I had first heard and seen the name "smashbox" in fashion magazines and on alt.fashion (Usenet newsgroup for fashion and beauty-related topics). I was curious. Who is smashbox? Are they just another Estee Lauder company? How many more boutique makeup companies do we need, anyway?

My skepticism was put to rest after just 20 minutes at my local smashbox counter. The counter manager was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. smashbox is actually part of smashbox Studios in Culver City, CA, a photography studio. The smashbox philosophy is a sort of minimalism, in that they offer a small range of colors but those colors are designed to mix-and-match. Rather than 300 lipstick shades, they have around ten, all of which are supposed to be mixed either together or with lip liners to make different color combinations. Clever idea.

Liza, the counter manager, decided to try some of their eye shadows on me. Their "look" for eyes for the fall is a wash of all-over color with just a hint of eye liner. I was outfitted in a rather sparkly peachy-beige cream shadow with a smudge of purple-black eyeliner just on the upper lids. It wasn't my usual style, but it was fun and different. I passed on trying the lipstick this time around (I had on the new Slipcovers from Origins already), but I promised Liza I would return. Before leaving, I of course asked for samples of their skin care. They only have two products, since again, their approach is more minimalist.

smashbox Cleanser $26
Considering that the eye and lip colors in this line seem to be for younger women, this cleanser was not at all what I expected. It is very creamy, not foamy at all, and is almost moisturizing. As winter draws near, I think this could be a very nice cleanser for drier or more sensitive skins. If you are more oily, I think it would be too emollient (you could always get a sample!). It removed all my makeup (even the smashbox cream eyeshadow) easily and without pulling or scrubbing.

smashbox Moisturizer $34
smashbox's philosophy about their moisturizer is refreshing: it moisturizes. That's all. They don't claim it will get rid of wrinkles, pimples, or anything else. When I tested it, I fould a little dab went a very long way. It was moisturizing without being too heavy, and it left a nice finish to put makeup on. There isn't really anything special about it, but if you like what smashbox is doing, it is definitely worth trying.