1. GUILTY PLEASURES

I love the sheer, minimalist quality of loose-powder eye shadows but hate the residue they can leave behind. Not so with Benefit Show Offs!, shown from left in Ruby Doe, Pistachio, Bambi and High Roller. These iridescent gems can be fingered on, and they stay put.

2. MAGIC WAND

Fall beauty calls for high-impact eyes. Lancome Hypnose Custom Volume Mascara ($21, at department stores nationwide) supersizes lashes without clumping, smearing or smudging. In fact, the unique formula and patented brush allow smooth, buildable volume from root to tip that dries in seconds.

3. FACE VALUE

Now you can shorten the time it takes to create a flawless finish with Maybelline New York DreamMatte Mousse Foundation ($9, at drugstores nationwide). This weightless one-step wonder offers superior coverage that won't settle into pores, and leaves a soft powdery finish that lasts.

4. ONE LINER

Like you, I am so over messy makeup techniques. That's why I know you're going to fall for Too Faced Cosmetics' Liquif-Eye ($17.50, at Sephora stores nationwide). This state-of-the-art treat instantly transforms your favorite eye shadow into a water-resistant, smudgeproof liquid liner.

5. JEWEL BOX

Talk about lip service[ The Transformer Lip-care Palette by Tony&Tina ($32, at Sephora stores nationwide) has an exfoliator to keep lips smooth, an antifeathering conditioner to keep color in place, a mattifier for those days when you want to alter the look of your favorite lipstick, and creams to lighten or darken lip color, depending on your mood. Now you can work any of this season's new looks without skipping a beat.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Essence Communications, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2006 Gale Group