Best of 2009: Beauty

Each year, I test a near-unimaginable volume of beauty products, new releases, niche brands and cult favorites. But the truth remains that very few products actually make it into my daily rotation. My taste is discerning - not only must a product be effective (duh!) but it should also be an experience to use. Here are my picks for the very BEST products of 2009.

Frederic Fekkai Sensuelle Shampoo & Conditioner - Scented with orange blossom and jasmine, this shampoo and conditioner leave hair incredibly soft and smelling delicious for hours.

Lipstick Queen Chinatown Glossy Pencils - These chunky lip pencils make me want to paint by numbers. They deliver the perfect dose of glossy color and look oh-so-cool when you pull them out of your purse.

Maybelline Superstay Concealer - It's rare that I endorse an inexpensive foundation or concealer, but this one gets the job done. If you can find a match (there are only five available shades), it covers a myriad of skin sins and lasts all day.

essie Mink Muffs - This taupe-y gray nail lacquer has a hint of purple to it; it's at once edgy and chic.

And last but not least, AmorePacific's Treatment Enzyme Peel is the most gentle exfoliator imaginable. Try it on your face or body; the bottle will last you a lifetime (okay, or at least a year with regular use.)

What were the BEST products you tried in 2009? Leave a comment and share!

FTC Disclosure: Samples received for review.