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For our ninth annual Best Beauty Buys, In Style canvassed a team of more than 130 hairstylists and makeup artists to tell us what they rely on to get their star clients looking gorgeous. We asked more than 50 of the country's leading dermatologists to test-drive dozens of creams, balms and cleansers, and we polled celebrities about their absolute must-haves. Why such ambitious research? So you can find the best products out there—without any guesswork.
Liquid Foundation Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation
It has a sheer texture that corrects discoloration, eliminates redness and "delivers a dewy finish," says makeup artist Vasilios Tanis. $52.50/1 oz.; Neiman Marcus
Oil-free Foundation Laura Mercier
Few water-based foundations stay put like this. Says makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown, who has worked with Rachel McAdams: "It has the best coverage of any oil-free formula." $38/1 oz.; lauramercier.com
Non liquid Foundation Shu Uemura Nobara cream
It has "excellent" yellow undertones that complement most complexions, says makeup artist Gracie Atherton, who has dabbed it on Sharon Stone. $22/.28 oz.; shuuemura.com
Editors' Pick T. LeClerc Hydrating Fluid foundation
Applied with a sponge or fingers, this superthin formula in six shades blends to perfect sheerness, so you hardly know it's there. $42/1 oz.; fourseasons products.com
Inexpensive Liquid Foundation L'Oréal True Match Super-Blendable makeup
With shades matching skin color and undertone, this liquid "lives up to its name and has great texture," says L.A. makeup artist Marie-Flore Beaubien. $10/1 oz.; drugstores
Tinted Moisturizer Laura Mercier
This moisturizer leaves skin with a hint of fresh, natural color and is fortified with age-defying antioxidants. Laura Linney keeps a tube in her handbag. $38/1.5 oz.; lauramercier.com
UnderEye Concealer Clé de Peau Beauté
Expertly erasing dark circles and eradicating discoloration, it
"covers but never gets cakey," says makeup artist Avril Lipsky, who has used it on Pamela Anderson. $68/.17 oz.; 800-558-1855
Blemish Concealer Dermablend
Hollywood makeup artists like Lydia Milars say this acne cover-up cream doesn't migrate or turn orange. In cream form or Quick-Fix stick (shown). $16; in-store.com
Inexpensive Concealer Max Factor Erace
It's sheer enough for around the eyes but substantial enough to hide imperfections, says Brett Freedman, a L.A. makeup artist who has worked with Daryl Hannah. $4.49/.13 oz.; drugstore.com
Pressed Powder MAC Blot
Shine has no chance against this translucent, finely milled powder, which N.Y.C. makeup artist Carmindy likens to "the closest thing to blotting paper in powder form." $17/.42 oz.; in-store.com
Editors' Pick Estée Lauder Prime FX Color Neutralizing primer
This base counteracts discoloration and brightens skin using neutralizing pigments and reflective particles. $25/.85 oz.; in-store.com Loose
Powder Shu Uemura
This whisper-light powder sets makeup and leaves skin silky and dewy. They're "perfect colors," says makeup artist Joanna Schlip, who has used it on Diane Lane $30/.98 oz.; shuuemura.com
Inexpensive Powder Sally Hansen Corn Silk Shineless Matte
This hypermilled fine powder "makes oily skin look fresh without the heaviness," says Denver makeup artist Michael Moore. $5.50/.31 oz.; drugstores
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Powder Blush Nars
"Youth in powder form," is what makeup artist Chantal Moore calls the 22 stay-put shades. Eve's makeup artist, J.J., swears "it doesn't streak. You get 12 hours out of it." $25/.16 oz.; narscosmetics.com
Cream Blush Stila Convertible Color
This rich cream melts into the skin for a nice flush. "You don't have to be a makeup artist to get professional results," says makeup artist Deborah LaMia Denaver. $20/.15 oz.; stilacosmetics.com
Gel/Stain Blush Tarte Cheek Stain
The colors don't give a "made-up" look, says makeup artist Mai Quynh. Joni Powell, The O.C.'s head makeup artist, has swiped Tickled Peach on the cast's cheeks. $26/1.5 oz.; in-store.com
Editors' Pick Almay Nearly Naked Touch-Pad liquid blush
This formula comes in four shades, doesn't spill, and blends like a dream, to give cheeks a natural flush. $9/.2 oz.; drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Inexpensive Bronzer Revlon Skinlights
The Instant Skin Brightener got highest marks for its smooth texture and light-reflective particles. "It gives a sun-kissed look," says makeup artist Marie-Flore Beaubien. $12/1.5 oz.; beauty.com
Shimmer/Luminizing Product Nars the Multiple
This cream stick creates a brightened, sun-touched look on eyelids, cheeks, lips and décolleté. Copacabana is the pros' favorite. $36/.5 oz.; narscosmetics.com
Bronzer MAC Matte bronzing powder
This compact gives you great glow without the usual metallic sheen. Says makeup artist Jake Bailey: "It's not too orangey, so it's great for contouring." $18.50/.35 oz.; maccosmetics.com
================================================== ================================================== =========================
Brush Line Shu Uemura
The brushes, which feature badger, goat, pony, squirrel and nylon bristles, last a lifetime. "There's a perfect one for every technique," says makeup artist Hillary Clark. $5–$270; shuuemura.com
Inexpensive Brush Line Sonia Kashuk
These "very pretty brushes have a great shape and feel comfortable in your hands," says Taylor Babaian, who works with Virginia Madsen. $15–$30/set; target.com
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Pencil Eyeliner MAC
"Firm enough to sharpen, soft enough to smudge," says makeup artist Genevieve. Makeup pros watch each new MAC collection for breakthrough hues. $11.50; 800-387-6707 or macys.com
Liquid Eyeliner Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner
Yes, it’s a gel, but, says New Jersey makeup artist Kymbra Callaghan, "it goes on like liquid, with the blendability of a pencil." $18/.1 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or nordstrom.com
Cream Eye Shadow MAC Paints
Several of our experts say Paints are the only cream eye shadows they’ve found that truly don’t crease. Makeup artists love this line’s vibrant shades. $15/.23 oz.; 800-387-6707 or nordstrom.com
Inexpensive Eye Shadow Revlon
The head of the makeup department at Six Feet Under, Donna-Lou Henderson, says, “Nice consistency, great colors, and small enough to be convenient.” $7/.12 oz.; drugstore.com
Overall Mascara Lancôme Définicils
Définicils doesn't just talk the talk—it really does lengthen lashes, thanks to a patented brush that coats every lash evenly. $21/.23 oz.; at Bloomingdale’s or sephora.com
Waterproof Mascara Maybelline Great Lash
"Not even tears take it off," says makeup artist Joanna Schlip. Others liked the colors: "The black is a true black," says makeup artist Eric Spearman. $6/.43 oz.; drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
Lipstick Laura Mercier Lip Kisses
"They're very wearable, which makes them great for women who are shy about color," says Matin."I use Apricot Sorbet on Angelina Jolie." $19/.08 oz.; at Henri Bendel or nordstrom.com
Overall Lipstick MAC
MAC offers 188 colors in all sorts of finishes, so it’s no surprise that several experts said they like to use MAC lip colors on most of their star clients. $14/.17 oz.; 800-387-6707 or nordstrom.com
Lip Gloss MAC Lipglass
The women of Soul Food survive the week’s drama with glistening pouts intact. How? Makeup artist Beverly Jo Pryor credits Lipglass’s "high shine" and thick texture. $13.50/.17 oz.; nordstrom.com
Long-Wearing Lipstick Max Factor Lipfinity
"You can’t kiss this stuff off," says Joanna Schlip of Lipfinity's intense color base and clear top coat. She uses it on Laura Linney for big events. $13/.06 & .07 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Facial Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Shiseido Future Solution
Vitamin C and chai hu extract lessen chances of sun damage. "I love how it makes my skin feel," says N.Y.C. derm Diane Berson. $225/1.8 oz.; 800-723-2889 or beautiful perfumes.com
Facial Cleanser for Dry/Sensitive Skin Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser
This rich gets the job done without irritation. "It contains effective antibacterial, but it's mild," says Manhattan derm Paul Jarrod Frank. $24/4.4 oz.; at Saks Fifth Avenue or macys.com
Toner for Dry/Sensitive Skin Chanel Précision Gentle Hydrating lotion
This one got the thumbs-up for two reasons: It removes residue, and it contains soothing moisturizers like aloe vera. $35/6.8 oz.; at Bloomingdale’s or macys.com
Facial Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Olay Regenerist Perfecting cream
This cream contains the newest line reducers on the market. N.Y.C. derm Francesca Fusco recommends it to her patients who have sensitive skin. $19/1.7 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Moisturizing Facial Mask for Dry/Sensitive Skin Lancôme Hydra-Intense
This five-minute gel mask has humectants that attract water to the skin and polymers that form a protective layer, trapping moisture inside. $27/3.4 oz.; 800-526-2663 or sephora.com
Heavy-Duty Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultra Lifting Creme
This cream holds more than 1,000 times its weight in water. "It prevents evaporation," says L.A. cosmetic surgeon R. Patrick Abergel. $250/1.7 oz.; esteelauder.com
Firming Serum for Normal/Combinatin Skin Tracie Martyn Firming serum
Antioxidants, detoxifying peptides and epidermal growth factors make this one of the most sought-after antiaging potions. $165/1 oz.; traciemartyn.com
Facial Cleanser for Normal/Combination Skin Cetaphil
Ultra-mild Cetaphil has been used by dermatologists for years, says Nicholas Lowe, M.D., who practices in London and L.A. "It's good for skin being treated with Retin A." $7/8 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Toner for Normal/Combination Skin Lancôme Tonique Douceur
Several toner-wary experts came around for Tonique Douceur, praising its alcohol-free, glycerin-rich formulation. $20/6.8 oz.; 800-526-2663 or nordstrom.com
Moisturizer for Normal/Combination Skin Aveeno Positively Smooth
Aveeno's combination of whole soy and soy extracts evens out skin tone, smooths fine lines and may also reduce facial-hair growth. $15/4 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Facial Mask for Normal/Combination Skin Chanel Précision Instant Purifying
"Salicylic acid smooths the skin, and Kaolin and starch soak up impurities," says New Orleans dermatologist Nia Terezakis. $33/2.6 oz.; beautiful perfumes.com
Facial Lotion for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Estée Lauder Day Wear Plus Multi-Protection Antioxidant lotion
"It's hard to find a moisturizer with sunscreen that works under makeup," says Debra Jaliman, M.D., of N.Y.C. $38/1.7 oz.; macys.com
Facial Cleanser for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Eucerin Pore Purifying Foaming wash
"It's light, lathers well, cleans pores, and has minimal fragrance," says UCLA associate derm professor Joshua Wieder. $7/6.8 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Toner for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Prescriptives Immediate Matte
Our experts like the instant mattifying effect of the silica contained in this gentle formula. It's also oil-free, so it won't clog pores. $19/6.7 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or nordstrom.com
Facial Moisturizer for Oily/Acne-Prone SkinDDF Ultra-Lite
Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew
"This moisturizer is very light. It leaves the skin hydrated but not at all oily," says New York City derm Rosemarie Ingleton. $30/1.7 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or sephora.com
Facial Mask for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Treatment
Our panel praised this mask's lightweight gel. "It unclogged the pores on my nose!" said one delighted derm. $7/2 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
At-Home Dental Whitening Kit Crest Whitestrips
Nothing can beat professional lightening, but for a less expensive alternative, dentists like Crest Whitestrips. You'll see results after two weeks. $30/14-day supply; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Body Lotion Eucerin Original
Mineral oil and glyceryl lanolate help prevent moisture from escaping skin. This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is safe for even sensitive skin. $11/16 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Hand Cream L'Occitane shea butter
This rich cream contains moisturizing extracts such as almond and linseed oils. But the real muscle comes from shea butter. $8/1 oz.; sephora.com
Self-Tanner for Face Clarins Tinted Self-Tanning face cream
Clarins got votes for easy application and a seamless, always even finish. The light scent and nongreasy formula only make it better. $27/1.7 oz.; at Saks Fifth Avenue or sephora.com
Oil-Free Sunscreen Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Titanium Dioxide sunblock
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide pack double UVA/UVB protection, notes Virginia Beach, Va., derm David H. McDaniel. $36/4 oz.; 800-787-7546 or peter thomasroth.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
Overall Shampoo Kérastase Bain Satin 1
This product is great for all hair types. "It gives real shine to the hair," says N.Y.C. stylist Keith Carpenter, who uses it on Sarah Jessica Parker. $24/8.5 oz.; 877-748-8357 for salons or drugstore.com
Inexpensive Overall Shampoo Pantene Pro-V
Alan Tosler of N.Y.C.’s Tosler Davis salon calls this a "runaway favorite" of his clientele: "It leaves hair seriously silky. I use it on Stephanie Seymour." $4.79/13.5 oz.; drugstore.com
Shampoo L'Oréal Série Expert
This shampoo line contains ceramides, emollients that help reduce frizz and enhance shine. N.Y.C. stylist Kim Lépine recommends it for dry hair. $13/8.45 oz.; 888-737-4304 or serieexpert usa.com for salons
Overall Conditioner Kérastase Lait Vital Protéiné
Pros love it because it's so lightweight. "It conditions without leaving heavy waxes," says L.A. hairstylist Ken Paves, who works with Jessica Simpson. $37/6.8 oz.; diamondbeauty.com
Inexpensive Overall Conditioner Pantene Pro-V
This rich conditioner contains panthenol, a restorative ingredient that coats the hair shaft. "It's inexpensive—but it’s certainly effective," says N.Y.C. colorist Kyle White. $7.99/25.4 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Leave-In Conditioner Infusium 23
This spray-on treatment makes combing out tangles a snap. "It softens and detangles without any residue," says Eve's hairstylist, Suzette Boozer. $6/16 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Styling Gel Phyto Pro gel No. 8
Truly strong hold—with no flaking or stickiness, say our stylists. Alain Pinon of Salon AKS in N.Y.C. uses Phyto gel No. 8 to add thickness to roots. $17/5 oz.; 800-557-4986 or sephora.com
Styling Cream Kiehl's Creme with Silk Groom
Wheat proteins and amino acids make this cream tops for adding texture and shine. L.A. stylist Mark Townsend rubs it through the manes of Heather Graham. $30/8 oz.; neimanmarcus.com
Pomade/Wax Murray's Superior Hair Dressing pomade
This old-school favorite is still the one. "It's got the best hold of any pomade," says Linda Cho of L.A.'s Art Luna Salon. $3/3 oz.; at drugstores or murrayspomade.com
Styling Product Aveda Light Elements line
Claudio Lazo, of the Allen Edwards salon in L.A. recommends these products to all his clients. Defining Whip (left) adds texture but not stickiness. $20–$23; 800-328-0849 for retailers
================================================== ================================================== ============================
Liquid Foundation Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation
It has a sheer texture that corrects discoloration, eliminates redness and "delivers a dewy finish," says makeup artist Vasilios Tanis. $52.50/1 oz.; Neiman Marcus
Oil-free Foundation Laura Mercier
Few water-based foundations stay put like this. Says makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown, who has worked with Rachel McAdams: "It has the best coverage of any oil-free formula." $38/1 oz.; lauramercier.com
Non liquid Foundation Shu Uemura Nobara cream
It has "excellent" yellow undertones that complement most complexions, says makeup artist Gracie Atherton, who has dabbed it on Sharon Stone. $22/.28 oz.; shuuemura.com
Editors' Pick T. LeClerc Hydrating Fluid foundation
Applied with a sponge or fingers, this superthin formula in six shades blends to perfect sheerness, so you hardly know it's there. $42/1 oz.; fourseasons products.com
Inexpensive Liquid Foundation L'Oréal True Match Super-Blendable makeup
With shades matching skin color and undertone, this liquid "lives up to its name and has great texture," says L.A. makeup artist Marie-Flore Beaubien. $10/1 oz.; drugstores
Tinted Moisturizer Laura Mercier
This moisturizer leaves skin with a hint of fresh, natural color and is fortified with age-defying antioxidants. Laura Linney keeps a tube in her handbag. $38/1.5 oz.; lauramercier.com
UnderEye Concealer Clé de Peau Beauté
Expertly erasing dark circles and eradicating discoloration, it
"covers but never gets cakey," says makeup artist Avril Lipsky, who has used it on Pamela Anderson. $68/.17 oz.; 800-558-1855
Blemish Concealer Dermablend
Hollywood makeup artists like Lydia Milars say this acne cover-up cream doesn't migrate or turn orange. In cream form or Quick-Fix stick (shown). $16; in-store.com
Inexpensive Concealer Max Factor Erace
It's sheer enough for around the eyes but substantial enough to hide imperfections, says Brett Freedman, a L.A. makeup artist who has worked with Daryl Hannah. $4.49/.13 oz.; drugstore.com
Pressed Powder MAC Blot
Shine has no chance against this translucent, finely milled powder, which N.Y.C. makeup artist Carmindy likens to "the closest thing to blotting paper in powder form." $17/.42 oz.; in-store.com
Editors' Pick Estée Lauder Prime FX Color Neutralizing primer
This base counteracts discoloration and brightens skin using neutralizing pigments and reflective particles. $25/.85 oz.; in-store.com Loose
Powder Shu Uemura
This whisper-light powder sets makeup and leaves skin silky and dewy. They're "perfect colors," says makeup artist Joanna Schlip, who has used it on Diane Lane $30/.98 oz.; shuuemura.com
Inexpensive Powder Sally Hansen Corn Silk Shineless Matte
This hypermilled fine powder "makes oily skin look fresh without the heaviness," says Denver makeup artist Michael Moore. $5.50/.31 oz.; drugstores
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Powder Blush Nars
"Youth in powder form," is what makeup artist Chantal Moore calls the 22 stay-put shades. Eve's makeup artist, J.J., swears "it doesn't streak. You get 12 hours out of it." $25/.16 oz.; narscosmetics.com
Cream Blush Stila Convertible Color
This rich cream melts into the skin for a nice flush. "You don't have to be a makeup artist to get professional results," says makeup artist Deborah LaMia Denaver. $20/.15 oz.; stilacosmetics.com
Gel/Stain Blush Tarte Cheek Stain
The colors don't give a "made-up" look, says makeup artist Mai Quynh. Joni Powell, The O.C.'s head makeup artist, has swiped Tickled Peach on the cast's cheeks. $26/1.5 oz.; in-store.com
Editors' Pick Almay Nearly Naked Touch-Pad liquid blush
This formula comes in four shades, doesn't spill, and blends like a dream, to give cheeks a natural flush. $9/.2 oz.; drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Inexpensive Bronzer Revlon Skinlights
The Instant Skin Brightener got highest marks for its smooth texture and light-reflective particles. "It gives a sun-kissed look," says makeup artist Marie-Flore Beaubien. $12/1.5 oz.; beauty.com
Shimmer/Luminizing Product Nars the Multiple
This cream stick creates a brightened, sun-touched look on eyelids, cheeks, lips and décolleté. Copacabana is the pros' favorite. $36/.5 oz.; narscosmetics.com
Bronzer MAC Matte bronzing powder
This compact gives you great glow without the usual metallic sheen. Says makeup artist Jake Bailey: "It's not too orangey, so it's great for contouring." $18.50/.35 oz.; maccosmetics.com
================================================== ================================================== =========================
Brush Line Shu Uemura
The brushes, which feature badger, goat, pony, squirrel and nylon bristles, last a lifetime. "There's a perfect one for every technique," says makeup artist Hillary Clark. $5–$270; shuuemura.com
Inexpensive Brush Line Sonia Kashuk
These "very pretty brushes have a great shape and feel comfortable in your hands," says Taylor Babaian, who works with Virginia Madsen. $15–$30/set; target.com
================================================== ================================================== =========================
Pencil Eyeliner MAC
"Firm enough to sharpen, soft enough to smudge," says makeup artist Genevieve. Makeup pros watch each new MAC collection for breakthrough hues. $11.50; 800-387-6707 or macys.com
Liquid Eyeliner Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner
Yes, it’s a gel, but, says New Jersey makeup artist Kymbra Callaghan, "it goes on like liquid, with the blendability of a pencil." $18/.1 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or nordstrom.com
Cream Eye Shadow MAC Paints
Several of our experts say Paints are the only cream eye shadows they’ve found that truly don’t crease. Makeup artists love this line’s vibrant shades. $15/.23 oz.; 800-387-6707 or nordstrom.com
Inexpensive Eye Shadow Revlon
The head of the makeup department at Six Feet Under, Donna-Lou Henderson, says, “Nice consistency, great colors, and small enough to be convenient.” $7/.12 oz.; drugstore.com
Overall Mascara Lancôme Définicils
Définicils doesn't just talk the talk—it really does lengthen lashes, thanks to a patented brush that coats every lash evenly. $21/.23 oz.; at Bloomingdale’s or sephora.com
Waterproof Mascara Maybelline Great Lash
"Not even tears take it off," says makeup artist Joanna Schlip. Others liked the colors: "The black is a true black," says makeup artist Eric Spearman. $6/.43 oz.; drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
Lipstick Laura Mercier Lip Kisses
"They're very wearable, which makes them great for women who are shy about color," says Matin."I use Apricot Sorbet on Angelina Jolie." $19/.08 oz.; at Henri Bendel or nordstrom.com
Overall Lipstick MAC
MAC offers 188 colors in all sorts of finishes, so it’s no surprise that several experts said they like to use MAC lip colors on most of their star clients. $14/.17 oz.; 800-387-6707 or nordstrom.com
Lip Gloss MAC Lipglass
The women of Soul Food survive the week’s drama with glistening pouts intact. How? Makeup artist Beverly Jo Pryor credits Lipglass’s "high shine" and thick texture. $13.50/.17 oz.; nordstrom.com
Long-Wearing Lipstick Max Factor Lipfinity
"You can’t kiss this stuff off," says Joanna Schlip of Lipfinity's intense color base and clear top coat. She uses it on Laura Linney for big events. $13/.06 & .07 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ==========================
Facial Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Shiseido Future Solution
Vitamin C and chai hu extract lessen chances of sun damage. "I love how it makes my skin feel," says N.Y.C. derm Diane Berson. $225/1.8 oz.; 800-723-2889 or beautiful perfumes.com
Facial Cleanser for Dry/Sensitive Skin Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser
This rich gets the job done without irritation. "It contains effective antibacterial, but it's mild," says Manhattan derm Paul Jarrod Frank. $24/4.4 oz.; at Saks Fifth Avenue or macys.com
Toner for Dry/Sensitive Skin Chanel Précision Gentle Hydrating lotion
This one got the thumbs-up for two reasons: It removes residue, and it contains soothing moisturizers like aloe vera. $35/6.8 oz.; at Bloomingdale’s or macys.com
Facial Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Olay Regenerist Perfecting cream
This cream contains the newest line reducers on the market. N.Y.C. derm Francesca Fusco recommends it to her patients who have sensitive skin. $19/1.7 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Moisturizing Facial Mask for Dry/Sensitive Skin Lancôme Hydra-Intense
This five-minute gel mask has humectants that attract water to the skin and polymers that form a protective layer, trapping moisture inside. $27/3.4 oz.; 800-526-2663 or sephora.com
Heavy-Duty Moisturizer for Dry/Sensitive Skin Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultra Lifting Creme
This cream holds more than 1,000 times its weight in water. "It prevents evaporation," says L.A. cosmetic surgeon R. Patrick Abergel. $250/1.7 oz.; esteelauder.com
Firming Serum for Normal/Combinatin Skin Tracie Martyn Firming serum
Antioxidants, detoxifying peptides and epidermal growth factors make this one of the most sought-after antiaging potions. $165/1 oz.; traciemartyn.com
Facial Cleanser for Normal/Combination Skin Cetaphil
Ultra-mild Cetaphil has been used by dermatologists for years, says Nicholas Lowe, M.D., who practices in London and L.A. "It's good for skin being treated with Retin A." $7/8 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Toner for Normal/Combination Skin Lancôme Tonique Douceur
Several toner-wary experts came around for Tonique Douceur, praising its alcohol-free, glycerin-rich formulation. $20/6.8 oz.; 800-526-2663 or nordstrom.com
Moisturizer for Normal/Combination Skin Aveeno Positively Smooth
Aveeno's combination of whole soy and soy extracts evens out skin tone, smooths fine lines and may also reduce facial-hair growth. $15/4 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Facial Mask for Normal/Combination Skin Chanel Précision Instant Purifying
"Salicylic acid smooths the skin, and Kaolin and starch soak up impurities," says New Orleans dermatologist Nia Terezakis. $33/2.6 oz.; beautiful perfumes.com
Facial Lotion for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Estée Lauder Day Wear Plus Multi-Protection Antioxidant lotion
"It's hard to find a moisturizer with sunscreen that works under makeup," says Debra Jaliman, M.D., of N.Y.C. $38/1.7 oz.; macys.com
Facial Cleanser for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Eucerin Pore Purifying Foaming wash
"It's light, lathers well, cleans pores, and has minimal fragrance," says UCLA associate derm professor Joshua Wieder. $7/6.8 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Toner for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Prescriptives Immediate Matte
Our experts like the instant mattifying effect of the silica contained in this gentle formula. It's also oil-free, so it won't clog pores. $19/6.7 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or nordstrom.com
Facial Moisturizer for Oily/Acne-Prone SkinDDF Ultra-Lite
Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew
"This moisturizer is very light. It leaves the skin hydrated but not at all oily," says New York City derm Rosemarie Ingleton. $30/1.7 oz.; at Bergdorf Goodman or sephora.com
Facial Mask for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Treatment
Our panel praised this mask's lightweight gel. "It unclogged the pores on my nose!" said one delighted derm. $7/2 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
At-Home Dental Whitening Kit Crest Whitestrips
Nothing can beat professional lightening, but for a less expensive alternative, dentists like Crest Whitestrips. You'll see results after two weeks. $30/14-day supply; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Body Lotion Eucerin Original
Mineral oil and glyceryl lanolate help prevent moisture from escaping skin. This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is safe for even sensitive skin. $11/16 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Hand Cream L'Occitane shea butter
This rich cream contains moisturizing extracts such as almond and linseed oils. But the real muscle comes from shea butter. $8/1 oz.; sephora.com
Self-Tanner for Face Clarins Tinted Self-Tanning face cream
Clarins got votes for easy application and a seamless, always even finish. The light scent and nongreasy formula only make it better. $27/1.7 oz.; at Saks Fifth Avenue or sephora.com
Oil-Free Sunscreen Peter Thomas Roth Ultra-Lite Titanium Dioxide sunblock
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide pack double UVA/UVB protection, notes Virginia Beach, Va., derm David H. McDaniel. $36/4 oz.; 800-787-7546 or peter thomasroth.com
================================================== ================================================== ===========================
Overall Shampoo Kérastase Bain Satin 1
This product is great for all hair types. "It gives real shine to the hair," says N.Y.C. stylist Keith Carpenter, who uses it on Sarah Jessica Parker. $24/8.5 oz.; 877-748-8357 for salons or drugstore.com
Inexpensive Overall Shampoo Pantene Pro-V
Alan Tosler of N.Y.C.’s Tosler Davis salon calls this a "runaway favorite" of his clientele: "It leaves hair seriously silky. I use it on Stephanie Seymour." $4.79/13.5 oz.; drugstore.com
Shampoo L'Oréal Série Expert
This shampoo line contains ceramides, emollients that help reduce frizz and enhance shine. N.Y.C. stylist Kim Lépine recommends it for dry hair. $13/8.45 oz.; 888-737-4304 or serieexpert usa.com for salons
Overall Conditioner Kérastase Lait Vital Protéiné
Pros love it because it's so lightweight. "It conditions without leaving heavy waxes," says L.A. hairstylist Ken Paves, who works with Jessica Simpson. $37/6.8 oz.; diamondbeauty.com
Inexpensive Overall Conditioner Pantene Pro-V
This rich conditioner contains panthenol, a restorative ingredient that coats the hair shaft. "It's inexpensive—but it’s certainly effective," says N.Y.C. colorist Kyle White. $7.99/25.4 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Leave-In Conditioner Infusium 23
This spray-on treatment makes combing out tangles a snap. "It softens and detangles without any residue," says Eve's hairstylist, Suzette Boozer. $6/16 oz.; at drugstores or drugstore.com
Styling Gel Phyto Pro gel No. 8
Truly strong hold—with no flaking or stickiness, say our stylists. Alain Pinon of Salon AKS in N.Y.C. uses Phyto gel No. 8 to add thickness to roots. $17/5 oz.; 800-557-4986 or sephora.com
Styling Cream Kiehl's Creme with Silk Groom
Wheat proteins and amino acids make this cream tops for adding texture and shine. L.A. stylist Mark Townsend rubs it through the manes of Heather Graham. $30/8 oz.; neimanmarcus.com
Pomade/Wax Murray's Superior Hair Dressing pomade
This old-school favorite is still the one. "It's got the best hold of any pomade," says Linda Cho of L.A.'s Art Luna Salon. $3/3 oz.; at drugstores or murrayspomade.com
Styling Product Aveda Light Elements line
Claudio Lazo, of the Allen Edwards salon in L.A. recommends these products to all his clients. Defining Whip (left) adds texture but not stickiness. $20–$23; 800-328-0849 for retailers
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