The Best Makeup Buys

Paula Begoun, skincare expert and best-selling author of Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, just released her Best Makeup Buys list. The following is a partial list of products that not only rated extremely high for performance but also really impressed Paula and The Cosmetics Cop team.  Given how many thousands of makeup products Paula and her team review annually, rest assured that these are among the best of the best. (I know there are a lot of lists like this in print and online, but I always really enjoy Paula’s picks. Great products AND all relatively inexpensive!)

The Best of the Best

Boots No7 Cheek Tint ($9.99)
Generously-sized cream-to-powder blush that can go from sheer to intense
Application is super-easy and all of the colors are gorgeous

M.A.C. Haute & Naughty Lash ($18.00)
Two mascaras in one component, each with impressive, distinctive effects
Wears beautifully yet  is easy to remove

Sephora Rouge Cream Lipstick ($12.00)
Elegantly smooth cream texture imparts rich color
Brilliant range of shades without garish frost or sparkles

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Custom Glow Blush & Bronzer ($12.49)
Beautiful pressed powder blush and bronzer in one sleek compact
Looks great when used separately or together

Victoria’s Secret VS Makeup Soft Focus Liquid Foundation SPF 20 ($16.00)
Outstanding sun protection from gentle mineral actives
Supremely silky with a satin glow finish to enliven dry skin

Maybelline New York Lash Stiletto Voluptuous Mascara Waterproof ($8.49)
A waterproof mascara that does everything right, but nothing too extreme
Quickly enhances lashes, then wears without a worry

Revlon Luxurious Color Satin Eye Shadow ($4.99)
Powder eyeshadow singles that’s shine done right
No matter how much you apply, the shine won’t flake!

Revlon Age Defying Moisturizing Concealer SPF 25 ($8.99)
Creamy, eye-area concealer with broad-spectrum sun (and wrinkle)  protection
Provides great coverage without magnifying the look of lines

Physician’s Formula Healthy Wear SPF 50 Powder Foundation ($14.95)
A powerhouse of potent sun protection to help prevent wrinkles and discolorations
Enviably smooth texture with a soft, flattering matte finish

N.Y.C (New York Color) Extreme Lip Glider Lip Gloss ($3.00)
One of the least expensive lip glosses with a smooth, non-sticky texture
Enticing range of sheer colors in a convenient squeeze tube for quick application

BONUS: Paula’s Choice Illicit Lash Maximum Impact Mascara ($10.95)
Nimble rubber-bristled brush reaches each and every lash fast
Brilliant way to get longer, defined lashes with a soft curl

Want to know if one of your favorites got a top rating?  Visit Beautypedia.com FREE through February for a complete list of the best makeup and skin care.