
Long-lasting, highly pigmented cream blush tends to be expensive; a good stick can run you upwards of $30. So that's why I'm going to let you in on something I recently discovered while wandering around Walmart: Bonne Bell Blush 'N Go ($5). I purchased the Petal Pink shade on a whim, and I've been using it for two weeks now. Surprisingly, not only does it have excellent pigment payoff, but it spreads beautifully, lasting just as well as most cheek stains nearly six times its cost. To see how the shade looks on and find out what pricey products this one resembles, just keep reading.
Which Products Do You Wish Were Easier to Find?
In today's New York Times, writer Ricki Morell discusses her mother's panic upon discovering that her beloved Camay soap has become nearly impossible to find. While it hasn't been discontinued, and it's still sold through distributors online and abroad, you probably won't have much luck finding it in your local drugstore.
This got me to thinking about products I wish were easier to find. I've been using Bonne Bell's famous blush gels since my younger years but can only seem to purchase them through the company directly at this point. What about you? Whether it's due to nostalgia, a bit of sensory memory, or some other reason altogether, which longtime beauty favorites of yours do you wish were easier to find?
Reader Review of the Day: Bonne Bell Blend 'n' Glow Multitone Powder
Earlier today I was feeling nostalgic for Bonne Bell, a brand that is undoubtedly part of your junior-high memories, too. I dug through the archives from last year, and discovered this little gem, Bonne Bell Blend 'n' Glow Multitone Powder ($4.50) reviewed by Itsme3683:
I wanted something to transition me from Summer bronzer to Fall not-so-much bronzer. It doesn't really add a lot of color, and it is a little more shimmer than I expected. (I guess that's what I get for buying a teeny-bopper brand!) I use it as a highlighter on my cheekbones, and it looks really nice. I also use it for a little depth on my chin, nose, and forehead. Be careful on the nose and forehead if you're prone to shininess.
What products are your go-to transition items? Is there a hair product you use exclusively for warmer months? Do you only need a certain conditioner during cooler, crisper weather? Tell us all about it in the Product Reviews pages. We love hearing from you.
December Must-Haves
Even though stores are filled with people seeking gifts for friends and family, let's be realistic: Most people pick up a little something for themselves, too. And why not? It's been a long year, and a bit of pampering won't hurt.

For this month's must-haves, I've found items that will help you primp and prepare for end-of-year festivities—along with a few that'll help you decompress from the stress of the holidays. To see my picks, read more
Beauty Byte: Mattel and Bonne Bell Making Makeup for Girls
In early 2007, Mattel teamed up with MAC Cosmetics for the limited-edition Barbie Loves MAC line, which was MAC's most successful collection ever. The nostalgic line of bright and playful shades (at right) was inspired by Barbie but designed for grown women.
Now, Mattel turning its makeup brushes toward a younger generation. According to MediaPost, Mattel is working with Bonne Bell to develop a makeup line for girls. (Thanks to Jezebel for the tip.)
Though Mattel hasn't released any details, the collection will reportedly target buyers ages 6 to 9. The Bonne Bell products are expected to launch next year. Say Mattell, via MediaPost:
"The Barbie and Bonne Bell partnership will bring girls a fun, feminine and unique beauty experience, leveraging the unparalleled popularity of two globally loved brands," the company says in its announcement.
When I was a kid, I loved Bonne Bell Lip Smackers, and I know that little girls love playing around with makeup. But creating actual makeup designed especially for the pre-tween set just seems wrong to me. What do you think?