Neutrogena MoistureShine Gloss: Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week

I’m a lip gloss aficionado. I probably own 350+ tubes – and, yes, I realize that that’s utterly ridiculous. But I can’t help myself; I have an insatiable appetite for glosses.

It’s the one cosmetic that I wear every day, so I suppose my compulsion is somewhat justified (not really, that’s just what I tell myself). But despite my addiction, I’m quite the lip gloss snob. My collection is an exquisitely edited assortment of glosses, and a new addition must pass a rigorous set of standards before it is inducted into my own private lip gloss hall of fame.

The latest inductee? Neutrogena’s new MoistureShine Gloss – and here’s why…

First, MoistureShine Gloss has the perfect level of opacity for this time of year. In the spring/summer, I become the Goldilocks of glosses. I look for a gloss that delivers a hint of color; not so little that I might as well be wearing a clear gloss, and not so much that it looks like I’m wearing lipstick. MoistureShine Gloss gives the lips just the right amount of color, not to mention creamy, megawatt shine. The conditioning formula is antioxidant-rich and actually improves the healthy look, softness and smoothness of your lips over time. Plus the gloss has a subtle berry fragrance, natch.

MoistureShine Gloss isn’t sticky in the slightest, and feels more like a balm on the lips. For this review, I tested shade 410 (Wine Wellness, left) - which looks gorgeous, in an understated way, against my tan complexion.

If you’re a lip gloss nut like me and you’re looking for a new beauty that won’t break the bank, Neutrogena MoistureShine Gloss ($8.99) is an excellent choice. Available in 14 shades, it is sold at mass market retailers nationwide.