Sometimes one look works so well that we’re reluctant to stray. Sometimes there just isn’t enough time to be inventive. Other times, our good intentions just aren’t enough. It’s frustrating to bring home something new, only to have the excitement of the purchase washed away when the product doesn’t live up to expectations.

It only takes one or two experiences like that to send me running back to tried-and-true favorites. It’s easier to avoid disappointment and stay out of ruts if you do your homework before you buy. Knowing where to look to find information will help.

There are a number of great websites for product information and reviews. One of my favorites is makeupalley.com, mostly because of the sheer number of members (registration is free). Anyone can post an opinion of any beauty-related item.

The site has listings for every brand I’ve ever heard of, and quite a few others, so it’s sure to cover what you’re looking for. The reviews include ratings and the option to include a comment. It’s a good idea to read the comments, especially if an item received mixed reviews. In some cases, products that work for one skin type have disastrous results on others, and you may be in luck.

For makeup junkies who are just starting out, a beauty book makes a great investment, but they’re equally appealing for the more experienced. It seems like just about everyone who owns a major makeup line has now published a book. The topics covered range from basic, like picking out the right colors, to advanced techniques like shading, so there’s bound to be something for every taste.

Books that take an introductory approach can be an interesting read for even the most experienced. They are filled with useful tips and information on all kinds of products and are often helpful in answering any lingering questions. Books that tackle more complicated subjects are great for getting the most of your collection. They can be a great inspiration for new color combinations, in addition to showing off new ways to use what you already have.

Bobbi Brown Teenage Beauty is a perfect present for younger beauties. It combines the author’s simplistic, less-is-more take on makeup with important points everyone should learn.

Trish McEvoy: The Power of Makeup is a favorite of mine. By dividing readers into three categories based on their level of makeup use, she offers individualized suggestions for keeping your look fresh. Even if you read nothing useful in the book, the pictures are worth it by themselves. The beautiful makeup artistry will inspire anyone.

Don’t want to read through an entire book? The beauty sections of many magazines usually feature brand-new or limited-edition products, many of which are not even on shelves yet. Flipping through magazines is a fun way to look at what's new, but they don’t offer help in deciding which products will be hits and which are duds.

When I look through a magazine, I always look at the ads for models with similar facial structures or coloring as mine. When I find a style I like, I simply tear out the page and place it in a folder. Then, the next time I’m stuck in a rut or just feeling particularly creative, I can pull out the ad and try to recreate that look.