EVE LOM Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15

EVE LOM has a cult following, with dedicated skin-care customers who will form the perfect customer base for its new "color" products. The company has stepped forward with products to ensure radiant color for the face.

At EVE LOM, we believe anyone can achieve a beautiful radiant complexion through straightforward and effective skin care. Whatever your age, skin type or skin concern, proper cleansing and gentle exfoliation enable your skin cells to regenerate quickly and create a vital receptive base for beauty products to work at their best. So that’s the EVE LOM core philosophy: perfectly cleansed, exfoliated skin is the key to a glowing complexion.

Two Neiman Marcus stores, in addition of EVE LOM's traditional homes, have received the new products. I was excited that one of those Neiman Marcus stores is the one at Mazza Gallerie. I was even more excited when I saw that they placed the new EVE LOM counter next to the Le Métier de Beauté counter.

I wanted to try a few of the new products. One I selected immediately was Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 ($55). Here is the scoop from EVE LOM.

Discover everyday healthy radiance, with the deep-down hydration and tinted coverage of this rich, silky formula. Providing a soft, "no makeup" finish, it blends easily while brightening actives help reduce the appearance of pigment spots. All the time you’re wearing it, powerful fruit stem cell extracts and sodium hyaluronate deliver a steady stream of intense moisture to the skin’s lower layers, while vitamins C and E protect and nourish, and SPF 15 guards against harmful UV rays The skin’s natural elasticity and suppleness are restored, for immediate luminosity, and a long-term smoother complexion.

Benefits

• Hydrated, tinted coverage, for makeup-free radiance
• Pigment spots are lightened and reduced
• Skin is intensely hydrated, nourished, and repaired for youthful elasticity
• Luxurious, silky formula blends evenly and easily
• UVA/UVB and antioxidant protection
• Actively beneficial for all skin types

What are the key active ingredients?

• Moisturising BerryFlux Vita stimulates the skin’s natural hyaluronic acid to lock in hydration. Rich in antioxidants, it strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and helps preserve collagen and elastin for suppleness and tone.
• Brightening Sand Lily Extract has skin brightening properties that treat dark spots and improve skin uniformity by acting on cellular and neural levels to inhibit the overproduction of melanin and prevent it traveling to the skin’s surface. This results in a surface reduction in pigment spots, without lightening the surrounding skin.

I selected the shade Ivory at the counter. Alabaster appeared to be way too light. I hope my swatch photos, taken in full sun, will show you that Ivory as a good choice for me. I applied a swatch at the top of my arm, without blending it, then I took my finger and blended the bottom third of the swatch downward on my arm. I used my finger.

I hope you can see that Ivory was the perfect shade for me. It is more yellow than my skin, which erases any excess redness. You can see that on the heavy swatch at the top of my arm.When blended, it disappears. It evens my complexion and provides some protection from the sun's rays at the same time. It is hydrating, which I love, and it does leave that promised radiance on my skin, but with a no-makeup look.

Ecru, the next shade "up," was too pink for me. Ivory is perfect. There are 12 shade choices - unusual for a tinted moisturizer - giving everyone plenty of options to find the perfect shade.

EVE LOM recommends that you apply Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 with your fingertips, and I agree. If you must use an applicator, I'd suggest a sponge.

I'm pleased with EVE LOM purchase #1. I have two more to show you. I don't have photos yet, and rain is predicted for the next few days. I'll capture them as soon as possible. I love the concealer.

In the meantime, if you are interested in trying the new EVE LOM color products, check them out at the EVE LOM Web site. Then call Michael Reinhardt, who is minding the "store" until a new representative comes onboard. You can reach him at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. He will help you select the right shade.

Photos at top courtesy of EVE LOM; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint

When I ordered from Jouer recently, the company sent me my choice of shade in Luminizing Moisture Tint ($38), a Best of Beauty Award Winner, selected by Allure in 2011. I was thrilled because I had wanted to try this lightweight moisturizing tint. 

Said to even out imperfections and fade the appearance of fine lines with its light-diffusing multi-mineral formula, Luminizing Moisture Tint also delivers SPF 20 protection from UVA and UVB rays. Ginseng and gingko biloba leaf extract deliver antioxidants to the skin to promote a healthy complexion. This moisture tint is fragrance-free, oil-free, and advertised as perfect for all skin types.

It's available in a wide range of seven shades - from those that are perfect for fair skin like mine to deep bronze for tan or dark complexions. Jouer clearly realizes that we like options. When I read the descriptions, I realized that four might work for me. Limited to two samples, I selected Opal and Pearl.

Opal is described as a shimmering tint for porcelain to fair complexions. While I'm not porcelain, I am fair. It looked like it would work for me.

Pearl appeared to be perfect. Described as a shimmering tint for fair complexions, I knew it would work. You can see in these little blob photos from Jouer's Web site that Pearl appears to be a tad darker - definitely a better shade for summer.

I guessed correctly, although I have to admit that I really really want to try Blush and Golden too. I took swatch photos of Opal and Pearl in full, late-morning sunshine. I applied them with my fingertips and I did blend them into my skin a bit - not completely, but enough to see how they would look on my face. It's always a little risky to try to show such sheer, light tints in photos. Sorry about my little broken blood vessel. It will absorb soon enough.

I tried to blend the swatches evenly (i.e., the same amount of blending). Pearl is shown at the top of my arm, with Opal below. I hope you can see that Pearl is darker, and it carries a golden hue. Opal is the lightest - as advertised - and it has a definite yellow undertone.

Both shades add a beautiful dewy gleam to the skin. They leave behind a fair amount of moisture, but not so much that any foundation or other products you may apply over them will slide off. It was designed to be a primer. You can certainly wear Luminizing Moisture Tint without foundation if you want to have only light coverage, making this product a beautiful option for summer.

I have purchased many tinted moisturizers in the last few years, and Jouer's may be one of my top five. When I was at Jouer's Web site a few minutes ago, I received an offer to sign up to be an Insider, and I received a 50% off discount coupon moments later via e-mail. I will definitely be ordering Pearl, along with a few of Jouer's new Lip  Sheers - well, maybe all of them.

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

Edward Bess Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector in Light

I'm a bit late to this party, but I didn't want spring to pass before I featured Edward Bess's relatively new Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector ($56). I purchased Light, one of four available shades. Described as a face cream that imparts a healthy radiance, Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfection is a multifunction product.

Not a foundation, not a tinted moisturizer, not even a BB cream, it’s an "EB cream" that makes everything better. Edward Bess masters the look of glowing skin in a natural finish. Its weightless feel glides right on with special light-diffusers that impart a dewy luminosity, but still look like your natural complexion - only better.

I didn't know what to expect from it. Sabrina at The Beauty Look Book gave it a thumbs up while wishing it was available in more shades. She found herself between a Light and Medium. I am a "perfect Light."

Here are two swatch photos of the Light shade, both taken in full sun. I dispensed a small amount of the product at the top or my arm. Then I dispensed the same amount below and blended it with my fingers. I did not blend it into my skin entirely because it would have disappeared in the photos.

The color is fairly neutral, but I think it leans ever-so-slightly yellow. That's fine with me because yellow neutralizes any redness in my skin. When apply it, it doesn't appear yellow. It look like my skin. I see no line of demarcation at my jaw line when I apply it to my face.

To my eyes, Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector is a lightweight foundation. It is not advertised as containing a sunscreen, so I think that gives it a demerit. It does contain titanium dioxide, but apparently not in sufficient quantity to provide a legitimate SPF rating.

When I apply it, I see overall smoothing of my skin tone with sheer coverage. It does leave a "feel" of hydration on my skin, but only to the touch. It looks very natural, as advertised, but I don't see that it adds much radiance to my skin. That's a tall order for dry skin, and it's advertised for normal or normal-to-dry skin types. If I shine a light on my skin, I see a luminous quality. In normal indoor and outdoor lighting, I do not see a dewy finish.

If you look hard, you may see a chalkiness in my photos. That's how it feels when first applied. That feeling goes away quickly, but I find it curious. One might expect that from a foundation containing a physical sunscreen, but this one doesn't. Perhaps it's the titanium dioxide?

It was made in Taiwan, a subject of much conversation of late. I'm not sure I would have ordered it had I known.

If it's not a BB cream (no sunscreen), and it's not a foundation, I'm not sure what it is. I have better foundations, better luminizing products, and better moisturizers. It's too thick to be a primer (in my opinion), so I can't find a compelling case for using it - or purchasing again. That's too bad. Edward Bess products seldom disappoint me.

You can find Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector, where I purchased mine, at Sephora and Bergdorf Goodman, along with a few Neiman Marcus stores and, of course, the Edward Bess Web site. I really want to try his new Complexion Correcting Black Sea Mousse Foundation, which looks more intriguing. You can find that at QVC, and it was made in the U.S.

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

Guerlain Lingerie de Peau Beauty Booster Invisible Skin-Fusion Multi-Perfecting Makeup with Broad Protection SPF 30, Introduced with the Terra Ora Collection for Summer 2013

Yes, another BB cream has been introduced, but this time, it's made by Guerlain. That made me perk up and pay attention.

I have to admit I've always found the category a bit baffling, so I've skipped it. When the name BB cream was first introduced, it meant Blemish Balm or Blemish Base, and it was obviously targeted toward a younger audience - one concerned about acne. Once cosmetics companies realized the market was even larger than they could have hoped, it morphed to Beauty Balm or Beauty Booster or any number of other explanations. Today, we should understand that BB cream is promoted as an all-in-one facial cosmetic product to replace serum, moisturizer, primer, foundation, and sunblock. It can be worn alone, over serum and moisturizer as a light foundation, and under powder, depending on the desired amount of coverage.

Guerlain's Lingerie de Peau Beauty Booster Invisible Skin-Fusion Multi-Perfecting Makeup SPF 30 PA+++ ($51) piqued my interest the moment I read the training materials. This new BB cream is a multi-action skin perfector that gently enhances the beauty of the complexion for a sheer, barely there result. Since it was made by Guerlain, it had to be something I would love. Guerlain is one of my favorite beauty brands.

Here's what I knew about it before I purchased it. Note that color correction (just introduced by several companies and labeled CC cream) is one of the features of Lingerie de Peau Beauty Booster Invisible Skin-Fusion Multi-Perfecting Makeup with broadscreen SPF 30.

Freshness and Lightweight Texture. It has a soft-fusion texture thanks to the bio-fusion micro-mesh "foundation" created by linen and silk fibers. Designed to boost the natural beauty of the skin.

Hydration. Hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid, nature's sponge. Will result in plumped-up skin.

Color Correction. Color corrective pigments work in harmony with every complexion. This property will "unify" your skin tone.

Sun Protection. SPF 30 and PA+++ offer UVA/UVB protection to protect your skin's natural beauty and youthful appearance - or prevent further damage.

Guerlain says the benefits are unifying, moisturizing, and protective. It will correct your complexion in an instant for naturally beautiful skin that appears to be perfect. Guerlain's satisfaction tests on 30 women yielded the following results.

• The skin is fresh and beautiful all day long = 97%
• The complexion is even and imperfections are corrected = 97%
• The skin is smoothed = 88%
• Softer texture = 88%
• Lightweight texture = 91%
• Non-oily texture = 97%

I purchased the light shade (#01). Right now. only two shades are available: light and medium (#02). I love the tube. It has a pump top, and I can dispense a very small amount to avoid waste.

Foundations and tinted moisturizers are very hard to photograph. I took swatch photos by placing a dot at the top of my arm and barely blending another dot below, using my fingers. This shade is so perfect for my skin tone that it would have disappeared if I had blending it on my arm any further.

 

Unblended, it looks a bit yellow, and in truth it is. I agree with Bobbi Brown that yellow-based foundation shades are best for almost all of us. They certainly erase redness. When I blend this product into my face as I apply it, it disappears! The amazing part is that it can't be seen by the naked eye, but it covers imperfections and redness. I love it!

It becomes one with my skin. It proves all the coverage I need, along with sunscreen and moisture. How good does it get?

The active sunscreen ingredients follow.

• Octinoxate 3.74 %
• Oxybenzone 1.00 %
• Titanium Dioxide 3.55 %

Most of us get carried away with Guerlain's color collections. They deserve the attention. So does this new Beauty Booster. If either shade is a good match for your skin, you're going to love it.

This new BB product (which appears to be part CC) is available now at select locations of Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, and Bergdorf Goodman - and of course at the Guerlain boutiques. Guerlain's boutiques always get products first. If you want to order from Guerlain, give Rhonda a call at (702) 732-7008. 

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Guerlain Terracotta Skin from the 2013 Terracotta Collection

Delivering the corrective coverage of a foundation with the sheerness of a powder, Guerlain's Terracotta Skin ($51) allows for a flawless complexion in one step. The silky, lightweight cream powder is composed of soft-focus elastic particles that reflect light in all directions making enlarged pores, fine lines, and other imperfections less noticeable. Apply one dab of this sheer, velvety foundation and smooth it over your entire face. The result is unified, corrected skin enhanced with a healthy glow.

Terracotta Skin is available in three shades.

• 01 Nude (new)
• 02 Blonde
• 03 Brunette

I had to try the new 01 Nude shade, so I was thrilled when I saw it at Neiman Marcus. 
When I tried it in the store, I was impressed. The color was perfect. Since I purchased it, I have worn (and examined) it indoors and out, and I'm stunned at how perfect the shade is for pale faces.

I consider Terracotta Skin a tinted moisturizer that offers light coverage. When you look at my swatch photos, you will see a teeny tiny cut on my arm that is visible through the blended product. It is sheer.

What thrills me about Terracotta Skin is that it's a "bronzing tinted moisturizer" that doesn't look like mud on my skin. I'll be wearing it on all of those spring, summer, and autumn days when I want some color, but don't want to look like John Boehner.

I took my swatch photos in full sun after applying a small amount of the product to my arm and blending it with my finger. You may wonder why I bothered with photos. I wanted you to see the subtle warmth and color it adds to my skin. No mud, no fake look - just a pretty tint.

Crazy to try this photography sleight of hand with such a sheer tint. I can see it. I hope you can too. Focus on how nice and gentle this tint appears on my pale skin. No one will look at me and think fake. It looks natural.

I love this little, wondrous tube! The gurus at Guerlain were on top of their game when they realized how many of us pale faces would love this product with a lighter shades. Like a contented cat, I'm purring.

Guerlain's 2013 Terracotta Collection will be available beginning in March at select locations of Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, Bloomingdale's, and Bergdorf Goodman. My local Neiman Marcus stores received the collection early - perhaps because of Beauty Event.

I talked to the Guerlain boutique in Las Vegas yestserday. They would be pleased to take your reservation for this piece or anything else from the collection. They hope to receive it this week. Give Beauty Advisor Rhonda Hethcoat (or anyone there if you can't reach her) a call at (702) 732-7008. They will put you on the reserve list.

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

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30/PA+++

I decided I would try the new NARS tinted moisturizer before it even hit the stores. Its reputation had preceded it. Every review I read - before and after its launch - was laudatory. Bloggers loved it. So did their readers. I'll skip to the bottom line. My reaction is mixed.

I purchased NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30/PA+++ ($42) from Sephora. The only question in my mind was whether the lightest of nine shades, Finland, would match my skin. It's described as light, with a neutral balance of pink and yellow undertones. That sounded absolutely perfect for me, and I was too lazy to zoom up to Nordstrom to test the shade. It might be more difficult for someone whose skin color is in the middle tones. Those little square color representations look very similar, but the descriptions are surprisingly accurate.

The good news is that Finland is, indeed, perfect in tone for my skin color. While it looks a tad yellow as I start to apply it, the shade is perfect when blended. It evens my skin, takes out the central redness, and has enough pigment to blur the imperfections on my face. Tinted moisturizers have two (three, actually, if you count SPF) major features that contribute to my impression as I consider them: color/coverage and hydration. NARS passed the test on color and coverage (with a slight exception described below).

The bad news is that this NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer isn't much of a moisturizer for my dry skin. The first time I used it, I struggled to blend it, even though I had applied Armani Crema Nera serum a half-hour before. It felt chalky and dry, and that's how it looked.  The next time, I applied an extremely emollient moisturizer under it and that worked pretty well. Why, though, would anyone wear a tinted moisturizer that requires a base of another moisturizer? It defeats the purpose. I was caught off guard by the hydration failure. I should have read the marketing description, which follows.

Infused with lush, naturally derived ingredients, this lightweight tinted moisturizer immediately helps thirsty skin feel hydrated. It has been proven to help reduce the appearance of discoloration and dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation for a clearer and brighter complexion in just four weeks. Oil-free and luxurious, it obscures the appearance of lines, wrinkles, pores, and other imperfections. SPF 30/ PA+++ adds a translucent veil of protection. 

Natural polysaccharides from Moorea island in French Polynesia hydrate, condition, and help encourage natural cell renewal. Mineral-rich seawater uniquely revitalizes and adds key minerals back into the skin. Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30/PA+++ helps improve the skin's overall condition. Soft and smooth to the touch, skin looks natural and glowing. This dermatologist-tested product is free of oil and synthetic fragrances and is non-comedogenic. 

There's my tip-off, in both paragraphs. This tinted moisturizer is oil-free, which means it's suitable for those with oily skin, will probably work just fine for those with combination skin, but doesn't provide enough moisture for dry skin. Normally, oil-free products are not the best for me - or anyone whose skin is dry to very dry and blemish-free.

According to NARS, 84% of women who tried it felt their skin was more radiant and luminous. I found that surprising. It leaves a very matte finish on my skin, and I see nothing that could be described as radiance when I'm wearing it.

Whether or not I've prepped my face before I apply Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer, I don't like the coverage on my nose, which, on close examination, is uneven because the pigment sinks into the pores. It also requires careful blending around my under-eye area, where it settles into fine lines.

I have no doubt that there's a huge market for NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30/PA+++. It offers UVA and UVB protection (albeit at a relatively low level of SPF 30); it's available in many shades, an acknowledgement of the realities of our varied skin tones; and it's readily available at Sephora, NARS counters, and online at NARS. Women with dry skin might want to look elsewhere. I'll be featuring a few other tinted moisturizers in the next few weeks that are better choices for dry types.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

New: Ultraflesh Tinted Moisturizer

Utraflesh has extended its all-star line-up with a new Tinted Moisturizer ($34) that offers illuminating and priming properties. The creamy and silky tinted moisturizer helps give the skin an ultra-radiant complexion in any kind of light.

With a look that's natural to match any skin tone, the anti-aging formula contains brown algae extract, tocotrienol, and oligo-peptides to provide coverage of skin imperfections and help skin look glowingly beautiful all day and all night.

I ordered Ultraflesh's new Tinted Moisturizer in Diaphanous, the lightest of six shades. I absolutely love it when I find a tinted moisturizer that is offered without the assumption that one shade fits all skin tones. When it arrived, I immediately applied it and marveled at how seamlessly the lightweight formula blended into my skin. I had found a winner.

Ultraflesh's Tinted Moisturizer contains light diffusing particles that give me an all-over air-brushed look and a glow. When I'm wearing it, I don't feel a need for foundation. I feel dewy, and there's enough pigment in the moisturizer to cover the redness in my face. When I do apply foundation over it, I never see "product build-up."

This product is made with respect for our skin, our environment, and the animals with whom we share our planet. It doesn't contain castor oil, animal by-products, gluten, GMO, or toxins. There are no parabens, sulfates, synthethic fragrances, synthetic dyes, or phthlates. It is preserved with naturally derived ingredients.

Ultraflesh (the company) was inspired by the desire to elevate mundane beauty routines with a high-fashion collection of beauty products made with innovative designs and infused with even more innovative technology. I have fallen in love with every Ultraflesh product I've purchased from Sephora, the exclusive retailer.

I've labeled Ultraflesh a smashing success. The brand deserves more exposure! Check it out the next time you are surfing Sephora.

Update 9/22: I promised a swatch photo of Diaphanous if I could ever get one. The sun made a temporary appearance this morning, so I put a dab of the shade totally unblended at the top of my arm and a partially blended shade below. If I had blended it totally and properly, you wouldn't have seen anything in a photo. As I described in the comments, it leans yellow, not pink, so it covers the redness in my face.

Photo at top courtesy of Sephora; swatch photo by Best Things in Beauty

Dr.Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++

Dr.Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++ ($39) is a protective tinted moisturizer that perfects the appearance of skin while protecting it from the sun and environmental factors. A moisturizer, sunscreen, tint, and treatment serum, this all-in-one product also offers advanced brightening properties with arbutin, one of its advanced ingredients. Arbutin is extracted from the bearberry plant and inhibits tyrosinase, thus preventing the formation of melanin, which darkens the skin.

Ideal under makeup, its natural-looking tinted coverage minimizes the appearance of imperfections and evens skin tone. Antioxidants, biopeptides, and adenosine (effective skin-care ingredients) protect the skin from the sun and free radicals while restoring firmness and elasticity. It's a one-step marvel.

In May, I had featured Dr.Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++, similar in its mission to protect our skin, but with lower UVA and UVB protection levels. Dr.Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++ is a little more expensive, but, in addition to the sun protection, offers a little more coverage and offers more expensive skin-care ingredients. It comes in a light tint that should blend into most skin tones (probably not chocolate-colored skin). The tint is slightly darker than the Water Fuse Beauty Balm, making it wearable by more women (or men). Both of them blend into my skin perfectly; they seem to adapt to skin tone.

It's a great tinted moisturizer for summer. The oil-free "balm," which is really a light cream, includes sunscreen ingredients that protect the skin from a broad range of UVA and UVB exposure. After a quick application, my skin is left looking smooth, perfect, and natural. The tint is almost imperceptible, but it does even my skin tone and take out the red in the center of my face. It won't cover stubborn marks, like dark sun spots or active acne, but it does "dull" their appearance.

I love makeup-free days on the weekends, but I'll always make an exception for a tinted moisturizer. I purchased several this summer, and I'm slowly testing them. Dr.Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 PA+++ is the second I put to the test after it was sent to me by the company, and it passed admirably. It did everything I expected. Feels good too - moisture without any oil slick that would be too heavy on a hot day.

The ingredients offer advanced brightening and anti-aging power and firm and hydrate the skin. The peptides, almost de rigueur in skin care today, will help restore the suppleness your skin may be losing. If you wear this product under your foundation, you'll find you need less foundation to achieve a perfect look. The sun protection comes from relatively high concentrations titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which makes it fairly amazing that it feels so light on the skin.

Please remember that even if you are working inside all day, you need a sunscreen. You will be exposed to the sun's rays even through windows. Dr. Jart offers us a way to treat our skin and wear an effective sun screen in one fell swoop, with none of the nasty qualities some associate with sunscreens. This one is perfect for those who can't wear chemical sunscreens.

Dr. Jart, a dermatologist, offers a line of cosmeceuticals. The doctor's approach to product development is based on use of scientifically certified ingredients. Each formula is tried and tested to ensure safety for all skin types - even hypersensitive skin - so everyone can experience the "art of skincare with Dr. Jart." So far, I'm impressed by both products I've tried.

Next time you browse at Sephora, see what you think. Let us know, please!

Photos courtesy of Sephora and factoidz.com

Dr.Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++

If you are anything like me, a product will catch your eye at Sephora, and you've added it to your cart before you "lose the idea." That was how I came to own Dr.Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++ ($32).

A moisturizer, sunscreen, and treatment serum, this all-in-one product that also hides imperfections because it has a light tint. Made with 50% water, Dr.Jart's Advanced Water Bead Technology helps hydrate and maintain healthy moisture for a dewy, fresh look. Like a drink for your skin, once applied, tiny droplets of water appear before being quickly absorbed, generating an instant soothing and cooling effect. They must be really tiny, because I don't see those little beads of water. What I see is even skin, while I feel a nice level of hydration. I know that sunscreen is offering protection too.

It's a great tinted moisturizer for summer. The oil-free "balm," which is really a light cream, includes sunscreen ingredients that protect the skin from a broad range of UVA and UVB radiation. After a quick application, my skin is left looking smooth, perfect, and natural. The tint is almost imperceptible, but it does even my skin tone. It won't cover stubborn marks, like dark sun spots or active acne.

I love makeup-free days on the weekends, but I'll always make an exception for a tinted moisturizer. I've purchased three for this summer, and I'm slowly testing them. Water Fuse Beauty Balm is the first I put to the test, and it passed. It did everything I expected. Feels good too - moisture without any oil slick that would be too heavy on a warm day.

Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++ has nice ingredients. The sun-protection comes from relatively high concentrations of octinoxate, octisalate, and titanium dioxide. The other good-for-you ingredients include hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, aloe, portulaca extract, and sea water.

Dr. Jart, a dermatologist, offers a line of cosmeceuticals. The doctor's approach to product development is based on use of scientifically certified ingredients. Each formula is tried and tested to ensure safety for all skin types - even hypersensitive skin - so everyone can experience the "art of skincare with Dr. Jart." So far, I'm pleased.

Next time you browse at Sephora, see what you think.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Bobbi Brown Pretty Natural SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizers

Bobbi Brown is featuring Pretty Natural SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizers ($40), one of which is now available in an oil-free formula. The perfect foundation alternative for summer, tinted moisturizers even skin tone and provide a dewy, healthy finish while moisturizing and hydrating the skin. Bobbi's SPF 15 provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with colors that stay true and blend evenly.

The regular tinted moisturizer is designed for normal to dry skin, and the new oil-free version was created for women with oily skin who want sheer, lightweight coverage and sun protection in one. The refreshing, lightweight gel texture of the oil-free formula hydrates and soothes the skin, while a hint of coverage evens skin tone for a natural finish.

The formulas are packed with good-for-your-skin ingredients.

Here's how the regular formula stacks up.

• Sodium hyaluronate, a moisture magnet, instantly hydrates the skin.
• Petrolatum strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier, improving its ability to lock in moisture.
• Jojoba oil conditions the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple.
• Antioxidant vitamin E helps protect against free radical damage.
• The emollient texture applies evenly and blends well.

The oil-free formula offers these benefits.

• Sodium hyaluronate, a moisture magnet, instantly hydrates the skin.
• Emollients and humectants soften the skin and strengthen its natural moisture balance, improving its ability to lock in moisture.
• Collagen-boosting peptides help strengthen and firm the skin.
• Antioxidant vitamins C and E help protect the skin against free radical damage.
• Aloe, sucrose, and caffeine help calm, de-puff, and soothe the skin.

Even though I have dry skin, I want to try the oil-free formula. It sounds fabulous for summer.

Both formulas are available in nine shades, meaning there's a formula and shade for everyone. The tinted moisturizers are available at Bobbi Brown's Web site and will be at counters very soon - just in time for summer.

Photo courtesy of Bobbi Brown

New Clinique Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15

Brand new from Clinique, Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 ($24.50) is definitely worth a look. Unlike many tinted moisturizers that come in only three shades, light, medium, and dark, and match no one, Clinique's comes in six shades. It's likely you can find one that works for you. I did (with an assist from Kathy Shoreman [aka Miss Brahms]).

Clinique says Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer will apply an instant moisture boost with SPF protection for your skin and a hint of skin-perfecting color. The refreshingly lightweight formula provides a no-makeup look and feel, yet covers imperfections with a natural, hydrating touch. It's oil-free, and you know the rest, including dermatologist tested.

Here are the six shades, and you can see they cover a wide range of skin tones. I'm happy to see that women with darker skin have options. Often, they don't need a mask of foundation. A light tint for even skin, and they are ready to go. I selected Shade 1, and it blends into my skin perfectly.You should have trouble seeing the tinted moisturizer in the swatch photo at right. I applied an unblended swatch of Shade 1 at the top. You can see that it's a yellow-toned ivory. Underneath, I applied even less product and blended with my finger. Normally, I would use a sponge or brush to blend. The Clinique tinted moisturizer "disappeared" right into my skin. It was "almost me." If you look closely at my photo, you can see how it masks the veins in my arm toward the bottom of my photo. It's sheer, but it will mask redness and small imperfections in your face.

Clinique's Moisture Surge is a nice moisturizer. Clinique has made it "even better" by giving it a tint with an SPF. Now, we have a fabulous option for days this summer when we don't want to wear a full face of makeup. I am looking forward to both summer and wearing it.

You can count on Clinique for makeup that doesn't have a fragrance (thank you!), and the price is always great. Clinique is widely available, which means all of you can find it. I got mine at Neiman Marcus. You can see Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 at Clinique's Web site. I recommend you check it out. Sometimes the simple pleasures can be enormously gratifying.

Photos at top courtesy of Clinique

Orlane Super-Moisturizing Tinted Cream

Orlane Paris has a new Super-Moisturizing Tinted Cream ($75), which combines anti-aging active ingredients with light-reflecting pigments to make your skin look even and radiant. This tinted moisturizer transparently evens skin tone and boosts your "glow factor." The treated pigment in it withstands water (and humidity) and even sebum for a long-lasting natural look. Orlane's product even softens lines and imperfections. A diamond powder, which reflects blue light, gives it a soft-focus effect on the skin that we all love.

I got a sample during the blogger event I attended at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie two weeks ago. There are three "self-adjusting" shades, from #1 (Light), the lightest, to #3 (Amber), the darkest. The sample I got is shade #2 (Golden), and it's obviously too dark for me (see swatch below). No matter - I was able to see how nice the texture is by trying #2.

As a rule, I don't "love" tinted moisturizers. They often make my face look dirty. It's hard for me to find the right shade, and many companies, Orlane included, don't offer a full range of shades. If you can find the right shade for your skin, you will like Super-Moisturizing Tinted Cream.

This is definitely an anti-aging moisturer, intended for women over 30. The complex of aquatic plants and biomimetic active ingredients is intensely and lastingly moisturizing. The active ingredients help capture, retain, and redistribute water. Orlane's B21 Bio-Energic Anti-Aging Complex stimulates cellular energy and regenerates, smoothes, and firms the skin.

I used to be an Orlane addict. I loved their products. Somehow, over the years, I moved away from them, probably because Rene Marshall and her sister Vanna were no longer working for Orlane. They had been my gurus. I need to explore the line again, particularly with the most recent improvements. I plan to check out shade #1 in this tinted moisturizer to see if it works for me. My swatch of #2 is shown at right. I loved its transparency, and I loved the feel. Now I just have to see if the company has a shade for my pale face.

The swatch shows the unblended application at the top and a blended application below. If this is your skin tone, you could be a #2! I know the shades are supposed to adjust to your skin tone, but there was no way #2 was going to adjust to mine.

You can purchase Orlane's Super-Moisturizing Tinted Cream at Neiman Marcus (not all stores) and Bloomingdale's.

Photo at top courtesy of Neiman Marcus

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

Patricia Wexler's Daily Defense Anti-Oxidant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

I've never been a big fan of tinted moisturizers. Dr. Patricia Wexler has changed that. Daily Defense Anti-Oxidant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 ($29.50) has several features I like, so it will become a reach-for product in my bathroom.

Why have most tinted moisturizers fallen short of my expectations? Usually the color is "off" since they come in such a limited range of shades. They don't cover my slight imperfections (my Armani foundation makes my sun spots disappear). Although they offer sun protection, I can get that in other ways - or just wear my foundation.

A few weeks ago, I ordered the Wexler tinted moisturizer from Bath & Body Works. It's available in three shades: light, medium, and deep. Naturally, I ordered light.

It appealed to me that the world-famous dermatologist had created this product. I think some of her products, such as Fastscription, are at the top of their class. Here is what Bath & Body Works has to say about Daily Defense Anti-Oxidant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30.

Safe skin is healthy skin. Protect, repair, and enhance skin against the daily assaults of dehydration, free radical damage, and ultraviolet damage. This protective, tinted moisturizer defends skin and enhances it with a veil of natural color to even skin tone and texture. Available in three shades to blend with a wide range of skin tones.

• Protects skin from environmental assaults
• Lightweight formula enhances skin's radiance with sheer, natural coverage
• Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection
• Contains skin-regenerating MMPi

It arrived, I tried, and I like it. The light shade works well for my skin. It's actually a tad darker than "me," but when applied to my whole face, it balances the difference between my genetically rosy mid-face and the rest of my face, which is very pale. It tones down the red and adds a healthy color to the ivory - like a very slight suntan glow without the sun. The color is not so tan that I end up with the dreaded jaw line of demarcation. The color works.

It feels weightless and doesn't smell. That's always important. It applies and blends very easily. And I know that it has SPF 30 and Wexler's trademark MMPi, so it's good for my skin.

Like other tinted moisturizers, it does not cover my sun spots. Those little devils congregate on the "frame" of my face, and I hate them. Not enough to go get them lasered off yet, but I don't like to look at them. No tinted moisturizer has ever blurred them, and this one doesn't either.

When will I wear it? Probably on my weekend no-makeup days, when I let my skin "run free." I'll tame the redness, but still look natural and healthy.

An option for those who don't have dry skin is to wear it as a "regular" moisturizer under foundation. I think it would be a great option for those who don't need a super-charged moisturizer or a lot of slip.

You can purchase Patricia Wexler's products at Bath & Body Works. While you're there, make sure to check out Fastscription Instant De-Puff Eye Gel ($19.50), the Wexler miracle product.

Photo courtesy of Bath & Body Works