Since the seventh grade, I had been a loyal devotee of the Clinique 3-Step Skin Care System. But after moving to gritty New York City from rural Vermont, my skin took a major beating. I knew I needed to try something that not only cleansed my face, but wouldn't irritate or burn.

Cate Blanchett -- a fashion icon with impeccable skin -- is the global ambassador for SK-II. So, when I happened upon the brand's latest product, Cellumination Mask-In Lotion, I barely hesitated. You'd have to be crazy not to want radiant skin like Cate's!

I applied the iridescent liquid -- which feels cool at first and dries a bit tacky -- in the morning and before bed. Within a couple of uses, I noticed that some of my red spots were drastically clearer and my skin actually felt smoother. After one week of use, a stranger approached me to comment on my complexion -- something that hasn't happened since I faithfully started my skin care routine years ago.

I guess I'm closer to getting that red carpet glow.

SK-II Cellumination Mask-In Lotion, $75, sk-ii.com.