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Published: November 1, 2008

mdskincare by Dr. Dennis Gross Intense Hydra Mask

Available at Sephora, NordstroM and, other department stores; also at mdskincare.com; $60 for a six-treatment kit

"A potent cocktail of antioxidants prevent and repair free radical damage; collagen-building ingredients are forced deep into the skin."

A+

Michelle says: Thank you, Dr. Dennis Gross; thank you. You've created a skin-care line the little people can afford. I was a little rattled by the $60 price tag until I realized it came with six treatments. For $10 a pop, this was the most inexpensive and luxurious gift I could give my face. How good is it? A co-worker remarked a day after one of my treatments, "Girl, you are positively glowing! Did you change your makeup or what?" The best part about the mask's simple two-step process is that it's not messy. You start by applying the "hyaluronic gel" all over your face and neck with a fan brush, then add the self-heating mask over the first layer. Yes, it's warm and comforting, just like Dr. G. promises. Wait 10 to 15 minutes and voila! It easily wipes off with a warm towel. The effect is almost immediate, plumping and smoothing out my dry and dehydrated skin. Who needs a fancy-schmancy spa when you can do this at home and get the same results?

Michelle Bearden, 53, covers faith and values for the Tribune.

Lush B B Seaweed Face Mask

Available at the Lush store in Tampa; $9.95 for a 3.5-ounce tub

"A nutritious, rejuvenating, and deep-cleansing face mask for everyone who needs a little lift."

Rating: A+

Cloe says: If you crave great-looking skin like I do, I've got two words for you: BB Seaweed. Each time I used this mask on my sensitive/oily/combination skin, it was immediately soothed/softened/refreshed with a ravishingly radiant glow. So what if it looks like something you'd eat in a "Fear Factor" challenge and it's the wettest, chunkiest mask I've ever used. It's free of preservatives and contains natural ingredients such as seaweed, aloe vera, honey, ground almonds and rose - some of which can spoil, so you have to keep it refrigerated between uses. The product is made to last about three weeks. (The container has a "best before" date written on it so you can keep track). I wound up using mine a couple weeks past the expiration date and got the same fabulous results.

Cloe Cabrera, 42, is the fashion and beauty reporter for the Tribune.

Annick Goutal Paris Masque Splendide

Available at Niemen Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, $85 for a 2-ounce jar

"Thanks to its unique gel-cream texture, skin experiences a true shower of freshness and instant relaxation, for a burst of youth and renewed radiance."

Rating: B

Kim says: Once again, I'm the mean judge. But for $85, I think you should see a real difference in your skin after a few uses. I did not. The mask did sort of perk me up on the mornings I used it - it has a nice rose scent and it's a gel, so it feels good and goes on smoothly. But my skin didn't feel softer or younger or more radiant or especially special in any way. Quel dommage! I had high hopes for this pricey product.

Kim Franke-Folstad, 50, is senior features editor at the Tribune and editor of 4you.

Yes To Carrots C the Difference Exfoliating Smoothing Mud Mask

Available at Walgreens and Target; $14.99 for 1.7-ounce jar

"Dead Sea mud and minerals tone, revitalize and purify the skin without a smoothie maker in sight."

Rating: A

Sara says: I've probably kidded myself into believing that some face masks really made a difference in the way my skin looks. Perhaps it's because applying one feels like a mini spa treatment for me. But after using this mud mask, I can honestly say I "C the difference" in my skin's overall appearance. It is softer and much brighter; a co-worker noticed the improvement the first day. I really like that the consistency isn't grainy or rough on my skin. It goes on smoothly and dries quickly. And the fact that it's chockfull of fruits and veggies doesn't hurt, either. I know I'll continue with this product, because if the mask fits, I'll wear it!

Sara Minton, 31, is event news editor for Friday Extra, TBOextra.com.

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