Clinique Superbalanced Makeup: A Great Choice for Combination Skin

Like any rule-abiding beauty-conscious girl, there are two things that I put on my face every (okay, most) mornings: an oil-free moisturizer with SPF 15 and a great liquid foundation. Clinique Superbalanced Makeup is my weapon of choice. It's a medium-to light coverage foundation that feels just like silk on your face. I've tried several different foundations from top of the line beauty stores like Sephora, and have found none that outperform this one.

Why it's great: Clinique calls this product "the smart makeup base." It does two great things all in one. First, it absorbs oil in the t-zone, where oil control is most typically needed, even in people with combination skin. The foundation also moisturizes where moisture is required-ideal for us girls with what beauty experts call "combination skin." I've found it particularly helpful during the wintertime, when the cold weather dries my skin out in some places, yet I still need a bit of oil absorption in other areas. Using a creamier, thicker foundation or moisturizer wouldn't be an option because they tend to cause breakouts. Superbalanced foundation gives a soft, natural finish that isn't overly-dewy or too matte. Applied correctly, it gives a uniform, perfect base for a beautiful face. It's also light, soft and very natural-looking.

Skin types: Clinique Superbalanced Makeup is designated by Clinique to best suit normal to oily skin types (skin types II and III in their classification system).

Benefits: 100% Fragrance Free. Allergy tested. Oil-free.

Tips: Take a trip to your local department store that sells Clinique to get a free professional consultation to find an exact match for your skin color. When applying makeup, start at the middle of your face and gently blend outward with your fingertips, paying particular attention to blending edges around your jaw line and hairline. For ultra-smooth, dreamlike application, try using a natural-fiber foundation brush.

Cost: $19.50 for 1 Fl. Oz.

Where to buy: You can purchase Clinique Superbalanced Makeup in most department stores, including Macy's. It's also available online at clinique.com and macys.com.

While you're at it, you may want to check out Clinique's 3-step Skin Care System. Each step is customized to best suit your particular skin type. I use it myself, and it makes sure that your skin is in the best possible condition even before you put on your foundation. It includes non-drying facial soap, exfoliating clarifying lotion, and moisturizing lotion or gel, depending on your skin type. Here's to your beautiful skin!