To cut through the noise, we talked to celebrity makeup artist Muriel Vega Perez and hair expert Mark Rosales to see which products are really worth your hard-earned money.
As a beauty writer, I’m always asked, “What are your favorite beauty products?” Honestly, I find that question hard to answer. My role requires me to test a lot of products, so my favorites change daily as I discover what’s new. Whether it’s the latest high-tech skincare, the very best hairstyling tools or the most coveted makeup and new fragrance launches, there’s a real rush of excitement whenever a parcel arrives.
I’m not alone in this. Makeup artists, hair stylists, and other beauty experts also have access to the best that beauty products have to offer and, combined with their exceptional taste, are keepers of so many must-have recommendations across skincare, hair care, body care, makeup and more. But with so many new drops every single week and each claiming to be groundbreaking — how is anyone actually supposed to know what’s any good? Even to a beauty writer for years, it can often be overwhelming with the sheer amount of choice we’re now presented with.
To cut through the noise, we talked to celebrity makeup artist Muriel Vega Perez and celebrity hair expert Mark Rosales to see which launches and products are really worth your hard-earned money. I also dedicated some time to testing and monitoring beauty products that came my way so that I could put all of the best products into one convenient space. So, if you want to find out which of the best beauty products made a lasting impression, then you’ve come to the right place.
Clinique Even Better City Block
It’s not only a sunscreen—it’s a primer as well. Muriel loves to use this daily UV protector because with this, there’s no need to use two products to get that sun protection, while having good makeup.
Aside from being one of the best facial SPFs out there, Clinique Even Better City Block is super nourishing and is sheer and oil-free. It also offers the best of both worlds when it comes to consistency and finish.
Dior Addict Lip Glow
Whether worn alone for a natural finish or layered beneath other lipsticks as a base, Dior Addict Lip Glow is as versatile as it is luxurious. It’s a beauty staple that bridges the gap between self-care and high fashion, offering a moment of indulgence every time you reach for it.
Often imitated but never equaled, it remains the go-to for anyone seeking a subtle, personalized flush of color. Muriel adds, “The OG formulation of this product is very moisturizing, gentle to the lips, and is perfect for brightening up your makeup look at any time of the day!” This balm has set the gold standard for natural-looking, radiant lips.
Squad Cosmetics Brow Fix
This very economical brow pencil offers different shades that suit any undertone. It is retractable with an angled tip and has a spoolie brush on the other end—a great option for both beginners and experts. And it’s pretty buildable, so you can go slow when working on your brows.
With its affordable price point and drama-free application, Muriel says, “It’s very practical! So, there’s no reason for you to not have that eyebrow on fleek every day.”
Beaver Brazilian Keratin Smoothing Heat Protection
For those craving a smooth, flyaway-free style this pick can’t be beat. It works beautifully on all hair types and protects hair against heat and humidity while still keeping it smooth and frizz-free. Mark thinks of it as sunscreen but for the hair!
Olaplex No. 4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo
Simply put, Olaplex No. 4D Clean Volume Detox Dry Shampoo checked all the boxes expected of a truly great dry shampoo. “It absorbs oil and refreshes your hair without the white cast or gritty feel,” Mark shares. Upon spraying it onto the hair, it felt so lightweight, it was almost unnoticeable.
TirTir Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation
I’ve been seeing TirTir all over on social media now, so when I visited Korea early this year, I immediately had to try it. And thankfully, I wasn’t disappointed. A little goes a long way for this product, so just use a light touch as you tap into the foundation for the first time.
I love the healthy glow it brings to my skin without ever feeling greasy. The compact is perfect for throwing in your bag for touch-ups and contains a mirror and a separate compartment for the puff, too.
Fwee Blurry Pudding Pot
When I got my hands on this blush, my expectations were definitely met. The pigment wasn’t in-your-face, and it blended out easily. The colors are on point and it provides a natural-looking, lit-from-within flush to my face.
And if you’re feeling playful, experiment with using it as eyeshadow or lip tint for a bold and unconventional makeup statement. The possibilities are endless, and the choice is yours!
Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum
I’ve slathered more skincare products on my face than I can count. Some have made me glow, others have made me break out like a hormonal teenager. So, when Guerlain dropped its new Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum, promising deep repair and hydration, I obviously had to see if it lived up to the hype.
Working to make the skin’s natural repairing process nine times faster, as well as increase hydration by a whopping 125%, Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil could be the answer to our skin problems. It has earned itself the nickname ‘magic oil’ among beauty buffs thanks to its light-as-water, rich-as-oil texture and immediate plumping, smoothing, and glow-boosting properties.
Beyond making your face look great, Guerlain also makes a strong case for sustainability. They’ve been championing bee for conservation, funding research and beekeeping programs worldwide.
