming. Skin is protected too; SPF15 guards against UVA and UVB damage, while potent antioxidants stop aging free radicals in their tracks. Your complexion is perfected, radiant, and reinforced from within, with a silky, matte finish.

I like Eve Lom Brilliance Cover Concealer because it provides light coverage. I don't need a heavy concealer under my eyes. Heavy concealers can actually sink into my "expression lines." What I do appreciate is a product that brightens the area, and Eve Lom's concealer excels at brightening. I also appreciate the sun protection factor. Here are the benefits Eve Lom identifies.

• Conceals imperfections, blemishes, and signs of aging
• Light-diffusing formula gives a soft-focus effect
• Cellular renewal is encouraged, leading to firmer, stronger, more healthy skin
• Skin is hydrated, nourished, and repaired for youthful elasticity
• Rich, creamy blendability
• UVA/UVB and antioxidant protection
• Actively beneficial for all skin types

The active ingredient berryflux vita stimulates the skin's natural hyaluronic acid to lock in hydration.  The concealer is rich in antioxidants, it strengthens the skin's natural barrier, and helps preserve collagen and elastin for suppleness and tone.

Age-defying sea fennel thrives on rocky coastlines and this formula harnesses that hardy resistance. By stimulating cellular renewal, it helps the epidermis regain its youthful smoothness and vitality, improving its structure and thickness while simultaneously thinning down the cornified cell masses, which contribute to the cause of fine lines and wrinkles. The ingredients are impressive for a concealer.

Who won't like Brilliance Cover Concealer Broad Spectrum SPF 15? Anyone who needs moderate to heavy coverage under the eyes (or on other regions of the face). This concealer will not provide that, no matter how much you may layer as you apply it. If dark circles are your scourge, forget this product.

I apply it with my fingers, but you can also use a concaler brush for an equally desirable effect. If you use your fingers, make sure they are clean. There is a good amount of product in the container, and you don't want to contaminate it over time.

I purchased mine at Neiman Marcus. You can also find Eve Lom at Barneys, Nordstrom, and the Eve Lom Web site.

Photo courtesy of Eve Lom

Marc Jacobs Beauty Remedy Concealer Pen

I've been dipping my toes into Marc Jacobs Beauty, choosing wisely, I think, and so far I've been very happy with my selections. I really didn't want to get "hooked on" another makeup brand. I already have too many on my must-buy list.

I was intrigued by Remedy Concealer Pen ($39). soI purchased one sight unseen in the lightest shade, 00 Stand Corrected. I am extremely happy with it.

This an all-in-one eraser, brightener, and corrector works as advertised: it remedies the signs of aging, dehydration, and fatigue, while brightening the skin around the eyes. One of Marc’s favorite products, they say, Remedy Concealer Pen is the perfect fix for the sins of a carefree youth (guilty) or just the aftermath of last night (not guilty). Formulated with advanced pigments, powerful antioxidants, and Remedy Complex, a unique blend of hydrating and anti-aging ingredients, this next-generation concealer brightens, hydrates, and soothes the skin while providing the coverage you need for a fresh, bright-eyed finish. The patented palladium applicator cools on contact to reduce puffiness, and one click is all it takes for the perfect amount of product.

Remedy is available in nine shades - from the lightest that I purchased, 00 to the darkest, 7. I guessed and guessed well. The one thing I really like about the applicator is not the metal applicator, but the window that shows me the color and how much product I have left. I really like those user-friendly touches.

I took swatch photos in full sun. I applied Stand Corrected without blending it. That photo is shown directly above. As you can see on my arm, Stand Corrected leans yellow.

After I took unblended swatch photos, I blended the swatch with my finger and took more photos. The blended photo above shows that Stand Corrected almost blends into my skin perfectly. The yellow tone takes any redness away from around my eyes. It's a very nice shade for me.

I use Remedy under my eyes. I'm still enamored with the Edward Bess Illuminating Eyeshadow Base over my eyes. Remedy is easy to apply, covers nicely, and lasts all day. I have found a new favorite.

Have you tried Marc Jacobs Beauty Remedy Concealer Pen? Do you like it as much as I do? You can purchase it at Sephora or select Marc Jacobs boutiques.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Edward Bess Total Correction Under Eye Perfection

I was thrilled when I saw that Edward Bess had introduced an under-eye correction product. I adore my Edward Bess Illuminating Eyeshadow Base. It is the best eye shadow base I have ever used. Period. So, I was extremely eager to try the base for my under-eye area.

I had a difficult time choosing a color. The color representations on Sephora looked strange. I had to call Edward Bess. I talked to Lauren, who explained to me that Light is meant for people who have red-blue undertones, and Golden is meant for those with yellow undertones.  With that information to reassure me, I ordered Light from Sephora (I had a coupon; otherwise I would have ordered from Lauren). It also comes in a dark shade called Buff.

Billed as a brightening under-eye corrector specially designed to erase dark circles in an instant, Total Correction Under Eye Perfection ($38) is very nice. Here is the marketing blurb.

Discover the secret to completely erasing dark under-eye circles once and for all. With just a swipe of this super-powerful corrector, darkness disappears instantly to reveal an lighter, brighter, well-rested appearance. This magic wand takes on even the darkest under-eye dilemmas with its specially designed color-corrective pigments that optically lighten dark shadows. The innovative formula glides on creamy and then sets quickly for all-day coverage. Targeted for the delicate under-eye area, it is infused with aloe vera to help soothe and calm puffy skin.

I've been wearing it all week, and I like it. It's not love, though. "Light" is kind of dark on me - even though it blends out to match my skin when I'm wearing Armani #4 Compact Maestro. When I revert back to #2 for the winter, I'm afraid my under-eye area will be darker than the rest of my face, meaning I won't be able to use it. If anyone from Edward Bess is reading this, please, oh please, make a fair shade of this!

Here are the two tubes. My Illuminating Eyeshadow Base in Cashmere is shown on the left (messy because I use it every day), and my new Total Correction Under Eye Perfection in Light is shown on the right. You can see that the new product is significantly darker. I took swatch photos to show you. I think one is enough. I just slapped on both products without any blending. Cashmere is at the top of my arm, with Light below.

There is a huge difference! Cashmere blends into my eyelid perfectly. I use it from the lash line up to my brow, and I love it. It matches me; it corrects the redness I have just over the crease; and it holds my eye shadow perfectly all day.

Under Eye Perfection also works perfectly, but the color is too dark for me. I want a product (concealer or corrector) to add brightness under my eyes. Light is too dark to do that. It blends into my skin to "disappear," but it does not add any brightness.

What do I mean when I say it works perfectly? It evens out the skin tone, it's easy to apply (super easy compared to my regular concealer), and it stays put all day without any creasing in fine lines. A thin and perfect application becomes one with my skin. It's everything I would want from an under-eye concealer or corrector - except the right color. If your skin is darker than mine, you are going to fall in love with this product.

I need to mention application. Although both products come with a brush, do not attempt to apply either product using its own brush. I apply one drop to my palm, then I use Bobbi Brown's Touch-up Brush to pick the product up from my palm and apply to my skin. If you try to apply either product and blend with its own brush, you will end up with too much product on your skin. It takes very little product to work perfectly.

In conclusion, I love everything about Total Correction Under Eye Perfection except the color. If you are not as fair as I am, give it a try. It's a winner. If you are as fair as I am, join me in begging Edward Bess for a lighter shade.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Bobbi Brown Tinted Eye Brightener

Bobbi Brown's new Tinted Eye Brightener ($30) was inspired by requests from her fans. Bobbi’s Tinted Eye Brightener is now available in a new portable vial with a soft doe-foot wand for easy and seamless application. The soothing lightweight brightener instantly reduces the appearance of under-eye circles and evens out skin for a refreshed and flawless look.

Tinted Eye Brightener provides sheer, natural looking coverage and comes in shades of Bisque and Peach, which neutralize undereye discoloration and darkness. In addition to the new, convenient packaging, the brightener is available in two new shades (not available in its predecessor) to complement a wider range of skin tones.

I'm not sure these shade circles are perfectly representative of the actual colors. I purchased Light Bisque at the recommendation of my friends Diron and Vernon at Nordstrom Tysons Corner Center, and it is much less pink than the circle above. If the sun will come out full force today, I will get a swatch photo and attach it to this feature.

Tinted Eye Brightener is formulated with hops extract to reduce the appearance of dark circles; a blend of licorice extract, vitamin C and bamboo extract to brighten and
even out skin tone; and gentian extract to soothe the skin.

Here are Bobbi's recommendations for application. Always prep the under-eye area with a lightweight eye cream and allow it to absorb. Then apply Tinted Eye Brightener at the inner corner of the eyes and underneath, close to the lashes, using smooth strokes. Gently blend by pressing with your fingers. Use it alone or follow with a layer of Creamy Concealer. You can even use it over your concealer.

I was stunned when I applied it the first time. Suddenly, I looked bright and perky. Tinted Eye Brightener is definitely worth the small investment.

Photos courtesy of Bobbi Brown

Giorgio Armani Beauty Maestro Eraser Dark Circle Concealer

Ready for blockbuster number 2? Giorgio Armani Beauty's new Maestro Eraser Dark Circle Concealer ($40) is a category changer.

According to WWD, "beauty companies are laser-focused on the eye area." Apparently, so are women. For the 12 months ending in May, prestige eye treatments rose 10% in sales. That's pretty impressive in a relatively flat market.

Using the same revolutionary technology he rolled out with Maestro Fusion Makeup, Armani developed Maestro Eraser Dark Circle Eraser. It's an illuminating concealer that instantly brightens the eye area, gradually fades dark circles, and moisturizes the eyelids - and does it weightlessly.

A new hybrid concealer category combining skin care and makeup, with an incomparably fine texture. A therapeutic and illuminating concealer that instantly brightens the eye area, gradually fades away the blue tone of dark circles, and moisturizes eyelids to enhance the eyes and radiance of the face. The eye area glows, and the complexion's natural radiance is revived. 

As with the new foundation, I've been privileged to wear Maestro Eraser Dark Circle Concealer for the last 10 days or so. courtesy of Armani Beauty. The first time I squeezed some into my palm, a thin liquid came out of the tube. My thought was, "No way this is going to conceal." I was such a skeptic, and I was so wrong.

I did the one-eye-only test and started in the mirror in disbelief. That thin liquid brightened my eye area, evened the skin tone, blurred my imperfections, and did it all without leaving any weight or product feel on my under-eye area. I was blown away. I added a tiny bit more on the area where my nose meets my inner eye (which I wanted to brighten even more), and I was stunned again. That second coating of thin liquid disappeared, leaving a much better looking me.

An illuminating agent that Armani calls "moonlight" brightens the eye area and reflects light. An active ingredient, haloxyl, is said to visibly diminish dark circles after two months of use (certainly a realistic estimate). It works by reducing the level of pigmentation in the skin, boosting our natural ability to keep our skin pure and improving elasticity and firmness.

Armani Beauty recommends you you apply Maestro Eraser Dark Circle Concealer with your fingertips, and with this one, I agree. Gently - very gently - massage eye area for enhanced performance. My natural tendency is to pat.

The results of Armani's tests on 61 women were superb. The tests focus on short-term findings because they were only carried out for seven days.

• 93.4% of women found Maestro Eraser's texture is fine and light.
• 91.8% found it lightweight to wear and imperceptible on the skin.
• 91.8% said that it is soft on application.
• 95.1% experienced no skin stickiness.

Armani's patented Fusion Technology is responsible for this paradoxical sheer concealer that offers coverage and brightening. Its ultra-fine oil-pigment suspension perfects the complexion with a fluid so light, the only way to know you're wearing it is to look at the remarkable appearance of your face. There's no "makeup feel" or look at all. Because it offers treatment properties, I'll continue to wear it for the requisite two months to see if I can detect improvements in the skin tone around my eyes.

If you want to read some science about haloxyl, one of the active ingredients, check out this link from its maker. This concealer also includes caffeine - known to constrict and reduce puffiness - hydrators, peptides, and other state-of-the-art skin-care ingredients.

I will caution, this product isn't Dermablend. If you need serious concealer coverage (e.g., after an eye procedure or for disfiguration), this concealer won't provide an alternative. I want to set expectations properly. It's for a majority of us, but not for special cases.

It will be available in six shades this month at Giorgio Armani Beauty's Web site and at counters in fine department stores. I'd recommend you check it out. It's already in-store at some Neiman Marcus stores, just in time for Beauty Event.

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Edward Bess Platinum Concealer

With the launch of Edward Bess cosmetics and skin care at Sephora, I've been exploring. Always on the hunt for the "best concealer on earth," I decided to order Edward Bess Platinum Concealer ($38). I assumed it would elate me as much as every other Edward Bess treasure I've ordered.

Unfortunately, I'm not elated. Platinum Concealer is described as a creamy, full-coverage concealer that leaves the skin looking flawless. Here's its "bio."

The rich, yet lightweight texture of this formula blends smoothly across your skin and conceals to perfection. Fade away discolorations and brighten dark under-eye circles for the look of flawless, radiant skin. The sleek, twist-up case provides precise application with every use.

Platinum Concealer is available in four shades. I selected Ivory Nude, the lightest, described as light sand. The color is very good, but not perfect, for me. It is just a tad too yellow. Once blended, though, it's fine.

I was surprised the first time I applied the Platinum Concealer. I applied a light, slap-dash covering under my eyes (as I normally do with stick concealers) and expected to blend it with my favorite concealer brush. Naturally, I had primed my skin with a superbly hydrating eye cream. I found that the concealer didn't offer the slip to which I am accustomed, and it was hard to achieve a natural look when I attempted to blend it with my trusty brush. I resorted to my fingertips to warm the concealer to make it more blendable. I had to tug my delicate under-eye area too much to blend it.

The next time I applied it, I used a lighter hand in applying the concealer from the stick, which worked better. It still didn't have the slip I like, and I wasn't able to blend it easily with my concealer brush. Once again, I resorted to my fingertips to warm the product and finish the application. I can't agree with the words "rich" and "lightweight" in the product bio, and for me, it doesn't "blend smoothly" on the fragile skin under my eyes. It blends easily on my nose.

Once applied, Platinum Concealer does provide full coverage, as advertised. I think that's its best feature. It covers very well. I took a photo in miserable light (it was partly cloudy outside) to show you how well it covers the veins in my arm. I did not blend it for this swatch photo, however when blended it offers fabulous coverage. I hope you can see that the prominent veins on my arm are markedly less prominent above. The same will be true for the dark circles you may have under your eyes or any spots on your face that you prefer to mask.

I'd really like to hear any tips you can offer for applying Platinum Concealer. My skin is ultra-dry this time of year, so the problems I've experienced may be unique. Those with "slippery" skin (oily or combination - maybe even normal) may have an entirely different experience. I believe that because of the blendability on my nose. Still, I can't give Platinum Concealer an unqualified recommendation, as I had expected/hoped. I have concealers that blend more easily on my skin (Chantecaille, Le Métier de Beauté, Temptu, Bobbi Brown - to name a few), and for that reason I prefer them.

You can purchase Edward Bess Platinum Concealer at Edward's Web site, Bergdorf Goodman, a few Neiman Marcus counters, and, ta da, Sephora. I'm still excited about my new Edward Bess shopping at Sephora online. One so-so purchase hasn't dampened my enthusiasm.

Photo at top courtesy of Edward Bess; other photo by Best Things in Beauty

New NARS Concealer Giveaway Contest

Congratulations to Cindy!

You've seen the new NARS Concealer on all the blogs. Now you can enter to win one here! This lightweight, creamy, long-wearing concealer is the latest innovation from NARS. Many of the makeup artists I know want one.

NARS Concealer brilliantly obscures imperfections and dark spots with a creamy, vitamin-rich formula that nourishes the skin. Its long-wearing, crease-resistant, and ultra-light yet opaque formula ensures a flawless finish. Use it alone or over foundation, and it will give you that flawless look we all desire.

Here's what the NARS test participants reported.

• 97% agree that the concealer has a smooth texture and felt soft on the skin.
• 93% agree that the concealer stays in place all day.
• 90% agree that the concealer blends easily.

On top of superb test results, it's formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan. It does have the moisturizing and nourishing vitamin E. Who could resist?

I have one to give away, and the winner will be able to select the shade of her choice. There are 10 shades, from Chantilly (my shade) to the dark Cacao, so there's bound to be a perfect shade for your skin tone. Just visit NARS or Sephora to select your shade.

There are a few simple steps to enter this contest. First, all you really have to do is leave a comment on this feature telling us what shade you prefer. After you comment here, feel free to send me an e-mail at bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing an e-mail address you care about on a blog, so feel free to follow this step (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment).

You can earn extra entries. Follow this blog (through an e-mail subscription or though one of the many Google readers - see sidebar at right) to earn a second entry. You don't have to follow to enter. I want everyone to have a chance, but I also want to reward my followers. I must be able to track this entry. One easy way is to follow by e-mail subscription or to ensure that Best Things in Beauty is on your blog list if you have a Google account.

You can earn a third entry by tweeting this contest. Just make sure to include "@BTiBeauty" (without the quotes) and the contest title in your tweet and mention the giveaway title. I will tweet the contest this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry. Only one tweet will be counted as an entry. I appreciate multiple tweets, but it's not necessary.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, September 24, at midnight. The next day, I will use a random number generator (random.org) to select the winner. I will e-mail the winner on Sunday. The winner will have 48 hours to reply to my message and provide a shipping address. After 48 hours, the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. Make sure to check your e-mail - and look in your spam folder - when the contest ends.

This contest is open to anyone anywhere. Here are the terms. I will carefully pack and ship the prize (as I always do). I cannot insure the prize for overseas shipment - it's amazingly expensive to do so because of the way I have to send insured mail. If it's lost or stolen in transit, I won't be able to replace it with another. I'll do my best on this end; let's see if your mail service does right by you on the other end if we have an overseas winner. Lately, my shipping luck has improved significantly.

Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Boo-Boo Cover-Up, the Beautiful Way to Heal

Here's a unique product for you! Boo-Boo Cover-Up ($19.99) is an innovative concealer that is loaded with natural healing ingredients (aloe, chamomile, green tea, tea tree oil, and vitamin E) to conceal while you heal. You can use it in place of a Band-Aid. It's so much better looking! You can also use it as a comforting facial concealer - everywhere except the immediate eye area.

While the name sounds young, women of all ages have temporary or permanent imperfections. As we age, it takes longer for cuts to heal, making Boo-Boo Cover-Up a great option. It’s the first of its kind and perfect for summer when we bare more flesh. It was developed for the body (longer lasting, less transferring, more waterproof, and a little thicker than typical concealers), but is safe for the face. You can use it to cover acne, sun spots, cuts, bruises, and more.

Brandy Jans came up with the idea when she went to buy Neosporin for hideous bug bites on her legs. She knew that concealing and healing had to go together. She had formerly worked in product development for some of the largest specialty personal care companies in the U.S., so she had the experience to develop her own product. After more than a year of planning and development, she took the leap and recently had a "soft launch" of Boo-Boo on Amazon.

To use Boo-Boo Cover-Up, just dot it onto the area you want to cover. It comes in a single, universal medium shade that works for me and should work for most of you. Even so, light and dark shades will be launched later this year. There's no sense in trying to show you a swatch. It's intended to blend into the skin, and it does. I've been testing it on my face. It minimizes my darkest sun spots (the two that look like freckles), without being cakey or pasty the way some seriously effective cover-ups can be. It makes the lighter ones disappear. I think it's pretty cool.

Each ingredient in Boo-Boo was selected to give the product its antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and cell-renewing properties. Burn your neck with a curling iron now and then? I have. I'll have Boo-Boo at the ready next time. I haven't had any bug bites to cover since Brandy sent me Boo-Boo (gratis), but I'm ready for any little injury to my skin. Will you be? For a small investment, you'll have enough healing Boo-Boo to last for years!

Boo-Boo Cover-Up is available at Amazon and Soap.com.

Photo courtesy of Boo-Boo Cover-Up

TEMPTU Undereye Concealer

I have read so many glowing reviews of TEMPTU's Undereye Concealer ($28), I finally ordered one from Sephora. Am I glad I did! It is rave-worthy.

The diamond core effectively diffuses the appearance of lines, dark circles, and any other discoloration to impart a bright, radiant, and light-reflecting look. On top of the cosmetic value, TEMPTU's Undereye Concealer is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, which work alongside cucumber and aloe to moisturize and smooth delicate skin, fight signs of aging, and revive tired eyes.

The concealer has a creamy consistency and applies and blends like a dream - even though it's oil-free. TEMPTU did some great lab work in achieving the creamy consistency. I've studied the ingredient list and see many hydrating and protective ingredients - nice mix. I am slightly concerned (a personal issue) about the retinyl palmitate in it. My skin is extremely sensitive to retinyl palmitate. I haven't had any immediate reactions to it - and I usually do with retinyl palmitate. Because retinyl palmitate is far down in the ingredient list, I'm hoping there's not enough in an application to make my skin complain. On the nice side, there are no parabens, sulfates, or phthalates in this concealer.

I had to guess on my color selection. Knowing that online swatches can be a "roll of the dice," I chose #104, Fair. There are eight shades - a thoughtful range. The lightest shade is #102, Porcelain. Since I wouldn't call my skin porcelain, I went with Fair, and it matches perfectly. That was a pleasant surprise.

You can purchase TEMPTU Undereye Concealer from Sephora or TEMPTU. After I purchased mine, I found that TEMPTU's site has the best color swatches.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Josie Maran Argan Blend Concealer

New for Spring 2011, Josie Maran's two-shade Argan Blend Concealer ($28) provides long-lasting, repairing coverage that hides imperfections while hydrating the skin with Josie’s signature ingredient, organic argan oil. The dual shades are intended to work together to correct and conceal flaws and highlight skin tone, helping women address the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and discoloration, while concealing dark circles, blemishes, age spots, and redness.

You probably know that argan oil - a hot skin care and hair care ingredient - is produced from the argan tree from Morocco. The oil is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which have anti-aging properties. This organic ingredient is known to help and prevent dehydration, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and sebum production. It's the basis for Josie Maran's fabulous line of beauty products, many of which I love.

Argan Blend Concealer is a very nice, creamy, long-lasting concealer. I have only one problem with it. The lightest color duo is too dark for my skin. It's available in three color combinations, Sand (light), Suede (medium), and Chestnut (dark). I purchased Sand from Sephora online.

The concealer duo has two shades, one yellow-based and one pink-based. You can use them alone or mix them - theoretically to customize a shade that's perfect for your skin tone or the place on your face where you need concealer. With Sand, both shades are too dark for my skin, and they are no lighter when mixed.

It's not going to be easy for you to see that in my swatch photo. I applied the shades with a sponge-tipped applicator to try to show the shades adequately. At the top - if you can see it at all - is the yellow-toned shade. The pink one is in the middle. A mixture of the two is shown at the bottom. My photo was taken in full sun. The yellow shade is very yellow. The pink one is very pink - almost unnatural. Mixed, they are no better on my skin.

It's really too bad because I like the texture, consistency, and blendability of this concealer. I prefer concealers that are just slightly lighter than my own skin tone because they brighten while they conceal. When a concealer is too dark, it draws attention to the areas I'm trying to conceal, making them look muddy. I wish Josie Maran had introduced a color that would work for us extremely fair types.

If you are interested in Argan Blend Concealer, don't buy it online, sight unseen like I did. Go to Sephora and test it to make sure one of the three shade duos will work for you. You can also order Argan Blend Concealer online from Josie Maran's own Web site.

Photo at top courtesy of Josie Maran

Giorgio Armani Beauty Correctors and Concealers

There are two Armani Beauty products I can't live without: Master Corrector ($36) and High Precision Retouch ($36). I wrote about them almost a year ago, but I'm feeling the need to tell you about them again!

These outstanding products were recommended to me years ago by Loyd Cassler at "my Saks" in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I was skeptical - at that point - that any corrector or concealer could be "that good," but Loyd convinced me with his handiwork. Since then, I have "lived in" these products. I have also watched Loyd and Tim Quinn use them to prepare faces they are getting ready to perfect at events. The before and after difference is always remarkable.

Master Corrector
Master Corrector is a correcting concealer, meaning that it corrects for all of our possible imperfections. It comes in four shades: 1) pink, which you use to brighten yellow-toned skin; 2) peach (they call it orange, but it's really peach), which covers undereye circles and any dark patches perfectly on my skin; 3) yellow, which is perfect for correcting "excess pinkness" (think Bobbi Brown's lessons); and 4) green, which also corrects for redness and is perfect for those with red eyelids, rosacea, or just plain irritated skin. I use the peach one under my eyes (a bit counterintuitive for me), and if I am feeling a bit too red in the cheeks, the green one is perfect.

Although these correctors come with a built-in brush, I find that the best application is very light and achieved by brushing the corrector on my palm and then using the Armani concealer brush to move the product to my face. Loyd taught me to use light strokes to apply the corrector and blend it down toward and into my foundation. He cautioned not to swipe back and forth horizontally under the eye because this causes product build-up in my little wrinkles (yes, I do have them, and they certainly don't look great with any kind of "filler" in them!).

What's amazing about these color correctors is that they "lose" their color once you apply them. Instead of peach under eyes or green cheeks, you will end up with bright skin and be ready to go. You can apply - again very lightly - the High Precision Retouch right over them.


High Precision Retouch
High Precision Retouch is a light-reflecting concealer that adds that same radiance that Armani foundations provide. It comes in four shades. My skin demands #2, the lightest one. The concealer contains "light reflecting pearls," vitamin E (the ultimate skin vitamin in my book), and moisturizers. This concealer is perfect for anyone with normal or dry skin. When used around the eyes, it brightens them and adds a subtle pop. You can use this concealer as an eye shadow primer. It's also great to apply around the mouth to brighten the area and enhance the lip color (either your own or the lipstick you are wearing). Just add a bit over the cupid's bow and right under the middle of your lower lip.

Again, apply this product with a concealer brush and a very light touch. A little goes a long way. Use short brush strokes and blend as you go. You will love the results!

All-Time Favorites
These products aren't new. I like to write about makeup that works, regardless of its release date. Sure, I'll be tempted by the latest and greatest of other lines, and no doubt I'll buy some of them. When makeup is this good, I'll always come back. These products have earned a place of honor on my all-time favorites list. You can purchase Armani Beauty makeup at select Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and Bloomindale's locations and the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Laura Mercier Under Eye Perfector

At first glance, Laura Mercier's new Under Eye Perfectors ($22) look really dark and strange, but I'll bet that one of them will work for you. Try them in person to select the right shade.

Available in two highly pigmented shades, Orange/Yellow and Mauve/Rose, the unique cream corrector/perfector is designed to help conceal, awaken, and provide complete coverage for even the most intense dark eye area. Most of you know that Laura Mercier specializes in mixing concealer shades to achieve just the right color for your skin. The new Under Eye Perfectors are an extra tool in the toolkit. They are intended to be used only under the eyes. They have a lightweight, emollient formula that won't cake or settle into any fine lines. Even so, I found that only a tiny dab is needed.

I picked up one at Nordstrom and remarked to Chris Coles that it looked really dark. He demonstrated two ways for me to use the corrector: mixed with concealer to counteract any redness in my skin (the directions actually say to use it under your concealer) and placed over foundation in place of a brightener. Just a little dab worked, and I found the effect to be exactly what Laura Mercier must have had in mind!

The color descriptions on the Laura Mercier Web site are counterintuitive. Mauve/Rose is described as being for fair-to-medium skin to cancel pink/purple circles. Orange/Yellow is for olive-to-deep skin tones to cancel purple/gray dark circles. Go figure! That's why you just have to try these shades in person to see which one works for you.

What did I find? The right shade for you will instantly brighten your under-eye area, hydrate, and "perfect" your skin tone. These are worth checking out. Even if you don't need the Under Eye Perfector every day, you will be happy you have it when you need it!

You can find Under Eye Perfector at Nordtrom, Saks, Neiman Marcus, and at the Laura Mercier Web site. This is one product I'd recommend you try in person.

Photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier's Great News for Women with Darker Skin

Women with medium to dark skin often have a tough time finding foundation, tinted moisturizer, concealer, and other makeup items that have to match skin tone. Laura Mercier has introduced some new shades to make it easier for them. There's a whole new array of color at the Laura Mercier counter at Nordstrom!

There are three new shades available in each of the following products.

• Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20
• Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20
• Secret Concealer

In both tinted moisturizer formulas ($42), there are three new shades: Bisque, which fills a gap that makeup artists had filled by mixing shades; Caramel for lightly tanned and olive complexions; and Mocha for deep complexions with yellow and red tones. Mocha is a welcome "sister" to Walnut, adding a new dimension to the dark shades available.

In Secret Concealer ($22), there are three new shades, all darker than the original offerings. Shade #4 is described as a true neutral beige for those with neutral yellow undertones. Shade #5 is described as warm honey for medium yellow and golden skin tones. Shade #6 is targeted toward deep complexions with rich, warm undertones.

You can see the swatches of all of these at the Laura Mercier Web site. I saw the shades at Nordstrom this week, and I was impressed by the range now available to women with medium to dark skin. The new shades will make Laura Mercier's respected tinted moisturizer and concealer products even more popular. If you have a hard time matching your skin - as some of my friends do - you should check these out in person. They are in stores now.

Photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Bobbi Brown Tinted Eye Brightener

The new spring makeup has started to arrive in stores. It's nirvana for a makeup addict. Today, I went to Nordstrom and had a great time looking and buying. Bobbi Brown's Tinted Eye Brightener ($38) caught my eye right away. The new counter display features all eight shades of this "Touche Éclat-like" concealer-brightener.

Bobbi’s Tinted Eye Brightener, formerly available in pots, is now available as a portable pen. Just a twist the bottom to "push" the product into the built-in brush. This lightweight concealer instantly brightens the under-eye area and refreshes your concealer or makeup if used mid-day.

This unique formula combines lightweight coverage with the latest in skin care technology to instantly give the eye area a brighter, more refreshed look. Among the ingredients are botanicals, dimethicone, an emollient, and titanium dioxide (a sunscreen). If you are looking for a full-coverage concealer, you would probably want to wear this over your regular concealer.

The shade selection is great. Bobbi Brown doesn't assume that everyone is either light, medium, or dark. She's so great! My skin is very fair, so I tried two shades, with the help of Chris Coles, my absolute favorite Nordstrom beauty rep. My choice was between Light Bisque, which has a hint of pink in it, and Porcelain Peach, which has, as you can guess, a hint of peach. Porcelain Peach was Chris's immediate choice, and it was mine also after I saw that it would counteract, not enhance, any redness in my skin. Good for this time of year. Nordstrom's Web site has the best swatches of the colors I've seen online.

This new eye brightener will take its place next to my Touche Éclat for touch-ups during the day or in the evening. Working hard can make you look tired! I'll have fun comparing them.

Tinted Eye Brightener is or will soon be available at all Bobbi Brown counters and wherever Bobbi's products are sold online. You can check it out at Nordstrom.com and Bobbi Brown's Web site.

Photo courtesy of Bobbi Brown

An Oldie but Goodie - YSL Touche Éclat

YSL's Touche Éclat ($40) has been in my makeup bag since it was introduced. It goes everywhere with me. Naturally, I also have one in my bathroom makeup stash. This is the best pencil-sized highlighter I have ever used (and I think I've used all of them).

Available in four shades, Touche Éclat erases fatigue and adds light, coverage, luminosity, and radiance - wherever you choose to use it. You can use it over makeup or powder - it blends beautifully - and it won't cake. Of course, you can use it under makeup too, just as you might use any concealer. It always makes you look better - rested and radiant.

I use this best-selling pen-brush around my eye area, but you can use it anywhere you need some help: in the hollow of the chin, the contour of the lips, the sides of the nose, or under the brow bone.

This is a cult product, and I am a full-fledged member of the cult. I recommend Touche Éclat to everyone! As Sephora says, "Once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it."

You can purchase Touche Éclat from YSL's Web site, Sephora, or at major department stores.

Photo courtesy of YSL Cosmetics.

Creme de la Mer - The Radiant Concealer SPF 25

The new Creme de la Mer Radiant Concealer with SPF 25 ($65) was a must-have. La Mer makes most of my miracle products, and the idea of a new "radiant" concealer was too good to be true. So, I headed over to Saks as soon as I learned that it was in stock.

Advertised to instantly even the skin's appearance while adding radiance, the concealer promised a lot. Not only that, here's what added to its allure.

• Gemstones capture light energy to camouflage dark circles and blemishes, optically erasing imperfections to create a smooth, even finish
• Precious marine and plant extracts help reduce the appearance of undereye puffiness, lines, and wrinkles and minimize pores
• Redness and discoloration are diminished as skin is continuously calmed and soothed
• Fine layers provide buildable coverage
• Skin stays naturally flawless all day

A brush is included with the concealer. It is available in three shades: light, medium, and dark. I selected light with a bit of trepidation, given how dark it looked in the pan. However, it was indeed light and added a light, bright look to my undereye skin.

So, after a few days of use, I like it, but I'm not sure I love it. I found (at least on me) that it didn't apply well with a brush. Even with an eye cream under it, I found it hard to blend and ended up with a few teeny tiny balls of product that I had to brush off and a bit of "sinking" into fine lines. Switched to fingertips. Much better! It blended well and I was able to gently pat it into my skin with the warmth of my fingertips. So, that's the way I will use it going forward. I haven't tried it yet on my nose and surrounding skin, so I may get the hang of the brush application eventually.

Did it brighten my undereye area? Yes. Was the color good? Yes. Does it have buildable coverage? Yes. Does it offer coverage without an artificial look? Yes. Did it last all day? Yes. Did it diminish fine lines? No, and I really didn't expect it to do that. That's a tall order for a color product.

I'll report in again after a few more weeks of use. For now, I'd give it an 8 on a scale of 1-10.

You can purchase the Radiant Concealer at La Mer, Saks, Neiman Marcus, and other department stores.

Photo courtesy of La Mer.

Clinique All About Eyes Concealer

Clinique's All About Eyes Concealer ($15.50) does its job well for a very reasonable price. I have been using this under-eye concealer for several years, and I can give it a definite thumbs up.

Described by Clinique as a liquid concealer, it's certainly a thick liquid. More like cream in a tube, the concealer provides great coverage and moisturizes as it provides camouflauge for dark circles and other annoyances. It also helps reduce puffiness. It lasts all day on me, and unless I put on too much, which is easily remedied with a brush, Q-tip, or my finger, it does not settle into any fine "smile lines."

I put a tiny amount into my palm and then pat it on with my fingertip, blending as I go. I use it over eye cream, but I make sure to apply the eye cream about an hour earlier than the concealer when I can. However, I have mixed it with eye cream with good results. When I put on my foundation after the concealer, I use the brush or sponge to blend them together so there is no line of demarcation.

I don't use this concealer over my eyes - just under. I use an eyeshadow primer over, so there's no need. I also think it may be a bit too moisturizing to use as a primer.

Available in seven shades from Clinique.com or at department stores, it suits all but the darkest skin. This is one of my favorite Clinique products, so I always buy two when I need one. It seems that everything I like gets a makeover at some point, and I want to be prepared in case it disappears. I like it that much!

Photo courtesy of Clinique.

Armani Everything - Concealers

Master Corrector

Today, I'll tell you about the two concealers I can't live without: Master Corrector and High Precision Retouch. These outstanding products were recommended to me by Loyd Cassler, the Armani specialist at "my Saks" in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I was skeptical that any concealer could be "that good," but Loyd convinced me with his handiwork. Since then, I have lived in these concealers.

Master Corrector is a correcting concealer, meaning that it corrects for all of our possible imperfections. It comes in four shades: 1) pink, which you use to brighten yellow-toned skin; 2) peach (they call it orange, but it's really peach), which covers undereye circles and any dark patches perfectly on my skin; 3) yellow, which is perfect to correct for "excess pinkness" (think Bobbi Brown's lessons); and 4) green, which also corrects for redness and is perfect for those with red eyelids, rosacea, or just plain irritated skin. I use the peach one under my eyes (a bit counterintuitive for me), and if I am feeling a bit too red in the cheeks, the green one is perfect.

Although these concealers come with a built-in brush, I find that the best application is very light and achieved by brushing the concealer on my palm and then using the Armani concealer brush to move the product to my face. Loyd taught me to use light strokes to apply the concealer and blend it down toward and into my foundation. He cautioned not to swipe back and forth horizontally under the eye because this causes product build-up in my little wrinkles (yes, I do have them, and they certainly don't look great with any kind of "filler" in them!).

What's amazing about these color correctors is that they "lose" their color once you apply them. Instead of peach under eyes or green cheeks, you will end up with bright skin and be ready to go. You can apply - again very lightly - the High Precision Retouch right over them.


High Precision Retouch

High Precision Retouch is a light-reflecting concealer that adds that same radiance that Armani foundations provide. It comes in four shades. My skin demands #2, the lightest one. The concealer contains "light reflecting pearls," Vitamin E (the ultimate skin vitamin in my book), and moisturizers. This concealer is perfect for anyone with normal to dry skin. When used around the eyes, it brightens them and adds a subtle pop. It's also great to apply around the mouth to brighten the area and enhance the lip color (either your own or the lipstick you are wearing). Just add a bit over the cupid's bow and right under the middle of your lower lip.

Again, apply this product with a concealer brush and a very light touch. A little goes a long way. Use short brush strokes and blend as you go. You will love the results!

These products aren't new. I like to write about makeup that works, regardless of its release date. Sure, I'll be tempted by the latest and greatest of other lines, and no doubt I'll buy some of them. But I'll always come back to my long-term favorites, and these concealers have earned a place of honor on that list. You can purchase them at select Saks Fifth Avenue locations, the Giorgio Armani Web site, the Nordstrom Web site, and a few new store locations - making them more accessible than ever.

Next up for Armani Everything: I'll tell you about the miraculous Fluid Sheer.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom.