E.L.F. Eye Widener - Open Your Eyes

E.L.F. Eye Widener Pencil in White ($1 at http://www.eyeslipsface.com) will make tired eyes look awake! Apply this portable pencil on the inner rims of eyelids for an "I just got eight hours of sleep" look. You can also use this blendable formula to make small eyes appear bigger and brighter.

WARNING: Applying this product so close to eyes may cause irritation. If this occurs, run the pencil just below the lower lash line and above the upper lash line for a similar effect.

TIP: Always check this cosmetics line for the latest makeup trends at affordable prices. Although you will be charged for shipping, the overall cost of your purchase will still be relatively low. Don't forget to surf sites like http://www.retailmenot.com/ for coupon codes!

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TUESDAY TIP - Pearly Whites at the Right Price!

Everyone wishes their teeth were whiter. The least expensive and quickest way to achieve this ambition - wear a bright lipstick or gloss that stands out against the lighter shade of your teeth; this will instantly make your smile sparkle. If you have stains that have built up over the years from coffee, pop (soda), wine, etc. that require a more intensive fix, try Crest Whitestrips Classic (about $25 at most drugstores). This DIY treatment is as equally effective as the super expensive procedures performed in dentists' offices. To prevent further plaque build-up, be sure to brush and floss teeth at least twice daily.

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Sonia Kashuk Eye Shadow in Nudenick - Barely There Beauty

Sonia Kashuk Powder Partners Eye Shadow Duo in Nudenick 52 (about $7 at most Target stores) is a pair of subtle beige tones that gives eyelids just a hint of color - ideal for wearing to work. The darker of the two hues has a matte finish while the lighter has a bit of shimmer; apply the darker first just from lash line to crease and the lighter right on top of that. These universally flattering shadows will make eyes of any shade shine brighter without looking too flashy. Other delicate duos I love from this line:

1. "Take Cover 47"
2. "Leather/Lace 10"

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Olay Eye Brightening Cream - Lighten Up!

Olay Complete Ageless Eye Brightening Cream (between $12 and $14 at most drugstores) noticeably lightens the bluish circles under eyes. The fragrance-free formula, which also reduces fine lines, is perfect for fair-skinned gals whose light complexions make the dark "half-moons" more apparent. Dab a pea-sized amount directly to the darker areas twice daily - don't worry, it can be worn under makeup.

TIP: Be very gentle when applying this or other eye products. It may take more time, but patting on the cream is much better than rubbing it on as any pulling or irritation of this super-sensitive skin can lead to more prominent signs of aging.

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TUESDAY TIP - Lipstick to the Last Drop!

Do NOT spend money on a new tube of your favorite lipstick until it's really gone. When you can no longer apply the formula straight from the tube because it just won't twist the very last bit to the top, scoop it out and put it in a mini lipgloss pot...a makeshift one of course. The easiest container to use for this is a contact case - it's portable, fits two shades and if you don't have one lying around, you can buy one for about $1! Simply pull the cotton off the end of a q-tip, scrape out any lipstick left in the tube and put it in the contact case.

TRY to think of DIY tips like this for all of your favorite beauty products to make the most of your moolah!

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Cover Girl LipSlicks - Shine On!

CoverGirl LipSlicks Lipgloss (about $4 at most drugstores) leaves lips smooth, supple and full of shine! The gloss is available in over 10 different sheer shades that provide just the right amount of color to keep your pucker looking pretty. I started using this product in high school and haven't stopped - it's a classic I truly trust. My favorite shades:

1. Demure
2. Princess
3. Flirtatious

TRICK: If you want more color, apply this gloss on top of lipstick - you'll get the best of both worlds!

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Clearasil Pimple Blocker Pen - Pimple Prevention

Clearasil Ultra Pimple Blocker Pen (about $10 at most drugstores) is a perfectly portable pimple preventer! The pen-shaped tube is filled with a 2% salicylic acid gel and is designed for sterile, pinpoint application to blemishes at any stage (i.e. - you won't risk transferring the dirt and oil from fingertips to the affected area when you apply the formula, as often happens with other products that come in typical tubes). It's also just the right size for your pocket or purse! I prefer to use the pimple blocker pen before bed after I've washed my face, but you can apply it as necessary throughout the day.

TIP: Run the tip of the pen over the pimple in a circular motion for a few seconds rather than just dabbing it on.

TRICK: Use the pen even on pimples that are just beginning to form; if you apply the gel at this stage, the pimple will probably never progress to a whitehead!

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