don't go to the cosmetic counter without me...

I recently reviewed the book, Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, by Paula Begoun. I have to say I was very impressed by the sheer amount of information on beauty products that the author covers! Most of the book is devoted to literally thousands of beauty product reviews. The products range from all markets and prices. Each product is broken down by content and bluntly explained how beneficial the ingredients are for your skin, or in most cases, how your skin can do without the listed ingredients. I'll admit I was a little disappointed to find that some of my favorite products did not rank very high. The book is very informational and extreme which makes for a great debate regarding what ingredients are beneficial for different skin types and what ingredients are a waste of money.

I still believe you should be your own judge, sample products and see how your skin reacts to it before ruling it out. Regardless, Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, is a great reference to have on hand. The concept of being acquainted with just how rare the "rare ingredients" you're paying for are, or what the "fantastic claims" companies make really do for the skin is frequently overlooked. You may save a few hundred dollars on your next trip to Sephora by doing a little self-educating. Treat what you put on your skin the same way you treat what you put into your body, be aware.