All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
We’d typically do our makeup to resemble a golden goddess, especially when the sun isn’t out a whole lot in the winter, but everyone is hooked on the “sunburn blush” or “faux sunburn” trend. It’s blush overload but in the cutest way possible. We saw a little bit of the blush all-over look when e-girls were at their peak. However, the current sunburn blush trend is a little wetter, if you will. It’s flushed and dewy at the same time.
Celebs like Hailey Bieber have hopped on board and showed us exactly how it’s done, and we found a creamy blush that melts right into your skin and creates a beautiful and natural glow. Merit Beauty’s Flush Balm isn’t the kind of blush that completely covers up your complexion. It adds a sun-kissed tint to your cheeks so that your skin and freckles can still poke through. The result is a soft all-day glow that doesn’t look or feel cakey. The product already got an upgrade with new gold packaging, and now the Hailey Bieber-approved formula comes in four new shades.
Say hello to Fox (warm taupe), Persimmon (soft orange-red), Stockholm (baby pink), and Apres (berry). I have always been a Raspberry Beret stan (celeb makeup artist Leah Darcy has used this exact shade on her), but think it might be time to convert to Fox or Apres. Who doesn’t love a pop of deep red or berry on their cheeks? Stockholm and Persimmon, however, look like the perfect shades for spring and summer since they’re soft and bright.
If you’re already drooling over these shades and swatches, you’re in luck. Merit Beauty’s Black Friday sale is letting you take 20 percent off of the entire site. That means you can cop a Flush Balm for $24 instead of $30 before the sale ends on November 26.
Photo: Merit Beauty.
“I really like the round shape because it fits my cheeks very precisely. The color payoff is very nice because it’s quite pigmented but not over the top so it’s easy to build up for that beautiful flushed cheek look,” wrote one five-star reviewer. “It blends evenly and compliments my complexion.”
When trying to create the faux sunburn makeup look, you should reach for balms because this format is oftentimes easier to control, build, and blend. It looks much more natural and effortless and tends to take up less time, too (you can just use your fingers!). For the most stunning sun-kissed glow, try one of my personal faves, the Flush Balm. I have a feeling you’ll be applying it all year long.
Merit Beauty carries the exact shades you need to achieve the sunburn blush look. Their O.G. shades include Terracotta, which many reviewers like to use as a blush and contour, as well as Mood, a light burgundy. There’s also Beverly Hills, a soft peach, and Cheeky, a cool pink. To get the most full-on faux sunburn look, opt for Raspberry Beret since it’s a deep berry tone. Regardless of which shade you go with, you’ll be sure to look fabulously flushed just like all your fave TikTokers and Instagram cool girls.
Photo: Merit Beauty.Merit Beauty.
A while back, Merit Beauty sent me Flush Balm to try and I am honestly a huge fan. I typically stray away from blushes because I think they’ll be too pigmented and make me look like a clown. However, I’ve been applying Merit Beauty’s blush and it truly does make all the difference. I get a nice, dewy glow on my cheeks that completes my overall makeup look. And I’m not even close to the only one who loves this blush.
“I just did not expect this blush to be this GOOD! I get the hype now. I like it so, so much that I want it in every single shade now!” raved one shopper. “It has such a nice slip to it. Glides effortlessly on skin and feels like nothing at all. I’m so so obsessed with this blush. It’s pigmented just enough to give that beautiful flush of color to your cheeks. The color looks so natural on my medium skin tone. I’m obsessed if I didn’t say that already!”
Photo: Merit Beauty.
Another shopper found multiple uses in the Terracotta shade. “I adore the shade Terracotta. It’s the perfect 2-in-1 blush and bronzer shade for an easy sun-kissed wash of color. Blends super easily and smoothly. Color is sheer but can be built up easily,” they wrote.
I’ll stop rambling about the amazing Flush Balm and let you start shopping. It’s down to $24 at Merit Beauty and will help you achieve the sunburn blush makeup trend with just a couple of swipes across your cheeks and nose.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
It’s time I let the cat out of the bag—I don’t like eyeshadow. While I don’t wear a ton of makeup in general, I especially don’t opt for a lot of eye makeup. Perhaps it’s because it takes me forever to do and I end up hating the final result, or perhaps it’s due to my poor dexterity. But you know what? I’m realizing it might not be a “me” problem.
After trying Merit Beauty’s new Solo Shadow (which Sarah Jessica Parker, Kate Hudson, and Bethenny Frankel have already worn), I’ve come to the conclusion that I simply wasn’t using the right products. Because even though I tell all of my friends I hate eyeshadow, I actually am a fan of this formula.
The fact that it’s so easy to use makes it perfect for beginners like me who barely know the basics of how to apply eyeshadow. The Solo Shadow is literally foolproof, which was a major shock to me because I always find a way to paint on a clown face or raccoon eyes whenever I get within a foot of an eyeshadow palette.
And that’s the other thing! Merit’s eyeshadow comes in single-product packaging so you can really handpick the colors you think will work for you. Gone are the days of buying an entire palette only to dip into the same two shades time after time. There’s a lot less waste with these individual pots, but there’s also a lot less going back and forth trying to pick a shade.
The Solo Shadow comes in eight stunning shades that won’t scare away eyeshadow amateurs. They’re all neutral tones and muted colors, which is a dream for all of my fellow makeup minimalists. Even the “statement” shades are doable. In fact, I swiped the color Social onto my lids without even realizing it’s technically a soft mauve hue.
My go-to pairing has been Social, the soft mauve, and Midcentury, a warm brown. This was the duo I randomly chose on my first test of the product, which goes to show that again, there’s no messing up with these eyeshadows. Wear a single shade on your lids, or mix and match without worrying about whether the colors look good together—because they just do!
Merit Beauty.
The two shades I’m most excited to try are Nelson, a soft gray, and Midnight, a classic navy. I’m thinking of using them as liners for a soft flick, which, by the way, can be achieved with the dual-ended eyeshadow brush Merit Beauty launched alongside the Solo Shadow. Brush No.2 helped my eyeshadow apply so seamlessly. The bristles are extremely soft and gentle (just like the ones on Brush No.1), plus the tapered end is perfect for creating a winged liner look.
But let’s talk about the eyeshadow formula. The Solo Shadow is a buildable cream-to-powder moment that offers a soft-matte finish. And when I say this shadow doesn’t budge, I mean it. I have the world’s oiliest eyelids and have struggled with previous formulas creasing. Merit’s new eyeshadows have not creased on me yet, nor do they make a mess around my eyes and on my cheeks. Wherever you apply the product is where it’ll dry quickly and stay in place throughout the day.
I can’t forget to mention the amazing skincare ingredients packed into these gems. Chamomile extract, calendula extract, magnolia bark extract, peptides, and sunflower seed oil make this formula one your skin with love. These ingredients soothe, smooth, nourish, and minimize the look of fine lines. Crusty eye makeup, no more!
And if you’re a contact lens girlie like me, don’t worry about the shadows potentially causing irritation. I have yet to experience any discomfort from this ophthalmologist-tested formula.
At this point, I’m sure you’re tired of hearing me babble on and on about the new Solo Shadow from my all-time favorite makeup brand, Merit Beauty (which celebs like Hailey Bieber, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, and more love, too). So go on, add a couple of the versatile shades to your cart for a discounted price (also available at Sephora). And while you have a shopping cart open, you might as well throw in a few of my other Merit faves. Remember that you get free shipping on your order of $40+ plus a complimentary Signature Bag with your first order. So go forth and treat yourself to all that Merit has to offer.
Merit Beauty.
Hailey Bieber has previously worn the Flush Balm in Raspberry Beret and that was enough to convince me to try the shade. I can confirm that it’s beautiful, easy to apply, and super natural-looking. If you’ve been wanting to give the viral strawberry makeup a try, look no further than this blush.
Celeb fans: Sarah Jessica Parker, Miranda Kerr, Hailey Bieber, Kaitlyn Dever, Whitney Port, Jenna Lyons, Sienna Miller, Lola Tung
Photo: Merit Beauty.
I have yet to write a full review of the Day Glow, but Bounce is my everyday highlighter. It provides more of a dewy look instead of a shimmery finish, which is why I love this balm so much.
Celeb fans: Sarah Jessica Parker, Nicole Richie, Kaitlyn Dever, Whitney Port, Sienna Miller
Photo: Merit Beauty.
The Minimalist is what first got me hooked on Merit. The foundation and concealer stick offers the perfect amount of coverage and feels lightweight on the skin. I use my fingers to dab it over my blemishes on the daily, and whenever I’m going for a full face of foundation, Brush No.1 blends this foundation better than anything else I own.
We collaborated with Merit on a limited-time bundle that includes six of our favorite products from the brand, and it’s available to order through December 31. This gives you ample time to get one for yourself and a couple more for your makeup-obsessed friends and family members. While these products individually retail for a total of $158, the StyleCaster x MERIT Set lets you try all of them for $114.
Here’s what you get (you can choose your preferred shade for each product):
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
It’s here, it’s here! The StyleCaster x MERIT Set has arrived in time for the holidays. I’ve been a fan since day one and covered almost every product from this minimalist makeup brand, so I’m overjoyed to announce our very own holiday gift set. It’s filled with six handpicked (and celeb-approved) goodies that I absolutely adore and think you will, too.
The StyleCaster x MERIT Set is only available for purchase from November 14 through December 31, so whether you’re grabbing one for yourself or a loved one for the holidays (or both), you’re not going to want to miss out on this limited-time offering.
As for what’s included in the bundle, just six of my most-loved MERIT products.
Provides seamless application of eyeshadow and eyeliner
Celeb fans: Jenna Lyons
Now, this isn’t the kind of gift set you open only to find that none of the shades match your complexion or personal preferences. MERIT gives you the choice to select each shade of the first five products on the list above.
While these products individually retail for a total of $158, the gift set lets you try all of them for $142. Not to mention, a complimentary Signature Bag (A.K.A. the most beautiful makeup pouch you’ll ever see) is included with every first purchase. Orders worth $40 or more also qualify for free shipping.
If there’s anything more I can say about MERIT Beauty, it’s that it’s helped me nail down a makeup routine that makes me feel confident and lets me highlight my natural beauty instead of hiding it. My support of the brand extends far beyond myself, as I’m constantly recommending MERIT to friends, family, and coworkers (and you, my dear reader) at every chance I get. Trust me, the products are just that impressive.
Editors’ Picks are the Fashionista team’s true (#notspon) fashion and beauty obsessions, handpicked by professionals who see it all. Any beauty product you see here has been vetted and tested by the editor recommending it.
It’s rare that a skin-care product actually lives up to its lofty claims and promises, but in the case of Merit’s Great Skin Serum, the hype is real. I’m here to officially declare it a tried and true favorite. After more than a month of continuous use (and having gone through one full bottle), it changed my skin for a brighter, glow-y and clearer face. Even my lovely local barista noticed.
The lightweight, bronze-colored formula has a watery consistency that feels satiny when smoothed over skin. Its roster of ingredients includes hyaluronic acid for hydration and niacinamide for brightening, pore minimizing and barrier strengthening. It’s also spiked with cacao seed extract, which is rich in protective antioxidants.
Since the serum separates naturally, it’s important to shake it up before using in order to get the full benefits. I then splash a few pumps into my palm before rubbing and patting it into my face. I love that it’s fast-absorbing and lends an instantaneous radiant glow that doesn’t verge on oily.
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Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum, $38, available here
I’m fortunate to usually have clear skin, but I’m still struck by occasional breakouts, hyperpigmentation, redness and heavy undereye bags. After one month of regular use, I’ve found that my dark spots have faded and breakouts are less frequent. My face glows without dabbing on any touch of highlighter. When doing my nightly skin-care routine, my skin simply feels smoother. I can absolutely say that the next time it’s back in stock, I will be sprinting to check out.
Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum, $38, available here
Please note: This product was gifted. Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. In no way do either affect our editorial decision-making.
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.
