No need to spend an arm and leg for face moisturizer
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I don’t mind spending $40 or more on moisturizers, but I don’t like paying for expensive packaging and getting very little product (less than 2 oz.) Any suggestions?
— Joan G.
Dear Joan: I do mind spending $40 or more on moisturizers, and you don’t need to spend that kind of money. My go-to facial moisturizer is as good as the high-end ones and costs under $14 for 2 ounces: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion (drugstores; target.com, 2 oz., $13.69). And, there’s a bonus: This moisturizer also provides SPF 30 sun protection. I’ve been using it for years because it’s not greasy and not expensive. It goes on ghostly white, but give it a good rub in and you can’t see it at all. For nighttime try CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, which costs even less that the daytime formula because it doesn’t contain sunscreen (drugstores; target.com, 3 oz., $12.39).
Joan, your moisturizer question gives me an idea for a future column. Hey readers, send me the name of the single (only one) top beauty or makeup product or tool that you absolutely rely on. I’ll compile a list of your one must-have and share my own. Please use the full name of the product (and include a photo, if possible).
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I’d like to sell my 1985 wedding dress and veil. My daughter is getting married and wants her own look and I’d love to make a little money to put toward the many expenses. I’d be grateful for suggestions. — Chris W.
Dear Chris: I’m not very optimistic that you’ll be able to make
much cash (if any) for that 35-year-old wedding dress. If it is a designer gown (Vera Wang, for example) you might have better luck.
Call your local consignment stores and ask them if they’re interested in the dress (offer to email photos) but be prepared to be disappointed. Most consignment stores don’t accept clothes of any kind (including wedding wear) if it is more than one or two seasons old.
Here’s another idea: Repurpose the gown. Have a crafter or sewing expert turn it into an evening bag, ring bearer pillow, garter, teddy bear, flower girl basket, christening gown, bridesmaid gifts, sachets, headpiece or anything else you can think of. There are many experts on etsy.com who can turn keepsake clothing — not just wedding dresses — into items like throw pillows and quilts too.
Angelic Readers
Thanks for the recom
mendations for reader Janet C. who is looking for no-smudge lipsticks that won’t rub off on her face mask.
Stephanie O., Shari W. and Rebecca K. swear by Maybelline Superstay 24 2-Step Liquid Lipstick. Peggy C. says Covergirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color often “is still there at bedtime.” Barbara H. likes Mary Kay lip balm that she says goes on clear but turns to subtle color. Joan G. and Jennifer
K.’s favorites are Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick products. Nancy H. chooses Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor. Janice S. uses L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Lip Color. Linda P. likes Palladio Lip Stain.
Now it’s your turn
Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail.com.