Neutrogena introduces do-it-yourself microdermabrasion in a kit that includes everything you need to give yourself professional results at home.

The Neutrogena Advanced Solutions At Home MicroDermabrasion System contains:

* Advanced Solutions Micro-Oxide Crystallized Cream 2.5 oz - Contains the same aluminum-oxide crystals used by dermatologists and salon professionals for professional level microdermabrasions.

* Advanced Solutions System Applicator - This tool has two speeds to allow you to control the intensity of your treatment for maximum results without discomfort.

* Advanced Solutions Soft Foam Sponge Head - Two sponges are included in the system.

* 2 AA Batteries and Custom Stand for convenient storage when not in use.

The instructions say to use for 5 days in a row to start, then give your skin a week off to adjust. After that you can use the system 2-3 times a week to maintain your results. Neutrogena says that using the microdermabrasion system will exfoliate and lift dead skin, lessen fine lines and wrinkles, fade sun and age spots and give you finer, softer and younger-looking skin.

I approached this product with a slightly scrunched up look, one that sort of says “ouch”. But after reading what others are saying about it, I think it’s a wonderful alternative to paying high prices for similar treatments in a salon or spa. Retailing at about $39.99, it pays for itself with just one use. Future expenses will include replacing the micro-oxide cream and the batteries.

Finding all the right shades of foundation, lipcolor, eyeshadow and blush is an achievement that will enhance your natural beauty and bolster your confidence. But in order to bring out your natural radiance, you have to first start with clean skin and pores. Putting make-up over clogged pores and blackheads will make it look dull and muddy.

Neutrogena’s Blackhead Eliminating Warming Cleanser is a great start to radiant skin. This self-warming cleanser loosens dirt in clogged pores and eliminates blackheads, It also contains microbeads that exfoliate, leaving the skin free of dead skin cells to bring out a fresh glow. A 2% Salicylic Acid solution added to the cleanser elminates excess oils to help reduce new breakouts.

* Formula gently warms on contact
* Non-greasy
* Smooth Microbeads
* 2% Salicylic Acid

The newest trend in comsetics is mineral make-up. Consisting of inorganic minerals and pigments found in nature,such as zinc oxides, mica, titanium dioxide and ultramarine pigments, these products are advertised as better for your skin than regular make-up. From powders to eyeshadow, there is a great variety of these natural mineral products being marketed.

These products promise to eliminate allergic reactions and breakouts and be safe for all skin types. For selection and always with price in mind, I recommend Physicians Formula or Neutrogena’s line of mineral makeup products. Physicians Formula has multiple products and I particularly liked their Solar Powder bronzer with sunscreen. Neutrogena is a name we know we can trust and their line of Mineral Sheers includes foundation powder and eyeshadow with a little shimmer. Best of all, both are available at drugstore prices.

A scrub is a great way to exfoliate but occasionally your skin needs a bit of rejuvenating. This is where a facial mask comes in. These take a bit more time than a quick scrub-down but when you have a bit of time to spend on yourself, use it to pamper your skin.

You should probably use a facial mask at least once a week. One of the best features of a mask is that it tightens pores, giving skin a smoother and finer appearance. Masks usually are applied and left on the face for a specific length of time or until dry, then removed by rinsing or peeling if it is a gel mask.

For deep cleansing a mud or clay mask will clear out pores, eliminate blackheads and exfoliate. In Your Face Pure Intent Clay Masque by göt2b is made with natural avocado, kaolin, clay and rosemary to de-toxify and firm while absorbing extra oils. Daily Facials Intensives Deep Cleansing Clay Mask by Olay provides deep cleansing to remove excess oils to leave skin looking more vibrant. Neutrogena’s Deep Clean Invigorating Cleanser Mask doubles as a daily cleanser and a mask. Rinse off immediately for daily cleansing or leave on for 3 minutex for an oil-reducing mask that unclogs pores.

For more exfoliation and re-texturizing of skin, you might try Swiss Formula Peel-Off Hydroxy Masque by St Ives. This peel off contains an alpha & beta hydroxy complex to leave the skin smoother and more radiant.

Another option is to make your own mask at home, and there are plenty of recipes available on the net. But as the most expensive of the masks listed above is under $7 and the others under $4, I say pamper yourself and use your time to relax.