We’re pretty eyeliner obsessed—from the best waterproof liners to drugstore pencils, no liner goes underappreciated around here. But even the best pencils eventually go dull. And anyone who has ever ruined one of their favorites knows that when it comes to eye pencil sharpeners, there is definitely a class above the rest. Not only will a great sharpener keep your pencil pointy and precise, but it also reveals a fresh layer of product, which can help reduce the spread of bacteria.
According to celebrity makeup artist Allie Renee, a great eye pencil sharpener is an unsung hero in your tool kit. “Cosmetic pencil sharpeners are the most sanitary and efficient way to keep your products performing at their best,” she says.
So what separates the good sharpeners from the great ones? I’m glad you asked. “Because pencils come in many shapes and sizes, I like to have a sharpener with two size options,” Renee says. “A sharp blade is a must, too! I also look for something with a housing that can be removed or opened so I can clean it.”
Better yet, even prestige sharpeners tend to be fairly inexpensive. You only have to spend a few dollars for a tool that will last years and that will keep your eye, lip, and brow pencils in fighting form.
Simply put, says the makeup pro, “It’s a must-have in your beauty collection, even if you rarely ever think about it.” If you’re in need of an upgrade, keep scrolling for 10 of the very best eye pencil sharpeners, plus pencils to pair them with.
I love doing my own makeup. Ever since I was 15 years old and trying out my first Urban Decay Naked palette (the original, of course), I have been excited about doing something fun to my face for any and every occasion. There’s one occasion in particular that I always get excited about, though: New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to try your hand at a bolder makeup look. Think smoky eyes, metallic touches, and bold lips. Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best makeup I’ve seen recently to add to your NYE mood board—all you’ll need is the perfect New Year’s Eve outfit to match.
Review Highlight: “I don’t write reviews often. I’m 60 years old, have decent skin, no surgical procedures (yet). But for me to see the results the next day, after using and applying my usual moisturizer and serum. I will try the other products with no hesitation! Ladies after putting on my light foundation, I thought my face looks brighter! Not being arrogant, I now keep the Vital C cleanser on hand at all times!!” — Amazon reviewer
What We Say: Formulated with hyaluronic acid and a vitamin C complex, this serum minimizes the appearance of lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and discoloration. Plus, it even soothes dry skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple.
The landscape of beauty is ever-changing, as new products launch and industry icons receive packaging touchups or formula tweaks. In 2022, we saw innovations in texture, formulation and ingredient blends — and experts seem to agree: It was a blockbuster year in beauty.
Beauty editors spend their days testing all of the latest hair, makeup, skin-care and fragrance drops, usually before they even hit the market. And while they may try hundreds (if not thousands!) of new products each year, there are only a select few that make the cut as newfound favorites.
We asked 13 beauty editors — experts in all things dabbing, blending, smoothing and judging — to share their picks for the very best product launches of 2022. Ahead, see the 33 they chose.
“You couldn’t head out for your morning cup of coffee without running into a celebrity skin-care line this year, but the one that surprised me in the best way was Hailey Bieber’sRhode Beauty. The Barrier Restore Cream, in particular, stood out for a few reasons: Not only did she consult veteran cosmetic chemists and trusted dermatologists to fine-tune the formula, she also kept the ingredients simple yet effective. My sensitive skin is a big baby… but it drank up every last drop of this stuff — no irritation or breakouts in sight.” —Kelsey Castañon, content director, Popsugar Beauty
“Coming from someone who spent half of every middle school P.E. class trying to unstick my hair from my lips, I thought my lip gloss days were in the rearview. Then, I tried this launch from Tarte’s Maracuja line, which is technically more of a ‘bloss’ — a hybrid between a balm and a gloss — than the sticky alternative you might have worn in the early aughts. Still, it gives my lips that Juicy Tube-level shine without the sticky feel. It doesn’t hurt that I also love every single color (I have all nine of them stashed in a different purse, travel bag and makeup drawer) and that the hydrating formula is perfect year-round.” —Castañon
“The name speaks for itself: This Merit serum does exactly what it says. It gives you great skin. For the clean beauty brand’s first foray into skin care, it tried its hand at something so simple, but so efficacious. The niacinamide and hyaluronic acid simultaneously brighten and hydrate. On days when I’m rushing or just want to have a nice morning glow for the gym, I apply this and feel like a new woman.” —Asia Millia Ware, fashion and beauty writer, The Cut
Dior La Mousse Off/On Foaming Face Cleanser, $47, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“This cleanser hasn’t made its way off my shelf since it launched in the spring. I knew I loved it when I was traveling and forgot my skin-care bag, and when I went to Sephora, it was the first thing I reached for. Dior got everything right, from the creamy foaming texture to the way it leaves skin hydrated and deeply cleansed. It’s the one cleanser that I recommend to every person I know. There are so many cleansers on the market, but for me, this one changed the game forever, which says a lot. And it’s luxury beauty at an affordable price. Definitely a top-tier launch.” —Ware
Cay Skin Deepwater Nourishing Lip Mask, $22, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I know the girls love Laneige (myself included), but Winnie Harlow absolutely did something with her brand’s lip mask. Whether I’m going to bed, the gym or just re-hydrating my lips midday, it effortlessly glides across my lips for the ultimate nourishment. I honestly haven’t touched another lip mask since I discovered this, and I have everyone from my boyfriend to my best friends obsessed with it.” —Ware
Jori Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask, $52, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“As someone who grew up with cystic acne, I’m pretty skeptical about most over-the-counter treatments, but I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It’s labeled as a leave-on mask, but I use it as a spot treatment whenever I see or feel a breakout coming on. It has 2.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide that allows it to get deep into the pores, as opposed to just sitting on the surface of your skin (which reduces the usual irritation I’d get from using anything with benzoyl peroxide in it). I apply the tiniest amount to an incoming spot one to two times a day, and it stops it right in its tracks.” —Jenny Jin, beauty director, PureWow
Supergoop Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion SPF 50, $34, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I’m always on the search for a sunscreen that outperforms the last, and this one from Supergoop is a standout this year. The brand calls it a ‘watery lotion,’ and I can confirm that it has a thin, watery consistency that spreads easily and absorbs without much effort. I’ve worn it during sweaty summer days in LA and in crisp fall weather while visiting family in Korea recently, and it never feels too heavy on my skin. On that note, the lightweight texture is comparable to some K-beauty formulas I’ve loved throughout the years like Innisfree and Make P:rem.” —Jin
“Char was first described to me as ‘a comforting scent that’s basically a crisp, cozy fall day in a bottle,’ which is pretty accurate. Featuring tonka bean and ginger top notes, it gives a whiff of warmth and spice that lingers long after you spray it. Depending on my mood, I’ve been alternating between this and ‘Windows Down,’ a lighter, brighter citrus fragrance from the brand. Either way, I’ve gotten compliments from friends and family members whenever I wear these scents — including my mom, who stopped me mid-hug the other day and insisted I spray some perfume on her, too.” —Jin
Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50, $22, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“The struggle to find brown girl-friendly sunscreens is still real, even in the year 2022. So I was extremely delighted to discover that not only does this SPF not leave behind a chalky white residue on my skin, but it’s extremely moisturizing. I love wearing this daily because I feel protected, whether it’s sunny outside or extremely cloudy, and it makes for an incredible base when I do wear makeup.” —Dana Oliver, founder and editor, Beauty for Breakfast
Milk Makeup Future Fluid Cream Concealer, $29, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I live for a multi-purpose beauty product, and Future Fluid wears many hats, from concealer and highlighter to foundation. I don’t have to overdo it with blending, as it melts right into my skin. And I still look like myself, which is a huge plus!” —Oliver
Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Serum Foundation, $34, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“When Danessa Myricks’ Yummy Skin Serum Foundation launched in March, I knew I needed to get my hands on it immediately. Once I tried it, I fell in love with the formula. Honestly, it’s the only foundation I’ve used consistently this year. It feels hydrating (thanks to ingredients like hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil) and gives my skin a beautiful glow.” —Olivia Hancock, beauty editor, Byrdie
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“Futurewise’s Slugging System has been a game-changer for my dry skin, especially the Slug Balm. I love slathering this jelly-like formula on my skin before bed. The moisture-locking occlusive helps prevent water loss, ensuring my skin remains plump and hydrated. And unlike other occlusives, this one doesn’t feel sticky or heavy on my skin.” —Hancock
Ami Colé On Point Precision Brow Pencil, $20, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I’m an Ami Colé devotee, so I always get excited when the brand launches something new. The On Point Precision Brow Pencil debuted in September and has quickly become my favorite brow product. The ultra-fine tip makes it easy to create precise, hair-like strokes. Plus, I love that all the shades are named after braiding hair colors.” — Hancock
“Sunscreen doesn’t need to be fun (after all, preventing cancer is fun enough on its own, IMO), but this fluffy sunscreen makes applying it on yourself or a friend a total delight. It comes straight out of the can just like whipped cream and smells like a hazy piña colada-doused afternoon in Miami. P.S. Any record collector will find this product charming, too, because it reminds me of the Herb Alpert ’65 cover.” —Margaux Anbouba, beauty editor, Elle
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I never thought about how every liquid liner had a cone-shaped brush until I tried this brilliant redesign from Euphoria’s lead makeup artist Donni Davy. The brush is flat and paddle-shaped, so it makes tight lining your eyes or building even, inky cat eyes a breeze.” —Anbouba
Danessa Myricks Blurring Balm Powder, $36, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“You only need a dab of this genius blurring balm-meets-foundation to cover skin in an ultra-flattering filter. Buff it into skin and everything looks miraculously smoother and luminous all day long.” —Anbouba
“As someone with curly hair who’s been searching for years, I can attest to the fact that finding a good gel isn’t easy — thankfully, the beauty customization experts at Prose created this one. This styling gel (which is tailored to my unique hair needs) has been one of my favorites this year for sleek buns and ponytails, half-up looks and more — without the flakes.” —Tiffany Dodson, associate beauty commerce editor, Harper’s Bazaar
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Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum, $68, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“The primary ingredients (niacinamide, hylaronic acid, retinal, squalene) were ones I already used individually, so this serum allowed me to simplify my skin-care routine by combining them all. It’s a bit steep in price, but you only need a pea-sized amount to see a dramatic difference, so you get your money’s worth.” — Treasure Brooks, co-founder, The Meteor
“This product was great at evening out stubborn discoloration on my back and chest. Retinols and chemical exfoliants can be tricky on melanated skin, so it’s great when a brand like Topicals is formulated with us in mind. It has a nice consistency, no pungent smell and I think the packaging is so cute.” — Brooks
Initio Parfums Prives Paragon Extrait de Parfum, $370, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“This under-the-radar fragrance brand won’t be so for much longer: Its latest launch — a unisex blend of palo santo and white sage — is hands-down my favorite fragrance launch of the year. It’s intoxicating and will literally stop people in their tracks. (True story: A complete stranger practically fell over herself at a Brooklyn hotel to tell me how much she liked this scent on me). The brand claims that the note blend has powerful emotional properties and was used for centuries by Inca shamans. I know nothing of this, but I can tell that you’ll use this sparingly to make it last as long as possible. It’s that good.” —Brian Underwood, beauty director, Women’s Health
Kate Somerville EradiKate Clarifying Acne Gel Cleanser, $44, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“Acne products have undergone a major makeover this year, and in the words of Lizzo, ‘It’s about damn time.’ This is stuff people who have breakouts will actually want to use, and I consider Kate Somerville’s EradiKate line as part of this shift. This lovely gel cleanser with 2% salicylic acid — a trusted acne-fighting ingredient — foams beautifully, has a pleasant slightly herbal aroma, and looks snazzy on your bathroom counter. It’s a win-win for your skin.” —Underwood
Fresh Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum, $55 (from $110), available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“It’s said that ‘good things come to those who wait,’ and we’ve been waiting a long time for this serum — Fresh scientists have been at it for 15 years, in fact. The results are a revelation: This blend of a proprietary tea compound, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramide III boosts skin’s resilience against pro-aging stressors. And, like most Fresh products, it’s a joy to use — lightweight, soothing, just…wonderful.” —Underwood
“I can’t help but scream out its name everywhere I go. Dieux Skin’s Instant Angel is formulated with fatty acids, ceramides and glycerin to deeply moisturize skin. It comes at an amazing price point and is created by a brand that genuinely cares about its consumers. That, and it makes my skin look and feel happier and healthier each time I apply the buttery formula.” —Hallie Gould, senior editorial director, Byrdie
Chanel Éclat Lunaire Oversize Illuminating Face Powder, $88, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I love the size of this product; it’s absolutely massive. The finish is satin-y without sparkle and lights up my skin in all the best ways. Use it on your eyes, cheekbones and wherever else you’d like to sprinkle a subtle, golden rose highlight on.” —Gould
Iconic London Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint, $32, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“The perfect skin tint does exist, thanks to Iconic London. The formula is lightweight, but offers enough coverage for my full-beat babes and still looks great after a long day of work and events.” —Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor, Elle
Eadem Dew Dream Hydrating Cleansing Balm, $30, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“Whether I’m drunk, tired or lazy, I always remember to remove every ounce of my makeup. Eadem‘s cleansing balm melts off even the most stubborn matte formulas with ease — without leaving my skin feeling stripped bare.” —Penrose
Danessa Myricks Beauty Lightwork Vol. IV Transcendence Palette, $125, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I haven’t been this excited about an eye shadow palette in a long time. I typically reserve pops of color for the inner corners of my eyes or the waterline, but the shades in this palette deserve primetime lid space. One swatch deposits the most insane amount of pigment and blends without any hiccups. And don’t stop at the eyes: Dust on your favorite shade along your cheekbones for extra oomph.” —Penrose
“For the first time, I started experiencing a flaky scalp this year and decided to try this new serum to see if it could help with the dryness. I was pleasantly surprised when this formula gave instant results. Just two to three drops, and my scalp felt and looked more hydrated after one use. ‘Instant,’ ‘after one use’ — I felt like a walking infomercial using this product. It’s been my go-to when I’ve washed gel out of my hair or after heavy heat application.” —Thatiana Diaz, editor-in-chief, Remezcla
Body by TPH Good Daze Vegan Hydrating Body Wash Gel, $9, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I’ve been longtime loyal to my Dove body wash, but this gel did have me choosing sides this year as I reached over for it most of — if not all of — the time. This gel has softened my skin and gives me a sensorial experience that blends well with the steam of my warm showers. My bathroom instantly turns into a spa, without the expensive tab. It’s perfect for the morning, with orange and ginger essential oils that make getting up much more pleasant for a not-so-morning person.” —Diaz
Makeup by Mario SoftSculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer, $30, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I added this product to my makeup routine as a bronzer, and I can confirm that it lives up to the ‘transforming’ of it all. I dust this onto my cheekbones and around the corners of my face, giving off a foolproof warm glow that’s lightweight. Two bonus takeaways: If you tan on vacation and your foundation shade is now a little off, this powder helps level out the tone, so you don’t have to buy a new one; and it could also serve as a soft eyeshadow. Truly transformational.” —Diaz
“It’s not easy to create a high-performance ‘clean’ mascara — but somehow, Ami Colé did it. With a formula that has 87% naturally-derived ingredients, including shea butter and jojoba oil, not only am I left with voluminous, long, fluttery lashes, but the formula also never flakes or dries out my lashes. This mascara has made me quit some of my high-end faves.” —Kayla Greaves, executive beauty editor, InStyle
Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Gentle Brightening Cleanser, $38, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I feel like I’ve been going on and on and on and on about this cleanser all year — and with an almost perfect five-star rating on Sephora.com and a few awards under its belt, it looks like I’m not the only one who’s obsessed. It’s made with Dr. Ingleton’s signature Jamaican SuperFruit Blend, sugarcane extract, hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5. Expect your skin to feel nourished and supple — never dry! — after cleansing. Plus, it’s made with coconut surfactants, so it will still give you that satisfying lather, but without stripping your pores. No other cleanser can compete — sorry!” —Greaves
Relevant Skincare One and Done Everyday Cream, $38, available here
Photo: Courtesy of brand
“I have been traveling like a madwoman as of late, and my God, this one-and-done cream really saves my ass (and space in my luggage) every time. The impressive formula offers a blend of moisturizing plum oil, niacinamide, kigelia extract, buriti oil and more — plus SPF 40. After I wash my face, I simply slather this on and go about my business.” —Greaves
Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. This in no way affects our editorial decision-making. Some responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Beauty trends will always be fleeting—but none are more fleeting than TikTok beauty trends. TikTok beauty trends come and go so quickly that it feels like whiplash. Unlike other beauty trends, they can often feel like a very specific moment in time—they’ll trend for a couple weeks before burning out completely.
Although there are many trends from 2022 that won’t make the cut for 2023, there are a few with staying power. Below, see the trends that originated on TikTok that we anticipate will keep going strong in the new year.
As the year draws to a close, I’m beginning to recognize the signs of buyer’s remorse in my beauty routine. Now, don’t get me wrong: I usually know a good makeup product when I see it (and wear it), but every now and then, there’s one that throws me off my game.
The products in question are the ones that sat on my skin, dried out my lips, gave me a white cast, didn’t last through then night or left a gruesome impression on my favorite white sweater. Once a year, I dedicate time comb through my hefty makeup collection and separate the products that didn’t serve me well from the ones I’ll be first in line to replace in the New Year.
If you’re wondering which ones I would avoid, you’re in luck. Here are the beauty products I’m saying goodbye to in 2023 and all the products I’m replacing them with. Keep reading to see which ones made the list.
I do microcurrent as well and love it! How do you keep your skin in such great shape when you’re always trying new skincare and makeup products? My skin is sensitive, and some stuff doesn’t always agree with it—a tough part of the job. Do you have any advice for that?
It can definitely get overwhelming with all the different skincare products that are out there because you see it on TikTok, and you want to review all the different ones! My main advice would be to pay attention to what your skin needs and be aware of what condition your skin is in. For example, if you have super-dry skin and you have eczema patches on your face or dry patches, you don’t want to be using something that’s drying and made for acne. If you have acne, you don’t want to be using something that’s super oily and will clog your pores. I’d say just pay attention to the ingredients that are in the products you’re using and what the product is actually used for. That’ll keep your skin in good shape because you’re not using products that are going to strip your skin of its natural oils and stuff like that. Skincare and makeup also go hand in hand. You really need to take care of your skin for your makeup to look good and for your base to look good.
So true. I’m always looking for both skincare and makeup products that are also going to give me a glowy base. Do you have any key products that you use that help you achieve a natural glow?
I have so many! Like I said before, the Charlotte Tilbury wands are so good. They come off as super, super pigmented, and sometimes, you might think, “Oh my God, what did I just do? I put too much product on,” but they blend like magic. They’re so buttery and so dewy. Those are amazing. They’re also super easy to use, even for beginners. I just discovered another new one: the Makeup by Mario Ethereal Eyes Palette ($48). I used it yesterday actually. I’ve been seeing it all over TikTok. There are a few really shimmery shades in there, and it literally makes your eyes look like they’re like wet and glowing. It is so good. I really recommend that palette.
Let’s talk about your new Kiss Lashes holiday collaboration! How did this come together, and what do you love specifically about Kiss lashes?
Kiss came to me about a year ago and said they absolutely loved my TikTok and the full-glam looks [I create]. They wanted to come out with a holiday campaign, and I loved that idea. I’ve used Kiss my entire life. I’m obsessed with their lashes—they’re like the only lashes I use. I basically picked my favorite existing lashes of theirs, and we did a little twist on them. I renamed the lashes, and I just love Kiss. They’re such a great brand to work with. There are lashes within the collection that are natural but still full glam, and there are ones that are holiday full glam and almost give disco vibes. It was so fun to be involved in the development of the packaging, and it was such a great experience too because I want to have my own makeup brand one day, and it will be so great just having this experience in the development of everything.
That was another question I wanted to ask you! What would a Meredith Duxbury makeup line consist of?
I would love to have my own makeup brand. It’s definitely something that is a huge goal of mine. I think a Meredith makeup brand would be a mix of natural products and full glam because I feel like I’m such a mixture of both. One day, I’ll just be going to run errands and want to throw on some quick, easy products. Then on another day, I’ll want to do a huge, full-glam TikTok look. I want something that’s easy for everyone [to use]. Whether you’re a full-glam kind of girl or a more natural kind of girl, I want products that everybody can love and use. It’s definitely something that I want to put more time into and think more about, but that’s kind of the general idea. I just want something that’s super inclusive and everybody can get their hands on.
Are there any new up-and-coming makeup brands that you’re really excited about at the moment?
Yes! Nimya is one that I absolutely love. It’s NikkieTutorials’s new makeup brand, and I think she started with just skincare products, but she just released her first eye shadow palette. The colors of the brand name are just so cool with the orange and the blue. It’s so her, and it’s super inspiring to see a creator like her grow and just become so big and have this amazing makeup brand. I’m just so proud of her, and it’s so inspiring to see. Saie Beauty is another one. I’ve been loving the Starglow Gel ($28). It’s so good. That’s another recommendation you have to try! I’ve just seen them grow so much within the last year, especially on TikTok. TikTok is just insane how it can help sell out products in seconds. I found the Saie Starglow Gel on TikTok, too, so that brand has definitely skyrocketed over the last year.
Are there any makeup launches from the past year that have really stood out to you?
Yeah, I think clean beauty is a huge thing, and in 2022, it’s something that I think a lot of makeup brands are focusing on and realizing that it’s a priority for people. I think Kosas is really good with that. They came out with a foundation this year called the Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation ($42), and it’s for acne-prone skin. I don’t have acne-prone skin, but I love it because it just has ingredients in it that are really good for your skin. I think their growth this year has been amazing, and they market themselves so well. I think the packaging and just everything about the brand is so cool—it really stood out to me this year. Then obviously, Kiss Lashes stood out to me because I think it was great that they wanted to do their first influencer launch, and I’m so grateful that I was able to be the first influencer to collaborate with them.
And what would you say are a few career highlights for you this year?
I met Charlotte Tilbury, which was so inspiring. I look up to her so much, and Sophia Tilbury doing my makeup [was definitely a highlight]. Meeting Alicia Keys and meeting Halsey and doing my makeup with her at her house and just all the other amazing people that I’ve met. I’ve also had so many opportunities to work with such amazing brands like the Morphe Making You Blush collection campaign, which was so exciting. Kiss Lashes as well, like we talked about, and having a billboard in Times Square was so crazy to me. My whole family came, and we stood there and watched, and I was like, “This is so insane that I’m on a billboard in Times Square!” I just remember little me wanting to live in New York City so bad, and here I am having a billboard in Times Square. I’ve also met so many amazing friends and creators along the way this year too. It’s been such a successful year, and I’m so happy.
I’m excited to see what 2023 holds for you! I know you have some really cool collaborations coming down the pipeline. My last question is, What makeup looks can we look forward to for the rest of 25 Days of Christmas on your TikTok?
I’m so excited. I absolutely love Christmas. It’s one of my favorite holidays, and I love wintertime in general. It’s so fun and cozy. I really want to do a “boyfriend does my Christmas makeup” video because he’s so involved and loves this whole TikTok thing and is so supportive of my career. I also really love SFX makeup. It’s something that I did a lot of during Halloween, so I think I want to do a Grinch makeup look with SFX. Then I want to create a Cindy Lou look, and I work with a great hairstylist. His name is Erickson, and I think I want to have him come and do the whole Cindy Lou hairdo, and I’m gonna do the makeup. Then I’ll probably just do some easy holiday glam looks. I think that’s something that a lot of people want to see this time of year because I think it can be overwhelming. There are so many Christmas parties and events, and people might run out of ideas. Beginners might also be thinking they need some tips and tricks on how to do some more elevated holiday party glam looks, so that’s something I’m going to focus on. But I have papers and papers of ideas, so there will definitely be some many amazing Christmas videos!
I’m so excited to see what else is in store for the rest of the month and obviously for 2023! I’ll be following along, so I’ll get to see all of it.
Yeah, it’s going to be so fun. Thank you so much for this opportunity. It was so fun to talk about all of this with you!
There’s no shortage of beauty inspiration these days; whether it’s “model cheekbones” or “siren eyes,” a new TikTok trend seems to pop up daily. In other words, the swell of new looks to try can also be overwhelming. If you’re anything like me, sometimes it can be nice to head back to the relatively peaceful waters of Instagram and gather some inspiration from the original influencers, aka celebrities.
I have an Instagram folder called “must-try beauty looks” (feel free to steal this idea), in which I have hundreds of posts saved from celebs and their trusty glam squads. I’m feeling generous, so in honor of the holidays, I’m sharing some of the very best (in my humble opinion) thanks to icons such as Vanessa Hudgens, Hailey Bieber, Lizzo, and more. Ahead, find 15 of the best celebrity makeup looks and hairstyles to try in 2023, plus the products that will help you copy them.
If you’re looking for a particular product to add to your makeup, skincare, or hair routine, but don’t want to spend a ton of money, I’ve got you covered. Ahead, you’ll find out about some of my favorite finds that are under $40, from luxury foundation dupes to drugstore lipsticks and the liquid eyeliner I can’t put down. Keep scrolling!
There are plenty of expensive foundations that have earned cult followings among editors, celebrities, and makeup artists alike, but I’d like to clear the air and say there are certain inexpensive formulas that are just as fabulous—especially when it comes to addressing the different concerns associate with mature skin, in particular. (Think sunspots and hyperpigmention, wrinkles and fine lines, dullness, etc.) To prove my point, I asked a handful of the industry’s best makeup artists to share which drugstore foundations, in particular, they especially love and recommend for mature skin. Curious to see their affordable choices? Keep scrolling!
“I tell all my clients leading up to a big event to make sure they are drinking their water,” NYC-based makeup artist Alexandra Gillieo tells mbg. Plus, eating antioxidant-rich foods will help you glow from within the day after.
If you can, get a good night of sleep before your big event. “Looking well-rested is the best skin prep you can do,” cosmetic chemistry expert and product developer Charlene Valledor tells mbg.
While you’re sleeping, load up on topical hydration as well via a sleep mask. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, shea butter, and botanical oils like squalene and marula to lock in hydration. If you’re ready to buy, this Youth to the People Dream Mask is an easy winner.
Try your best to avoid using potentially irritating products like retinol and potent exfoliants the night before. Even if you’ve used them in the past, it’s not worth risking a random bout of redness or even retinol-induced dermatitis.
Sephora has always been a Willy Wonka–esque magical land for makeup lovers. I have so many memories of going into a Sephora store looking for a specific product and coming out with even more that I’m excited to play with. There are so many popular makeup and skincare products that we’ve either heard about from a beauty influencer or from a TikTok video that have turned out to be amazing, but there are also the ones that are a little lesser known. The thing is, it’s those hidden-treasure beauty products that can turn into the holy-grail product we’ve been looking for all our lives.
If you’re a Goldilocks looking for that elusive “just right” beauty product, you might just need a little help from top beauty experts, like Sephora’s beauty directors. Melinda Solares, Helen Dagdag, Myiesha Sewell, and David Razzano are spilling the tea on their favorite makeup, hair, and skincare products that may not be as known as some of the more popular ones. The fabulous foursome gives us the scoop on their favorite under-the-radar products, from body oils to blotting powder and beyond.
Keep reading to learn which retinol serum won’t irritate your skin and which long-wear lip stain never cracks or feels dry, and pick up new favorites from brands such as Fenty Beauty, Makeup by Mario, Dermalogica, and more.
Whenever people ask me what beauty products I’m into, I’m always caught off guard. I know it’s kind of ridiculous considering I’m a beauty editor and all, but it’s only because I’m going through the many mountains of products I test in my head. There are so many products I like, but thinking about what I don’t like is the best way for me to narrow down my options. Before I start this potentially controversial list, I want to point out that beauty is subjective, and a product that might give me The Ick could be someone’s holy grail. We all have different skin types, makeup preferences, and so on, so I am not judging, and vice versa, I hope!
Because I test a ton of products, when something doesn’t work for me, I have to get rid of it ASAP. Otherwise I’m left with total product organization chaos. (I’ll usually give it to friends or family who can use it.) So without further ado, ahead are 13 products that are getting kicked out of my makeup stash, from foundations that no longer work with my 40-plus-year-old skin to products that never made it to my regular rotation for one reason or another. Some of these were heartbreaking to get rid of, so it was no easy feat! Keep scrolling to see which makeup products I’m tossing and which ones I’m trying out instead.
I’m starting this list with the most painful product to name: matte foundations. Disclaimer: Anyone who has been reading my recent articles (PS: Thank you kindly), I may sound like a broken record, but I’m clearly working through the fact that my skin doesn’t like heavy foundations anymore. I used to appreciate the full, mannequin-like coverage they gave me, but now they feels too thick and don’t blend well. Yes, I will be making a sad-song playlist to help me get over this beauty breakup.
Just like the moment when you figure out that the person you’ve never really paid attention to might actually be the one for you, dewy foundations seem to be most compatible with my skin these days. My love for La Mer’s Soft Fluid Foundation has been going strong for months. It applies smoothly, provides just enough coverage yet still looks natural and lasts all day long.
I know serum-like skin tints are all the rage, and you’d think I’d be all in with my newfound affinity for natural-finish makeup and all, but sadly I am not. I found that many of the ones I’ve tested this past year were either too oily or didn’t settle into my skin well. A lot of them are also very messy and get all over my makeup bag and fingers, which is a total pet peeve.
To get that natural-yet-skin-blurring look, I have a feeling foundation balms might be the better way to go. Granted, I’ve only tried a couple of them and not all have been successful, but I still like how they look on me more than skin tints. This one by Iris & Romeo is my current favorite and acts as a serum, moisturizer, sheer coverage-foundation, sunscreen, and blue-light and pollution protector.
Coming from an eco-friendly standpoint, face wipes are obviously not the greatest beauty product to have in one’s arsenal, but I can’t deny how amazing they can be when it’s 3:00 in the morning and I’m trying to get my makeup off my face as fast as I can to hit the hay. But there are other options, Marie!
I realize nothing beats a good micellar water for me, and Bioderma Sensibio is my GOAT. It’s way gentler on my face and eyes than many of the makeup wipes I’ve used. Not to mention, it’s way less wasteful, especially if you apply it using a reusable cotton pad, like these Mittys from Take My Face Off.
This one is still up for debate, but truthfully, I never really got the hang of magnetic lashes to the point where they’d become my go-to. One of the reasons is because I prefer using my own liquid eyeliner instead of the magnetic one. I may still keep trying, though!
I’m not planning on going back to the lash extension life anytime soon. (I can only let myself have two high-maintenance beauty rituals, and my hair and nails are priority.) But the thought of picking glue off of my lashes for days after wearing traditional false lashes sounds far from appealing. What’s a Marie to do? I’m looking forward to testing out a pair of Pro Lashes, which allow you to apply your own false lashes quickly, last 10-plus days, and use an adhesive that’s apparently much easier to remove than traditional lash glue. I’m in.
The thought of a lip stain marker sounded fun, but the few that I tried this year just didn’t work for me. They were annoying to apply (like a slow, fill-in-the-lines vibe), and they didn’t last long on my lips either.
Listen… Nothing compares to a gorgeous matte lipstick, so I’m going back to the type of product I love dearly and know well. Surprisingly, I haven’t tried this one from Pat McGrath, so it’s at the top of my list.
I’ve always loved a powder blush, but sadly, this is another beauty product that doesn’t sit as well on my skin as it did when I had more collagen. While there are still a few that work fine on my skin and are too pretty to completely abandon, overall, cream blushes are just best for these cheeks.
This water-resistant cream blush looks natural and has cute packaging to boot. Everybody say thank you, Selena.
When ultra-fine brow pencils first came out, I was impressed at how precisely I was able to draw on brow hairs. It was a great way to mimic microblading as best as I could myself. However, the pencil lead for some of them would break so fast it was almost comical.
Thank goodness for brow pens! I’m able to still draw on fine hairs without having to worry about wasting product. This one by Anastasia Beverly Hills is waterproof, so if someone throws a glass of water in my face, soap-opera style, I’ll be fine (hopefully).
My podcast co-host, Blaire, once told a story about putting on a famously sticky lip gloss and walking out on the streets of New York City only to have the wind blow who knows what on her lips—and stay there! Now, whenever I put on a too-sticky lip gloss, I remember that terrifying tale.
I’m so glad lip gloss technology has gotten to the point where we can have shiny, moisturized lips without the fear of dog hair sticking to it all day and just feeling icky in general. I love this one from Tower Beauty, which contains nourishing ingredients such as apricot-kernel oil, raspberry-seed oil, and rose-hip oil.
Shiny eyelids look so cool on other people, but not on me. It just looks like my face is sweating. Needless to say, this is one trend I can’t get behind! (Though, maybe it’ll look better on me over a colored eye shadow?)
For a bold eye that leans on color rather than transparent shine, I love these liquid shadows from Halsey’s makeup brand.
Unpopular opinion incoming, but I am not a fan of soap brows! Before you get out the pitchforks, I just want to point out that brow trends can be pretty extreme from decade to decade. (Though, we don’t really notice they are until after they’re done.) I think some soap brows can look stiff, over-the-top, and unnatural, especially if you use a heavy-duty product that doesn’t let your brows move. Don’t hate me!
I love a fluffy brow when it looks soft and natural. A lightweight tinted brow gel, like this one from Benefit Cosmetics, does the trick.
Similar to my matte-foundation issue, the heavy concealers I used to favor are now sitting like Wite-Out on my under-eye bags. Rude, so I have to go for a different approach.
Hydrating concealers, like this one from Rose Inc, are now my friends. It contains skin-loving ingredients, like squalane, vitamin E, and fig buttercup extract (which helps with redness and calms the skin).
I’ve always preferred a long-wear lipstick, but when we were at home in front of Zoom all day, I was able to indulge in my oft-ignored satin lipstick collection. Now that I’m outside of the house a whole lot more, those shiny satin lipsticks are staying home!
When I don’t need lipstick that’s bulletproof (or super mask-proof), I’ll opt for something in between, like a soft, creamy one. These Mouth Cloud lipsticks from Half Magic Beauty are a total dream and come in a set with a matching Sculptitude 2-in-1 Longwear Lip Liner.
When highlighters were really huge years ago, I always went for the dreamy, pearlescent shades. They just looked more cosmic and magical. However, I noticed they didn’t really work well on my skin tone. (Sidebar, for the record, I don’t like the look of highlighter on the nose. Bye!)
Sadly, it’s time that I exchange my many pearlescent highlighters (I MAY keep one…) and get into warmer colors, like peach and gold. Charlotte Tilbury never fails with the highlighters; you’re guaranteed to get that lit-from-within glow each and every time.
We get it—holiday shopping can be so tough and overwhelming, especially if you’re on a budget and have a long list of folks to buy gifts for. Don’t worry, though. There are so many creative ways you can give next-level gifts without breaking the bank or seeming cheap. I should know. I’ve become somewhat of a pro at gift buying on a budget.
In the spirit of giving, I decided to share a few affordable beauty gift ideas that your friends and family will think you spent quite a few dollars on. Shhh, no one has to know. I also have to preface this by saying that I know the term “affordable” is relative. A few items on this list might be higher in price, but considering the brand and what’s offered, you’re still getting a hefty discount despite paying a few more bucks. Without further ado, keep scrolling for some luxury-looking items that won’t break the bank this year.
Tinted moisturizers, BB creams, CC creams… Call them what you like, but they’re (typically) pretty interchangeable in terms of formula and are a great product alternative if you’re A) looking to give your skin a break from heavier foundations at the moment or B) just happen to prefer lighter, skincare-enhanced formulas. Another perk? The drugstore is secretly overflowing with top-rated formulas that perform just as (or sometimes better!) than some of the pricey, wider-known formulas.
We’re all about getting the most bang for your buck without having to sacrifice the finish, durability, or end result of our makeup application. So we took to beauty retailers like Amazon and Ulta, which feature a wide range of both high-end makeup brands and more affordable drugstore labels. Then, we searched for the top-rated, drugstore-priced tinted moisturizer formulas that had similar (if not nearly identical) ingredient recipes as more expensive names. Spoiler: We found quite a few! Below, we’re sharing nine of the best drugstore tinted moisturizers to try if you’re looking for an expensive-looking finish sans sticker shock. Keep scrolling!
We’re sure you already have a cabinet and makeup bag full of products. We do, too. But when it’s time to re-up on your next Sephora run, we want to share a few staples four French makeup artists would drop in their baskets if they were shopping. Below, our experts share everything from complexion products to zit-zapping balms that they use both in their kits and daily lives. Keep reading to get the inside scoop on what they’d pick up. (After all, they are the experts!)
During the holidays, I’m usually compelled to do two things: make a big bowl of Christmas fettuccine (à la The Holiday) and get all glammed up with my makeup (even if I don’t have any equally glamorous plans). I want to be as sparkly as a Christmas tree, and it’s easy with all of the gorgeous makeup collections out there. There have been some pretty impressive makeup products released both this season and throughout the year, from the likes of Danessa Myricks (have you seen the unbelievably iridescent shades in the newest Transcendence Palette?) to Nyx’s new Avatar-inspired collection, which is naturally filled with breathtaking blues. I have enough beauty inspo to get my glam on through the new year.
On that note, I decided to show off four flamboyantly glamorous holiday looks, taking inspo from retro pinups, the Grinch, and more, plus the products that I used. Hopefully you’ll be inspired to go all out with the glitter and jewels yourself!
While the New Year comes with a bevy of trend forecasts, I’m always most excited to learn about makeup trends. As a true makeup girl through and through, I’m always going to be the first person to try the latest trend, no matter what it is.
There’s no doubt that 2022 was a fantastic year for all things makeup. After all, it was the first year we began to shed our masks and reenter society, and with that came many, many makeup looks. People were ready to put products on their faces! We saw the emergence of face gems, ultra-glossy lips, siren eyes, and more.
Next year, expect the makeup trends to get even better. The ’90s are back with glamorous goth looks, supermodel-inspired makeup, and extra-lined lips. To get insider intel on this year’s makeup trends, I reached out to a heavy hitter: Cat Quinn, the executive director of global trends at MAC. No one has their finger quite on the beauty pulse like Quinn does, which is what makes her trend predictions so sharp. Keep reading for Quinn’s 2023 forecast.
I don’t know about you, but I think there’s a lot of confusion surrounding the difference between tinted moisturizers, BB creams, and CC creams. Truth be told, they’re actually all pretty similar with a few unique traits each. A tinted moisturizer can also act as a CC cream with the right ingredients, but the main thing that I’m going to clear up here is what a CC cream is versus a BB cream. Celebrity makeup artist Allison Kaye breaks it down for us. “A BB cream is a beauty balm or blemish balm,” she says. “This product is going to provide more of a sheer coverage and will have ingredients like moisturizer, SPF, and brighteners. The goal is to brighten and hydrate your face while providing very light coverage. CC cream stands for color corrector or complexion corrector and is meant to help with redness, dullness, uneven skin tone, and dark under-eye circles. CC creams usually have a matte texture and finish, whereas BB creams are going to be more glowy due to the hydrating/moisturizing properties in them.”
That being said, BB creams are great for dry or mature skin types because they add another layer of hydration to the skin and can camouflage the look of sun spots or other skin damage. You can also go in with a foundation or concealer to add more coverage if desired. For the absolute best BB creams for mature skin, keep scrolling! We’ve rounded up a few below.
In: In 2023, Idriss forecasts that products formulated with multiple active ingredients will reign. It won’t just be about one ingredient anymore—these product will be packed with ingredients that target a specific skincare concern. Think products with brightening ingredients for discoloration or calming ingredients for redness. “A skincare routine starts with your main skin concern, and it isn’t always the same for everyone,” says Idriss. “Your skin is not a trend.”
When looking at skincare, Idriss also stresses that higher percentages of actives don’t always mean more efficacious products. In fact, using a lower percentage of an active consistently might give you better results in the long run. “The best results take time, and you putting in the work by consistently using your products will garner results,” Dr. Idriss says.
