3x Plumping Effect: 1) Instant Plumping Effect 2) Instant Hydrating & Smoothing Effect 3) Younger, Smoother & Fuller Looking Lips with continued use."

Jamie's Thoughts: The unit itself is attractively packaged in a thick, acrylic tube with markings on the outside reminiscent of a beaker from 8th grade science class. It's cute, with has enough heft to make it easy to find in a handbag. The paintbrush-style applicator is effective and small enough to keep application neat and quick.

The product works well, and it works quickly. I noticed a difference in less than 5 minutes, although I admit I didn't use a stopwatch to test the manufacturer's claim of 60 seconds. It goes on thick and goopy, so I blotted off the offending layer of hair-catching tackiness, and the product STILL worked. Pretty impressive. Ladies who love a thick, shiny gloss will be bowled over by this product. It comes in a range of versatile, tastefully shimmery colors (including clear) and is attractively priced.

Sadly, the only thing that really bowled ME over is the stench. I found myself wondering if maybe fragrance-free was such a good thing. The scent reminds me of metal shavings and dust. It's awful, especially when you consider that it's going to be resting on your lips, just below your nose. If you blot lightly, you can get rid of most of the smell...but blot too aggressively, and it won't plump at all.

Also, a couple random notes on the ingredients:

Pro: Plump Potion contains Titanium Dioxide, which protects the lips from UVA and UVB damage. Maybe not enough to warrant claims of sun protection, but it's nice to know it's there.

Con: Plump Potion contains BHT, which is a synthetic antioxidant with known carcinogenic properties. Buyer beware.

Con: Plump Potion contains Ferric Ferrocyanide, a coloring agent that is approved by the FDA, but considered by the EPA to be toxic when present in water. Not exactly what I'm hoping to have on my mouth (or glass, or bottle) when I take a swig of Diet Coke.

I'm mixed. This product really does work - but at what cost?

Retail Price: $8.95  (available at drugstores everywhere and PhysiciansFormula.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "First-ever Mineral, bi-colored pressed powder blush! Ideal for sensitive skin, the talc-free, minimalist formula allows skin to breathe and can help minimize irritation and breakout. Minerals provide color that achieves soft, sheer shades for a long-lasting smooth, natural finish. The marbleized design features two shades-in-one for a flawless and even finish."

Jen's Experience: I tried this blush in three different shades, and kind of expected that one of the three would be fantastic for my skin tone and the others would be lackluster at best. I was surprised (and thrilled) to find that each of the shades looked good with my skin. They pack a punch of color, so I did have to go a little lighter than normal on the application, but I found them easy to blend with a brush or even a bit of pressed powder. I was a little disappointed in the wear; I needed to reapply after wearing 4-6 hours. But for the price, I think these are a solid choice for those looking for a new blush.

Retail Price: $10.95 (PhysiciansFormula.com or your local drugstore)

Rating:

• Radiant powder pigments warms up complexion for a natural tan glow.
• Sunflower extracts work as antioxidants to protect skin against free radicals.
• Contains a Biopolymer Complex made from plant extracts to help skin fight the aggressions of modern life.

What Lisa says: After my last experience with a Physician's Formula Bronzer I half expected not to like this one but approached with an open mind and was glad I did. The color I received was Sunny Buddy and I've really enjoyed it! A light hand is key to this product application to add just the right amount of warmth and gorgeous shimmer - too much and it goes from a wash of shimmering warmth to ORANGE. This is perfect for medium to dark warm and olive tones. Did I say the shimmer in this is great? Well I can't say it enough. I can see myself using this bronzer the rest of September and well into fall and winter. Nice product!

Price: $11.95 (PhysiciansFormula.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: Physicians Formula Solar Powder (SPF 20) Pressed Powder provides an even complexion and sun protection in one. Features buildable light to medium coverage in an oil-free formula.

Features of Physicians Formula Solar Powder (SPF 20) Pressed Powder, Bronzer :

• Protects skin from the sun's UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.


• Hypoallergenic.


• Fragrance-free.


• Dermatologist approved.

Jamie's Thoughts: A bronzer with SPF 20? And it's also a powder? What will they think of next?

I like this product, but I can't say that I fully understand it. I see the intelligence behind adding SPF to a powder/bronzer, since bronzer goes everywhere sun would normally be. However, I also wondered about exactly how much product would result in actual, significant sun protection. In an effort to find out, I used a non-SPF moisturizer (which is unusual for me) on a day that I knew I would be getting significant exposure to sunshine. After an entire day of being outside, I saw no difference whatsoever in my skin tone - there was no visible patch of freckle-free skin, no pale areas where I applied the bronzer, nothing. My cheekbones, nose, and forehead looked exactly the same as the rest of my face.

Obviously that isn't a scientifically significant experiment, but I was left wondering whether it had done anything at all to actually block the sun from hitting my skin. I guess those ladies who hate the feeling of sticky SPF on their faces could try this as a "Plan B." As far as the actual cosmetic goes, the color didn't last past lunch. (If you're a daily bronzer goddess, prepare to reapply) Top that with the quality of the actual powder (which is mediocre at best), and I simply wasn't impressed with this at all.

This clever idea was, perhaps, better in theory than execution.

Retail Price: $12.95 (available at drugstores and online)

Delush Rating:

What They Say: Provides a warm and vibrant bronzed complexion all year long without the harmful effects of the sun. Amazing bi-colored bronzer combines the perfect blend of pearlescent gold and warm bronze to create a light tan glow.

Toya's Take: Physicians Formula intrigues me. Whenever I pass their display at my local Walgreen's, I am drawn to the rows upon rows of beautifully decorated bronzer. I am a bronzer fan and have looked for the perfect bronzer for a while. As cute as this one is, it's not the perfect bronzer for me. Still, it's a great product!

I like Physicians Formula's wide array of shimmer and bronzing products and how there's something for everyone. While this bronzer is billed as being for medium to dark skin tones, I think it's really best used by someone with olive to maybe medium skin. For me, it didn't really provide a bronzing effect. However, it did give my skin a gorgeous golden glimmer and I really like that. So, I'll add it to my repertoire - not when I'm looking for bronzer, but if I'm just looking to add some golden highlights or shimmer, this is the product for me.

Retail Price: $11.95 at your local drugstore

Rating:

What They Say: "Shimmer all year long with this glowing powder which highlights skin with five luminous bands of warm beige, sand and bronze. All shades blend together for the ultimate glamorous, tan glow. Use all over face as a bronzer, sweep over cheeks as a blush or use each individual shade as an eye shadow. Silky smooth texture for a radiant complexion."

Alissa's Opinion: I tried this out in Sunset Strip (bronzer) and Malibu Strip (pink sand bronzer). I really loved the "custom" part of this bronzer. The lightest shades can be used to highlight and the darker ones are great for contouring. When mixed together on a big brush, the effect is a great tanned glow. The pink tones in Malibu Strip really brought out the blue in my eyes when I applied it on my lids and Sunset Strip was great for both face and décolletage. The texture was smooth and the amount of shimmer was just right. You really can't go wrong at this price.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at drugstores and superstores, as well as at physiciansformula.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Just the right color combination is brought together to give you a warm, healthy-looking glow. The pearls of powder of Multi-Colored Light Bronzer also combine matte and iridescent pigments to enhance your face with a natural finish. Pearls of Perfection provide the soft, smooth look of loose powder, but with the ease and convenience of pressed powder."

Alissa's Opinion: This was the first powder product I've tried in the 'pearl' form, so I was excited to see how it turned out. I found the little balls of bronzer quite easy and fun to use. Unfortunately, the color left something to be desired. My face just did not look tanned at all. I appreciate blushes and bronzers that go on lightly and can be layered, but this one was nearly invisible after multiple applications. There wasn't even a highlighting effect from the iridescent pearls! The darker version may have worked a little better, although my skin is quite pale to begin with. I wouldn't have any reason to use this bronzer again.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "Ultra-lightweight powder for the ultimate finishing touch to your makeup! Bathes skin in minerals, smoothing out its appearance with a soft focus finish. Can be worn alone or over other Mineral Wear™ face products to gently absorb shine, minimize the appearance of pores and enhance staying power of makeup. Flow-through system automatically delivers powder through brush to eliminate mess and contamination."

Jamie's Thoughts: Hmm, where do I start? I like the concept of this product - particularly its self-contained and convenient packaging (mirror included in the cap). Sadly, the product falls flat on execution. It took me about 10 minutes just to get the powder through the brush, and onto my face. Once that was accomplished, the brush itself was stiff, making application brisk and uncomfortable. The powder was effective enough (my matte surfaces stayed that way for about 2-3 hours), but who wants to stand around for ten minutes whapping themselves in the face? Not this girl. I cannot recommend this product.

Retail Price: $11.95 (available at your local drugstore and physiciansformula.com)

Delush Rating:

What They Say:

• As the ultimate finishing touch to your makeup or even worn alone, Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Bronzing Veil bathes skin with minerals for a natural tan glow without the damaging effects of the sun.
  
• Extremely lightweight formula can be worn alone or over other Mineral Wear™ face products to gently absorb shine and deliver a healthy-looking, velvety radiant finish.
  
• Flow-through system automatically delivers powder through brush to eliminate mess and contamination.

• Hypoallergenic.
  
• Fragrance-Free.
  
• Oil-Free.
  
• Talc-Free.
  
• Dermatologist Approved.
  
• Non-Comedogenic.

Melissa Says: I have to say, I am with Jamie on her whole assessment of the brushes in these new sift-through bottles by Physician's Formula. I thought the brush was too stiff and it wasn't comfortable to use on my face at all. In fact, it felt like it might buff away the makeup that was actually on my face if I wasn't careful! I know the idea is one that's been implemented by many other brands in their powder formulas, but I've tried many that were completely comfortable, so I know it can be done.

The bronzer in Medium that I tried had a matte finish, which is always a nice change for a bronzer, but I didn't feel like it gave much color or glow. Instead I felt like it was a little muddy. All in all, not the best I've seen from Physician's Formula; I much prefer their compacts in general to this.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at your local drugstore and on physiciansformula.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: Customizable dual-finish bronzer that offers a matte finish for a natural tan glow and shimmery gems to highlight face and eyes. Each gem can be used individually as a shadow or in combination with the matte tan bronzer for a radiant glow. Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Dermatologist approved.

Directions for use:

• May be worn alone or over makeup.
• For an all-over natural matte tan effect, sweep over matte bronzer shade with a powder brush and apply over entire face, or on the highest parts of the face-forehead, cheekbones, nose and chin.
• To accentuate and contour, apply matte bronze shade over cheekbones.
• To highlight, adjust shimmer with added strokes over gems as needed.
• Use gems alone or together on eyelids for a wide variety of looks, from natural eyelights to sultry eyes.
• For the most even application, be sure to tap excess powder from brush before applying.
• For best results on dry to very dry skin, apply moisturizer prior to using powder.

What Lisa says: Alas, my search for the holy grail of bronzers goes on. The first thing I did was ditch the brush that came with it and chose, instead to opt for a large fan brush. The small semi circular brush that comes with the mirror and ventilated compact just doesn't do any justice to a product that is already lacking. There's a bit of a "gimmick" factor to the gem on top but if you're into "kitch" you'll love it.

I received the Bronzer color for testing and it was just...okay. It matched my skin but I found both the bronzer and the shadow/highlighter to be sorely lacking in pigment. Both needed reapplication several times during the day.

The highlighter looked a bit like faded glitter and I noticed in photos my skin looked washed out making me wonder what the ratio of filler to pigment was.

I have found it hard to find "all in one" products that truly work for me and this one was no exception. I'll have to pass. Redheads and all you fair skinned lovelies beware, this color is NOT for you. If you have to try it, go for the Light Bronze or Coral Glow Bronzer if you must.

Retail Price: $12.95 Net Wt. 0.3 Oz./ 9g (www.physiciansformula.com)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "A beautiful mosaic of complementary hues to contour and accentuate cheekbones with soft color and discreet shimmer. It's the perfect combination of colors that blend together to naturally enhance your cheekbones. The finest Italian talc provides a silky-smooth application that blends easily without streaking or irritating sensitive skin."

Jen's Experience: My collection of bronzers has grown tremendously this summer, but I've found few that give a nice glow without it looking too orangish. This one has very little pigment, so it seems to work well with my fair skin, and I find it very buildable, so I can give some nice contours to my cheekbones and a softer glow elsewhere. The case is fun and includes a brush, that, while not as good as my bronzing brush, is actually somewhat useful. My biggest complaint is that it doesn't last very long. It's gone before lunch, leaving me back to my natural, pale state. If it lasted longer, it would quite possibly be the perfect bronzer.

Retail Price: $10.95 (Physician'sFormula.com)

Rating:

What They Say: "Provides a warm and vibrant bronzed complexion all year long without the harmful effects of the sun. ...Amazing bi-colored bronzer combines the perfect blend of pearlescent gold and warm bronze to create a light tan glow. Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Oil free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist approved."

What Melissa Says: I really think that some of Physician's Formula products are often underrated or passed over by people who haven't tried some of the line. Personally, I've found their powder products (mineral powder, blush, etc.) to be quite impressive, especially given the moderate price.

As an easily-accessible drugstore brand, their wide range of bronzers (expect to see more of them covered here on DeLush in the coming months) perhaps may give you so many choices that you aren't sure which to try. Let me clear up at least one question here: this version, especially in the shade I've tried, is absolutely PERFECT for those with fair to medium light skin who are gun=shy when it comes to bronzers. It is amazingly subtle, yet gives the faintest hint of glow. If bronzers typically just come out looking like too much on you, this is really something you should try.

I must emphasize that I don't want the word "shimmery" in the product name to throw you or scare you off. These powders are so soft and gentle, and even the shimmer portion blends beautifully onto your skin without being overbearing. You end up with a more radiant look, period.

Another winner in my book from this brand.

Retail Price: $11.95 (at drugstores and superstores)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say:
- Talc-free Mineral formula for an ultra-smooth, natural-looking finish.
- Minimalist formula can help reduce eye irritation.
- For extra-sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers!
- Dual-tone hues for buildable color!

Jamie’s Thoughts: Because my eyes are one of my favorite features, I have spent the last several years trying to figure out the best way to accentuate them. I now own more than 25 different eyeshadows – most of which are sparkly, shiny, or iridescent in some form or fashion. When I received this product to review, I was hesitant given its 100% matte status.

After a couple of days, I ascertained that while perhaps the colors were the best on my complexion, the formula is undoubtedly excellent. (For the record, Physicians Formula has quite a range of shades available in the Talc-free line) The product goes on smoothly and very easily – the dual package design includes two complementary shades, a base color for the lid, and a darker shade for the crease and any dramatic highlighting. Since most mineral-based cosmetics are on the light side (weight, not color) I assumed that I would have to layer a bit to achieve my look, but I was wrong. One swipe was plenty, which ultimately saves me both time and shadow.

A small warning: every time I touched or rubbed my eyes, I took off a layer of the shadow. I looked down at least twice to find my right index knuckle covered in product...that fact aside, there was no creasing at all, and I have wrinkly eyelids! Also, the packaging includes a hidden storage compartment (underneath the main surface) that houses a shadow brush and an oval mirror.

This product is maybe not for me, but still fantastic nonetheless. Great for anyone who has sensitive eyes, or simply likes a dramatic, matte eye.

Retail Price: $6.95 (available at pharmacies nationwide)

Rating:

What They Say:
- A beautiful mosaic of complementary hues to contour and accentuate cheekbones with soft color and discreet shimmer.
- It’s the perfect combination of colors that blend together to naturally enhance your cheekbones.
- The finest Italian talc provides a silky-smooth application that blends easily without streaking or irritating sensitive skin.

Jamie’s Thoughts: As a redhead, my experiences with blush have not always been pleasant – or should I say, pleasant to look at. Some blushes don’t do enough, while others are more visible than stage makeup. I was very happy to test out and review this particular product, knowing that Physicians Formula has an excellent reputation for expertly constructing pre-blended palettes.

This blush is fantastic – it isn’t overloaded with shimmering agents, it isn’t heavy (meaning that it looks natural and doesn’t settle into my medium-sized pores), and one can easily get a more dramatic effect with multiple applications. It has a warm glow to it, but nothing sparkly or super shiny, making it appropriate for all ages and skintones. It does fade a bit on those colder, winter days when I’m repeatedly wearing and removing my big scarf – but overall, the staying power is above average. It’s a foolproof blush, folks.

I also wanted to mention the packaging, and its ingenious twist on a traditional compact. The brush fits inside a vented storage chamber at the very bottom, the underside of the actual compact is a mirror, and it all snaps together in a petite, purse-friendly pod. While the brush provided is no match for my big, girly blush brush, it does the job and you can’t beat the convenience of having it housed inside the compact. Perfect for traveling, or for keeping inside your desk at work – all in all, I highly recommend it.

Price: $10.49 (Drugstore.com or pharmacy retailers nationwide)

Rating:

What They Say: "For extra sensitive or breakout-prone skin!
- Minimalist formula helps reduce irritation and breakout.
- Offers the performance and coverage of a foundation with the blendability and natural finish of a loose powder in one easy step.
- Innovative sifter lid helps contain mess.
- Brush snaps in place for ease of use and convenient storage.
Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Oil-free. Talc-free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist approved."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Back in May of this year, I reviewed this talc-free mineral formula in compact powder form, and while I liked how the powder worked on my skin, I wasn't completely thrilled with the harshness of the applicator brush.

First of all, as far as wear goes, this loose powder form does it all. It softly mattifies my complexion without looking cakey or dry, maintains the look for hours, and doesn't turn color on my skin. (I tested both the Creamy Natural and the Buff Beige and found that the slightly darker Buff Beige magically pulled off an invisible coverage. So don't be afraid to buy two to test at home if you can't decide in-store and take back the shade that isn't perfectly right - they are used to getting cosmetic returns and most likely won't give you any difficulty. The right shade really does make a difference in how you feel about the product!)

I also think the packaging is pretty ingenious. The little applicator brush pops into a clasp inside the inner lid, which hinges up to reveal the powder and then pops easily shut when you're done to keep any mess inside.

I only really have two issues with this product. First of all, I still think the application brush is a bit too stiff and might irritate very sensitive skin (which is ironic since the formula is geared toward those with that skin type). The other slight issue is that this isn't really a container you can easily stash in a purse for touchups. Granted, I needed very few using this. And there are always oil absorbing sheets for carrying along as well. I suppose for a loose powder it actually travels relatively well if you need to bring it, because it's all in one container - brush and all!

Overall, a great powder for the price.

Retail Price: $9.95 (in drugstores and superstores everywhere)

DeLush Rating:

What They Say: "For extra sensitive or breakout-prone skin! Minimalist formula helps reduce irritation and breakout. Hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free. Oil-free. Talc-free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist approved."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I was at first glance very impressed with this compact, with its ample-sized pot of powder, hidden mirror, and included brush. Ironically, though this powder is made for more sensitive skin, I found the brush bristles to be really hard and too stiff to feel comfortable putting on my face. I'm one who often gets red, itchy irritated splotches when I use brushes that aren't soft, so if you have a similar problem you won't want to use the included brush. I instead used a powder brush I have in my makeup bag (the Sonia Kashuk Collapsible Travel Brush from Target - it's fabulous!) and that made the experience much kinder on my face. When you brush over the powder it kind of goes all over, I'm not sure why that is. But it's a slight annoyance because it just seems to fly everywhere if you're not careful.

However, the actual RESULT of the powder was a pleasant one. It gave me a nice, even finish and the warm-weather oiliness that I often get on my forehead and sides of my nose stayed under control for hours. The color (I used Creamy Natural) stayed true and didn't cake.

In my opinion, this is an okay option for those with oily and/or sensitive skin who want something specifically oil-free or talc-free. You can even use that little brush when you absolutely need to for touchups when you're out if you need to (though the thought makes me shudder). But if you apply it with your own higher-quality powder brush at home, you will be much happier with it.

Retail Price: $12.95 (at drugstores and superstores - their site even helps you out by aiding you in finding stores in your area in Canada or the U.S...Click Here)

DeLush Rating:

Get Sonia Kashuk's collapsible travel brush in Target stores. It's a wonderful inexpensive (I think around $9?) higher-quality brush than ANY drugstore version I've used. Her entire brush line would be worth a purchase if you're in the market for new brushes but don't want to spend $60 or more on a set.