Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Positive Light Liquid Luminizer Highlight
Selena Gomez knows the importance of a great base, and this highlighter is the star of her beauty line. Coming in eight different shades for various skin tones, it’s a lightweight yet intense highlighter that will make your skin look dewy all day long.
NYX Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator
If your goal is to look lit-from-within instead of glittery, this highlighter can get that done. It’s not as intense as some other options, but you’ll definitely see the shine. Get ready for people to ask who your facialist is.
Benefit Cosmetics High Beam Liquid Highlighter
A classic in the highlighter department, this little bottle packs a serious punch. It’s the perfect middle ground between intensity and subtle and will last you all night long.
RÓEN RoGlow Skin Stick Highlighter
For highlighter beginners, this stick-to-balm highlighter is easy to use and impossible to mess up. It has a light coverage, but the dewiness is unmatched.
FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna Liquid Killawatt Fluid Freestyle Highlighter
Hello, drama. This highlighter comes in five different shades, and each one has intense yet blendable coverage. You can customize it so your skin looks subtly glowing or intensify it for a night out.
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand
If you’ve been on TikTok, you know the loyalty this highlighter commands. It gives a beautiful sheen to the skin without looking pasty or too glittery. It also blends out perfectly and will never look streaky.
If you’re envious of the glossy makeup looks you see in magazines, odds are those beautiful models are wearing this highlighter. It comes in four different shades and will make your skin look like you just applied your skincare, just taken up a notch.
Wet n Wild Megaglo Liquid Highlighter
Not only is this highlighter wallet-friendly, but it also comes in multiple shades and is packed with skincare ingredients. With vitamin E and hydrating butters, this product smooths and hydrates your skin while still giving it a powerful glow.
Move over, wallflowers; this product is here to be the center of attention. With six beautiful shades, this highlighter will give your skin that glass-like finish we all envy. It also contains some skincare ingredients, so your face continues to be radiant even after you take it off.
ICONIC LONDON Illuminator
This liquid is intense, which is why it’s amazing that you can customize it to your routine. If you want a light blinding glow, dab a little to the cheekbones. But if you want a subtle sheen instead, you can use the dropper to add a little to your foundation for a wow factor.
Revlon SkinLights Face Glow Illuminator
For newbies to the highlighting world, this is a great starter product. It’s somewhere between subtle and intense but easy to use and completely worth the price.
ILIA Liquid Light Serum Highlighter
We all love makeup that puts our skin first. Formulated with algae and marine extracts, this product helps firm and smooth the skin while you’re wearing it. The coverage of this highlighter is subtle but buildable and gives every look a dewy finish.
UNSUN Face + Body Highlighter SPF 15
If you plan on showing a little skin, this face and body highlighter has you covered. Coming in two beautiful shades, this liquid helps you look bronzed and glowy all summer long. It also has SPF 15, so you can shine at the beach without worrying about UV rays.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Glow Highlighter
If you like the look of a highlighter without any cakiness, this product brings the intensity without the sticky, clunky finish. It comes in four shades, and no matter which one you choose, I have a feeling that selfies are in your future.
e.l.f. Jelly Highlighter
If you want a subtle glow, this bouncy highlighter adds a beautiful sheen to the skin without overwhelming you with too much glitter. The jelly consistency is too fun not to love, but the way it looks on the skin will blow you away.
Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit
MAC Cosmetics blush in Peachtwist, highlight in Double Gleam, BlackTrack liquid eyeliner, lipstick in Velvet Teddy, Clear Lip Glass, & Give Me Sun bronzer
Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel
Patrick Ta Beauty Major Dimension eyeshadow palette
SIGMA Beauty brushes.
(Disclaimer: I do have Luciana’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
“If you are looking for a long-lasting, pigmented lipstick in a unique color that’s perfect for melanated skin, look no further. This one can withstand me putting on and taking off my mask multiple times a day before the need to reapply. Mented’s liquid lipsticks have a velvety matte finish and doesn’t suck the hydration out of your lips. This blood orange color looks so beautiful on. Every time I wear it, I get compliments.” —Danielle James, Beauty Director, ELLE.com
“I’m rarely ever moved by an eyeshadow palette—blame the surplus of neutral mattes we’ve been inundated with this year alone. But one swipe from this Danessa Myricks’ palette made me a believer all over again. The looks are endless with this 14-pot palette; the shimmery top and bottom rows are a creamy, blendable delight that deposits an insane amount of pigment. With this palette, everyone is a pro!” — Nerisha Penrose, Beauty Commerce Editor
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Glow Bronze
“As someone who can never say no to a vacation, Charlotte Tilbury’s cream bronzer remains a constant in my rotation for those days when I want to mimic a post-OOO glow. Where many cream bronzers give a muddy finish, one swipe of this is all you need to chisel those cheekbones and add dimension back to your face.” — NP
Ami Cole On Point Precision Brow Pencil
“Ami Cole’s products take the mundanity out of doing your makeup. Aside from its gorgeous orange packaging—hard to miss in any makeup bag—the brand’s newly-released brow pencil already has my other brow products shaking. The dual-sided feature helps me to mimic Zendaya-esque fluffy brows in just a few light strokes.” — NP
Kosas Cloud Set Baked Setting & Smoothing Talc-Free Vegan Powder
“I lean more dewy than matte, but a light dusting of powder is a must-have for my T-zone. I hate the chalky finish most powders have, but this one is super smooth, barely-there but erases any oily spots while still leaving my skin hydrated.” — Tatjana Freund, ELLE.com Commerce Writer
Sania’s Brow Bar Angled Mechanical Brow Pencil
“When I first showed up to Sania’s Brow Bar, my left eyebrow was noticeably smaller than my right one. Fortunately, founder Sania Vucetaj, aka NYC’s resident brow wizard, took pity on me and introduced me to this genius brow pencil. Equipped with an angled applicator and unique formulation, this handy tool not only evened out my brows—it made them actually look natural. All hail.” — Claire Stern, ELLE.com Deputy Editor
Sephora Collection Ultra Shine Lip Gel
Look, it’s just that good. This “lip gel” has a nice glossy finish without feeling sticky and has the perfect amount of pink tint to enhance the natural color of my lip without giving me that ashy pink look. You know the ashy pink look I’m talking about.” — NP
Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector
“Small but mighty! I’ve tried a lot of different concealers in my life and most of them never fully covered up my dark circles. The key, it turns out, was to first apply a peach under-eye corrector, and then, boom! Gone. The Bobbi Brown eye corrector is slightly tacky but, surprisingly layers well with other products. It’s been my go-to for years now.” — Leah Romero, ELLE.com Senior Digital Designer
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation
“This is, by far, the best foundation I’ve found for my combination skin. The formula blends effortlessly, goes on smooth but dewy, and stays in place all day, even if I (yikes) rub at my face. You can wear it multiple days in a row without the cream causing breakouts, plus the moisturizing hyaluronic acid in the formula means even dry patches will be happy.” — Lauren Puckett-Pope, ELLE.com Associate Editor
Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
“I’ve never been an orange blush girl until this one from Rare Beauty stole my heart. One dot is all I need to create a soft flush on my cheeks, so that should tell you how pigmented this blush is. Selena Gomez, A+ in my book!!” — NP
Glossier Cloud Paint
“I’ve written the phrase ‘I don’t know how to use makeup’ more times on this website than I care to count, but this blush doesn’t care! It’s nearly foolproof. It lasts forever. You can use your fingers. And it looks so damn pretty.” — MF
“If you’ve yet to convert to liquid blush and want to try a decent stop-gap, this fantastic cream blush from Tower 28 comes in a range of sumptuous pinks, reds, and purples. You needn’t worry about doling out too much product either; simply dip your blender or brush onto the cream to pick up as much (or as little) as you need.” — LP
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
“On the days I don’t feel like wearing makeup, this miracle mascara always makes my lashes pop. While the lipstick colors and eye palettes change, it’s a steady standby in my beauty arsenal.” — Alyssa Bailey, ELLE.com Senior News and Strategy Editor
Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow Primer
“Though this is technically a primer, I use it as a light-coverage foundation, and it gives the most candle-lit, non-cakey glow you can possibly imagine.” — Jessica Roy, ELLE.com Site Director
Maybelline New York Superstay 14 Hour Lipstick in Endless Raisin
“I believe a bright, bold red lip is appropriate no matter the occasion: work, home, dinner, parties, gym (yes, the gym!). This Maybelline lipstick in Endless Raisin is my go-to color. It slides on easy and doesn’t smudge.” — Rose Minutaglio, ELLE.com Staff Writer
Joey Healy Brow Structure Clear Set
“I have long, lazy eyebrow hairs. This is the only gel that keeps them held in place without making them crunch or look spackled onto my face. It’s also the perfect baby hair or frizz tamer for days when your hair just won’t behave.” — MA
Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer
“I love this smoothing primer. It totally minimizes the appearance of all my pores, and doesn’t feel heavy on my face. Plus, a little goes a longggg way. One tiny tube lasted me for almost an entire year.” — RM
L’Oréal Paris Infallible THe Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner
“Of all the drugstore and high-end eyeliners I’ve glided across my eyes, none comes close to the love I have for L’Oréal’s Infallible Super Slim liner. The rich pigment, ultra-fine tip, the easy application, and matte black finish—I have no choice but to stan!” — NP
Elizabeth Taylor’s natural beauty was matched with a true love of make-up and cosmetics. Though her overall aesthetic was one of unbridled glamour, which is, granted, less popular today, her routine was packed with products and techniques that have since proved to be forward-thinking.
Here, British Vogue looks at Elizabeth Taylor’s beauty regime’s timeless guiding principles and one particularly surprising final step.
Elizabeth Taylor did her own make-up, on and off-screen
Taylor would often do her own make-up for movie roles and red-carpet appearances alike, including in her role as Cleopatra, which called for dramatic eyeshadow play. “When I was younger, for a long time I didn’t wear any make-up in films; when I did start to wear make-up, I always did it myself,” she once said.
Though she didn’t apply with haste
A make-up lover, she adored the process as much as the end result. Ahead of stepping out, she is said to have spent hours working on her face moving from feature to feature with careful precision. Her personal assistant Tim Mendelson recalls that Taylor would spend up to half an hour focusing on her lips before devoting one and a half hours on her eye make-up “just because she enjoyed it.”
She didn’t like conditioner
From her bouffants in the ’60s to the teased crown in the ’80s, Elizabeth Taylor’s hair was always certain to be voluminous. In an effort to ensure that her hair was as big as possible, she went without conditioning, believing it to make her hair too sleek. Today, advancements in products and sulphate-free options mean that you needn’t trade one in for the other, she had feared.
Elizabeth Taylor loved drugstore brands
In contrast with her taste in jewellery, Elizabeth was especially fond of affordable skincare brand Jergens and would often indulge in carefully applying the lotion to her skin. With time, she also introduced more premium brands like La Prairie, but continued to use Jergens with devotion.
When it came to eyeliner, Elizabeth Taylor was a traditionalist
A crucial part of her beauty look was the eyes, drawing attention to hers being a unique violet hue. Eyeliner was Taylor’s must-have and Clinique proved to be her preferred brand. “There was one eyeliner that she always used and it was a Clinique eyeliner,” Francesca Tolot, a make-up artist who worked with Taylor has said. She didn’t use the classic black option but instead worked with a buildable grey shade.
Elizabeth Taylor loved lip gloss
Of course she did! This is Elizabeth Taylor after all. No matter whether on trend or not, Taylor would always finish her look with a slick of shining gloss worn over a matching lipliner, with Chanel being amongst her go-to brands.
Elizabeth Taylor paid close care to her eyebrows
In a forward-looking move, Elizabeth played close attention to the shape and shade of her brows, filling them in with precision since she was a little girl. Her brows are what one of her granddaughters, Eliza Carson, remembers fondly: “I may be biased here, but my grandmother did have the greatest eyebrows. Beautiful, full eyebrows that accentuated her eyes and that were totally unique to her.”
She shaved her face to exfoliate her skin
Today, it’s known under the slightly more medicinal term ‘dermaplaning’, but Elizabeth would shave her face to exfoliate the skin and make for a clearer canvas to apply make-up on to. The technique slews away dead skin cells and the layer of soft peach fuzz hair for a brighter complexion and can be done by a professional, or cautiously at home.
Her routine ended with an unexpected step
Subverting the usual order of getting oneself ready, Taylor would take a quick bath after her make-up was done to set her face and bring a dewy finish to her complexion. Today, thankfully, a simple highlighter will offer the same effect.
She invented the celebrity fragrance
In 1987, Taylor launched a namesake fragrance becoming the first celebrity to do so and would eventually lead to a further ten iterations. Today, the scents prove a connection for fans and family alike to remember her by. “The one thing I am never without is my grandmother’s perfume,” Carson has said. “Whether it’s Gardenia or White Diamonds, I wear her perfume as a way of channeling an image of her strength, dedication, and compassion and simply as a reminder of her.”
It’s a tale as old as time for anyone with sensitive skin: One of your favorite brands has come out with a new moisturizer. The ingredient list? Intriguing and full of potential benefits. The packaging? Ridiculously cute and would look great alongside the products in your medicine cabinet. So, you add it to your cart. When your new moisturizer arrives around five days later, you immediately rip it open, take in its sweet fruity smell, and slather it on your face. Like clockwork, your skin starts to flush and itch; or, maybe you feel fine until the next morning when you discover you have a full-blown breakout.
For sensitive skin, finding staple products for your routine that are effective, fun to use, and non-irritating can feel like an impossible feat — especially since sensitivity manifests itself in a few different ways and can be caused by a variety of things. That’s why we consulted with leading dermatologists to find the best moisturizers for sensitive skin that will keep your complexion smooth, soft, and (most importantly) comfortable. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer proved to be our top option thanks to its sensitive skin-friendly formula that features nine peptides to strengthen the skin barrier — but we also found 10 others that are just as effective
Ahead, find the 11 best moisturizers for sensitive skin.
Best Overall
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
What We Love: On top of moisturizing, it strengthens the skin barrier with nine different peptides.
What We Don’t Love: We wish you could buy refills for this product.
While retinol is commonly touted as the holy grail of anti-aging ingredients, it can be too harsh for reactive skin and those with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. That’s where peptides, the hero ingredient of this rich Drunk Elephant moisturizer, enter the picture. Peptides are the building blocks of proteins — including collagen and keratin — which help keep skin firm and smooth. Plant-derived antioxidants (including water lily stem cell extract and soybean folic acid) round out the formula to improve overall skin texture and tone.
With a slew of gentle yet effective ingredients, this moisturizer is as caring as can be for your complexion, and it has been a staple in my sensitive skin routine for years. What I love most about it is that it can be used day or night – the creamy texture is hydrating enough to help skin repair itself overnight, yet light enough for day time usage, too. In fact, I always use this as my ‘fall back’ product because I can count on it to rebalance any irritation that occurs from testing other beauty products. Overall, there’s nothing I would change about the formula, but I would love this moisturizer even more if refills were available for purchase, rather than having to buy all new packaging when I inevitably use up the last drop.
Price at time of publish: $68
Skin Type: Sensitive, combo, and dry| Size: 1.69 oz. | Active Ingredients: Peptides, Waterlily stem cell extract, Soybean folic acid, and Glycerin
Best Oil-Free Moisturizer
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin
What We Love: The oil-free formula is ideal for those who have acne-prone or oily skin.
What We Don’t Love: If you have dry skin or experience eczema, this moisturizer doesn’t provide quite enough hydration.
More likely than not, you’ve probably seen this cream in your mother or grandmother’s medicine cabinet — since Neutrogena introduced the formula in 1983, it has been a mainstay for just about every skin type. The wildly affordable, gentle moisturizer is especially safe for reactive skin, and anyone who prefers a lightweight lotion over a heavy cream. With zero fragrance, oil, or alcohol in the formula, there’s no need to stress over potential irritation or greasy residue. Simply put, the water-based moisturizer doesn’t have any bells or whistles, but it’s effective, layers nicely with other products, and works especially well for those with sensitive skin. Just note that if your skin leans dry, you may want to opt for a heavier moisturizer, but otherwise this pick can’t be beat.
Price at time of publish: $12
Skin Type: Oily and acne-prone | Size: 4 fl oz.| Active Ingredients:Glycerin
Best Daytime Moisturizer
REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream
What We Love: This moisturizer helps neutralize redness.
What We Don’t Love: It contains sesame oil which is a common allergen.
Finding an adequate daytime moisturizer for sensitive skin can feel like a daunting task — you want something that feels weightless throughout the day, but still imparts intense hydration to keep skin comfortable. That’s where REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream comes in: This moisturizer feels like a splash of cool water on stressed-out, redness-prone skin thanks to lingonberry seed oil, which is rich in omega fatty acids to support the skin barrier, and licorice and seaweed extracts, which help calm irritation. Just a few dabs of the soothing formula can keep skin hydrated and supple, while simultaneously acting as an invisible shield to ward off pollution and other external aggressors. Plus, the brand is dedicated to making the planet a better place, so you can feel good knowing that this product is vegan, cruelty-free, and made from recycled materials.
It’s important to call out that while this was created with sensitive skin in mind, the formula does contain sesame oil, which is a common allergen, so be sure to avoid it if you have a sensitivity to the ingredient.
Price at time of publish: $50
Skin Type: Dry and redness-prone | Size: 1.7 oz. | Active Ingredients:Lingonberry seed oil, Licorice extract, Seaweed extract, and Shea butter
Best Drugstore
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
What We Love: It’s a classic and can always be trusted to replenish hydration levels.
What We Don’t Love: The texture is extremely thick.
Don’t want to spend a ton of money on a moisturizer? Look no further than CeraVe’s tried-and-true moisturizing cream. Formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid and skin barrier-strengthening ceramides, it instantly seals in moisture, which is key for preventing irritating flare-ups. The best part? It can be used on the face and body, essentially making it a one stop shop for fixing all of your dry skin blues. This is also an ideal pick if you experience eczema, as it has the National Eczema association’s seal of approval. Though the thick, velvety texture is a key selling point, if you’re not a fan of heavier moisturizers you may want to select something else.
Price at time of publish: $20
Skin Type: Dry and eczema-prone | Size: 19 oz.| Active Ingredients:Glycerin, Ceramides, and Hyaluronic acid
Best Reparative
Kiehl’s Centella Sensitive Cica Cream
What We Love: This product contains D-panthenol — a star ingredient when it comes to repairing the skin barrier and restoring hydration.
What We Don’t Love: It can feel a bit tacky on skin.
Don’t underestimate this little tube: What’s inside packs a serious dose of moisture. In addition to leaving the surface of the skin soft and smooth, Kiehl’s hypoallergenic and fragrance-free cream repairs the skin barrier to prevent future dryness and helps reduce visible redness and fine lines. The secret is D-panthenol (also known as vitamin b5), which is this product’s star ingredient. Overtime, D-panthenol increases your skin’s ability to retain moisture. Essentially, when you apply this daily, your skin barrier becomes stronger, and though the slightly tacky texture can be off putting to some, the results are worth that minor inconvenience.
Price at time of publish: $44
Skin Type: Dry to normal| Size: 1.7 oz. | Active Ingredients: Glycerin, Cacao seed butter, and D-panthenol
Best for Night
EltaMD Intense Moisturizer
What We Love: It provides 12 hours of hydration.
What We Don’t Love: It’s not ideal for daytime use.
Most heavy-duty moisturizers are thick, rich creams that never fully absorb into skin — but let us introduce you to the exception. Known as the “melting moisturizer,” this EltaMD formula soaks into skin and locks in hydration for up to 12 hours, all while relieving redness and irritation. The simplistic formula is made up of just two ingredients: Petrolatum and paraffin, both of which are powerhouses at retaining moisture and warding off outside irritants. On nights when I’m feeling extra dry and flakey, this is the one thing that gets my skin back to normal by morning. Consider it a foolproof pick for sensitive skin types that also suffer from excessive dryness.
Price at time of publish: $15
Skin Type: Dry and eczema-prone| Size: 2.8 oz.| Active Ingredients:Petrolatum
Best Fragrance-Free
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer
What We Love: It features colloidal oatmeal to soothe any red, itchy, or flaky skin.
What We Don’t Love: Because it has a lightweight texture, you might need to apply multiple layers to quench severely dry skin.
First Aid Beauty is dedicated to creating simplistic skincare products that work for all skin types — especially sensitive skin — and this moisturizer (which I consider the bread and butter of my routine) is no exception. On top of hydrating skin with a mix of nourishing and soothing ingredients like meadowfoam seed oil, colloidal oatmeal, avocado oil, and ceramides, this lightweight formula leaves skin feeling smooth, making it ideal for wearing under makeup. I prefer to use this on days when my skin is feeling pretty normal (read: not too dry) because I find when I’m experiencing any sort of dryness I need to layer it on to quench my skin’s thirst.
Price at time of publish: $28
Skin Type: All | Size: 1.7 oz.| Active Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, Avocado oil, Shea butter, and Meadowfoam seed oil
Best for Hyperpigmentation
Obagi Medical Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer
What We Love: This moisturizer is ideal for rebalancing dehydrated skin without being too overbearing (i.e. it’s not thick or difficult to spread onto skin).
What We Don’t Love: It’s hard to get every last drop out of the bottle.
With an allergy-tested formula, Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer is less likely to cause irritation compared to other creams. Plus, I was overjoyed to discover that this product is made for all skin types because Obagi is known for their intense and clinically proven anti-aging products. Powered by hydromanil — a super nourishing plant-based ingredient — this moisturizer helps skin retain hydration while simultaneously improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation and wrinkles.
Many reviews discuss the size of the product as small for the price, and that it’s difficult to get every last drop out of the bottle. With this in mind, there are more affordable sensitive skin moisturizers that come in larger sizes (CeraVe is a great example of this) but this is a good moisturizer to use as a more targeted approach to sensitive, hyperpigmented skin.
Price at time of publish: $52
Skin Type: Combination to oily| Size: 1.7 oz.| Active Ingredients:Glycerin, Shea butter, Allantoin, and Mango seed butter
Best Anti-Aging
Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer
What We Love: This product is packed with anti-aging ingredients like red algae extract and hydrolyzed collagen.
What We Don’t Love: This is a lightweight product best for targeting specific skin concerns — so if you need more hydration, we recommend topping it off with a face oil.
For oily, acne-prone skin that also leans on the sensitive side, opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t further clog your pores or leave a greasy film on your face. Shani Darden’s fragrance-free, oil-free moisturizer has a silky, serum-like texture that quickly absorbs into skin for a shine-free finish. It uses hydrolyzed collagen and red algae extract to provide anti-aging benefits, helping to restore elasticity and firmness. If you struggle with uneven skin tone, dullness, or a lack of radiance, this is a great moisturizer to try because it gives you that healthy, happy skin glow — similar to how your face looks after a fresh facial. That said, it isn’t the most hydrating moisturizer, so if you need a little extra hydration you may want to apply a face oil over top.
Price at time of publish: $48
Skin Type: Oily to dry, and mature | Size: 2.5 oz.| Active Ingredients:Sodium hyaluronate, Collagen, and Red algae extract
Best Gel
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
What We Love: This moisturizer is ideal for all skin types.
What We Don’t Love: We wish it was fragrance-free, however, the scent is subtle.
Even if you’re not skincare-obsessed, you’ve probably heard of Aqua Bomb: This water-based gel moisturizer is one of the most widely talked about moisturizers within the skin care community, and it quickly becomes a staple for anyone who tries it because it’s ideal for all skin types. Made with antioxidant packed lady’s mantle (an ingredient that protects newly formed elastin within your skin barrier), malachite, and oat husk, the formula works to hydrate dry skin, fight free radicals, smooth the appearance of pores, and even skin tone. I always find myself falling back to this trusty cream because it feels like a refreshing splash of water on skin. And though it’s not fragrance-free, the scent is subtle enough to not irritate even the most sensitive complexions.
Price at time of publish: $38
Skin Type: All| Size: 1.68 oz. | Active Ingredients: Lady’s mantle, Malachite, and Oat husk
Best with SPF
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer With SPF
What We Love: It contains SPF 30, so you don’t have to layer another sunscreen on top.
What We Don’t Love: It’s thicker than most SPF moisturizers we are used to, making it somewhat uncomfortable to reapply throughout the day.
If you’re looking for a basic SPF moisturizer, this is the only product you’ll ever need. Packed with ceramides and niacinamide, it supports your skin barrier, minimizes the look of pores, and mattifies, while providing SPF 30 sun protection. We suggest applying this in the morning (it layers well with makeup) and reapplying SPF with a powder or spray throughout the day due to how thick it can feel if layered multiple times over.
As someone with sensitive skin, I like to keep my skincare routine minimal, and this moisturizer/SPF hybrid has been something that has really helped keep my skin in check. I love that it can be used year round, too — you’ll always catch this in both my ski bag (winter sunburns are a thing too!) and in my beach bag over the summer.
Price at time of publish: $21
Skin Type: Dry to Normal| Size: 2.5 oz.| Active Ingredients:Ceramides and Niacinamide
Before detailing ingredients that sensitive skin can really benefit from, it’s important to know what to avoid — particularly fragrance. “While fragrances can add to the sensorial experience of using a skin care product, they commonly can lead to skin allergies and irritation,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. On the flip side, ceramides, vitamin b5, colloidal oatmeal, and shea butter, are key ingredients for repairing and replenishing a compromised skin barrier, and are pretty tolerable for those with sensitive skin. (First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer includes a few of the aforementioned ingredients)
Collagen is a protein that gives your skin its structure, elasticity, and strength; and according to board-certified dermatologist and founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics, Sheila Farhang, M.D., we “lose approximately one percent of our skin’s collagen each year starting at the age of 20.” (Scary, I know.) This can manifest as sagging skin, fine lines, and other signs of aging. We can make up for the inevitable loss with “collagen skincare.” You know, moisturizers that either contain collagen-supporting ingredients or the actual protein itself. There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for these products.
Skincare With Collagen-Boosting Ingredients
These ingredients work to maintain your youthful complexion by stimulating your skin’s process of creating collagen, according to cosmetic chemist Ginger King. She goes on to say that these ingredients include vitamin C, peptides, Centella Asiatica (a.k.a. Cica, a flowering plant) extracts, and glycosaminoglycans (a fancy-sounding polysaccharide that help maintain your skin’s existing collagen).
Collagen-Infused Skincare
There are also creams that are swirled with the protein itself, but be warned: experts say that just because a product contains the protein doesn’t mean it actually helps improve your complexion. “Collagen is structurally a very large molecule,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, who goes on to explain that if the molecule is too large, it won’t penetrate your skin. Farhang suggests looking to see if the products have reputable studies behind them or are dermatologist recommended before purchasing.
To take the guesswork of which collagen creams are worth the splurge, we curated the below list with the help of the industry’s top experts. Read on to learn more.
Sisley Night Cream with Collagen and Woodmallow
This indulgent cream contains soluble collagen to combat signs of aging and leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized. It’s also one of Farhang’s top picks for collagen-infused skincare.
PCA Skin Collagen Hydrator
This comfortable-wearing cream is one of Zeichner’s picks collagen-boosting products. “It offers light moisturizing and skin-protectant benefit,” he says.
Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Collagen Moisturizer
This collagen-infused moisturizer also includes different types of collagen (including plant-derived and marine) collagen-boosting ingredients (like peptides) to combat signs of aging.
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
Farhang’s second pick: This silky, fragrance-free pick from Elemis. “It uses plant-based ingredients that stimulate collagen production,” she says.
L’Oreal Paris Collagen Moisture Filler Day/Night Cream
This clinically-tested formula uses the protein to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pond’s Rejvueness Anti-Wrinkle Cream
“This night cream combines exfoliating hydroxy acids with collagen to help plump, firm, and moisturize the skin,” says Zeichner. Use this dermatologist-tested formula at night, as the acids can up your skin’s sun sensitivity.
Dr. Loretta Concentrated Firming Moisturizer
Formulated by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, this lightweight moisturizer contains peptides to help firm skin and increase its resilience.
Loum Firming Cream
This consumer panel-tested moisturizer contains plant-derived collagen and bakuchiol (which acts similarly to exfoliating retinol) to boost elasticity and give you a younger-looking complexion.
Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream
This cream is beloved by beauty pros for its gentle exfoliation (thanks to vitamin B3) and overall plumping effect (that’s the mix of hyaluronic acid and peptides working).
Whether you know Israeli facialist Mimi Luzon’s name or not, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the fruits of her labour via a number of very beautiful faces. A supermodel favourite, everyone from Gigi and Bella Hadid to Kaia Gerber, Irina Shayk and Sara Sampaio has enjoyed her facials. She is also the brains behind the now infamous 24 Karat Pure Gold face mask that frequently adorns those famous visages – in fact, you might call her the modern day Midas.
“I believe in using the three ‘diamonds,’” she tells me over the phone. “That is, good hands, good product and good machines. When I started [as a facialist] over 30 years ago, I was obsessed with machines and devices in my treatments, but now I think that the three of them together offer the best results.” She name-checks Alma laser, which helps do everything from rejuvenate skin to zap capillaries that cause redness, as well as other lasers, radiofrequency, IPL and tools that she combines with excellent skincare formulas and her expert hands for gold-standard facial treatments.
On the subject of her hands, she puts them to work extracting blemishes and blackheads, applying product, and massaging, using a technique which has evolved over her years doing the job. “Many years ago my massage technique was more stimulating, but now I use ‘effleurage’ [a series of massage strokes to warm up the muscle before deep tissue work] to calm the skin, because the machines do all the stimulation; my hands now do the relaxation and help reduce wrinkles.” She uses the effleurage technique from the very top of the face down to the heart area, ensuring the neck and décolletage are well cared for.
She is also emphatic that tackling skin ageing via brilliant facials (that include different, non-invasive devices), and great products can “prevent [plastic] surgery and lots of injections, like filler”. In the age of Covid-19 and numerous lockdowns, however, she has had a wholly hands-off approach to skin, going from a rather jet-set lifestyle to sending her clients products and teaching them what to do via Zoom. “I miss the personal connection,” she says. The people she treats, she says, are like friends, which is one reason she believes she has such a strong model client base – a close-knit community, they all talk to one other – and nothing sells a service quite like word of mouth.
As for the gold? Well, that came about after she noticed her clients were after formulas that offered real results. They were prepared to spend money on luxury skincare, but wanted to see something happen to their skin – no mean feat given most skincare formulas require playing the long game to see a difference. In the search for a good product that would cater to their demands, she began looking into concentrated formulas, eventually asking a lab to create a pure gold mask after observing its glow-boosting effects at a skincare exhibition in Hong Kong. “They told me it was really expensive and that it’s to be used as flakes or [gold] dust… but I wanted it in its pure form,” she says.
Having combined the gold leaf with her Anti-Wrinkle Mask (which is full of firming peptides), she notes that it stimulates the skin, improves collagen production and has a lifting effect. “Also, it’s gold, and every woman wants the gold!” she laughs. An easy DIY job, you apply the cream mask first, then press the gold leaf on top. The results are really quite remarkable, and it’s a bestseller not because of the vast number of likes it generates on Instagram, but because it actually works.
Here, Luzon shares her top home skincare tips to deploy in lockdown.
Make use of good acid formulas
“I really believe that anyone can treat themselves if they have good products. These days, lots of dermo-cosmetic brands sell great acid products. You can start with a lactic acid that is low (around 3.5 per cent), and then you could go up to 10 per cent. Same with glycolic acid – start with a lower percentage and then [as your skin gets used to it], move to a higher percentage. You will see results.”
Don’t be afraid to use masks
“People are often afraid to use a mask, or say they don’t have time. Years ago, I was at a big conference and learned that the Japanese use masks everyday. I use a different mask every day. You can buy all kinds of masks and play with them. You can do one for five minutes and see results, especially if it’s concentrated, and a lot of masks you can sleep in.”
Play with your products
“I think with treatments and products, it’s a game. Taste all the flavours and don’t be afraid to mix things together, like serums. Pretend they are cocktails! Just play with them.”
Make do with what you’ve got
“There are so many at home skincare tools on the market, but even I often use cold spoons on my eyes [to depuff].”
If you were to flip through a yearbook that had Senior Superlatives for the best beauty products of all time, there’s no doubt that concealer would win “Most Likely to Succeed.” The reason? Concealer is one of the most versatile makeup items you can have in your collection. It addresses a handful of different beauty concerns, including disguising dark under-eye circles, hiding blemishes, camouflaging redness, evening out skin tone, and blurring imperfections. It can also be used to highlight, contour, and enhance bone structure to add more depth to the face.
Best Overall
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
What We Love: This long-lasting concealer is suitable for all skin types.
What We Don’t Love: This concealer can crease if too much is applied.
“NARS is very well known for its full coverage foundation, so you can only imagine how amazing their concealer is, too,” says beauty and fashion educator Tracy Faith. “The Radiant Creamy Concealer is designed to provide all-day crease-free coverage.” On top of lasting for over 16 hours (yes, an InStyle editor put it to the test), this top-rated product can effortlessly cover everything from acne breakouts to dark circles with nothing more than a tiny drop. (It’s worth noting that a little goes a long way, so be sure to only apply a small amount at a time.)
In addition to camouflaging blemishes and dark spots, this concealer can also be used to contour and highlight certain facial features. (We especially like using it to brighten up our cheekbones since it has a radiant finish.) “Once you blend the product into your skin, you will automatically appear fresh,” Faith says. For best results, apply a small amount to the areas of your face that you want to cover, and blend out lightly — with a brush, sponge, or your fingers — until you get the coverage you want. Since this concealer offers buildable coverage, start small and work your way up if you want a fuller finish. If you have oily skin or are worried about creasing, you can set this concealer with a translucent powder for longer wear.
Price at time of publish: $32
Shades: 30 | Coverage: Medium| Finish: Radiant
Best Drugstore
Maybelline Super Stay Active Wear Liquid Concealer
What We Love: This full-coverage concealer is lightweight and breathable.
What We Don’t Love: Though long-lasting, it can start to crease toward the end of the day.
If you’re looking for an affordable, long-lasting concealer, we have just the thing for you. At less than $15 a pop, Maybelline Super Stay Concealer is a drugstore favorite. We love that it’s made with a lightweight formula that provides full coverage. (Normally, full-coverage concealers have thicker consistencies since they have to mask red blemishes and dark circles, but this airy formula can do that without being too heavy.) It feels light on the skin and effortlessly covers up imperfections, plus it has a 30-hour staying power, which is more than two times what some other concealers offer thanks to its waterproof formula (but it does tend to crease slightly if worn for extra long hours). What separates this product from other drugstore picks — aside from being lightweight and having insane staying power — is that it has a flexible wand that allows users to easily apply the product to the hard-to-reach corners of their eyes. On top of that, the pliable wand seamlessly glides across skin, which means you won’t tug or pull on delicate areas.
Price at time of publish: $12
Shades: 16 | Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte
Best Value
Tarte Shape Tape Full Coverage Concealer
What We Love: A little goes a long way, which means this concealer will last you months on end.
What We Don’t Love: It’s not ideal for dry skin.
Named InStyle’s best concealer for under eyes, it only makes sense that Tarte Shape Tape Full-Coverage Concealer would score a spot on this list. For starters, this concealer provides full coverage with a matte finish, meaning it has the ability to mask dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and acne with just one application. On top of that, the formula is made with good-for-your-skin ingredients like shea butter (which soothes skin), mango butter (which adds hydration), and licorice root (which brightens from the inside out). Plus, these ingredients work overtime to keep the product from creasing and settling into fine lines. As for the standout feature: This concealer has incredible staying power, which means you won’t need to reapply throughout the day.
While this concealer costs $31, we named it the Best Value because one tiny dab can be blended out to conceal your whole under-eye area. Plus, each tube holds 0.33 fluid ounces, which means you’ll have it for months to come. As an avid concealer-wearer, I can attest to this. I’ve had my tube of Shape Tape for over six months, and I’m not even halfway through it yet — even though I use it every day. To make the most of this product, I like to apply a dot of it to the back of my hand and then use my fingers to apply it under my eyes or to spot-treat blemishes. It blends out really well and gives my skin a natural-looking matte finish.
Price at time of publish: $31
Shades: 35| Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte
Best Splurge
Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer
What We Love: This concealer can last for up to 24 hours (seriously).
What We Don’t Love: The formula is a bit thick, which can make it hard to blend.
If there’s one brand we’re bound to splurge on, it’s Dior. The beloved label has created a handful of our favorite beauty products, including the Backstage Face & Body Foundation, the Diorshow Lash-Extension Effect Volume Mascara, and, most notably, the Forever Skin Correct Concealer. This creamy concealer provides full coverage for all skin types without the need to apply multiple coats. It’s able to hide redness, pimples, dark spots, and dark circles, all with just one swoop. Plus, it can blur pores, which can make skin appear practically airbrushed.
Since this product is a bit of a splurge, it’s worth pointing out that the formula is unlike most concealers. This is because it is made with a special combination of ingredients, including iris extract (which hydrates skin and locks in moisture), wild pansy extract (which soothes skin and reduces redness), and nasturtium extract (which can revitalize skin and make it luminous). Oh, and did we mention this concealer can stay on skin — and look good — for up to 24 hours? Yeah, that’s something to boast about. Because the formula is a bit thicker, it requires a bit more blending — but we promise the end result is totally worth it.
Price at time of publish: $38
Shades: 28 | Coverage: Full| Finish: Natural
Best for Dark Circles
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer with Hyaluronic Acid
What We Love: This creamy concealer hydrates delicate skin under the eyes.
What We Don’t Love: Lighter shades tend to sell out.
It’s a fact: Charlotte Tilbury’s beauty products have taken the world by storm. While the brand has been around for years, it recently made a huge splash after TikTok users couldn’t stop raving about the Flawless Filter primer. And, while we ourselves love the Flawless Filter with everything in us, there’s one product that deserves just as much attention: The Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer. This concealer offers medium-to-full coverage (depending on how much you use) and can stay on skin for up to 16 hours. Plus, it comes in 30 shades, which means you can find the perfect fit for your complexion.
“I am extremely picky when it comes to concealer because my under eyes get dried out so quickly. I need something that will (most importantly) mask my dark circles, but also keep the area hydrated and plump throughout the day,” says InStyle Commerce Editor Mary Honkus. “Let me tell you, I’m not easily impressed by concealers, but from the first blend, I was immediately blown away. Two small dabs make me look so well rested, even when I’m most certainly not, and my under-eyes stay comfortable even through a full day’s wear. If you have fair skin like me, you’ll want to snatch this up quickly as the lighter shades tend to sell out fast.”
Price at time of publish: $33
Shades: 30| Coverage: Medium to Full| Finish: Radiant
Best for Blemishes
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Breakout Full-Coverage Concealer
What We Love: This concealer is made with oil-absorbing ingredients that work to dry out pimples.
What We Don’t Love: This shouldn’t be used near the delicate eye area because it is drying.
If you have acne-prone skin, you might have noticed there are a limited amount of concealers that cater to inflamed blemishes. While, yes, there are countless concealers that work to hide pimples, there are very few that work to heal pimples while they hide them. Instead of just covering up the problem, why not address it? Luckily, IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Breakout Concealer does just that. Made with a blend of powerhouse ingredients including zinc oxide, kaolin clay, witch hazel, tea tree, sulfur, and a gentle AHA/BHA complex, this formula works to taper down zits by absorbing excess oil. Plus, it’s infused with anti-aging peptides and hydrolyzed collagen, both of which help to soothe and smooth out skin.
As for the concealer itself, it offers a full coverage finish that effectively conceals the look of blemishes, acne, redness, and discoloration without creasing or cracking. Plus, when you wash it off, you’ll notice that your blemishes are smaller and more dried out, meaning skin clarity will improve with each wear. We will note that since this is essentially a drying formula, only use it on zits and not on the delicate skin around the eyes.
Price at time of publish: $38
Shades: 7| Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte
Best for Red Spots
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Corrector in Green
What We Love: This concealer is offered in seven bold hues (including green, red, and purple), which are made to address discoloration for different skin tones.
What We Don’t Love: The formula is thick and can be hard to blend.
According to celebrity makeup artist Tonya Riner, Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Color Corrector works well to cover red blemishes on both light and dark skin tones. (If you have a fair complexion, use the Green shade and if you have a darker complexion, use the Brick Red hue.) Because this formula has a thicker consistency than other concealers, it’s important that you apply it correctly so it goes on smoothly. “Use a tiny brush for pinpoint concealing so the color corrector is only on the discoloration,” Riner says. “Then press (so you don’t disturb the coverage you just created) a foundation that matches your skin tone on top to blend.” This will ensure that the color corrector is hiding the discoloration while also blending in with the rest of your makeup.
What we like about this product is that it’s suitable for all skin types, and it is offered in seven different shades, which means you can find the ideal hue for your skin. Here’s the lowdown: Those with light to medium skin tones should opt for the green shade to minimize redness, the yellow hue to cover dark circles and hyperpigmentation, and the lavender color to address sallowness. Those with medium skin tones should grab the peach hue to minimize dark spots, dark circles, and acne scars. As for those with deeper skin tones, try the orange/red shade or the brick red color to cover dark spots, dark circles, and acne scars.
Price at time of publish: $31
Shades: 7| Coverage: Full| Finish: Matte
Best for Dry Skin
Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer and Daytime Eye Cream
What We Love: This ultra-creamy concealer is made with hyaluronic acid and peptides, which help hydrate skin.
What We Don’t Love: It can crease if it is not blended out well enough.
As a beauty editor, I’ve had the ability to try countless (and I mean countless) different makeup products. While I love testing new formulas and experimenting with all kinds of items, I’ve noticed more often than not, I tend to go back to my tried-and-true products. But, after learning that Hailey Bieber uses the Kosas Revealer Concealer, I knew I had to try it. From the first swipe, I was a convert. This incredibly creamy concealer glides over my skin effortlessly, covering my dark circles and pesky acne scars in no time. I love how blendable the formula is and how I can build on top of it if I want more coverage (which I usually don’t need since this concealer is so good).
On top of being supreme at covering dark circles and blemishes, this concealer also has an all-star formula that’s ideal for dry skin. It’s made with hyaluronic acid and peptides, which work to hydrate skin and make it more supple, as well as caffeine, which fights dark circles, puffiness, and dullness.
And if you had any doubt about this concealer, celebrity makeup artists love it, too. “Kosas Revealer Concealer is my number one pick for any skin type and any age,” Riner says. “The formula is creamy and never creases which makes it foolproof, and they offer a wide range of shades.”
Price at time of publish: $28
Shades: 28| Coverage: Medium| Finish: Radiant
Best for Oily Skin
Smashbox Studio Skin Flawless Oil-Free 24 Hour Concealer
What We Love: Because it’s oil-free, it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
What We Don’t Love: It dries fast, which means you need to blend it quickly when you apply it.
If you have oily skin, finding a concealer that stays put is no easy feat. Luckily, Smashbox Studio Skin Concealer is made with a creamy, oil-free formula that is ideal for greasier complexions. Because it’s not made with oil, it won’t slip into fine lines and cause creases. It also won’t melt off the skin if it comes in contact with oil because it has long-lasting capabilities that are made to withstand damp, greasy skin. On top of that, this concealer hides dark circles and hyperpigmentation as well as redness and age spots to boot.
What really makes this concealer stand out is that it’s very buildable, which means it offers a range of different coverages (from light wear to full coverage). We will note that the formula dries fast and has a thicker consistency than most concealers, so just be sure that if you want to build on top of it, you apply each layer quickly. As for the cherry on top: It’s made with a vegan formula that’s non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts — a huge win for oily skin!
Price at time of publish: $29
Shades: 30| Coverage: Medium to Full | Finish: Natural
Best for Dark Skin Tones
Dermablend Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer
What We Love: This hydrating concealer is waterproof and transfer-resistant.
What We Don’t Love: It can be hard to wash off completely if you don’t double cleanse.
Created by physician Craig Roberts and his makeup artist wife, Flori Roberts, Dermablend is the ideal brand for anyone who is looking for a hybrid between makeup and skincare. The products in the line have the perfect combination of good-for-your-skin formulas and high-powered makeup ingredients, which are safe for all skin types, tones, and conditions. One product in particular that delivers both skincare benefits and makeup capabilities is the brand’s top-rated full-coverage concealer.
“Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer is my fave,” says celebrity makeup artist Andrew Velázquez. “The skincare ingredients infused in this formula are very helpful for balancing out discoloration, without getting cakey throughout the day.” (You can thank sunflower seed oil and vegetable glycerin for this since they keep skin hydrated.) Plus, this concealer is 100 percent vegan and made without alcohol and parabens.
In terms of dark skin tones, this product offers a handful of shades that seamlessly blend into darker complexions. “There are a variety of shades in this line, from olive to deep, beautiful ebony,” Velázquez says. “The undertones of this formula also offer a warm finish without looking too red, orange, gray, or ashy.”
Price at time of publish: $28
Shades: 16| Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte
Best Shade Range
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer
What We Love: This creamy, long-wear concealer feels light on skin.
What We Don’t Love: This concealer can crease if too much is applied.
Complete with 50 shades — ranging from very fair to very deep — Fenty’s long-wear concealer has a hue that will match anyone’s skin tone. On top of having colors that pair well with a diverse range of skin tones, each concealer in the line features different undertones (a couple being neutral, neutral warm, cool, warm yellow, and warm olive), which means you can find the absolute perfect shade to address your skincare concerns, whether you want to cover dark circles, red blemishes, age spots, or something in between. Plus, the creamy formula is lightweight and breathable, and provides skin with medium-to-full coverage. It also offers a soft matte finish that brightens skin, especially the under-eye area. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way — just a dab should be enough to cover any concerns (and layering too much can cause it to crease).
Price at time of publish: $28
Shades: 50| Coverage: Medium to Full| Finish: Matte
Best Crease-Free
NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer
What We Love: This bestselling concealer blurs and smooths uneven skin texture.
What We Don’t Love: This concealer is not suitable for dry skin.
“NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer really describes itself in the title,” says New York City-based makeup artist Elisa Flowers. “It’s a soft, creamy concealer that blurs imperfections, blemishes, and dark circles, yet has a delicate, matte appearance and gives excellent coverage.” This product’s full-coverage capabilities are due to the unique formula that contains what NARS refers to as “Optimal Diffusion Powder,” a lightweight powder that actually transforms the look of skin by blurring imperfections with the help of light-diffusing spheres that are designed to absorb and refract light for a soft-focus finish.
Aside from making skin look airbrushed, this concealer also stays put for hours since it’s made without oil. As for what it’s made with, that’s what has turned this concealer into a bestseller. Infused with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E, this product will actually make skin appear smoother, softer, and plumper over time. Now if that’s not a skincare win, we don’t know what is. Keep in mind though, that because it has a more matte finish it can feel slightly drying — so if you have dry skin you may want to go with something else.
Price at time of publish: $30
Shades: 30 | Coverage: Full| Finish: Matte
Best Long-Wear
MAC Pro Longwear Concealer
What We Love: This lightweight concealer is water, sweat, and humidity-resistant.
What We Don’t Love: The pump dispenses too much product.
“MAC Pro Longwear Concealer is an excellent long-wear concealer,” Flowers explains. “It’s not only brightening, but it’s also waterproof, has very buildable coverage, and its matte texture is excellent for oily skin.” Aside from being able to brighten skin, this full-coverage concealer also camouflages zits, covers up dark spots, and evens out texture.
Ultimately, this concealer’s fragrance- and oil-free formula is the star of the show. It’s made to stay on skin for up to 24 hours, which means you won’t need to reapply it. On top of that, it can withstand just about anything since it’s water-, sweat-, and humidity-proof. (You can wear this concealer to the gym, beach, and anywhere in between.) This is also a great concealer for those who want to add more coverage to their look because it can be built on top of without becoming cakey. As a bonus, it’s also ideal for aging skin since it doesn’t settle into fine lines. While there’s so much to love about it, we wish we could change the pump, because it dispenses entirely too much product at once.
Price at time of publish: $28
Shades: 16| Coverage: Full| Finish: Matte
What to Keep in Mind
Shade
Finding the right shade for your skin is undoubtedly the most important step when it comes to purchasing a concealer. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for a concealer that’s about one to two shades lighter than your foundation if you want to camouflage dark circles, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. On the other hand, if you’re looking to hide blemishes like acne or red spots, you should opt for a concealer that’s the same shade as your foundation so you can seamlessly blend the two together. Luckily, most concealers (including a variety on this list) offer a wide range of shades that are sure to provide you with the color match you’re looking for.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers say it shatters easily.
Celebrity makeup artist Ash K Holm swears by the Jouer Cosmetics Powder Highlighter — particularly in the shade Skinny Dip. “This is a golden powder highlighter that works on most skin tones,” she says. “For a powder highlighter, it is extremely pigmented and smooth when applied to the skin.” The talc-free formula gives the skin a light glow that still looks natural, not overpowering. And it stays where you apply it — you won’t find glitter all over your cheek towards the end of the day.
Offered in a whopping seven shades (a lot of range for just one highlighter), the highlighter allows you to pick one to suit your undertone and skin tone.
Price at time of publish: $25
Formula: Pressed powder | Shades: 8| Size: 0.16 oz.
Best Cream
Rose Inc Solar Radiance Hydrating Cream Highlighter
What We Love: The formula features ingredients that will benefit your skin.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers complain that it’s toosparkly.
According to Holm, cream highlighters tend to look more natural and show less texture on the skin, especially if you have dry skin. With that in mind, she recommends Rose Inc’s Solar Radiance Hydrating Cream Highlighter, which is sold in five shades. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill face makeup, though — it’s infused with brightening rose extract, plumping sea holly, and hydrating squalane, so it boosts not only your skin’s glow but also overall health, too.
The highlighter has a big payoff, but because of how pigmented it is, some reviewers dislike how sparkly it is. It does easily blend, though, and a little goes a long way, so you could easily use less.
Price at time of publish: $30
Formula: Cream | Shades: 5| Size: 0.17 oz.
Best Powder
Illamasqua Beyond Powder Highlighter in the shade OMG
What We Love: It’s incredibly reflective.
What We Don’t Love: Some shoppers complain about its staying power.
If you’re looking for a high-shine shimmer, Siard, who is the co-founder of Rose and Ben Beauty, suggests the Illamasqua Beyond Powder Highlighter, especially in the shade OMG. “It’s light wearing, won’t create texture on [the] skin, and has very small reflective particles,” she says. Don’t get it twisted though: Despite the ultra-fine shimmer, this highlighter revs up the glow factor.
Shoppers think this one doesn’t stay as long as others on the list. To get ahead of any fading, finish off your makeup with a setting spray to ensure your makeup will look fresh all day.
Celebrity makeup artist Grace Pae uses the Milk Makeup Bionic Glow Highlighter on as many clients as she can. The light, buildable coverage allows you to tailor the product to each look — just a few dabs for a natural look, and a full sweep for some extra drama. A little goes a long way with this product, though, so it will last you a while. It even includes hyaluronic acid to plump the skin as you wear it. We only wish it came in more than just two colors.
Price at time of publish: $34
Formula: Liquid | Shades: 2| Size: 0.91 oz.
Best Stick
Nudestix Nudies All Over Face Color
What We Love: It’s very convenient for touch-ups.
What We Don’t Love: Because it has an attached brush, it is harder to clean.
Anyone who prefers the convenience of stick makeup will love NudeStix Nudies All Over Face Color, especially in the shade Bubble Bebe, which Holmes says is her favorite. “It’s a gorgeous champagne undertone in a soft cream formula,” she says, applauding how easy it is to apply thanks to the built-in brush. (Be warned, though, the built-in brush is very hard to clean.)
It comes in seven neutral shades that each have its own subtle glitter. It glides on easily and can easily be blended in with the aforementioned brush.
Price at time of publish: $34
Formula: Cream | Shades: 7| Size: 0.28 oz.
Best Drugstore
Catrice More Than Glow Highlighter in 020 Supreme Rose Beam
What We Love: It’s vegan and cruelty-free.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers say it breaks easily.
Not trying to drop over $20 on a highlighter? You don’t have to. Siard says that the Catrice Cosmetics More Than Glow Highlighter can easily compete for the top spot in your makeup routine. She prefers the shade Supreme Rose Beam, a cool-toned pink, but it also comes in a shimmery gold for anyone looking for a warmer pigment.
Because of the price, it can break easily, since the packaging isn’t as protective as some higher-end products. But luckily, it’s only $6, so it won’t be a stretch to buy a new one.
Price at time of publish: $6
Formula: Pressed Powder | Shades: 2| Size: 0.2 oz.
Best Splurge
Dior Forever Couture Luminizer Highlighter Powder
What We Love: It’s formulated with wild pansy extract to seal in the skin’s natural hydration.
What We Don’t Love: You have to use a brush to apply.
On the opposite end of the budget spectrum, we have Dior’s Forever Couture Luminizer Highlighter Powder, which over 28,000 Sephora shoppers have backed. It’s sold in six colors, ranging from light to dark, with both warm and cool undertone options.
Made up of nearly 95 percent natural-origin pigments, the highlighter offers a shimmery, pearlescent shade with enough payoff from just one swipe. And we should probably mention, the swipe is the key here — you need to apply this with a brush (no, your fingers won’t do this time), so anyone anti-brush should opt for something else.
Price at time of publish: $48
Formula: Powder | Shades: 6| Size: 0.21 oz.
Best Clean
Honest Beauty Magic Beauty Balm Stick
What We Love: It’s a universal, not too warm, not too cool shade.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers say the stick dries out quickly.
Anyone overwhelmed by choices might appreciate this universal shade, which will help save time and effort. According to Holm, Honest Beauty’s Magic Beauty Balm Stick looks stunning on all skin tones. “This is my favorite clean formula highlighter that elevates any makeup look with a soft radiant dewy finish,” she says. It’s worth mentioning that it’s also available in a compact now, too, for anyone who likes to use a brush.
The formula does dry out over time, making it difficult to apply after a while. But you’re sure to use it all the time, so you may never have that problem.
Price at time of publish: $15
Formula: Cream | Shades: 1| Size: 0.28 oz.
Best Colored
Half Magic Beauty Light Trap in the shade Enter the Glow
What We Love: It looks natural but in the right light it glistens purple.
What We Don’t Love: You need to use a few swipes for the full color payoff.
For those of you that love an ethereal-looking highlight, this shade-shifting powder highlighter from Half Magic is a must, according to Siard. It only comes in two shades — Enter The Glow, a champagne base with lilac pigments scattered throughout, and Spiritually Complex, a bold purple with a hint of blue pearlescent tones — that appear as different colors once the light hits it. Because the buttery smooth formula might not be your everyday shade (it’s great for festivals and nights out), we aren’t craving more variety than what’s offered.
You do need to apply a few swipes in order for the color to really pop. But some might appreciate that the highlighter is buildable because it allows you to customize your look.
Price at time of publish: $20
Formula: Powder | Shades: 2| Size: Not advertised
Best Multi-Use
Live Tinted Hueglow
What We Love: It’s made with squalane, so it works to deeply hydrate skin during wear.
What We Don’t Love: It’s only sold in two shades.
Instead of just a makeup product, this Live Tinted highlighter features squalane and a blend of botanical extracts to give your skin a hydration boost, almost like a serum-meets-moisturizer, rather than just a highlighter. As one of Pae’s favorites, this highlighter delivers optimal glow.
A little goes a long way with this highlighter. We recommend applying it in small dots, then blending it in.
Price at time of publish: $34
Formula: Liquid | Shades: 2| Size: 1.6 oz.
What to Keep in Mind
Formula
You can find highlighters in powder, cream, and liquid formulas. While it all comes down to personal preference, depending on your skin type, some might be better than others. Dry skin typically needs a liquid or cream formula, like the Milk Makeup Bionic Glow, as the powder will just emphasize the dry areas by settling into any fine lines or cracks. But oily skin typically looks best with a powder formula, like the Jouer Cosmetics Powder Highlighter, because super hydrating products will most likely make your skin look greasy rather than glowy.
Shades
The shade of highlighter you pick should coordinate with your undertones. As a general rule of thumb, Holm says that the only place your highlighter should be visible head-on is down the bridge of your nose. “If it’s too visible anywhere else, the face can look oily or shiny,” she warns. Pae, on the other hand, says that it shouldn’t be visible anywhere head-on. “The sign of a perfectly-matched highlighter is when it’s undetectable,” she says. “It just looks like your skin is naturally glowing.”
Suffice to say, if you look like a shimmering unicorn while looking straight into the mirror, it’s time to reevaluate your shade (unless, of course, that’s your goal).
Model: @katienoskova Products: – Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder – Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit – MAC Cosmetics blush in Melba, highlight in Soft & Gentle, BlackTrack liquid eyeliner, lipstick in Come Over, clear Lipglass, & Give Me Sun bronzer – Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel – Natasha Denona Love & Retro eyeshadow palettes – Sigma Beauty brushes.
As someone who hates jumping on a bandwagon, I often – to my detriment – avoid new beauty products that are generating a lot of buzz. (I know, it makes no sense.) That’s why it has taken me a whole year to try No7’s Advanced Retinol 1.5% Complex Night Concentrate, which you probably heard about back when it launched last May. It attracted a waiting list of 100,000 before it was even available to buy, has had rave reviews, and has become Boots’s best-selling retinol product. So… pretty good then.
We all know the benefits of retinoids. From treating acne to stimulating collagen and elastin production to helping improve uneven skin tone, it is one of the most effective active ingredients in skincare. There are many different types, from retinol to retinaldehyde, and dermatologists recommend incorporating some form of the ingredient into your skincare routine as collagen levels start to decline, which happens absurdly early at around the age of 27. (You can, of course, start using it earlier.)
The tricky thing with retinoids, however, is that they are known to irritate the skin. Since I am emphatically not willing to suffer for results, I seek out intelligent products that work hard, which is why I love this ultra-light (and affordable – it is £34), cream. Containing 0.3 per cent retinol, it cleverly occupies the sweet spot between a concentration that actually works and one that doesn’t irritate the skin, meaning I haven’t experienced any flakiness, redness or itching while using it. That is, in part, because it cleverly gets delivered directly into the skin – encapsulation technology takes it through the skin barrier and allows the retinol to be absorbed quickly. Hello, fast results.
“For a long time, the perception was that the higher the percentage of retinol in a product, the better it works,” Dr Mike Bell, head of science at the brand, explains. “However, our breakthrough scientific research with our partners at the University of Manchester has found that 0.3% retinol delivers virtually the same age-defying benefits as a higher concentration retinol, but with minimum irritation. It is a real game-changer.”
The formula also contains a blend of peptides to improve elasticity (cue plump, glowy skin), as well as an ingredient called bisabolol, which comes from German chamomile and helps to calm, soothe and further mitigate any irritation the product might cause. It works to smooth, soften fine lines and reduce pigmentation, while also giving skin that juicy, youthful glow. So yes, it’s ultra-clever, but besides my increasingly even-toned, healthy-looking skin, I’ve barely registered that I’m using it at all – which is exactly the skincare vibe I am here for.
The numbers don’t lie: Blush is back. While makeup sales understandably dramatically dropped during the pandemic, they’re finally recovering and, in the case of blush, soaring. Marketing research firm NPD Group reported that blush sales increased 39% over the course of 2021, with sales of stick and cream blush specifically doubling from 2020, and growing even from prepandemic 2019.
According to all-in-one shopping app and payment service Klarna, purchases of blush overall increased by 17% from 2020 to 2022. However, purchases of cream blush increased a whopping 89% over the same time period, while powder sales jumped 37%. Sephora declined to share specific sales data with Glamour, but David Razzano, beauty director at Sephora, confirms the retailer has noticed a growing popularity in creams as well.
“We’ve seen more and more clients gravitate toward cream blush because its creamy texture creates a smooth, natural, and skinlike finish that blends seamlessly into your complexion,” Razzano tells Glamour. “Cream formulas also often have the added benefit of creating a dewy glow and flushed appearance, which is so covetable—and trending—right now.”
The trend has made its way off TikTok to real life as well. Anecdotally, most of my friends skip daily face makeup, but don’t leave the house without a swipe of cream blush (or lipstick as blush) on their cheeks—even if they’re still wearing a mask. Bright blush has popped up on the runways and red carpets, with celebs like Selena Gomez and Lily Rose Depp making a pink flush their trademark beauty look. Gomez even launched her brand Rare Beauty in 2020 with liquid blushes—a bold move that has paid off, considering the product is a staple of BlushTok, and one of Klarna’s most shopped blushes.
“Selena wanted to launch Rare Beauty with products that reflected her makeup philosophy,” Joyce Kim, Rare Beauty’s chief product officer, tells Glamour, “so it was important for her to create products that are easy to use, buildable in coverage, and can be used on the go—like liquid blush. Selena has always loved a healthy, natural flush of color that blush adds to your complexion, and Soft Pinch Liquid Blush has become a staple for her when she wants to add some dimension to her look.”
Mega-retailer Ulta Beauty confirms that its blush sales are booming as well. While the brand didn’t share specific sales data, a representative did reveal that blush sales have increased steadily over the past year. “Blush is certainly having a moment at Ulta Beauty,” Jordan Pious, senior director of merchandising, strategy, and insights at the company, says. “Excitement for the category has only been amplified as mask mandates loosen across the country. We’re encouraged by the incredible growth we’re seeing and are proud to have maintained increased blush sales year over year since 2019. This strong trajectory indicates blush will continue to be a meaningful part of our guests’ makeup routines and a significant driver within our cosmetics assortment.”
Interestingly enough, Pious says that powder formulas are still the retailer’s top sellers—including favorite’s like Nars Orgasm and Tarte’s Amazonian Clay Blush—but that sticks, creams, and tints are gaining popularity. Particularly, multitasking formulas that can be used on eyes and lips like Chanel’s new No.1 de Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm and Undone Beauty’s Lip to Cheek Palette are gaining steam.
Celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta, who has made hyper-bright blush looks his calling card, says that these newer, sheerer formulas have directly led to blush’s jump in popularity. “For a long time, the application method around how to use blush has been too heavy-handed and outdated for the current beauty landscape,” he tells Glamour. “In recent years there has been a lot more education about what points on your face to emphasize, and how to use color to highlight natural beauty.” He says that he kept that in mind while formulating the cream and powder blush duos for his own line, Patrick Ta Beauty, which are other Klarna top sellers.
Ta also credits TikTok for educating women on how to wear blush in a more modern way—for example, high on their cheeks for a “snatched” look rather than on the apples, as our moms taught us. “People who are tapped into the makeup artist side of TikTok can see how these creators are moving through and reviewing product to find the very best of each and share with their networks,” he says. “In terms of the techniques and hacks, TikTok is a great resource for newer consumers that are looking to find the best makeup routine for them or people who are looking for inspiration.”
NPD’s data supports this theory, and Natallia Bambiza, NPD’s makeup category analyst for beauty, recently wrote a blog post directly linking the increase of blush sales to TikTok, in particular a technique called “underpainting,” whereby a heavy amount of blush is applied under your foundation for a more natural look.
Not only has TikTok educated younger women on how to use blush in a fresh way, but it’s home to subcultures and micro trends that have made blush part of their core looks. Back in early 2020, we saw the rise of “e-girl” beauty, which included two bleached streaks of hair and excessive blush across the bridge of the nose, accented with faux freckles. Now we’re in the era of the “clean girl” aesthetic—think Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner—the key pillars of which include fluffy brows, clean glowing skin, and a healthy but subtle flush. There’s also the coquette community, an update from Tumblr’s nymphette subculture, which prefers a rosy, doll-like blush.
It’s also important to note that rosy cheeks are a sign of health, and we’re still in a pandemic with no clear end in sight. But celebrity makeup artist Allan Avendaño has a much simpler (and more cheerful) explanation.
“I think people really missed some color in their lives,” he says. “With the pandemic, we were inside a lot. Now that we have much more freedom to go out, it adds color and brightness to the face. Also with a lot of people working from home, I think blush is a way of dressing up the face for zoom or virtual calls.”
Ta has to agree: “I think a lot of people during lockdown went natural because there wasn’t much to dress for, but now that life is getting back to normal, people seem to be loving blending the natural look with a glowy, dewy, highlighted chic It-girl beat. Embracing the blush is the way of the future—masks or not!”
What We Love: This eye cream is made with potent, medical-grade actives that work to provide long-lasting anti-aging benefits to skin around the eyes.
What We Don’t Love: This eye cream is not suited for dry skin.
Made with a powerful combination of medical-grade ingredients, this tinted eye cream works overtime to combat dark circles and puffiness on the spot, while also providing long-term benefits to the skin. Edelweiss flower is infused into the formula, which is clinically proven to help tighten aging skin around the eye. Additionally, fractionated hyaluronic acid protects the skin’s barrier, while a dynamic blend of peptides aid in healthy collagen production.
Aside from the product’s extended advantages, this cream also instantly brightens dark circles due to its blendable pigment that addresses hyperpigmentation. Its illuminating tint works well with all skin tones, giving under-eye areas an immediate pick-me-up. If you have dry skin under your eyes, we recommend priming the area with a hyaluronic acid serum before putting on this eye cream just because this product is not extremely hydrating.
Price at time of publish: $58
Benefits: Brightens, tightens, and depuffs| Active Ingredients: Edelweiss flower, Fractionated hyaluronic acid, Collagen-boosting peptides| Size: 0.29 fl oz.
Best Budget
The Inkey List Brighten-i Eye Cream
What We Love: This lightweight, cruelty-free formula is safe for all skin types.
What We Don’t Love: This cream can pill if too many products are applied on top of it.
If you’re looking for a hydrating eye cream that combats dark circles, The Inkey List Brighten-i Eye Cream is just the thing you need. For starters, this lightweight formula works well with all skin types including dry, aging, and oily. Plus, it performs well as a primer under makeup. (Just be sure to only layer makeup on top of this, as additional moisturizers or serums can cause this product to pill.) These benefits are just the tip of the iceberg, though, because the brightening capabilities are also extremely impressive.
“This very affordable formula includes an ingredient called Brightenyl — also known as diglucosyl gallic acid — which helps prevent skin discoloration while fading existing hyperpigmentation,” explains Geeta Yadav, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of FACET Dermatology. . “This makes it an ideal formula for someone who has genetic discoloration rather than temporary dark circles caused by blood pooling under the eye. This cream also contains brightening pigments that cosmetically brighten the appearance of dark circles.”
Price at time of publish: $12
Benefits: Brightens, hydrates, and primes| Active Ingredients: Brightenyl, Mica mineral | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best Splurge
Chanel Le Lift Flash Eye Revitalizer
What We Love: This two-in-one product comes with a roll-on serum and hydrating under-eye patches.
What We Don’t Love: Only 10 sets of under-eye patches are included, and they can’t be purchased separately.
Treat your eyes to some serious TLC with this luxe Chanel product. It comes with a hydrating, intensive roll-on serum that restores elasticity and radiance to aging skin, as well as 10 hydrating under-eye patches that smooth fine lines. Per the instructions, you can either use this product once a week for 10 weeks or once a day for 10 days in a row — sort of like an eye care boot camp. When used in the boot camp model, you’ll notice that after the entire course the skin under your eyes will be smooth, supple, and lifted. Alternatively, if you choose to use this for 10 weeks in a row, you will still notice the same results, they just won’t be as immediate. Pro tip: If you run out of under-eye masks, continue using the serum and top it off with a thick moisturizer.
Price at time of publish: $130
Benefits: Brightens, firms, hydrates, and depuffs| Active Ingredients: Ginseng root extract, Morning glory extract| Size: 0.17 fl oz.
Best Drugstore
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Eye Cream
What We Love: The formula is non-greasy, so it quickly absorbs into skin.
What We Don’t Love: Since this product contains pro-retinol, it might be too strong for those with sensitive skin.
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Eye Cream is an awakening eye product that incorporates the cooling powers of the metal tip applicator to instantly decrease puffiness. The formula is packed with hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate under-eye wrinkles, as well as vitamin C, which is an anti-aging skincare stalwart known for its ability to brighten skin. The non-greasy, paraben-free formula also quickly absorbs into skin, creating a smooth base for makeup application. Additionally, it contains pro-retinol, which reduces wrinkles over time.
After just one week of using this eye cream, you’ll notice the skin under your eyes is more supple and soft. For the best results, we suggest using it two to three times a week to start, so your skin can adequately build up a tolerance to the retinol. Once your skin is comfortable with it, you can use it up to five or six times a week.
Price at time of publish: $16
Benefits: Brightens, tightens, and depuffs | Active Ingredients: Pro-retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid| Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Dry Skin
Shani Darden Skin Care Intensive Eye Renewal Cream
What We Love: This hydrating eye cream is made with silk tree extract, which visibly fades dark circles.
What We Don’t Love: Some customers complain that the product’s pump can be faulty.
This effective eye cream – which was created by Shani Darden, one of Hollywood’s most notable estheticians – took two years to perfect. The vegan formula is infused with nine age-defying actives, including potent peptides, silk tree extract, squalene, and niacinamide. These powerhouse ingredients work together to firm, brighten, and hydrate skin at every level. The thick cream can be applied both in the morning and at night, and keeps skin moisturized under makeup.
What we especially love about this product is that it works well with all skin types. Even though the formula itself is rich, it doesn’t make the under-eye area feel greasy or oily. It’s also ideal for aging skin, since it can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet. We do wish it came in a different container, or a better pump as it tends to get jammed with continued use.
Price at time of publish: $68
Benefits: Brightens and firms| Active Ingredients: Silk tree extract, Squalane, Niacinamide, Ceramides | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
What We Love: This eye cream penetrates the deepest layer of the skin’s surface to provide maximum brightening benefits.
What We Don’t Love: This product has a mild, almost smoky scent that some people don’t like.
“This formula is not a cream, but a serum, giving it a very lightweight and fast-absorbing texture that is ideal for those with oily skin,” says Dr. Yadav. “It features three forms of vitamin C and ferulic acid — all potent antioxidants — to fight and fade multiple forms of discoloration under the eye caused by hyperpigmentation.” (These forms of discoloration can include black, blue, and red under-eye circles.) Additionally, this product is made with peptides, which work to combat the appearance of puffiness and bags. Not to mention, the addition of vitamin E minimizes discoloration and dark spots over time, meaning this product provides long-lasting results.
Price at time of publish: $40
Benefits: Brightens and smooths| Active Ingredients: Vitamin C ester, Vitamin E, Ferulic acid | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Sensitive Skin
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
What We Love: This eye cream is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and suitable for all skin types.
What We Don’t Love: If too much is applied, it can pill under makeup.
When looking for an eye cream that is suitable for sensitive skin, board-certified dermatologist Jenny Liu, M.D., recommends finding a product that is fragrance-free and made with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide. This drugstore favorite is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, aging, and dry skin. Formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, it hydrates and plumps the under-eye area, as well as helps maintain the skin’s protective barrier. The rich formula delivers long-lasting moisture to skin, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Price at time of publish: $13
Benefits: Brightens, plumps, and hydrates | Active Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide| Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Dark Circles
Dr. Koo Private Practice Replenishing Eye Serum
What We Love: This lightweight serum instantly absorbs into skin and smooths out fine lines.
What We Don’t Love: This product is made with retinol, which might be irritating for some skin types.
“This product is formulated with a fantastic blend of ingredients, including retinol, peptides, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Yadav. “Together, they help strengthen the delicate skin under the eye while helping to reduce fine lines and improve blood flow — combined, these benefits improve the appearance of dark circles for a more youthful and brighter eye.” It also helps to depuff bags and reduce the appearance of fine lines, making the skin under the eyes appear smoother and plumper. Just one dollop of this lightweight serum goes a long way, meaning you won’t have to worry about restocking it for months.
Price at time of publish: $200
Benefits: Brightens and tightens| Active Ingredients: Retinol, Caffeine, Aloe | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Puffiness
UpCircle Eye Cream with Cucumber, Hyaluronic Acid + Coffee
What We Love: This vegan eye cream is gentle on skin and made with 99% natural ingredients.
What We Don’t Love: This rich formula does not pair well with heavy concealer.
UpCircle’s entire ethos revolves around using leftover ingredients to create sustainably-sourced skincare products. Coffee grounds are one of the most common ingredients you’ll notice across the brand’s formulas – and it’s one of the main ingredients in this brightening eye cream. Here, caffeine is used to brighten skin, maple bark extract helps to provide anti-inflammatory benefits, and hyaluronic acid gives skin a boost of moisture. This product’s vegan and 99 percent natural formula is safe for all skin types, even as it works overtime targeting dark circles, fine lines, puffiness, and wrinkles.
Price at time of publish: $23
Benefits: Brightens, depuffs, and tightens| Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and Coffeeoil | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Wrinkles
RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Under Eye Cream for Dark Circles & Puffiness
What We Love: This hypoallergenic formula simultaneously targets puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
What We Don’t Love: Since this product is made with retinol, it might make skin flake.
To find a good eye cream that will target wrinkles, Dr. Liu recommends looking for products that have ingredients like peptides and retinol. This RoC favorite is made with pure retinol, which addresses signs of aging like fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. Despite containing retinol, which can cause sensitivity, the hypoallergenic formula is safe enough for all skin types — just be aware to only use the product three times a week when starting out, as this will help skin adjust to the retinol. After about a month, you’ll notice that eyes look and feel refreshed and revitalized.
Price at time of publish: $13
Benefits: Brightens, tightens, depuffs, and smooths | Active Ingredient: Retinol| Size: 0.25 fl oz.
Best Priming
Florence by Mills Look Alive Brightening Eye Cream
What We Love: This lightweight eye cream is made with shea butter, which helps to hydrate skin for hours.
What We Don’t Love: Since this product leaves a satiny finish, it’s not best suited for oily skin.
Made with a blend of good-for-your-skin ingredients like peptides (which visibly brighten dark circles), caffeine (which combats under-eye bags), apricot kernel oil (which softens and smooths skin), and shea butter (which adds a boost of hydration), this Florence by Mills eye cream will give your skin the pick me up it needs. It’s formulated with extremely smooth silver-white pigments that illuminate skin, giving it a natural glow and satiny finish. Since this eye cream is so light and nourishing, it works well under concealer and foundation because it provides a hydrating base for skin. For best results, let this eye cream absorb into the skin before applying makeup.
Price at time of publish: $18
Benefits: Brightens, depuffs, and hydrates| Active Ingredients: Caffeine, Green coffee oil, Apricot kernel oil| Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Morning
Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment
What We Love: This eye cream smooths out wrinkles, making eyes look awake and refreshed.
What We Don’t Love: One pump of this product goes a long way, so be sure not to use too much.
According to Kristy Bailey, M.D. a double-board certified dermatologist, medical director, and founder of FCP Dermatology MD, Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment can increase your elastin content by 250 percent. “Dark under-eyes are generally due to thin under-eye skin, allowing you to see the structures under the eye,” she explains. “If there is a valley or hollow under the eye, then the best way to brighten the under-eye is to fill in that hollow. If the hollow is removed, then light shines off the under eye differently making it appear brighter. Picking an eye cream with caffeine and peptides can help give you a morning refresh.” Luckily, this dermatologist-approved product is made with both ingredients. The peptides in this eye cream help to reduce the appearance of puffiness and smooth out fine lines, while the caffeine works to minimize dark circles. To really make eyes look awake, use this cream on your upper eyelids, too.
Price at time of publish: $90
Benefits: Brightens, firms, and depuffs | Active Ingredients: Caffeine, Niacinamide, Shea butter | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Best for Night
SkinMedica TNS Eye Repair
What We Love: This eye cream is infused with boron nitride, which helps to diffuse the look of skin discoloration.
What We Don’t Love: This rich formula takes time to fully sink into skin.
This thick eye cream has the ability to deeply hydrate and nourish skin, which helps to reduce the look of fine lines and dark circles. Made with a blend of powerhouse ingredients including hyaluronic acid to moisturize skin, peptides to smooth out wrinkles, and boron nitride to combat discoloration, this high-end product makes eyes look youthful and revived after just one week of use. Plus, it contains retinyl palmitate, a natural lipid-soluble form of retinol that works to keep wrinkles at bay. “Try to find an eye cream that contains a bit of very low-dose retinol,” says Dr. Bailey. “It will help produce collagen under the eye and adress fine lines.”
Price at time of publish: $95
Benefits: Brightens, firms, and hydrates| Active Ingredients: Boron nitride, Hyaluronic acid, Retinyl palmitate | Size: 0.5 fl oz.
Since eye cream is usually the first or second step in a skincare routine (after a light serum or toner, and followed by sunscreen or makeup), it’s important to be wary of what products do and do not mix well together. In terms of serums, lightweight serums (like hyaluronic acid) can be applied underneath eye cream if the skin needs an extra boost of hydration. If you are using an eye cream with retinol in it, it’s OK to use a hyaluronic acid serum before applying your eye cream. Although, if you like to use a vitamin C serum in your skincare routine, do not mix it with an eye cream that has retinol in it because layering these potent ingredients can cause irritation. (The same goes for vitamin C and niacinamide.)
Be sure to also always wear sunscreen on top of eye cream, as the under-eye skin is delicate and prone to wrinkles. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re using an eye cream with retinol.
It’s the ultimate 2018 American Dream success story: A New York City kid, raised by Albanian immigrant parents in the Bronx, becomes an entry-level Sephora employee and then works his way up, eventually turning pro, linking up with Kim Kardashian and becoming one of the most sought-after, world-famous makeup artists of a generation. That’s pretty much exactly how it went down for Mario Dedivanovic, aka @makeupbymario, the social media handle by which he’s immediately recognizable to his 4.2 million followers around the globe.
Welcome to Artist Spotlight #99 series on my blog.
Tell me about your background. Did you know from a young age that you wanted to work in beauty?
Growing up, I never knew anything about makeup or even really thought about it. My sister wore makeup and there was always makeup in the house because my mother was a cleaning woman for the L’Oréal building in Manhattan. She’d come home [with makeup they’d give her].
You never had any kind of inkling that you’d want to pursue a career in beauty?
From the time I was a very young child, I was inspired by beauty — models, interior design, beautiful homes. I didn’t have much growing up, and we lived in a small basement apartment, so I wasn’t surrounded by that much beauty. I always looked outside to see beautiful things. I’d ask my dad to drive me to Westchester or wherever they had beautiful houses because I wanted to see the lawns and the homes. My mother would clean these beautiful apartments in Manhattan and I’d beg for her to take me with her, because I loved to go and see the homes, the design, the furniture, the artwork. I didn’t know at that time what that feeling was, but it was me being inspired. The feeling of being inspired was so powerful to me, and then when I discovered makeup later on that feeling came back, like I had found my calling.
How did you first come to that realization that beauty was your calling?
When I was 17, I graduated high school and went to look for a job in Manhattan with my mother and I walked into a Sephora, not knowing what it was at the time. It was the first Sephora in the United States; this was in 2000. I immediately felt overwhelmed by the feeling that I wanted to work there. It just looked so cool to me: Everyone had black suits and black gloves on; it smelled really good.
I eventually wound up getting hired as a ‘fragrance consultant.’ They put me by the door to say, ‘Welcome to Sephora!’ to every single person. Because I was near the door, there was like a lipstick gondola nearby, and women would ask questions. I just started giving them advice… even though I wasn’t supposed to [laughs]. I quickly became obsessed with makeup and began to research and study it after work.
When you first started experimenting with makeup did it come to you naturally, or was there a learning curve?
I had always liked to draw and paint — nothing serious — but I was always creative. In the beginning, it really came naturally to me. The first makeover I did when I was at Sephora took me three hours, but it came out really beautiful. I’m good at manipulating materials and things, so I think that just translated to the face.
Once you decided that you wanted to build this into a long-term career, what were your next steps?
I started doing research. I don’t think I even had a computer at that time; I went to the library and started researching makeup artists and the entire industry. I was so fascinated. I’d get all of the magazines and immerse myself in everything that I could — makeup artistry, hairstyling, photography — and then I started meeting photographers and building my book little by little.
I started booking gigs outside of Sephora even before they had hired me as a makeup artist; I was still working there as a fragrance consultant. I remember when I booked my first gig: It was for two singers who were doing a cabaret show. I think I charged them $25. I literally didn’t have a makeup kit — I had a Nike shoebox with some makeup in it and brushes that my manager at work had given me. We could all choose what kind of gratis we wanted [at Sephora]; I never took the fragrance, I always took any makeup I could get. That’s how I started building my kit.
I eventually left Sephora and went to work with Lorac Cosmetics, becoming their regional makeup artist, traveling around New York and New Jersey. At the same time, I was building my portfolio and I began assisting. I assisted makeup artists for several years — never full-time; it was always a few days a week here and there because I was also making money doing my own thing on the side.
How did you get into celebrity and editorial work?
I met a celebrity photographer, Fadil Berisha, who is Albanian like myself. A model I’d worked with called him and said, ‘I met this Albanian kid, you should meet with him, he’s talented.’ This was when I was 18 or 19, and I met with him and he gave me a chance. He had me come in one weekend to shoot with him, and I got really good images for my portfolio. I began assisting some of his makeup artists and then I went on to assist some of the greats in the industry.
But before that, I had assisted some makeup artists for smaller magazine shoots, commercial jobs and catalogs. Then I began assisting bigger makeup artists and was doing fashion magazine covers, cosmetic and fashion campaigns for brands like CoverGirl, Max Factor and Dolce & Gabbana. It was very different types of artists. Some were very glam artists who did celebrities, and then I assisted some high fashion artists, so I got a taste of all of it at a really young age.
Can you share any of the names of the people you worked with most back then?
I usually don’t, but Billy B. was one of the celebrity makeup artists that I assisted back in the day, and Kabuki. I worked with him for over a year. That’s where I really worked on all of these massive campaigns and shoots. We were on set with Steven Klein all the time.
At what point did you feel like you’d really established your career?
It’s tough to say. I had an agent from a pretty young age, about 20 or 21, but even with that, I still struggled. I always kept some kind of freelance position in retail. When I finally left retail it was because I’d gotten a job at Fox News, doing the anchors’ makeup. I did that one or two days a week, just to have a little bit of steady income. This was 2006 or 2007.
That job must have been such good training for perfecting the skill of on-camera makeup.
Oh, definitely, and the pressure — they would come in late and have to go on live. That’s where I really learned how to work together with a hairstylist and get it done. I’d be doing liquid liner while they’d be blowing their hair out, so I really learned a lot from that experience.
Was there ever a specific moment when you remember feeling like you’d gotten your big break?
I got my first magazine cover for a magazine called Philadelphia Style. They sent a car for me and I went to Pennsylvania and I thought it was such a big deal. I was on set and I called my manager at Lorac to quit over the phone. In my mind, I was like OK, this is it, I’m doing a magazine cover! [Laughs] Then reality set in once it was done.
I was brave in the sense that I never let myself become really comfortable. I remember when I got my first ad campaign, and I think it paid $5,000 a day. To a young, 20-something, that’s huge — $15,000 in three days. I just remember calling my mom and telling her what the rate was for the job. Nothing impressed her because she didn’t want me doing this kind of work. Throughout the early years, everything I did was to try to make my parents proud. Doing that campaign was one of those moments where I was like, OK, I can do this.
Through word of mouth, I started working regularly with celebrities like Natasha Bedingfield and some others. And then I met Kim. It was 2008.
Tell me more about meeting Kim — did you know it would be a turning point for your career?
Sebastian Smith, a photographer I worked with often, called me one night and said ‘Hey, I’m shooting this girl tomorrow for a magazine cover, her name is Kim Kardashian.’ I didn’t really know who she was. Season one of her show had just aired. I almost said no because I had to work at Fox News that day, but he convinced me. She just loved the makeup I did for that shoot so much. She kept asking what I was using throughout the entire process, and she was taking selfies nonstop. This was right around the time when her fame started to pick up nationally in the U.S.
After the shoot, she asked me if I would take her makeup shopping to buy everything I’d used so she could take it to LA for her makeup artist to use. I took her makeup shopping, we went to Henri Bendel and bought a few things that I’d used on her on the shoot that day. That was it.
How did your professional relationship with her evolve after that?
She started requesting me for whatever she had, and she started getting more and more famous. Kim was so busy. A typical celebrity will release a film or an album, so they work a lot for a few months doing promo. But with Kim, it was literally 365 days a year. There was something happening every single day, whether it was a shoot or red carpet or her show.
She also had a blog. This was a time when celebrities didn’t really credit their hair and makeup [teams]. There was no social media, so where were they going to credit them? But Kim had a blog and had me answer questions for her fans. Then one day she asked me to shoot a makeup tutorial for her blog. I almost didn’t do that, either, because I was really sick. I was going to cancel, but my friend who was shooting [the video] was like, ‘get up!’ We created a tutorial of her VegasMagazine cover shoot and that went on her blog and onto YouTube. That video and the reposts of it have since been seen hundreds of millions of times around the world.
I had all of these Facebook and MySpace messages from people all over the world, asking makeup questions. I’m talking about hundreds of messages. So it all started like that. Kim was incredibly loyal, and I was loyal to her and loved working with her. Her face was just kind of made for me, and when I started working with her I was able to establish my style of makeup. It just so happened that that style that worked really well on her and that was the style that she loved for herself.
How would you describe your aesthetic and approach to makeup?
That changes for me. My style back in the day was definitely different than it is now. I had a super glam aesthetic, where it was heavier with super light undereyes and really long lashes. It was extremely polished and glam. Now I still love a polished and glam aesthetic, but there has to be an element of softness to it and it has to be blown-out. I don’t like very harsh makeup. It’s hard for me to answer that question because it changes. I like all different types of makeup: soft makeup, dramatic makeup, I really do love all of it and I enjoy doing all of it.
How has social media has impacted your career, especially working with someone like Kim who is such a master and pioneer of using it?
Social media to me in the beginning was kind of a joke. I got onto Twitter because one of the anchors on Fox News put me on it. But I was always on Facebook and MySpace. And then when Instagram happened, and I was pretty late to join, I wasn’t serious about it — I didn’t post every single day, it wasn’t a big deal to me. It wasn’t until I reached about a million followers that I started to really see a change in everything, career-wise. Celebrities and clients really started looking at Instagram. Our portfolios as artists started to become obsolete. Celebrities and makeup brands would find me on Instagram.
When I hit a million followers and realized that it was growing really fast, I got serious about it. I set aside time every day to plan out posts and review my numbers. It became really a work thing, but something that I do genuinely enjoy as well. It’s been such an amazing tool for me in my career. It’s also a controversial one, I think, amongst my peers. Some people who have been doing makeup for 15-plus years like myself think it’s ruined the business. But I saw it as something that really could work to my advantage.
I’m sure you have so many brands approaching you and trying to work with you. How do you decide which ones to partner with?
I’ve got to give props to my management team, who really help me with it. I turn down way more than I take on. We get approached every day by several brands [who want to] work with me in some capacity. I’ve never done a coupon code, I refuse to do any of that kind of stuff. How it works is: An opportunity will come in from a brand; it has to be a brand that I like and respect. I have to bring [the product] home, I have to use it, my assistant has to use it and sometimes my sister tests it. I get the different opinions and if it’s something I believe in, I’ll agree to do it. In 2017, I did 18 brand contracts.
You also really pioneered the concept of the Master Class — how did that first come about?
It was around eight or nine years ago, and people would message me on Facebook and Twitter with so many questions. I started thinking it’s crazy that unless you’re in LA, New York, Paris or London you’re not going to have the opportunity or access to learning the tricks of the trade. So that’s when I came up with the idea of doing a class for artists from all over the world.
The first class was 20 students. These were aspiring makeup artists, and they were seeing [techniques like] contouring for the first time in person. To an aspiring makeup artist at the time, it was mind-blowing. The classes started getting larger and larger; after [I hit] one million followers on Instagram, the classes really took off. It went from 20 students in that first class to upwards of 1,200.
Tell me about “Glam Masters.” How did you decide to get involved and what was it like to shoot?
Kim told me that she was executive producing a show about makeup and that she wanted me to be on it — I don’t even think it had a name at the time. I was so scared. I never had an interest in being a celebrity or a reality TV star. I have all the respect for them, but it’s not for me. But when we started, I saw quickly what it was all about. It was an amazing, amazing experience and I wouldn’t change it for anything. Kim knew I was kind of scared, and she told me, “Mario, just be yourself, say what you want to say when you’re judging.” And that’s what I did.
I had an amazing chemistry with my fellow judges and with the host. We basically met for the first time on the first day of shooting, with mics on, under the lights. We’ve become really great friends. We laughed and cried together. It was quite an emotional experience because you’re dealing with artists who have dreams, just the way you did when you were younger. Everything resonated with me. I could see how badly these artists wanted it, and you’re breaking some of their hearts and making some of their dreams come true, so there’s a lot of emotion that goes into it.
I also wanted to ask you about the collaboration you’re working on with Kim for KKW Beauty. What are you able to tell me?
I can’t tell you that much. But my 10-year anniversary with Kim is approaching in a couple of months, and so even before her line started, she told me that she wanted her first collaboration to be with me for her line, so we began working on it months ago. We tried to have it be something that’s going to sum up our past decade of glam. She’s had such a massive influence globally in the world of beauty, and she’s had such a massive influence on my career as well. I just wanted the collaboration to reflect our 10 years of working together. We wanted to give the fans and followers something so that they’d be able to re-create any of the looks that we’ve done over the past decade.
What advice do you have for aspiring makeup artists who are just starting out?
I always say at the Master Classes I think the number one thing is to try and assist. You really learn so much about doing amazing makeup, and also set etiquette and professionalism and all of the things that go along with makeup artistry.
Secondly, I think for me it’s about working hard, not saying no and not giving up on opportunities that come your way. You have to sacrifice — I sacrificed so much in my career in my early days. While my friends were going out clubbing all night, I was waking up at 4:00 a.m. for a press junket. I think all of that stuff really pays off.
Then of course, my mother — although she doesn’t know much about this career — her advice was always, ‘Whatever you do, just be a good person.’ So that’s always in the back of my mind. Be a good person and good things will follow.
Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Retractable Gel Waterproof Eyeliner
This breakup-proof eyeliner is smudge-proof, quick-drying, long-lasting, and it’s retractable, so you don’t need to worry about having a sharpener.
It has 11,000+ 5-star Amazon reviews and it comes in seven colors. A shopper reviewed, “This eyeliner is the best it’s very inexpensive and it lasts threw heavy tears . And goes on with ease . I’m definitely ordering more. It was well worth the wait for how much money you save.“
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner, Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
The Epic Ink Liner lives up to its name with superior staying power and a waterproof formula. You can get this top-seller in black or brown.
It has 56,400+ 5-star Amazon reviews, with a fan of the product reviewing, “Quite literally THE best liquid eyeliner pen i’ve EVER had. It is so pigmented and has so much ink inside of it. When I had first went to apply it, i thought it was going to be one of those where you have to keep applying…NOPE… so much color in a singular swipe. Iwas NOT expecting it to be that good lmao. 10000/10 would recommend.“
If you struggle to paint on two, identical wings, you need this eyeliner stamp in your life. It’s incredibly easy to use and it will save you some time and frustration. You can get this in black or white.
It has 3,000+ 5-star Amazon reviews, with one shopper raving, “Cat eye without the hassle!!! This item is a must have for someone like me who just can not do a cat eye on my own. This stamp makes it so easy and I absolutely love this item. It lasts all day long. I have even fell asleep without taking my makeup off and have woke the next morning with it still looking amazing. Highly recommend and will be purchasing again in the very near future.”
NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil, Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Pencil
You can use this is an eyeliner and an eyeshadow. It comes in 17 colors and has 37,500+ 5-star Amazon reviews and 2,500+ 5-star Ulta reviews.
A fan of the product reviewed, “I love this pencil! The frosted mocha color is perfect for my skin tone and blue eyes. It goes on easy and stays all day for me. I have bought several in multiple colors.”
Revlon Pencil Eyeliner ColorStay Eye Makeup with Built-in Sharpener, Waterproof, Smudgeproof, Longwearing with Ultra-Fine Tip
Get intense, waterproof color with this Revlon eyeliner that has a smudger on the other end. It comes in 10 colors and has 16,800+ 5-star Amazon reviews, 1,700+ 5-star Ulta reviews, and 1,600+ 5-star Walmart reviews.
An Amazon shopper gushed, “This eyeliner is absolutely amazing, especially for its price. It’s so easy to use and it has such an amazing formula. I have used it for a competition makeup and nationals make up. I recommend 10/10!!“
Wet n Wild Mega Last Breakup-Proof Liquid Waterproof Eyeliner Black, Brush Tip Pen, Quick Drying, Smudge Resistant, Long Lasting 16 Hour Wear
If you’re looking for an eyeliner you can count on, this one is waterproof, lasts for up to 16 hours, and it has a smooth, silky, gel, formula. You’ll feel like an artist when you use this precision brush applicator.
It comes in seven colors and has 11,000+ 5-star Amazon reviews, with one shopper sharing, “I’m not into liquid eyeliners and been trying to find an eyeliner that would not fade or make me look like a raccoon after four hrs. and this wet n wild did it for me. Honestly I was hopeful but didn’t expect such great results after 13 hrs. Of wear! It was still bold and in place!“
e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner, Creamy, Ultra-Pigmented & Waterproof
Create bold, defined lines with this retractable eyeliner that’s waterproof and delivers a super, long-lasting wear. It’s available in black, brown, and charcoal.
This eyeliner has 6,500+ 5-star Amazon reviews, with one shopper saying, “I wear this everyday and it is smudge proof and long lasting! Easy to apply!“
L’Oreal Paris Makeup Infallible Never Fail Original Mechanical Pencil Eyeliner with Built in Sharpener
The name of this product says it all: Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner. It has a built-in sharpener and it comes in six shades. It’s smudge-proof, highly-pigmented, and long-lasting with 16,300+ 5-star Amazon reviews.
“Easy to use eyeliner. I’m a swimmer, and it stays right where I put it,” a shopper reviewed. Another wrote, “I typically use a setting spray because I live in FL and sweat a lot, but I forgot one day, and the liner did not budge. Goes on smooth. Great color for me,” an Amazon shopper reviewed.
Rimmel Exaggerate Eye Definer
This eyeliner comes through with a major impact and a long-lasting, waterproof formula that comes in 8 colors. It has 11,200+ 5-star Amazon reviews.
A shopper gushed, “Absolutely love this eyeliner! Its hard to find near where I live so happy I can order it. The dark brown is beautiful, the built in smudge and sharpener are awesome. I like to do a wing usually and its so fast and easy to swipe some on, use the smudge to wing out and blend the lash line and be done.”
Almay Eyeliner Pencil, Vitamin E, Water Resistent and Long Wearing, Hypoallergenic, Oil Free, Fragrance Free
This retractable eyeliner delivers a matte finish and there are four colors to choose from. It gives you a smooth application and it’s smudge-proof, even when you’re stuck in the heat and humidity.
This eyeliner has 2,700+ 5-star Amazon reviews, with one shopper sharing, “This is the best eyeliner I’ve ever used! I have sensitive eyes due to a medical condition but this eyeliner is smooth going on and doesn’t come off until I take it off with my makeup remover, even when my eyes water No problems.”
Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit, Rose Metals & Nouveau eyesahdow palettes
MAC Cosmetics blush in Gingerly, highlight in Double Gleam, BlackTrack liquid eyeliner, lipstick in Marrakesh-Meree, & Give Me Sun bronzer
Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel
Sigma Beauty brushes.
(Disclaimer: I do have Keanna’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
The biggest skincare lesson worth learning this year? Good skin health is all about a robust skin barrier. Blame it on the red, itchy skin many of us have suffered from thanks to overzealous use of actives, or perhaps it’s the switch to a more intuitive approach to our skincare routines – whatever it is, skin barrier health is trending, with a casual 129.5 million views on the search term “skin barrier repair”on TikTok. And long may it continue.
“In dermatology, our skin barrier is known as the epidermis,” explains dermatologist Dr Mary Sommerlad. “It can be disrupted by intrinsic or extrinsic factors, and often a combination of both. Intrinsic factors include skin barrier diseases that have a genetic component, such as eczema and ichthyosis and high levels of stress and illness.”
Meanwhile, extrinsic factors include excessive exposure to harsh weather elements, such as too much sun or wind, or extremes of temperature (think going from a heated room to the biting cold outdoors – one reason why compromised barriers often show themselves at this time of year); exposure to potential chemical irritants, such as certain active skincare ingredients, like AHAs and retinoids; and soaps containing SLS or any physical irritants that can scrub the skin. Not to mention pollution, smoking, poor sleep and allergens.
Skin barrier aggressors are everywhere, but the most overwhelmingly common reason for impairment in consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto’s clinic is “the overuse of actives and using too many products all at once”, she says. “The skin becomes overwhelmed, and, as a result, the barrier becomes compromised.”
How to know when your skin barrier is impaired
“If you struggle to keep moisture in and your skin feels dry and tight, you might be suffering from an impaired skin barrier,” says Dr Emma Craythorne, consultant dermatologist and chief medical officer at Klira. “It can be ashy or flaky, and can feel irritated (or sting) after any chemical formula is applied. You might also experience acne breakouts, rosacea and eczema.”
Skin might also appear redder or darker than its original colour, plus itchiness is a common symptom. “The texture is likely to change, and feel bumpier and rough,” says Dr Sommerlad. Those with sensitive skin are more predisposed to suffering from an impaired skin barrier, so need to be extra vigilant about keeping it strong and healthy.
Age is also a factor, says facialist Sarah Chapman. “As we get older, our skin slows down its own production of lipids, ceramides and hydrators, which are three key components that make up the skin barrier.”
So, how to repair your skin barrier when it’s kaput?
Simplify your skincare routine
The first thing you should do is identify and exclude any triggers that may be contributing to skin barrier damage. “Strip your skincare routine back and keep it simple,” recommends facialist Katharine Mackenzie Paterson. “Think cleanser, moisturiser and SPF – remove any retinoids or acids, in particular.” When it comes to your cleanser, she recommends opting for a nourishing, calming and fragrance-free cleansing milk or cream, like iS Clinical’s Cream Cleanser or La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser. Stick to your skincare routine and “try not to chop and change too much because it takes weeks to get things under control”, says Dr Craythorne. “It can actually get worse before it gets better.”
Restore and repair
Look for ceramide-rich moisturisers and incorporate hyaluronic acid into your routine to soothe and hydrate the skin, says Dr Sommerlad. “I recommend Vichy Mineral 89 as a good serum, followed by a comforting moisturiser,” she says. With an array of restorative moisturisers for every budget on the market, Dr Craythorne recommends La Roche-Posay’s Cicplast Baume B5, Cetaphil’s Rich Night Cream and SkinCeuticals’ Epidermal Repair – all will help restore the skin barrier to its former self.
As well as hyaluronic acid, “seek out barrier-building ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide and fatty acids,” recommends Dr Marco Nicoloso, aesthetic doctor at Ouronyx. “They will all help improve dryness and strengthen the barrier.” To take down inflammation and help instigate the reparative process, facialist Shane Cooper recommends trying red light therapy – you can use an at-home LED mask or visit a facialist. He combines it with lots of rich skincare formulas to help restore moisture.
Gently does it
It might sound obvious, but as well as paring back your skincare routine, it’s important to avoid anything that manually exfoliates the skin, like overly rough face cloths or scrubs. “You should also use lukewarm water to avoid further irritation,” says Dr Mahto, who adds that there’s no quick fix, but if you incorporate these tips, skin should heal as quickly as possible. “I would conservatively say that you can expect to see an improvement in the barrier in three to four weeks – for longer-term damage, it can take upwards of three months.”
Cut actives out…
Then reintroduce them slowly – but only when skin is healthy again. “Reintroduce one active at a time (for example, use retinoids for a few weeks before adding a vitamin C or liquid exfoliator back in), but if you have chronic skin barrier dysfunction, you should always opt for more gentle actives,” says Dr Sommerlad. For example, you might swap retinol for a retinaldehyde (Medik8’s Crystal Retinal is a great option) because it is gentler on the skin. In terms of acids, seek out PHAs rather than AHAs. “And use fluid-based sunscreens as they require less rubbing in than creams – I love Vichy’s Capital Soleil and Garnier’s Ambre Solaire Anti-Pollution because they also contain niacinamide,” adds Dr Sommerlad.
How to prevent further damage
“Like everything in life, a healthy skin barrier is all about moderation and balance,” says Mackenzie Paterson. “Try to avoid any triggers that have caused it in the past, and don’t chop and change the products you’re using every five minutes.” Take a holistic approach to your routine and listen to your skin, especially when adding a new active ingredient, advises Chapman, who says it’s all about starting slow and allowing the skin time to adjust.
Protection is key, so “use an antioxidant-rich serum or moisturiser and broad-spectrum SPF every morning to protect your barrier from UV, pollutants and other environmental aggressors” and prioritise sleep. That’s when the skin’s natural repairing and rebuilding processes peak, and, without it, skin can suffer.
Lead a balanced lifestyle
Balance is key in your skincare routine, but what goes on internally also manifests on our skin, so leading a healthy lifestyle is key to healing and preventing future problems making a comeback. “Ensure you’re eating a healthy, balanced diet, with lots of rich fatty foods, like nuts, fruit and fish,” recommends Cooper, while Chapman’s big advice is to start taking a high-quality omega oil supplement every day. “You will notice a huge difference in your skin’s resilience and overall health.”
TikTok’s buzziest beauty trend is all about creating a soft matte look, while still letting your skin shine. Get the lowdown on how to achieve the cloud skin finish.
Beauty lovers can finally have the best of both worlds.
There’s no denying TikTok is the gift that keeps on giving, especially when it comes to showcasing fun and functional techniques people can implement in their daily makeup routines. And now, TikTok’s buzzy cloud skin trend is a win-win for everyone, as it perfectly blends a dewy and matte finish.
So, what exactly does that mean? Well, the cloud skin craze consists of creating a soft and hazy matte look, while still letting your skin breathe allowing a natural glow.
MAC Cosmetics’ Global Senior Artist, Dominic Skinner—who originally coined the term cloud skin—explained why people were opting for the versatile look. Fun fact: The trend initially took off in 2020 during London Fashion Week, but it’s been picking up steam once again on TikTok.
“People are becoming fascinated with skincare and skin treatments but they also aren’t seeing foundation and powder as something they simply put on and run with,” Dominic told Refinery29 at the time. “It’s all about specifically placed powder, a touch of foundation and a facial oil to prime the skin.”
As for where you should dust your powder? The makeup artist suggested you mattify the inner corners of the eyes and around the nostrils, which will make your foundation last longer.
But if you tend to shine in other areas that you don’t want to be highlighted (no pun intended), he said, “I always powder the jawline so it makes the cheeks look slightly shiny and sheer. And when you powder your forehead, just powder the hairline because you control the placement of the shine, and the powder will slowly dissipate and graduate to nothing.”
All in all the cloud skin trend adds softness and radiance to the complexion, with Dominic adding, “It’s sort of lightness and a fluffiness.”
Products: – Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder, single eyeshadows – Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit, and gel eyeliner – MAC Cosmetics blush in Melba, highlight in Double Gleam, lipstick in Laissez-Faire and Russian Red, Clear Lip Glass, & Give Me Sun bronzer – Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel – Sigma brushes.
(Disclaimer: I do haveShantel’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
Let’s be honest: Sometimes powder foundations and tinted moisturizers just don’t cut it. When the goal is smooth, even, radiant-looking skin, liquid foundations are often the recommendation. However, with so many formulas on the market, it can be hard to know which product is actually worth weaving into your makeup routine. With that in mind, editors set out to find the best liquid foundations. To do so, they enlisted the help of a handful of reviewers to research the most popular formulas and test them out firsthand to see which actually live up to the hype.
After rigorously testing 27 top-rated liquid foundations—taking into account the formula’s coverage, finish, active ingredients, and overall wear—we uncovered the top six liquid foundations. In the end, the NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation came out on top thanks to its extensive shade range and high scores in all of the aforementioned categories.
Ready to uncover the other five winners? Keep reading for the best liquid foundations, according to InStyle testers.
Best Overall
NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation
What We Love: This lightweight liquid foundation has a glowy finish that doesn’t sink into creases at all.
What We Don’t Love: The formula is a bit watery, which makes it drip a bit when you pump it.
The NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation boasts a lightweight liquid formula that offers buildable medium coverage. “I would say [the coverage claims are] true—it has a great coverage that builds very easily,” our reviewer reveals. The foundation is sold in 36 shades ranging from light to dark, with options for warm, cool, and neutral undertones alike.
This liquid foundation formula doesn’t only offer color coverage, though. It’s made with biomimetic oat to reduce the appearance of redness, Japanese lilyturf to help reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier, and cacao peptides and milk thistle to counteract the negative effects of environmental stressors like blue light. In that way, this foundation helps protect and nourish skin just as much as it perfects its color tones.
The best part is that, thanks to its lightweight nature, it dries quickly and leaves skin looking radiant in a flash. “It is dewy and very natural looking,” our reviewer notes. “It is glowy and doesn’t set into my creases at all.”
The one downfall is that, since the formula is so lightweight, it’s a bit watery. As such, when you pump it out, it tends to drip a bit, which can potentially waste precious product.
Even with that one shortcoming, our reviewer remains head over heels for this product. “I loved the formula. It melted into my skin and it looks great. I really don’t have any dislikes,” she shares.
Price at time of publish: $49
Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural | Active Ingredients: Biomimetic Oat, Japanese Lilyturf, Cacao Peptides, Milk Thistle | Size: 30 mL | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Value
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation
What We Love: It’s notably more affordable than other high-performing liquid foundations we tested.
What We Don’t Love: This foundation does include fragrance and the smell a con for some of our testers.
Newsflash: The way-too-thick, orange-tinged foundations of drugstores past are long gone. The L’Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation was one of the top performers of our tests thanks to its just-right consistency and its ability to dry down quickly while still being able to blend for seamless coverage. Plus, it doesn’t crease or cake with wear.
“This feels like the perfect combination of a thick and thin foundation,” our reviewer says. “It is not runny but still light and not overly thick.“
From a coverage stance, this drugstore staple delivers buildable coverage with a natural, semi-matte finish. “I love the finish of this product and the packaging,” our reviewer shares. “Upon first use, there is nothing I do not like about this product. It looks beautiful on the skin without being drying or cakey and it went on like a dream.”
In addition to evening out skin tone, the foundation, which is sold in 40 shades, also offers SPF 25 sun protection. (Though, considering dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30, don’t let that fool you into thinking it replaces the sunscreen in your skincare routine.)
Price at time of publish: $16
Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural | Active Ingredients: Octinoxate, Titanium Dioxide | Size: 30 mL | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Light Coverage
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint with SPF 40
What We Love: This serum-like formula has a dewy finish that never looks oily or greasy.
What We Don’t Love: It has a slightly tacky finish.
If your goal is radiant, natural-looking coverage, this lightweight liquid foundation is a must. The ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation is sold in 30 shades, all of which have skincare-meets-makeup benefits, and is Cindy Crawford-approved. This formula is lightweight and fairly thin—serum-like, as advertised.
In addition to creating natural-looking coverage, this serum-foundation hybrid revitalizes skin with a blend of hydrating squalane, smoothing niacinamide, and plumping hyaluronic acid. What’s more, it’s infused with zinc oxide to deliver SPF 40 protection, so it acts as a sun shield, too.
“This formula claims to provide dewy, lightweight coverage; I would say this is 100% true—it leaves my face with that ‘your skin but better’ look and blends really easily,” our reviewer notes. Part of what makes it so natural-looking, she adds, is the fact that it doesn’t sink into creases or fine lines—even over extended wear.
Two things to note: Despite the beautiful finish it delivers, from a physical feel stance, our reviewer found this serum foundation to be a bit tacky to the touch. Then, from an application standpoint, she says that the serum dropper is a bit more difficult to use than a classic one-handed pump. “It’s easier to dispense too much or too little product,” she admits.
Still, those two pitfalls weren’t enough to deter her from this popular liquid foundation. “Overall, I loved this formula,” she says. “Its coverage is definitely more sheer, but it imparts a dewy, natural-looking glow and blends incredibly easily. The added broad-spectrum SPF protection is also a bonus.“
Price at time of publish: $48
Coverage: Light | Finish: Radiant | Active Ingredients: Plant-Based Squalane, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid | Size: 30 mL | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Medium Coverage
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation
What We Love: This liquid foundation has the perfect consistency—it’s not too watery and not too thick—and it feels weightless on the skin.
What We Don’t Love: It’s not quite full coverage—but it is buildable, so you can still achieve adequate coverage.
The Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation claims to be a full coverage foundation but when our testers wore it from morning to night, they found that it’s actually a great option for medium coverage. That said, they admit that it is buildable, so it is possible to achieve fuller coverage if that’s your goal. And, even if you do opt for extra layers, they found that it remains lightweight and comfortable throughout wear—it never feels heavy on the skin.
Part of why it’s so comfortable is because it’s specifically formulated to be. “It contains eternalsoft polymers to provide an increased level of comfort for ultra-long wear,” our reviewer found.
Logistically speaking, the foundation, which is housed in a tall, frosted glass bottle, is sold in 43 shades ranging from light to dark. “It claims to have a natural-matte finish, which I agree with,” one of our reviewers says. “It is matte but still has a bit of a glow and does not look drying or cakey on the skin. It does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles. It has a very nice finish.”
Even though the coverage this foundation delivers doesn’t quite match up with its claims, our reviewers found that, overall, there’s nothing they don’t like about the product.
Price at time of publish: $52
Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte | Active Ingredients: Eternalsoft Polymers | Size: 30 mL | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Full Coverage
HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation
What We Love: Although the finish is matte, it has a touch of dew to keep skin looking natural and healthy.
What We Don’t Love: It takes longer to dry down because it’s a thicker formula.
The HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation is another liquid foundation that claims to offer full coverage, that our reviewers found to be closer to medium-to-full coverage in reality. Despite not fully living up to its claims, though, our reviewers concluded that this thick formula is truly something to behold.
“I love how full coverage this product is while still looking natural on the skin,” our reviewer says. “It claims to have a natural finish, which I agree with. The finish does not appear too matte and still has a bit of a glow. I do not feel that my skin looks heavy or cakey after applying. Overall, it looks very healthy and even on the skin.”
Like the Lancôme foundation, this Hourglass formula comes in a luxurious frosted glass bottle that feels heavy and expensive. “It also has a soft closure, which I love,” our reviewer says. “The foundation comes out in a pump and leaves no mess at all. I love the packaging.“
Although the HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation is comfortable to wear, since its a notably thicker formula, our reviewer does note that she thinks it’s best for shorter wear. “It would be amazing for special events when I want to cover redness, acne, or other imperfections,” she says. “My skin still looks healthy and dewy without being overly heavy.”
Price at time of publish: $56
Coverage: Full | Finish: Natural | Active Ingredients: Sunflower Seed Wax, Jojoba Esters | Size: 25 mL | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Splurge
N°1 DE CHANEL Red Camellia Revitalizing Foundation
What We Love: This medium-coverage foundation leaves skin looking even, smooth, and hydrated.
What We Don’t Love: It’s pricey and we wish it had a wider shade range.
Spending $70 for a bottle of liquid foundation may seem like overkill but our reviewers found that this medium-coverage makeup product is well worth the splurge.
“After applying the N°1 DE CHANEL Red Camellia Revitalizing Foundation, my skin looks so healthy and glowy in all the right places,” our reviewer marvels. “It does not look cakey or oily, just extremely fresh and healthy. I love the finish of this foundation. It doesn’t look too unnatural or like I’m wearing a lot of makeup and it doesn’t settle into fine lines.”
Speaking of a lot of makeup, this liquid foundation is buildable, so you can wear a single oat or layer it on for the tailored coverage you desire. “It is easy to layer this foundation,” our reviewers assure us. “It has a medium coverage, evens out skin tone, and leaves the skin looking super smooth and hydrated. It is not too heavy on the skin but still covers up imperfections.”
It doesn’t just make skin look smooth and hydrated during wear, though. Since it’s formulated with Chanel’s signature red camellia oil, it actually works to impart anti-aging benefits long after wear.
Given the high praise, you’ll be glad to know this luxury liquid foundation looks as expensive as the results it delivers. While the 20 shades span from light to dark, we do wish they had more skin tone offerings.
“I love the finish of this foundation and how my skin looks so healthy, dewy, and even,” our reviewer says. “I feel that I could wear this everyday or for special occasions. There is not much I do not like about this product, other than the high price tag.“
Price at time of publish: $70
Coverage: Medium | Finish: Luminous | Active Ingredients: Red Camellia Oil | Size: 30 mL | Cruelty-Free: No
What to Keep in Mind
Coverage
Liquid foundations come in a variety of coverages, ranging from light to full. While many foundations fall in the medium to full category (with BB and CC creams offering lighter coverage), light coverage liquid foundations do exist. What type of coverage you choose, depends on your skin concerns as well as personal preferences.
Formula Finish
Think about how you want your skin to look post-application. If you want to look dewy and glowing, consider a hydrating satin foundation (like our Best Overall pick, the NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation); if you want a mattified end look, focus on matte foundations. Oilier skin types may prefer a matte finish to help combat that mid-morning sheen of grease, whereas as drier may want the extra hydration from a dewy product.
Wear
Do you want a liquid foundation that wears flawlessly all day long? Or are you looking for something that you plan to only wear for shorter-duration special occasions (like a wedding or night out)? If you’re leaning toward the former, you’ll want to buy a foundation that’s designed to last for up to at least 12 hours (the the Lancôme Teint Idole Matte Foundation has a staying power of up to 24 hours), and that’s specifically marketed not to cake or crease. When working with special occasion makeup goals, on the other hand, you can be a bit more flexible with the wear duration of your liquid foundation.
“Celebration” was the name of Off-White’s spring show, presented inside the Ateliers Berthier last night in Paris. X-Ray-print blazers, belly cut-outs, and arrowed cowboy boots filled the industrial space built by the architect Charles Garnier and used for storing Paris Opera sets. It was a fitting venue to honour Virgil Abloh, the late multi-hyphenate designer, who began workshopping this season’s spring 2023 collection before his passing last year.
As he examined and experimented with each piece that walked the “Impossible Blue” runway last night, Ibrahim Kamara, Off-White’s new image and art director, realised it’s a celebratory one. After all, Abloh was often drawn to the warm indigo shade, which carpeted the catwalk and punctuated model gazes, courtesy of blue pigments from the Paperwork beauty collection, for the show.
“I wanted to be quite playful, but glam rock,” said make-up artist Hiromi Ueda backstage as she held the Maze shade of Paperwork’s multi-use crayons in her hand. “It’s beautiful, sexy, and confident.” Ueda relied on just two of the beauty line’s colour sticks, Maze and Jet (an inky black), to complete every look. For sooty gazes, Jet was faded at the edges with a blending brush for a smoked-out effect — and, of course, finished with a pop of Maze on the lower waterline. The subtler version seen across models of all genders, and especially those wearing white (called the “pure” look), consisted of Maze traced along the lower waterline and wiped away for a “worn-in eyeliner” effect that was nearly imperceptible.
Visible from across the cavernous rooms, though, were the “bold blue” graphic wings that hairstylist Jawara called a “harder blue look.” He and Ueda discussed the glam rock direction ahead of the show, where words like “tough” and “playful” described the mood. Jawara ultimately gave models wispy mullet and pixie wigs alongside cornrows, slick backs, and one cerulean buzz cut. “I think they complement the hair really well,” said Jawara of the final make-up looks. “We came up with it together.” It reflects Off-White’s larger goal to uplift its coterie of artists and speaks to the collaborative spirit that continues to define Abloh’s legacy.
L’oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
This serum foundation keeps mature skin in mind and is fortified with SPF 50 and niacinamide to protect and even skin tone. Reviewers say the sheer coverage blends right into your skin, without caking or accentuating fine lines. Plus, it settles into the skin quickly so it’s easily buildable for more coverage wherever you need it.
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum Foundation SPF 15
No7’s Lift & Luminate foundation targets mature skin with its creamy formula fortified with peptides to fight against wrinkles, plus vitamin C to brighten and reduce discoloration. It’s light enough to keep from creasing and caking, but still gives medium coverage.
Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint
We can credit Glossier as one of the originators of the no-makeup-makeup look, so you can trust that its lightweight skin tint is effective and dewy AF. The Perfecting Skin Tint gives light, blurring coverage and also provides some moisture, thanks to glycerin. A few drops will give you sheer coverage, but you can build up too.
Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint
Here’s a bestseller from Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty. Reviewers praise its longevity and hydrating powers for normal and dry skin types. “I put just a few drops on my face and it had the perfect amount of coverage,” wrote one reviewer. “It also made my face look smooth and still showed my freckles. It lasted 8+ hours on me.”
Flower Beauty Get Real Serum Foundation
This drugstore beauty buy from Drew Barrymore’s FLOWER Beauty is enriched with antioxidants and probiotics for an added skincare boost. Plus, its hydrating, lightweight formula is great for folks with dry skin. You’ll barely notice it’s there.
The Ordinary Serum Foundation
Beloved brand The Ordinary is known for quality ingredients at actually accessible price points. Its water-based serum foundation is richly pigmented and semi-matte, so it provides more coverage than other foundations of its kind and could be a good option for folks with oily, acne-prone skin.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30
If the more than 5,000 five-star reviews aren’t enough for you to immediately add this tube of goodness to your cart, maybe this will: it’s a 3-in-1 product packed with hyaluronic acid, squalane, and SPF. Not only does it act as your face moisturizer, but your foundation and sunscreen too. It gives enough coverage to blur dark spots, but still show off your skin’s natural look.
Perricone MD No Makeup Foundation Serum SPF 20
It’s in the name: Perricone MD’s No Makeup Serum Foundation acts more like a second skin than a cover-up. Its semi-matte coverage makes it a solid pick for anyone who wants to stick it to shine, and it’s enriched with peptides to fight against fine lines.
This skin tint from Shiseido offers lightweight moisture similar to a BB cream, for normal, combination, and oily skin types. Reviewers say it left their skin feeling cushiony and soft.
It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination with SPF 50+
Reviewers love this full-coverage CC cream for a reason: It’s packed with peptides, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide—all ingredients derms love for nourishing and hydrating skin. So not only will the coverage make your skin look radiant, but it’ll likely improve it in the long run too. Win, win.
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation
This cult-favorite skin tint from Ilia boasts an impressive SPF 43 and comes packed with hydrating plant-based squalane and hyaluronic acid, as well as niacinamide, which derms love for brightening and smoothing skin. This dewy serum foundation provides light coverage and an overall blurring effect—and has an extensive shade range for darker skin tones.
Tarte Sea Hydroflex Serum Foundation
Tarte’s serum foundation combines hyaluronic acid with vegan collagen to plump skin, plus niacinamide to soothe and brighten. It gives medium semi-matte coverage, and buildable coverage. So if you’re not into the super dewy, borderline sweaty look, SEA Hydroflex might be right up your alley. What’s more, you only need 2–4 drops for optimal coverage.
Saie Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35
This lightweight SPF 35 tinted moisturizer intends to give sheer, dewy coverage and lock in moisture all day long—and it delivers on both fronts. Slip Tint features licorice to fight discoloration, plus pansy flower, which works in combination with hyaluronic acid to help your skin retain moisture.
Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation SPF 25
Clinique’s serum foundation includes salicylic acid to fight breakouts, so it’s ideal for folks with acne-prone or oily skin. Plus, the addition of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid gives this serum foundation a skin-care boost. It’s also oil-free, meaning it won’t clog your pores, and it offers medium to full coverage.
Lys Beauty Triple Fix Serum Foundation
Here’s an innovative foundation from LYS Beauty that is fortified with ashwagandha and turmeric to combat stress and brighten, plus hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate. It’s fragrance-free and gives medium, dewy coverage.
Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation
Tower 28, a sensitive skin-friendly brand that earned the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, makes a delightful creamy tinted mineral sunscreen foundation. It offers 30 broad-spectrum SPF and is boosted by white sage extract to combat redness and irritation.
ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation
Another winner from Ilia, this foundation gives a bit more coverage than the original Super Serum Skin Tint. The True Skin foundation is formulated with soothing aloe and mastic, a plant resin that helps to mattify and refine pores. It’s also enriched with powerhouse oils like jojoba and marula to keep you quenched and flourishing.
Rare Beauty’s Positive Light is one of the best tinted moisturizers. It offers breathable coverage and has an impressive shade range. It’s water- and silicone-based, making it a good pick for folks with combination or oily skin. Though it’s important to note it only offers 20 SPF through mineral filters, derms recommend at least 30 SPF, so consider wearing additional sunscreen to boost your protection.
Yves Saint Laurent Nu Bare Look Tint Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation
With nearly 800 five-star reviews, YSL’s skin tint is fortified with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate and moisturize, plus mallow, which helps to brighten the skin for an allover glow. It has the texture and weight of a water cream, so it makes an excellent beginner-friendly skin tint option.
Kosas Tinted Face Oil Comfy Skin Tint
Ideal for dry skin, this face oil skin tint hybrid is packed with nourishing oils like avocado, meadowfoam, and jojoba to enhance your skin long after you take your makeup off. It feels like a second skin and provides a healthy glow with light coverage.
Milk Makeup Sunshine Skin Tint Clean SPF 30 Foundation
The packaging of this skin tint from Milk Makeup is innovative and refillable; you press the base of the container like a pen until the product moves towards the glass rollerball, which glides across your skin. It’s formulated with skin-loving oils like jojoba, avocado, and mandarin, plus squalane and mineral SPF.
Typology TEINT Tinted Serum
Boosted with aloe vera, vitamin C, and squalane, this buzzy-tinted serum from Parisian brand Typology gives the coveted blurring effect. The coverage is just enough to hide slight discoloration and blemishes for an overall glow. Everyone will be asking you to drop the skin-care routine.
When it comes to cheap thrills, few things leave a beauty-lover more elated than having the best drugstore mascara in tow; a tried-and-true tube that curls, volumizes, defines, and comes with a price tag that encourages you to layer it on liberally. From richer color payoff to smoother, creamier textures that don’t flake or smudge, the offerings at the pharmacy are only getting better, furthering the stakes when it comes to what you ultimately toss in your basket. Here, the best drugstore mascara formulas to stock up on.
L’Oréal Voluminous Mascara
An all-time favorite pick for five of the makeup artists we spoke with, L’Oréal’s Voluminous Mascara comes out on top. “I’ve been using this mascara forever and it’s a staple in my kit,” explains celebrity makeup artist Gita Bass. “It’s super-black and adds incredible volume and curl, and never clumps or flakes.” On top of the aforementioned aspects, fellow artist Alana Wright can’t get enough of the brush, which she considers the perfect size, shape, and density “to still able to reach those tiny lashes in the inner and out corners of the eyes,” she says. Another bonus is the gentle, non-abrasive formula. “It doesn’t irritate even the most sensitive eyes,” says Los Angeles–based makeup artist Autumn Moultrie. Celebrity makeup artist Rob Rumsey emphasizes how buildable it is—“You can do one swipe for a natural look or you can do multiple coats for more drama.” While Carbon Black is the most popular shade, both Moultrie and editorial pro Akiko Owada also like reaching for Black Brown, which can have a softer effect. “It provides clump-free lashes, it doesn’t run, and it’s easy to control,” adds Owada of the formula’s all-embracing appeal.
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara
For bolder, more intense lashes, CoverGirl’s Lash Blast is another tried-and-true go-to. “I love its creamy texture, which gives you volume and length instantly in one coat, and it’s easy to layer it for more drama,” explains French makeup artist Cedric Jolivet. “I find the silicone brush [makes it easy] to grab the lashes from the root, and it totally works on short lashes!” Makeup artist William Scott, whose clientele includes Padma Lakshmi and Mette Towley, agrees. “It’s perfect for those who want maximum volume on the first swipe, and with a lash comb, it can be spread over the lashes to make them more fluttery.” There’s just as much to love about its waterproof formula: “It will dry a bit faster, which help the eyelashes to stay curled,” says Jolivet of why it’s worth the extra time spent removing it at the end of the day. “I always curl the lashes first, but I noticed a lot of mascaras don’t hold a curl and make your lashes look heavy…not this one!”
Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara
For Matin, who counts Angelina Jolie as a longtime client, it’s all about Neutrogena’s Healthy Volume Mascara with its nourishing ingredients and jet-black pigment. “It’s a true volume mascara that doesn’t dry out the lashes,” he says of the formula, which is supercharged with vitamin E-rich olive oil and protective sweet almond. “It stays flexible and won’t crumble throughout the day.” Another major draw? “It has a giant brush!” adds Matin. All the better to coat every little lash.
This mascara counts celebrity makeup artist and Neutrogena brand ambassador Amy Oresman as a fan, too. “This silky formula has an olive oil base, is incredibly buildable, and separates every lash with no clumps and no flakes. It also hydrates and strengthens lashes for those days you want to go without makeup.”
Maybelline Sky High Lash
“It’s by far one of the best mascaras on the market—and relatively newer, too,” says Colby Smith, who works with Dua Lipa and Charli XCX, of Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Sky High mascara. “I love that it’s super-black,” he continues. “A few coats and you really get that full long lash. It has the look of a high-end mascara without breaking the bank.” And Smith isn’t alone in his love of this mascara, considering how it took over TikTok in 2021.
L’Oréal Telescopic Mascara
For soft, supple lashes, you can’t beat L’Oréal’s Telescopic Mascara, insists Scott. “I love its applicator and slick formula, which make it easy to apply to bottom lashes and give long and defined lashes all around,” they explain, emphasizing the lengthening powers of its patented plastic-bristle comb brush. “It’s very versatile in that one swipe delivers length and the wand makes it easy to keep the lashes separated, and the formula builds nicely to add some volume.”
CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
If sustainability in beauty is a 2022 goal of yours, swap out your old mascara for CoverGirl’s Lash Blast Clean Volume—a vegan, cruelty-free formula infused with argan and marula oil that won’t clump or flake. Think of this as a skin and environmentally-friendly take on the coveted classic CoverGirl Lash Blast mascara.
Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
“I have incredibly sparse, thin lashes with minimal volume and this is one of the few mascaras that is ultra black, ultra lengthening, and gives me incredible volume,” says makeup artist and TikTok star Mikayla Nogueira of the Essence Lash Princess mascara. “It makes my lashes truly stand out and appear as if I have a small false lash on. I’ve bought it over and over again.”
L’Oréal Voluminous Volume Building Waterproof Mascara
“My favorite drugstore mascara is L’Oréal Voluminous Hydrofuge Mascara. I have been using this mascara since I was in high school,” admits pro makeup artist Liz Castellanos. “It gives major volume to your lashes, adds length, depth, and stays put. It’s a staple in my makeup bag.”
Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara
The nostalgic Maybelline Great Lash mascara is still a drugstore staple—a formula crafted to thicken and condition lashes simultaneously. It’s the ultimate no-fuss mascara when you’re looking to quickly coat your lashes or to keep a bottle stashed in your beauty bag.
L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
If feathery voluminous lashes are your look, consider picking up L’Oréal’s Lash Paradise mascara that’s known to lengthen and separate lashes with just one coat. Even more: The brand’s new formula incorporates floral oil for softer, fuller lashes.
The gold standard ingredient is well-known for fighting acne, exfoliating the skin, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The only downside are the side effects, which can sometimes include dry, flaky skin, irritation, and redness. These symptoms can show up any time you use retinol, but they’re most likely to appear when your skin is first getting acclimated to it.
Thankfully, Biossance, a squalane-powered clean beauty brand, has heard our cries and made a product that gives you all the goodness of a traditional retinol — without the hellish side effects.
Believe it or not, this is a retinol product that’s safe to use for all skin types (yes, including sensitive. However, you should always check in with a trusted derm before adding any new products to your regimen.)
The magic is all in the formula, which uses a gentle, yet powerful, time-release retinol and retinal combo to ensure maximum results that won’t burn your face off. These ingredients are paired with sugarcane-derived squalane to help provide moisture in order to curb dryness and irritation, as well as saffron and rosemary that work to hydrate and boost radiance. Rice bran extract rounds out the formula with vitamin E for antioxidant protection.
Together, you’ll be left with smooth, bright, and gorgeously glowing skin — minus the typical retinol uglies.
If you’re new to the game, the brand recommends starting off by using the product every other night, then working your way up to nightly use. And you never, ever want to use this during the day, as retinols can increase sensitivity to the sun.
To use, pump out a pea-size amount, and apply to freshly washed and dried skin before bed. Follow up with any necessary serums, and of course a moisturizer. When you wake up, expect bright, gorgeous skin — just don’t forget to apply at least SPF 40 before heading out the door.
2023 has just begun, bringing with it a fresh start for all things—including our makeup. With the proverbial palette cleaned, recharged takes on existing trends and entirely original approaches have room to shade, delineate, and contour the coming months, filling it with all of the color and sparkle that a new year demands. Blush will continue to provide buildable warmth, eyeliner is going the way of the statement-making seductress, and refractive details will allow you to channel the vibes of mermaids and robots alike. A common thread exists in a continued want of play—a means of combatting darker days with rampant (and striking) self-expression. Here, five beauty trends that will be taking over in 2023.
Statement Lips
Lips are set to be bolder than ever in the new year—so bold, in fact, that they may be ready to work alone. “This is a model-off-duty/off-the-runway type look that can look amazing from day to night,” says makeup artist Tobi Henney, who recommends centering the lip by keeping skin clean and lightly grooming brows and lashes. She also notes that a resurgence of lipliners that are deeper than lipstick hues are on the rise, which work better to keep the focus on your natural pout. “It can help achieve the perfect lip shade and enhance lips by giving the illusion of more fullness.”
Futuristic Metallics
Alloy-inspired shimmer can veer whimsical or robotic, depending on how you play it. Mermaidcore ruled the spring 2023 runways, and the collective conversation around AI—and an influx of new technology—is bound to elicit futuristic beauty. “Blame it on our obsession with AI, fairies, and everything extraterrestrial, but whatever the reason I’m so here for it,” makeup artist Jenna Kristina. She recommends starting with Pat McGrath’s on-point palettes, including those from the legend’s Star Wars makeup collaboration. “It’s our meta selves in the real world.”
More Blush
Blush has been experiencing a renaissance in recent years, with blendable cream options and more-is-more application methods making cheeks (and eyes and the bridges of noses) romantically rosy. “There was a moment when it was only about bronzer and highlighter, but blush is back and bolder than ever,” Kristina says. “Adding blush is like adding life back to the skin.” The trend already has legs, having served as the main factor in several of 2022’s most memorable TikTok beauty looks—think sunburn blush, cold girl, and crying girl makeup.
Face Embellishments
The Euphoria effect shows no signs of stopping. “We’ll continue to see more experimental looks incorporating gems, pearls, glitter, and other accents that’ll cover not only the eyes but other parts of the face and body,” makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran says. Invest in an arsenal of flat-backed rhinestones and the like in all shapes, sizes, and shades to be secured with clear lash glue—if you can find self-adhesive options, even better.
Longer and Sharper Cat-Eye Wings
Kittenish flicks and TikTok’s alluring and elongating siren eyes will gain in popularity (and ease) with the help of an upgraded guard of liners. “With so many brands developing high-technology eyeliners that do not budge and are smudge-proof, the graphic feline liner look will be one to wear for a fun night out,” says Henney, who recommends focusing on pulling the eye shape upward and outward. Dark femininity is sure to be a major 2023 trend.
The multi-hyphenate’s latest beauty launch is inspired by “pure maximalism” — and a big pivot from her signature look.
When it comes to beauty, Victoria Beckham likes to keep things simple — yet sexy.
She’s been dedicated to her signature look — a glossy nude lip, sultry smoky eye, and glowing skin — on red carpets and runways since the ‘90s. But Beckham is ready to kick it up a notch with her latest launch, and she’s doing so by taking us back to one of the most alluring and glamorous eras of all time: the 1970s.
“I’ve always been inspired by ’70s style; the fashion and beauty moments of pure maximalism that still, somehow, had an ease to it: glossy lips, peacock eyes, billowy waves,” Beckham muses. “Our new Satin Kajal Jewel Liner allows for such a freedom of expression and sexiness — I’m constantly reminded of that gorgeous, glamorous era.”
The high pigment liners initially launched in early October, offering three shades: Night Flash, a rich, smoky black with silver sparkle; Gold Lamé, a shimmering, pearlized gold; as well as Sequin Green, an iridescent olive green. In December, Smoky Quartz, a neutral taupe shade, joined the family.
Much like Victoria Beckham Beauty’s other products, with the satin liner, you’re guaranteed a high color payoff with just one stroke. Plus, with a formula infused with skin-loving ingredients like vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, and calming chamomile, expect a creamy, blendable, and easy-to-glide experience during application — then, of course, a long-wear, waterproof finish.
To top it off, the glitter appearance of the liners is made with micro-fine, environmentally-friendly pearls — not plastics. So as you rinse off your makeup at night, there’s no fear of bioaccumulation in the ocean.
“They give the look of a loose glitter with the concentration and precision of a pencil eyeliner,” Beckham explains. “You have a bit of time to play and fix before they set, and once they do, they last all day and night.”
While it’s hard to pick favorites, in true VB style, the star shares that her go-to shade is Smoky Quartz, which she says “gives an eye-catching, high-contrast drama to my look.” Later adding, “I’ll layer it onto my upper lash line, wing it, and smudge it out.” But she doesn’t necessarily want you to follow her lead.
Reminiscent of the disco era, Beckham’s latest launch is all about fun, freedom, and fantasy. “You can achieve whatever eye look you’re in the mood for,” she says. “A little flick; a rimmed, lived-in look; or smudged-out smoky smoulder.”
Products: – Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder, single eyeshadows – Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit, and gel eyeliner – MAC Cosmetics blush in Melba, highlight in Double Gleam, lipstick in Devoted to Chili, Clear Lip Glass, & Give Me Sun bronzer – Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel – Sigma brushes.
(Disclaimer: I do have Teanna’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
New year, new you. That’s how the saying goes, isn’t it? One way to refresh your look – and how you feel – is by switching up hairstyles and trying something new. It doesn’t have to be extreme, nor does it have to look like much has changed, but a new cut or styling trick can make you feel like a brand new person. Here, Vogue speaks to the hairstyling experts on the hair trends that will be everywhere in 2023 – inspiration boards at the ready.
A next-level haircut
A starting point for all good hairstyles, Luke Hersheson says that getting a really good haircut – even if it’s just twice a year – is key for creating a modern shape, which can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood. “Invest[ing] in a haircut above just styling products gives hair shape – whether it’s a bob or longer – and allows you the structure and architecture to do lots of things with your hair,” he explains. “Ten years ago, people were just styling hair and not thinking about the haircut underneath it.” It’s a way of approaching your hair that allows you to embrace all manner of trends, from embracing your natural curls to air drying your layers, and gives your hairstyle its unique character.
Meanwhile, hairstylist Larry King agrees, adding that as a result of the pandemic, clients now leave more time between appointments, which means that haircuts need to have a well-crafted structure in order to look better for longer. “It’s all about sharper haircuts that last longer – texture and chopped-up hairstyles have a shorter life span,” he says. “Healthy hair is the order of the year.”
The bob is going nowhere
“For those ready for a change it’s time to go a little shorter, with a soft line at jaw length; this gives a nonchalant, contemporary edge. Otherwise, I’m taking inspiration from the 1970s and dropping the length to the shoulder. Shorter and longer lengths are a great way to bring the bob up to date.”
Northwood is also taking inspiration from Celine’s spring/summer 2022 show, where bobs were shorter at the front and sides, something he says “does wonders for the cheekbones” and is a great shape for thick hair. “I like to keep the edges broken and style with a wave – the result is a little punky and contrary, which feels in keeping with our times.”
Knotless box braids
“Intricate partings and patterns have always been popular in African culture,” says Charlotte Mensah. “Detailed cornrows will be popular in the new year, as well as knotless box braids in different sizes and colours – they are everything you want in a hairstyle. Not only do they look cool, but they are also versatile and flattering.”
Glossy blow-dries
For a while now, we’ve favoured hairstyles which appear artfully undone, low maintenance and effortless, but many hairstylists are predicting a return to the old-school blow-dry and a more finessed approach to the hair. “Think Adele in Vogue,” says hairstylist Syd Hayes. “Full bodied, glossy, glam hair.” Hersheson also notes that this classic ’90s blowout hair feels a bit “Upper East Side – very polished and luxe” and the rolled brush blow dry, which we used to think was a “bit naff” now feels right again. He has been creating this kind of sleek look for his celebrity clients, including Dua Lipa.
An easy route to creating the look at home is with a hair tool. Hayes touts the BaByliss 9000 Cordless Hot Brush as the tool to try to create a voluminous blow dry look at home, without having to worry about a hair dryer and brush. “It helps to smooth your hair, while adding body and movement,” he says. Meanwhile, Dyson’s AirWrap is also an excellent choice and the new Flyaway head can help smooth frizz if you don’t want to go the whole hog. This look works better on longer hair, says Hersheson, who warns that it can look old fashioned on shorter lengths.
An expensive finish
Even if you’re still not tempted by the glossy blow dry, one way to tap into the luxe-looking trend is with a polished finish to your hair, whatever you’re cut. Northwood is touting Michelle Pfeiffer in Scarface as his polished-hair pin-up: “A professional blow dry is the ultimate way to achieve this polished, expensive-looking hair. But if you’re styling at home, seek out products that create that finish for you”. He recommends his Moisturising Cream to smooth flyaways and add shine.
Accessories galore
You saw the big bows braided into hairstyles at Chanel’s recent Metiers D’Art 2021 and French influencer, Camille Charriere’s, delicate beaded wedding hair – both are a sign of things to come for the new year. Mensah predicts that hairbands, bows, barrettes, scarves and clips will be all the rage in 2022: “No matter what your chosen hairstyle is, hair embellishments are in!”
Curl-ready hairstyles
This year, hairstyles got given the ’70s treatment, with shags, choppy fringes and wild curls becoming ever-more popular as the year went on. That rock ‘n’ roll finish is going nowhere, which is a good thing as it also goes hand in hand with the continuing movement towards embracing our natural texture and bringing out the best in our curls. While Mensah says this will start off with a “big chop” to start afresh if you’ve been using hair relaxer, it will soon be a case of making the most out of your natural curls, coils and kinks: “In my salon, the rounded Afro is the most requested cut – it keeps your curls healthy and full of life,” she says. Hersheson and Hayes also say that layers, air-drying and body will be big.
From slugging to squalane, we love a skin care trend that actually delivers. That’s one reason why we’ve turned our attention to fermented skin care products. If you have images of sauerkraut- and kimchi-infused serums dancing through your mind, these products aren’t quite so literal—but they do rely on the same process that blesses us with those tasty fermented foods. So, we set out to learn more about the fermentation process behind these products, what sets them apart from other treatments on the market, and whether they’re worth a try if you’re thinking about shaking up your skin care routine.
What is fermented skin care, anyway?
Lately, you’ll see skin care products with all sorts of fermented ingredients on the label, including soy, kelp, rice water, various botanicals, and even active ingredients we know and love like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and more.
When it comes to making fermented skin care ingredients, we have good old bacteria to thank, board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, tells SELF. Essentially, fermented ingredients have been exposed to microorganisms. These beneficial bugs break down the ingredients into smaller molecules, Dr. Garshick explains. The smaller the molecule size is, the easier it is for an ingredient to penetrate the skin more deeply, she says.
It’s not far off from what happens when yeast is added to grapes to produce wine, board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, tells SELF. Using fermentation in skin care may also help “enhance [the] potency” of certain ingredients, she says, which, in theory, should lead to better results.
What are the benefits of using products with fermented ingredients?
It all comes back to that smaller molecule size, Dr. Garshick says. She explains that your skin barrier is protective by design, so ingredients that can be absorbed more easily stand a better chance of having substantial effects. For example, hyaluronic acid—a beloved humectant that helps draw water to the surface of the skin—is a fairly large molecule, which makes it harder for the skin to absorb. When hyaluronic acid is fermented, it can sink deeper into the skin and work its hydrating magic more thoroughly, Dr. Garshick says. In other words, it’s possible that fermenting ingredients that we already know to be helpful in addressing common concerns like dryness, acne, dullness, and fine lines, may increase their capacity to deliver the results you want. On the flipside, because products containing fermented ingredients tend to be more potent, they could potentially cause a reaction in sensitive skin (similar to chemical exfoliants), so they should be used with some caution. If they’re more potent, they could be more irritating.
Despite its promise (and derms’ interest in it) as a trend, fermented skin care is a fairly new concept, so there isn’t a ton of specific research on it at the moment. That makes the full breadth of its effects (and possible benefits) a bit murky. Dr. Garschick points to a couple of small studies (one on animals and one on humans) that suggest certain fermented ingredients, including red ginseng and a barley and soybean formula, showed some potential in boosting skin hydration and fighting signs of aging, but they’re far from conclusive. Larger studies on diverse groups of people need to be done to better understand the possibilities of these ingredients. Ultimately, Dr. Garshick says we still have more to learn about this trend (and the skin’s microbiome in general).
This is a valuable reminder to take claims around any emerging beauty trend with a grain of salt. As Dr. Shirazi puts it: “There are potential benefits, but there’s not a lot of research on their effectiveness. So I don’t consider it the holy grail of skin care just yet.”
Who should try fermented skin care products?
“While further research is needed, fermented ingredients are thought to be safe, so if someone is interested, it is reasonable to try,” Dr. Garshick says. Just make sure to note the ingredients before you apply them and avoid any known irritants; a patch test is never a bad idea, especially if you’re trying a product that has multiple active ingredients in it. Apply a dime-size amount of the product on the inside of your elbow or on your neck and check on it a day later. If you don’t see any irritation or feel itchy, you’re probably good to go.
Now that you’re a bit more familiar with fermentation skin care, here are some standout products that employ the process to potentially boost the effects of hydration, exfoliation, brightening, and more.
Ferver Fermented Enzyme Radiance Face Mask
Dr. Garshick recommends using this fermented enzyme mask from buzzy brand Ferver once a week, explaining that it exfoliates the skin without being too harsh, leaving it softer and brighter. “It also delivers antioxidant benefits as it contains red algae and helps to reduce inflammation through turmeric,” she says.
Layers Probiotic Serum
“This serum uses lactic acid to gently exfoliate in combination with meadowfoam oil, which helps to lock in moisture,” Dr. Garshick says. Made with the probiotic ingredient lactobacillus ferment, it aims to support and strengthen the skin barrier while promoting an overall glowy appearance.
Sunday Riley Pink Drink Skin Firming Resurfacing Essence Face Mist
Sunday Riley, a cult-fave brand around here, reaps the benefits of fermentation in this delightfully pink treatment essence. Dr. Garshick explains that it contains a potent combination of peptides (chains of amino acids that provide the building blocks for collagen), fermented honey, pink yeast filtrate, and kelp, which work in tandem to soothe, moisturize, and restore skin. “It is also rich in antioxidants to protect against free radical damage,” she says.
Nourishing yet lightweight, this moisturizer “uses prebiotic beta-glucan to attract water and boost moisture, as well as the postbiotic lactococcus ferment lysate to help stimulate cell renewal,” Dr. Garshick says, referring to those beneficial bugs we mentioned earlier. She explains that prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients, when used topically, may help maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
The experts we spoke to recommended this Vichy serum that contains niacinamide “to help calm inflammation and regulate oil production,” Dr. Shirazi says. Not only does this ingredient offer a host of benefits for people concerned about fine lines and dullness, but it’s also useful for those with acne-prone skin. In other words, it’s a great entry point into the world of fermented skin care, regardless of your skin type.
Andalou Naturals Deep Hydration Multi Correcting Cream
The vegan collagen in this face cream is made via plant-based fermentation, while the hyaluronic acid is made with wheat and plant fermentation. “Together, these ingredients help to boost hydration while plumping the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. Plus, the cream is intensely moisturizing without feeling remotely heavy or greasy.
Venn Advanced Multi-Perfecting Red Oil Serum
The main ingredients in this vegan, top-rated face oil from K-beauty brand Venn are fermented root extracts that increase the skin’s radiance while retaining moisture for as long as 24 hours after applying.
Neogen Real Ferment Micro Essence
This brightening essence from Korean skin care brand Neogen is known to appear in beauty experts’ skin care routines for its ultra-lightweight consistency, which makes it a breeze to apply. It contains several fermented ingredients, including bifida ferment lysate and saccharomyces ferment filtrate, which can moisturize the skin and make it appear more supple. And, for those who want to avoid possible irritants, this product is fragrance-free.
Ferver Fermented Ginseng Eye Cream
Another option from Ferver, this eye cream can help thwart fatigued skin and dark circles. It soothes, brightens, and de-puffs the delicate skin around your eyes with the help of fermented ginseng, as well as our go-to brightening active ingredient vitamin C.
Drunk Elephant Sweet Biome Fermented Sake Spray
Drunk Elephant’s refreshing, antioxidant-rich facial spray has a foundation of fermented ingredients (including kombucha and fermented rice water) that create a veritable cocktail of benefits: “This product incorporates amino acids, fatty acids, electrolytes, and ceramides, which work to hydrate and refresh the skin, while helping to support a healthy microbiome,” Dr. Garshick says.
If you’ve seen beauty enthusiasts on social media carefully gliding small razors across their faces, you may have wondered what the heck dermaplaning is, what it can do for your face, and whether it’s actually safe to try at home.
Yes, the skin-care trend might look like an easy DIY treatment for exfoliating skin or getting rid of peach fuzz, but many experts say you should avoid trying this one at home in most cases. Plus, dermaplaning is not recommended for all skin types or for people with certain skin conditions.
Below, dermatologists explain what you should know about dermaplaning, including the risks, the benefits, how often you should dermaplane, and how much the treatment can cost (which may affect how often you can have dermaplaning done).
What is dermaplaning, exactly?
Facial dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that involves gently scraping your face with a scalpel to remove the epidermis—your top layer of skin—and small hairs, Jenny Kim, MD, PhD, professor of dermatology, medicine, and nutrition at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, tells SELF. Traditionally, people have the procedure done in a dermatologist’s office; however, you can find blades at the drugstore marketed for at-home use, like this Schick Hydro Silk tool ($6, Amazon), or you can splurge on a sonic device like Dermaflash Luxe+ ($200, Dermaflash) for an at-home experience closer to the dermatologist’s office. That said, it’s safer for a professional to perform the treatment in most cases. (More on this below.)
During a dermaplaning session performed by an expert, a dermatologist (or licensed esthetician in practice with a dermatologist) uses a medical-grade scalpel to scrape across the surface of the skin. The treatment typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and the dermaplaning cost can be anywhere from $40 to more than $150, depending on where you live and where you go (it will be more expensive to get a treatment from a board-certified dermatologist because they have more training).
Is dermaplaning the same as shaving?
Not exactly. Facial dermaplaning does involve shaving off layers of skin—primarily just that upper epidermis, the very top layer, Desmond Shipp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, tells SELF. That exfoliating effect is why dermaplaning is often done in combination with facials (in what’s known as a “dermaplaning facial”), he adds.
With an in-office dermaplaning procedure, dermatologists typically use a no. 10 scalpel blade or an electric-razor-like device called a dermatome, according to Dr. Shipp, whereas shaving entails a straight razor blade or a three- to five-blade razor. Another key distinction: Shaving is meant for hair removal, not exfoliation—it only cuts hair at the skin level, and should not remove any layers of skin.
One more difference with dermaplaning is that the scalpel or dermatome also allows for a smoother, closer removal of those tiny, fine facial hairs known as peach fuzz, since the blades aren’t guarded like a body-hair razor is.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
It can remove peach fuzz.
The main reason people do it is to remove the vellus hairs on their faces, which, again, some people refer to as peach fuzz. Everyone has these fine vellus hairs coating their bodies, and they serve a purpose: Vellus hairs keep us warm and add another layer of protection to the skin. But some people’s vellus hairs are thicker and/or darker (so more visible) than others, and depending on how they feel about that, they might want to have them removed. Removing peach fuzz with dermaplaning also “allows makeup to go on much smoother, and can make skin look and feel more rejuvenated,” Dr. Shipp says. (In other words, your baby-smooth face will likely glow.)
Of course, dermaplaning is just one way to do that. There are many at-home hair removal kits that may get the job done. However, board-certified dermatologist Rosemarie Ingleton, MD, tells SELF that typical hair-removal methods like waxing and threading don’t always provide the results people are looking for (especially in terms of exfoliating and removing finer hairs), which makes dermaplaning an appealing option.
You may have heard that shaving hair on your face makes hair grow back thicker—that’s technically not true. But it may look thicker or darker, since shaving can cause hairs to have a blunter tip as they grow out, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, Dr. Shipp asserts that the hair doesn’t typically grow back thicker or darker following an in-office dermaplaning session that was done with a precise scalpel.
People might also try laser hair removal for longer-lasting results, Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Jersey, tells SELF. But note that your hair can still grow back with this method, it takes several sessions to see changes, the cost per session ranges from $300 to $400, and people with darker skin are generally more prone to hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and burning after laser hair removal compared to people with lighter skin.
And it can also help exfoliate your skin.
While the biggest reason Dr. Ingelton does dermaplaning at her office is to remove vellus hairs, she says that the blade also gets rid of a superficial layer of dead skin called the stratum corneum. This can make your skin look brighter, help your skin-care products sink in better, and help your foundation go on smoother. In Dr. Ingleton’s practice, dermaplaning is often an add-on done before other treatments like microdermabrasion or lasers like Fraxel in order to get a jump-start and exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells before these exfoliating procedures.
When it comes to exfoliating, there are no studies showing how dermaplaning compares to other treatments like retinoids or chemical peels, says Dr. Kim. That’s one reason why Dr. Downie prefers to use peels over dermaplaning—even for sensitive skin—and doesn’t offer dermaplaning in her practice. “Peels help to improve texture, tone, acne, and fine lines,” she says. “They are not equivalent at all, and many peels give deeper exfoliation than a scalpel.”
What are the cons of dermaplaning?
While it might feel like getting rid of these hairs is easy to do at home with an inexpensive blade, most professionals warn against it if you have the option of seeing a dermatologist for the treatment. Any blade you get over-the-counter won’t be as sharp—or as effective—as the medical-grade scalpel used at a doctor’s office. And there’s always a chance that you’ll cut yourself in the process of dermaplaning your own skin (since you’re not trained to perform the procedure), potentially causing scarring.
Anytime a sharp object goes near your face, there is a risk of damage to the skin. “The main risk is cutting the skin, which can lead to infection, scarring, and dyspigmentation,” Anthony Rossi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, tells SELF. It’s easy for skin to get infected from bacteria if you don’t properly clean it (or if the tool you’re using isn’t clean) beforehand—and if there’s an active infection in one area of your skin, you can end up spreading that to other areas of your face as you dermaplane, adds Dr. Rossi.
Dr. Downie also says that she’s seen people with scarring after a session of dermaplaning gone wrong. Although some medical spas offer dermaplaning, she recommends seeing a professional board-certified dermatologist for this kind of procedure. Board certification is an extra step that shows a physician completed advanced training in their specialty. (You can find a board-certified specialist by visiting the American Academy of Dermatology website.)
Dermatologists can assess the full picture of your skin’s health and make sure dermaplaning is right for you, says Dr. Rossi. Also, dermatologists may be in partnership with trained aestheticians who offer dermaplaning, and if you’re going to see an aesthetician for this treatment, it’s best to see someone who’s in practice with a dermatologist.
How often should you do a dermaplaning session?
In order to keep the hair away, you might have to get treated about once a month. (Of course, the exact timeline will look different for each person.) Dr. Kim says this is not a treatment you should do too frequently. Your epidermis helps protect you from allergens and other potential irritants in the outside world—dermaplaning too often may irritate or damage that top layer of protection, she says. Again, this is why it’s best to consult with a physician who can help you decide on the appropriate frequency for your skin and needs.
How to take care of your skin before and after a dermaplaning session
For the best exfoliation results, it’s smart to prep your skin by steaming your face—either as part of your in-office treatment or with an at-home steaming method, like hopping in a hot shower—before a dermaplaning session. “The heat will loosen dirt and sebum and help to remove the dead skin cells easier. It also makes the skin more pliable, softer, and the vellus hairs easier to remove,” says Dr. Rossi.
Rehydrating your skin post-dermaplaning is just as important in order to protect the epidermal barrier you’re exfoliating, Dr. Rossi adds. Since you’re removing that layer of dead skin cells and stripping the skin of that outer protective barrier, you’ll want to wash your skin with a gentle cleanser and then apply a rich moisturizer (think hydrating, skin barrier-protecting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and strengthening ceramides).
You’ll want to keep up the moisturizing for a couple of weeks too. Since the skin cells in the epidermis take about 14 days to turn over (or up to 40 to 50 days as you age) and create a new outer layer of skin, it’s important to moisturize your face to replenish the barrier of the skin that was just removed, Dr. Rossi explains.
After a dermaplaning treatment, you should also stay out of the sun as much as possible until your skin barrier restores and you stop seeing redness, tenderness, or swelling. “You have to coat your skin with sunscreen afterward because you’re going to be more sensitive to the sun,” says Dr. Downie. The exfoliation exposes a new layer of skin that isn’t typically exposed to sunlight, so it can more easily cause U.V. damage. “You also have to be cautious of retinol and glycolic acids,” adds Dr. Downie, for that same reason.
Dermatologists recommend that people with sensitive skin use a light moisturizer like Vanicream ($36, Amazon) because it doesn’t contain fragrances or other irritants, which may inflame your already-sensitive skin.
When should you avoid dermaplaning?
There are a few instances where you should think twice before signing up for a dermaplaning facial or other dermaplaning treatment. For one, you’ll want to avoid dermaplaning if you’re experiencing an active acne, rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema flare-up, since the treatment could cause further irritation and excessive skin peeling, says Dr. Rossi. There’s also a chance that the blade could nick a pimple, adds Dr. Downie, which means it would take longer to heal.
Also, tell your dermatologist if you have a history of cold sores. “If you have a breakout of cold sores, you need to be on an anti-viral medication like Valtrex, and the physician needs to avoid the area,” says Dr. Downie. Without the use of a preventive oral anti-herpes medication, the cold sores can spread due to microtears in the skin.
The bottom line: Consulting with a dermatologist will help ensure the safest possible dermaplaning experience—and the best, most glowing results.
Whether they’re caused by allergies, a sleepless night, or even genetics, dealing with dark under-eye circles can be a daunting task. Many eye creams and serums can help diminish their appearance over time, but if you’re looking for a quick fix, you might want to layer a color corrector underneath your concealer. These innovative products use color theory to balance discoloration on your skin by canceling it out with the opposite shade on the color wheel.
From color-correcting palettes that allow you to blend multiple colors to brush-on options or a brightening color corrector that makes you look more awake, there’s tons of different types of color correctors available. With so many options, it can be difficult to discern what color corrector is the best for your skin tone and needs. That’s why we found the best color correctors for every skin tone and under-eye concern.
When looking at these products, we took into consideration their shades, formula, and lasting-power in order to make the best recommendations. One clear winner was the Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector for its wide range of shades and hydrating formula that lasts for hours.
These are the best color correctors for dark circles.
Best Overall
Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector
What We Love: It has tons of different shades and is budge-proof.
What We Don’t Love: The cream formula can be tough to blend.
This Bobbi Brown color corrector is a very popular option and for good reason. Not only is the cream corrector infused with moisturizing ingredients to keep your under-eye area looking smooth and hydrated, but it’s also waterproof, sweatproof, and humidity-resistant, so it will stay put all day. Plus, there are 12 shades to choose from, so you should be able to find an option that works for your skin tone. Each shade has a pink or peachy base, which is great for canceling out the bluish-purple tone of under-eye bags. You’ll look well-rested and youthful in mere seconds!
Price at time of publish:$34
Size: .05 fl oz | Number of Shades: 12 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Value
L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer
What We Love: It’s very creamy and makes the skin look even and smooth.
What We Don’t Love: The coverage is not very buildable.
Looking for a long-lasting color corrector that won’t break the bank? We suggest this L.A. Girl option. Along with a brush tip that makes application a breeze, the color corrector is specially formulated to provide natural-looking coverage for hours at a time. It comes in tons of different shades, ranging from purple and green to orange and yellow, so you can easily tackle whatever type of discoloration you’re dealing with. The texture is so creamy and easily blends into the skin. However, a little amount goes a long way as it is very pigmented. If you’re looking for extra coverage, pair it with the L.A Girl HD Pro Concealer.
Price at time of publish:$5
Size: .28 fl oz | Number of Shades: 10 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Stick
Maybelline New York Cover Stick Concealer
What We Love: It’s hypoallergenic and easy to apply.
What We Don’t Love: We wish this product lasted longer on the skin.
This Maybelline corrector is another affordable find that’s incredibly popular. The dermatologist-tested product is hypoallergenic and specially formulated to not clog pores. It’s also waterproof, so it will stay put through workouts and hot summer days alike. The best part is the stick-styled application, which makes it easy to brighten up the eyes in a pinch. It is offered in both a yellow and green corrective shade as well as multiple skin tone shades. It’s very pigmented, so one quick swipe will apply plenty of product.
Price at time of publish:$10
Size: .16 fl oz | Number of Shades: 8 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Palette
NYX Professional Makeup Color Correcting Concealer Palette
What We Love: It targets every type of discoloration.
What We Don’t Love: The product feels a bit waxy and can look greasy under foundation.
This handy NYX palette comes with six different creamy shades that do everything from counteracting redness to combatting sallowness. You can mix and match to target all your problem areas or blend multiple shades for a custom corrector that works on your skin tone. It’s very lightweight and easy to blend, so you’ll hardly even notice it’s there. Once it does its job, you won’t need as much concealer or foundation either.
Price at time of publish:$12
Size: .05 fl oz | Number of Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Pen
Maybelline New York Master Camo Color Correcting Pen
What We Love: It visibly brightens under-eye circles and works on all skin tones.
What We Don’t Love: It takes a while for it to set and moves around if not fully dry.
This correcting pen by Maybelline features a sponge-tip applicator that helps you apply and blend the perfect amount of product each time. The creamy formula provides ample coverage, and it doesn’t crease or become cakey in the under-eye area. It comes in a variety of different shades, which target various complexion issues and skin tones. It’s so easy to take it on the go and is sure to provide a brighter, more even complexion before applying makeup.
Price at time of publish:$8
Size: .05 fl oz | Number of Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Brightening
Smashbox Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector
What We Love: It evens out discoloration and has an illuminating effect.
What We Don’t Love: It has a bit of shimmer in it, which may not be for everyone.
If you’re looking for a product that will brighten your under-eye area at the same time as it covers dark circles, look to this illuminating corrector. The color corrector’s tint cancels out the dark blue and purple hues of dark circles, while the backlight technology illuminates your skin. It is also formulated with vitamin E to keep your under-eyes hydrated and moisturized, which helps prevent makeup from cracking or creasing. There are four shimmery shades available: Fair/Light, Medium, Medium/Dark, and Dark.
Price at time of publish:$32
Size: .15 fl oz | Number of Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best for Dry Under Eyes
Tarte Colored Clay CC Undereye Corrector
What We Love: This product doubles as an eye cream with lots of skincare benefits.
What We Don’t Love: The shade selection is limited.
The best beauty products can tackle more than one issue, which is why we love this multitasking Tarte color corrector so much. Along with providing long-lasting full coverage, the product is also formulated with sodium hyaluronate and squalane to hydrate and nourish the delicate skin under your eyes. For an even more youthful appearance, mica and silica work together to soften the appearance of fine lines, while caffeine improves puffiness. While we wish there were more shade options, this all-in-one product doubles as both makeup and skincare, giving you a lot of bang for your buck.
Price at time of publish:$21
Size: .08 fl oz | Number of Shades: 2 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Crease-Proof
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Vanish Color Corrector
What We Love: It boasts a glowy finish that won’t crease.
What We Don’t Love: It’s on the more expensive end for a corrector.
This fan-favorite color corrector from Charlotte Tilbury is a full-coverage product that brightens dark under-eye circles quickly and offers crease-proof coverage. It’s specially formulated with carnauba wax, which prevents creasing, as well as flavonoids to help reduce the appearance of puffiness. To top it all off, the formula also boasts mica for a glowy, illuminating effect. It’s lightweight, buildable, and has a natural finish, so you’ll hardly even need concealer. There are four shades to choose from: Fair, Medium, Tan, or Deep.
Price at time of publish:$48
Size: .09 fl oz | Number of Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best for Light Complexions
Chanel Le Correcteur de Chanel in Pêche
What We Love: The finish is illuminating even when set with powder, and lasts all day long.
What We Don’t Love: While it is comfortable to wear, it does crease.
A color corrector that is lightweight, long-lasting, and super creamy? Yes, please. Although this concealer from Chanel has four shades (a pink, green, apricot, and peach shade), the shade Pêche is a peach color correcting shade that is perfect for light to medium skin tones with deep-blue dark circles. Essentially, the purpose of using a peach shade on lighter skin tones goes back to the color wheel: orange/peach and blue are complimentary opposites, therefore they cancel each other out. Not only will this concealer help dark circles magically disappear, it will also help diffuse any imperfections, such as hyperpigmentation and dark spots, with its soft-focus pigments.
Price at time of publish:$80
Size: 0.26 fl oz. | Number of Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best for Dark Complexions
MAC Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palette
What We Love: It’s a true all-over product that acts as a color corrector and concealer in one.
What We Don’t Love: The shades might be too warm for cooler undertones.
The MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palette offers the best of both worlds: four concealers and two color correctors. Those with medium to dark complexions will appreciate the shade range of this palette, which includes brightening shades, contouring shades, and the perfect orange and red shades to conceal dark circles and blemishes. We love that the palette is also infused with antioxidants and other skin-benefitting ingredients to leave a natural, buildable finish on the skin. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about it oxidizing, creasing, or transferring — it is that good.
Price at time of publish:$42
Size: 0.21 fl oz. | Number of Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best for Redness
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Corrector in Green
What We Love: The coverage is so pigmented, you won’t need to build more on top.
What We Don’t Love: A little goes a long way, so if you use too much, your skin will look green.
Green color correctors are not just for concealing redness from hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and acne — it’s sufficient at covering darkness around the eyes, too. Similar to their Teint Idole Ultra Foundation, Lancôme’s color corrector is long-wearing, ultra-pigmented and truly feels like second skin. All you need is a pea size amount to use underneath the eyes, and it will do the rest. It is also worth noting the corrector is available in other powerful shades (yellow, lavender, and peach, to name a few) to help camouflage brown dark circles and stubborn redness, but the green shade happens to be our personal favorite.
Price at time of publish:$30
Size: 0.41 fl oz | Number of Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Multi-Use
Live Tinted Huestick Corrector
What We Love: Not only is it the perfect shade to color correct dark circles, it also works as an eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick.
What We Don’t Love: There isn’t much product inside.
The Live Tinted Huestick Corrector is all about skin first, and makeup second. Its ingredients are packed with skin-loving benefits, including hyaluronic acid, squalane, and vitamins C and E to quickly brighten, moisturize, and soften the skin. But best of all, you can use this product outside of color correcting as a eyeshadow, lip, and cheek multi-stick (there’s a reason why it is called a 4-in-1 stick). Swiftly use the corrector to counterbalance blue and purple hues found under the eyes, then use it as a rose-y blush to highlight the face — the possibilities are endless.
Price at time of publish:$24
Size: 0.1 fl oz. | Number of Shades: 5 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
What to Keep in Mind
Shade
Many correctors have green and purple undertones, which are great for covering up blemishes and redness, but they do little for concealing dark circles (unless they have red undertones). Instead, you should choose color correctors in shades of red, pink, yellow, or orange, as these will help balance out the bluish-purple color of under-eye circles. The shade you choose will also depend on your skin tone. Peach-toned correctors work really well on light to medium skin tones (like the Chanel Le Correcteur de Chanel in Pêche), while oranges or reds work better for deeper skin tones (such as the MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palette, which has more than one color corrector). Yellow is another option for those with medium or tan skin and can also be used to counter dullness, bruises, or veins.
Coverage
Some correctors also offer coverage, so you can wear them on their own and forgo concealer. If you plan to let your corrector stand alone, you’ll want to make sure it provides ample coverage and doesn’t allow for any creasing, cracking, or slipping. If you still plan on wearing concealer or foundation, a good corrector should create a solid, even base, so that you can use less makeup and it stays where you apply it.
Lasting Power
Just like a concealer, you’ll want to make sure your color corrector can hold up for the entire day (our personal favorite is our Best Overall pick, the Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector). The product should not only keep discoloration at bay for however long you intend on wearing it, but a good corrector will also last consistency-wise and prevent makeup from creasing or drying out throughout the day. Look for a product that is resistant to common makeup woes, like sweat and humidity.
A waterproof foundation can be a lifesaver in the summer, on vacation, or whenever you need your makeup to last all day and night without turning into a muddy, cakey mess. But finding the right formulas can mean the difference between a clear, polished complexion, and a sticky, coated, smudge-y one. “Waterproof foundations are a great solution for when you want to wear a full face of makeup, but don’t want to constantly worry about touch-ups or looking like you’re melting,” Emily Amick, New York City-based Makeup Artist, told InStyle. The trick is finding a formula that strikes the right balance delivering a breathable lightweight texture with impressive staying power, and one that works into the skin, instead of caking on top of it.
“Our skin creates natural oils over the course of the day, and waterproof foundation will endure the buildup of natural oils,” Deney Adams, celebrity makeup artist at Blonde Artists, told InStyle. With more options hitting the market than ever before, we’re helping you weed through the clutter, and find the high-quality, outperforming formulas that will hold up despite water, sweat, and tears.
Best Overall
MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
What We Love: The formula feels light and comfortable on skin.
What We Don’t Love: The coverage may be too sheer for some.
Don’t let the new name fool you. This bottle houses the same beloved formula as the MAC Studio Face and Body Foundation, just with a fancier name and more shade options to choose from. It’s the familiar bottle you’ll find in almost every professional makeup artist’s kit because of its ability to withstand the elements — no matter if it’s long days on set or the sweat and tears of a hot summer wedding — while still looking fresh and natural. The formula strikes the hard-to-find balance of being delightfully creamy and hydrating without feeling heavy on the skin. It’s a buildable formula that starts sheer, adding a natural dewy finish to the skin, but can work up to medium coverage and will last all day and night without melting away.
Price at time of publish: $39
Shade Range: 30 | Coverage: Buildable| Size: 1.7 oz
Best Value
Make Up Forever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
What We Love: The long wear formula is vegan.
What We Don’t Love: The matte finish can be dry for some skin types.
As the name suggests, this high-performance formula was originally designed to be undetectable under any light and look natural even under the most high-definition lenses, like those used in television production and on fashion runways. “The formula is beautiful for skin that really looks like skin but has the coverage to hide any imperfections,” Amick told InStyle. “It is long-lasting, waterproof, and designed to be undetectable on HD cameras, so it’s perfect for someone who fears cakey-ness and just wants luminous, perfect skin (a.k.a, all of us!).”
Price at time of publish: $43
Shade Range: 40 | Coverage: Medium| Size: 1.01 oz
Best Splurge
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
What We Love: It’s great for use on face and body.
What We Don’t Love: May not be hydrating enough for dry skin.
If you’re looking to even out skin anywhere on your face or body, this buildable, lightweight formula will do the trick. It provides enough flexibility to build up to your desired coverage level, while also delivering the staying power to withstand a sweaty workout or hot day at the beach, without wiping away. “This foundation looks like a second skin and is buildable so you can layer it to the desired coverage,” Tobi Henney, celebrity makeup artist to Megan Fox, Barbara Palvin, and Poppy Delevingne, told InStyle. “This is the perfect option for someone who wants to even out their skin tone because you can build it up in areas where you need a little more coverage,” Amick added.
Price at time of publish: $40
Shade Range: 40 | Coverage: Medium| Size: 1.6 oz
Best Budget
Revlon ColorStay Longwear Makeup
What We Love: The texture is impressively lightweight and comfortable on skin.
What We Don’t Love: It may be too drying for some skin types.
Don’t let the friendly price tag fool you. This high-quality formula feels luxurious on the skin and has a staying power that rivals that of its higher-priced counterparts. The oil-free formula and natural matte finish are great for combatting the greasiest, sweatiest days, or anyone who battles a naturally shiny T-zone come the afternoon. A small dab is enough to provide medium coverage and even out any redness or dark spots on the skin, so your complexion appears flawless. It also layers nicely if you need a little extra coverage in certain areas. The best part: you don’t have to worry about this budge-proof base wiping away in the summer heat, and it’s spiked with a shot of SPF 15 sun protection, too.
Price at time of publish: $10
Shade Range: 43 | Coverage: Medium| Size: 1 oz.
Best Drugstore
Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer
What We Love: The budget-friendly price tag.
What We Don’t Love: Some noted it can look orange against fairer complexions.
Here’s a multi-tasking formula that delivers on its promises as both a quality concealer and a high-performing foundation base. “I was surprised by its performance when I first tried it, but this affordable formula really holds its own,” Amick told InStyle. “It’s a great semi-matte, water-resistant foundation that packs a lot of coverage without looking heavy.” We also love the impressively inclusive shade range and the versatility of this product which helps to even skin tone and effectively disguise dark under-eye circles without caking or settling into fine lines.
Price at time of publish: $12
Shade Range: 45 | Coverage: Full | Size: 1 oz.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Morphe Filter Effect Soft-Focus Foundation
What We Don’t Love: The coverage may be too light for some.
We love a good makeup product spiked with skincare benefits, and this long-wear foundation is exactly that. The texture strikes a delicate balance being both soft, but not watery, and creamy, but not heavy, giving skin natural coverage that looks like your skin, but better. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which deliver added hydration and a dose of skin-loving antioxidants that help improve skin texture overtime. The formula blends seamlessly into skin, without caking on top of it, and adds a natural dewy glow that won’t wipe away at the first sign of sweat or moisture.
Price at time of publish: $20
Shade Range: 40 | Coverage: Medium| Size: 0.94 oz.
Best Matte Finish
NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation
What We Love: It helps to reduce shine.
What We Don’t Love: Some note it can settle into fine lines.
The luxurious formula may come at a price, but let that be your first clue that this is not your average foundation formula. The high-quality, sweat-proof makeup base is packed with oil-absorbing powders and micro-algae extract that eliminate any excess grease or shine from skin, even on the hottest, stickiest summer nights. It’s also spiked with hydrating hyaluronic acid to help keep skin supple, while still managing to give complexion the most gorgeous natural matte finish. “It looks great in photos and has great longevity,” Henney told InStyle. A small dab goes a long way in delivering full coverage wherever you need it, and rest assured that even base will stay put until you decide it’s time to wash it all away.
Price at time of publish: $40
Shade Range: 34 | Coverage: Full| Size: 1.5 oz.
Best Natural Finish
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
What We Love: The natural matte finish won’t leave skin dry.
What We Don’t Love: The fancy formula, comes with a fancy price tag.
A full-coverage, waterproof foundation that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin is hard to find. That was until the beloved celebrity makeup artist, Charlotte Tilbury, gifted us the prettiest bottle of dewy, hydrating perfection that feels like a second skin. The creamy foundation strikes the delicate balance of delivering full coverage, without feeling like a heavy blanket of pigment on the skin. It also features a host of skincare benefits including wrinkle-fighters that help to improve skin’s appearance long-term, instead of just temporarily covering things up. “This is such a stunning foundation, that’s sweat-proof, humidity proof, and transfer-proof and can last from day to night,” Henney told InStyle.
Price at time of publish: $46
Shade Range: 44 shades| Coverage: Full| Size: 1 oz.
Best Stick
Hourglass Cosmetics Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick
What We Love: The creamy stick makes for easy application.
What We Don’t Love: It has a higher price tag, and comes with less product.
Every element of this fancy foundation stick was designed with intention to make for an easy, fuss-free application, and flawless, long-lasting coverage. The unique slanted, triangular tip allows you to effortlessly navigate the hard-to-reach nooks and crannies around your face and nose. The creamy formula glides onto skin, making it easy to apply as foundation to cover larger areas for all-over coverage, or double as a concealer dabbed onto targeted spots like under the eyes. The coverage is substantial, yet still manages to feel lightweight and comfortable on skin. Plus, thanks to its impressive long-wear and waterproof benefits, you’re safe against the elements all day and night.
Price at time of publish: $48
Shade Range: 32 | Coverage: Full| Size: 0.25 oz.
Best Clean
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
What We Love: The extensive shade range ensures a perfect match for most.
What We Don’t Love: The coverage might be too light for some.
A quick Google search will surface over 50,000 four- and five-star reviews of the beauty universe celebrating this beloved formula for a plethora of reasons. For starters, the all-inclusive range features 50 distinct shade options across the light to deep spectrum, delivering the perfect shade match to more beauty lovers than ever before. The meticulous formula balances tone and texture, delivering comfortable, all-day wear that isn’t too heavy, too matte, or too shiny. The gorgeous soft matte finish looks like your skin, but better, and is buildable so you can work up to your desired coverage level, without feeling like you’re caking on pigment. Added bonus: this polished base will remain flawless through sweat and tears.
Price at time of publish: $39
Shade Range: 50 | Coverage: Medium | Size: 1.08 oz.
Best Cruelty-Free
Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Waterproof Foundation
What We Love: It’s easy to blend.
What We Don’t Love: It can feel heavy on skin.
This is a feel-good formula for multiple reasons. One: it feels impressively pampering thanks to hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which keep skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Two: special pigments help to create a special blurring effect which gives the complexion a polished, matte finish, without leaving skin dry and cakey. Three: it’s a formula built to last and one that will take you from humid beach days to all-night dance parties without wiping away. We also love the cruelty-free formulation which just adds to the feel-good factors.
Price at time of publish: $38
Shade Range: 30 | Coverage: Full| Size: 1 oz.
What to Keep in Mind
When to Use
There’s no wrong time to use a waterproof foundation. From hot summer days and nights, to beach vacations, or anytime you’re looking for your makeup to last for a long period of time. “If you’re a full-face-at-the-gym kind of person, or a stage performer, you might consider a waterproof formula for daily use! There’s no harm in wearing waterproof year-round as long as you’re cleansing properly at the end of the day,” Amick told InStyle.
Skin Type
Be sure to check out the ingredients when choosing a foundation. It’s often misunderstood that waterproof foundations are heavy and drying. “We all have different skin types and skin needs, you’ll want to choose a foundation with ingredients that work best with your needs,” Adams, told InStyle. “For example, if you have oily skin you might look out for foundation with zinc oxide or serecite.” There are also formulas spiked with hyaluronic acid to help keep skin hydrated.
Coverage
Not all waterproof foundations are full coverage. There are many great formulas on the market today that offer medium, buildable coverage so you can be in control of the desired effect. You can also find waterproof foundations with both matte and natural finishes, so you can best meet your skin needs.
Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder, single eyeshadows
Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit
MAC Cosmetics blush in Melba, highlight in Double Gleam, BlackTrack liquid eyeliner, lipstick in Velvet Teddy, Clear Lip Glass, & Give Me Sun bronzer
Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel
Sigma brushes.
Model: @thicctricia Photographer: @viciousnvain
(Disclaimer: I do havePatricia’s and Travis’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
MAC Cosmetics’ Whitney Houston collection is here, and it’s chock-full of the hyper-glam, 1980s-perfect staples with which the late vocalist remains associated to this day. Marked by bold smokey eyes and bold red and metallic-brown lips, Houston’s beauty regimen was as iconic as she herself was, throughout all her decades of fame. And now that it’s shoppable in luxe gold packaging, fans can get a small piece of her cult of personality, created alongside and approved by the Whitney Houston Estate itself.
MAC’s Houston line has been a long time coming. The brand announced the collection more than a year ago, last September, to be timed with the release of Houston biopic “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” It’s also “something Whitney always wanted to do,” the artist’s sister-in-law and former manager Pat Houston told People. “I’m pleased we can do something that I know she would have loved.“
If any makeup brand was going to bring this to fruition, it was MAC. The cosmetics giant has collaborated with celebrities for decades, even before celebrity beauty affiliations became ubiquitous. Its charitable Viva Glam initiative, which raises money and awareness for HIV/AIDS, has been releasing collections since 1994, including ones in partnership with living legends like Rihanna, Lady Gaga and, most recently, Rosalía. MAC’s first significant posthumous launch came in 2012, with a 28-piece makeup line inspired by Marilyn Monroe.
Other late celebrities followed, including Selena Quintanilla, with a range that commemorated the 25th anniversary of her passing, and Aaliyah, thanks to a viral fan petition wherein shoppers went so far as to create mockups of products they wanted. Both sold out immediately. But experts attest that cosmetics brands like MAC aren’t just in it for the profits (although, yes, they do make money). For the estates of certain departed figures, like Houston, eye palettes and lipsticks are just one small, but not altogether insignificant, way to keep their legacy alive for a new generation. It’s also, somewhat uncouthly, good for business.
“These posthumous launches aren’t necessarily money-drivers, but more so relationship-builders in a few ways,” says Kirbie Johnson, a beauty reporter and co-founder of beauty podcast Gloss Angeles. “If MAC and Estée Lauder have a great relationship with a movie studio, why not work together on promoting a film? Not to mention the fan relationship, which is important to a brand.”
Johnson goes on to explain that if an estate like Houston’s is angling for a makeup collaboration, it may feel more comfortable with a behemoth like MAC because, well, they know it will be done right. In Houston’s case, the packaging is elevated and the formulas are what you’d expect from a MAC product, Johnson says, and “you don’t feel like the brand skimped to make it.” As one of the top three global makeup brands, MAC sees a reported annual turnover of more than $1 billion, with 500 independent stores.
“I feel like MAC is a household name at this point, but some of this could be a play to either increase reach or awareness of the brand to the departed’s fanbase or simply to add consumer value,” adds Johnson. “MAC is a legacy brand; collaborating with icons like Selena, Aaliyah and Whitney positions them in the same category.”
A posthumous collaboration, however, is not without its risks. As Johnson says, the person the collaboration is being made for is no longer here, so how can they give approval? In 2017, for example, Urban Decay received a flood of criticism for its Jean-Michel Basquiat collection. (“An artist known for his highly critical takes on power structures like capitalism surely wouldn’t be putting out an eyeshadow palette,” says Johnson.) “You have to hope whoever is running the estate is someone they trusted and is acting in the deceased’s best interest,” says Johnson.
Indeed, fans of late icons, like Houston, are especially protective after their passing — which, ultimately, leads to higher sales. Cieja Springer, a longtime fashion marketer and founder of the “From the Bottom Up!” podcast, attributes this sensation to what she calls “brand regret,” which goes a step further than buyer’s remorse and tends to afflict those who, for a range of reasons, weren’t fans of the artist when they were alive. In the case of Gen Z, which is now captivating the cosmetics industry with its growing purchasing power, this is simply because they weren’t born yet.
“In order for fans to not constantly live with the regret of not giving the artist their flowers while they were here, they jump on it now so they’re not left out,” says Springer. “It’s all about not being left out, at the end of the day.“
With a posthumous product launch, fans are able to buy a piece of their favorite celebrity again (or for the first time) — and as Johnson adds, that opportunity may not come around again, which creates more incentive to buy the product. This is especially true in the case of figures like Aaliyah or Selena, who didn’t have a long period of fame before passing, “so perhaps there was less memorabilia for fans to purchase as a token of their love for both artists,” says Johnson. But of all the memorabilia and merch possibilities, why makeup?
“Whether the celebrity is currently active in their field or not, there’s a shorthand that exists with the ‘look’ and palette of a highly celebrated and media-visible celebrity that gives the consumer an ability to recreate famous looks or a style with which they identify, or find aspirational,” answers Professor Stephan Kanlian, chairperson of FIT’s unique master’s degree program for emerging leaders in the cosmetics and fragrance sector. “It’s a basic need of universal beauty that individuals aspire to copy the look of someone they see as having great beauty or style.”
After all, makeup products are more attainable than, say, fashion items for most fans, especially younger ones. Johnson offers the example of Harry Styles’s HA HA HA capsule for Gucci, which starts at $235 for a pair of striped logo socks, with T-shirts running around $750. “I’d bet most fans are sporting his $20 Pleasing nail polish instead,” she notes.
“Most people cannot afford a Chanel bag, but they can afford Les Beiges Bronzer,” says Johnson. “As for celebrities who have passed, you can’t carry a record on your person to show you’re a fan, but you can pull a Whitney Houston-branded MAC compact from your bag.”
Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams has made everyone full of woe — in the best way, ofc. The “mysterious and spooky” psychic gal and titular character of Netflix’s dark comedy, Wednesday, has ushered in the beauty trend of soft goth glam, with over 82.1 million TikTok fans searching up the look. Lucky for us, hair and makeup designer Tara McDonald has shared the deets on the exact beauty products Jenna wears in the show — including her lip color, face makeup, and eyeshadow.
How to Get Wednesday’s Lip Color
In an interview conducted by beauty expert and proclaimed trend whisperer Cat Quinn shared via Instagram, McDonald revealed that Wednesday is wearing the MAC Lip Pencil in Nightmoth mixed with clear balm. Quinn says that Wednesday’s softly blurred, brown-plum lip can be achieved by mixing the liner and some balm in a makeup pot or on your hand. McDonald also revealed that instead of applying the color with a brush, they would dab the Frankesteined product directly onto Ortega’s lips.
How to Get Wednesday’s Face Makeup
According to Wednesday’s world, a sallow complexion with carved cheekbones is definitely in. To nail the aesthetic that Quinn describes as “half-dead, but still fresh and modern,” McDonald applied a sheer, freckle-showing skin tint to Jenna’s face to stay true to the character’s pale and muted coloring. To carve out cheekbones sharper than Wednesday’s fencing sword, McDonald used MAC Cosmetics’ Sculpting Powder in shades Sculpt and Shadowy.
How to Get Wednesday’s Eye Look
Wednesday’s piercing eye makeup accentuates her large, Tim Burton-esque eyes as she holds back from blinking the entire series. Quinn spills that all it takes to achieve Wednesday’s soft goth smokey eye are three MAC Eyeshadows — Script, Carbon, and Glitch in the Matrix. McDona
ld reportedly started off the eyeshadow look by blending the warm brown shade, Script, onto Jenna’s lid, crease, and undereye. Next, she applied the true black shade, Carbon, underneath her eye. The look was finished with Glitch in the Matrix, which was swiped onto Jenna’s upper lash line like a smokey eyeliner.
Products: – Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – Make Up For Ever ULTRA HD foundation, concealer, & loose powder – Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit – MAC Cosmetics blush in Peachtwist, highlight in Double Gleam, BlackTrack liquid eyeliner, lipstick in Velvet Teddy, Clear Lip Glass, & Give Me Sun bronzer – Benefit Precisely My Brow pencil & Gimme Brow setting gel – ColourPop Going Coconuts Eyeshadow Palette – Sigma brushes.
(Disclaimer: I do have Angie’s consent to post the images on designated websites including Facebook, Instagram, WordPress, and use in my digital portfolio.)
While it’s a great time for those naturally blessed with effortlessly adorable freckles to embrace what melanin gave them, many of us aren’t willing to risk unnecessary UV exposure to achieve them. Enter ‘faux freckles,’ which you can create easily with makeup you may already own.
Step one: Choose your products
“You don’t have to be a pro to try this trend, but when experimenting for the first time, just use your brow pencil,” says makeup artist Katina Nicolaou.
“I like using a waterproof brow pencil, to make sure the look stays put throughout the day.”
Nicolau loves the #BombBrows Microshade Brow Pencil by Huda Beauty. The ultra-fine tip will give you more control and result in tinier dots. Freckles are pigment cells that contain melanin, so use the same colour that you would for your brows. This will appear the most subtle and suited to your natural colouring.
Feeling more confident at the vanity? Opt for a liquid product.
“I find myself most often reaching for an eyebrow pen with a brush tip applicator because they actually have lighter pigmentation than brow pencils, but are still buildable,” says beauty content creator Marissa Roy.
“My favourite is the MAC Shape + Shade Brow Tint because the pigmentation is just right.”
You can also buy products specifically made for creating freckles on the face. Freck Beauty’s Freck The Original Freckle was one of the first, but it usually works best with a little more practice. If you’re feeling playful, have some fun with the Milk Makeup Tattoo Stamp. The small heart and star temporary tattoos are perfect for application on your face or collarbones.
Step two: Prepare your canvas
“Prep your skin how you would for any long-lasting makeup application,” says Roy.
“Everyone should start with a moisturizer. Real freckles vary in pigmentation and size, so for the most natural look, try layering your faux freckles between skin care and coverage steps. Apply a few after you prep your skin, a few after a tinted moisturizer or foundation, a few more after your blush or bronzer.”
For best results, use a sheer foundation that will allow for coverage, but be light enough for the buildable freckle technique that Roy recommends. Try NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.
Step three: Place your freckles
Dot your pencil or pen over the tops of your cheeks, and across your nose, in a W shape.
“Dab with varying pressure to create different intensities,” says Roy.
“No two freckles are alike, so this will help you avoid all of your dots looking symmetrical and round.”
Stand back to look at your full face in the mirror and go slow. It is always easier to add more than to remove.
Step Four: Blend and set
Once you’re done placing your dots, diffuse the edges of the freckles by tapping them lightly with your finger or a beauty sponge.
“Take your ring finger and lightly dab over your new freckles,” says beauty expert Tracy Peart.
“This will soften the colour, blur the edges and make your freckles look more natural, as opposed to stark, round black spots all over your cheeks.”
Finally, she says, “set your freckles with a translucent powder.”
Peart recommends using a fluffy powder brush, not a puff to apply your powder.
“A brush won’t deposit as much powder as a puff and will soften it and dull your new freckles.”
Founded in 2014 by celebrity makeup artist and beauty influencer, Angel Merino, Artist Couture was created to inspire self expression and celebrate individuality through makeup artistry. They are more than just a brand, they are a community of artists, makeup lovers, and creators. They are the #GLOWGETTERS!
Welcome to Artist Spotlight #98 series on my blog.
Angel Merino AKA @mac_daddyy knows a thing or two about makeup. The former MAC employee and celebrity makeup artist (Ariana Grande, Christina Milian and Mel B to name just a few) is the creator behind one of the hottest indie brands – Artist Couture. Found at Sephora, Artist Couture is a YouTube love with many beauty creators raving about the accessible luxury brand’s first palette release – Supreme Nudes. A YouTube star in his own right, with 167,000 subscribers and 1.4 million Instagram followers, Merino recently released the Caliente Summer Collection – an homage to his Latin heritage. The launch was designed to complement all skin tones and includes a mini palette with an array of 8 wearable & vibrant shades, a red lipstick, and two high-shine glosses.
There is something special about the Artist Couture formula. Your products whether it’s the Supreme Nudes Eyeshadow Palette or your Diamond Glow Powders have received universal praise. As a makeup artist, what was missing for you that led you to create Artist Couture?
From my experience in the industry, I always found myself having to mix multiple products to get the desired finish or the desired impact or the desired colour that I wanted. So, I took a look at my kit, my makeup style and what was trending in the makeup space at the time and I found this void for high-impact products which led me to create them. I started with the Diamond Glow Powders and those are loose highlighters, but they pack a really big punch. We’re all about high impact with minimal effort.
I was able to produce a product that is super high-impact without having to mix 5 different products or layer various products to get these results. Creating my own eyeshadow palettes now, I’m really able to create colour stories that I feel just kind of hit every mark. I’m doing it in a way that is compact, it’s sleek and it’s easy to carry. But, at the same time, it has everything you need to create wearable day looks – warm looks, cool looks and sultry evening looks. I’m able to create colour stories that fit my needs and fit the needs of makeup artists.
Colourful eyeshadow palettes and bold lipsticks are having a moment. Caliente is different – the colours seem more vivid than other colourful collections. You call it a tropical fantasy (fantasia tropical). Tell us the inspiration behind the collection?
The collection is inspired by my culture and my heritage. I really wanted to pay homage to my upbringing and being able to translate all of those things within colours. I was actually really inspired by J Balvin – he’s a Latin star. He made an album called “Colores” where he named each song after a colour. I’m super inspired by music and art. When I was listening to the album, I was hearing the music, but I visually saw the colour. For me with creating this colour story, there were certain aspects that I wanted to bring to life. For example, the yellow shade is called “cultura,” which means culture. When I think of my culture and all that it encompasses, I thought that yellow was the perfect colour to represent that.
With every shade in the palette, I was able to think of something that I wanted represented or something that meant a lot to me and I was able to put a colour to those thoughts, memories or moments. That’s how I created Caliente. We created a really beautiful story and I also feel like it’s perfect for summer – super fiery and hot. You’re really able to create colourful looks with the collection. And for me, in quarantine, I wanted it to be a situation where people are able to have a little taste of summer, even though summer looks different this time around. It’s about being able to bring summer into your home through your makeup looks and really playing up your eyes since that’s all you can see with masks.
You can definitely create a bold look with the shadows, the lipstick and the glosses. What application tips do you have for people who want to try a more colourful look but are intimidated?
I think a lot of people are intimidated by colour because they think that they have to include all of these colours into their look. Some of the shadows in the palette, whether it’s fuego, which is more of that neon orange, or libres which is more of that neon pink or mamasita which is more of that pink/red are vibrant. People automatically assume that you have to put those colours all over your eyelids which is not the case at all. You can really take a step back and do a look that’s more wearable for you. Even creating a really good graphic liner with these tones is a good way to start to get your feet wet with colour so it’s not overwhelming. I like to do a neutral tone on my lip but then add a pop of colour on my lash line. With this palette, the tones that are a little bit more vibrant are pressed-pigment so you can use them as blush as well.
Larger eyeshadow palettes with up to 30 shades are everywhere. Your shadows are more compact and there is no colour duplication. How does being a makeup artist who happens to be a makeup influencer impact your choices when it comes to developing a colourful launch like Caliente?
For me, one of my biggest things when I was a working artist and freelancing, you literally take so much stuff with you on set. When I first started, I felt like I needed to have every foundation in the spectrum, every finish, every colour, every brand, and I felt like that across all categories. I was just finding myself lugging a ton of bags onto set. It was really just inconvenient for me. So, with my products, everything is multi-use, everything is multi-functional – and that really is to diminish the idea that you need to use multiple things for one look.
Specifically, with my palette, the stories are carefully curated so that it is exactly what you need to create full looks. You have your transition shades, you have your pops of colour. You have a good balance of mattes, shimmers and high-metallics. All of the packaging is super thin and lightweight so it doesn’t take up too much space. So, even if you’re not a professional makeup artist, and you’re just a makeup enthusiast, you can have one of those palettes with you on the go and easily throw it into your backpack, your makeup bag or your purse and it doesn’t take up too much room.
What did it feel like the first time that you saw Artist Couture in Sephora?
It was literally a dream-come-true. That was one of my biggest goals, to able to walk into an environment like Sephora and see my brand. The first time that I saw it, I burst into tears. It was such a big moment for me in my career. You work so hard to get an idea off the ground and then when people start to support your brand and purchase your product, it starts to become a reality. But, when you see it in an environment like Sephora, it was the biggest validation for me as a brand and as an artist. It really made me feel like I was on the right path in my career and it made all of the hardships, blood, sweat and tears that I had gone through to get to that point completely worth it.
Artist Couture is really about a community, which is unusual for a makeup brand. You call them #GlowGetters. Why was creating community so important to you both personally and as a brand owner?
Community is really important to me. That’s the way I’ve been able to build myself as an artist, and an influencer, through my platforms – creating a sense of community. I think that the great thing about social media – something that it’s given us – is that we are able to find people that we can identify with, relate to, and connect with. Especially when you don’t have that around you. Growing up, social media wasn’t a thing, there weren’t a lot of gay men that I could ask questions to or have as examples. I went to middle school and high school and I think I had like one gay friend. But, now on social media, you’re able to find people that look like you, that you identify with and you’re able to have a sense of inspiration. So, for me, it’s all about finding that human connection and people you can connect with.
I wanted to ensure that everyone who was a supporter or a fan of the brand felt like they were a part of something bigger. I wanted it to be a safe space and a place that people could turn to. Now more than ever, people aren’t just buying into brands because of pretty packaging or pretty colours, but because of what the brand stands for. So, for us as a brand, it’s really important for us to scream at the top of our lungs our beliefs. We’re super pro-LGBTQ+ rights and initiatives. Obviously, I am a gay Hispanic male. So, it’s definitely really important for us to be vocal about what we believe in because I think that consumers identify with that and that also, in turn, creates more brand loyalty.
You always talk about the importance of skincare when it comes to makeup application. Is a skincare line something that you are looking at for the future? How do you get your flawless complexion?
I would love to develop skincare. That’s my goal when it comes to my brand. But I really want to make sure that I’m taking my time with developing it because I want to make sure that I’m creating really amazing formulations, using great ingredients, and creating skincare that’s effective. I think skincare is so important because in order for your makeup to look good, you want to start with a good canvas.
Growing up, my mom always taught me to moisturize your face, etc., so it’s always been instilled in me. I’m all about my skincare in the mornings and in the evenings. And you know, I recently turned 30, so now more than ever, I’m very mindful of my skincare routine so that we’re keeping those wrinkles and crow’s feet away. I’m trying to preserve my youth, so skincare is a really big thing for me.
What’s next on the horizon for Artist Couture?
We have a couple more exciting collections that we’re launching before the end of the year. Something a little unexpected that I think people are going to be really excited about. But, looking forward to 2021 we are finally going to be playing into different categories. We’re going to start to get our feet wet with a little bit of complexion. I’m super excited about that because it’s something that’s been in the works for the last couple of years. To finally see it come to life and put it out there for people to experience is really exciting.
Famed for its ability to brighten and refine skin texture and tone – as well as reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, breakouts and blemishes – glycolic acid is a routine essential, and with good reason. That said, as an active ingredient, a little bit of homework before you introduce it into your regime is a must. Here’s what you need to know.
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that belongs to a family of acids known as alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs – a term you’ve probably heard being bandied about in skincare circles. Widely used and derived from sugar cane, other AHAs include lactic, citric and mandelic acids.
What is glycolic acid used for?
Glycolic acid works as an exfoliator by loosening the glue that holds dead cells to the skin’s outer surface, the stratum corneum, helping to reveal the younger, fresher cells underneath. “Exfoliation should be a regular part of your skincare routine,” advises consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto. “It gives an instant improvement to the appearance of skin by removing the dull, dry layer of upper skin cells. Superficial exfoliation will not only make the texture of the skin look better, but will also improve age spots and uneven skin tone, as well as allowing better penetration of your serum or moisturiser.” Possessing the smallest size molecules of all the AHAs means that glycolic acid is easily able to penetrate into the skin, so it’s a hugely effective way to improve cellular turnover. Thanks to its ability to penetrate the dermis – the layer of skin beneath the epidermis where collagen is secreted by fibroblast cells – it helps promote collagen synthesis too.
Is glycolic acid suitable for all skin types?
Glycolic acid is effective when used on normal, combination and oily skin, but sensitive skins should be wary of diving straight in, as it can cause irritation. Just as you’d use retinol sparingly to start with, exercise caution when it comes to trying glycolic for the first time. “Start with a low concentration once per week and gradually build up frequency, then build up concentration slowly depending on skin needs and tolerability,” advises consultant dermatologist Dr Zainab Laftah at HCA The Shard.
Seasonality can also impact how well it’s tolerated. “As [glycolic acid] is effectively stripping away the upper layers of skin cells it can make your skin more sensitive to sunshine; using sunscreen is therefore essential,” warns Dr Mahto. Happily, for those trying to navigate the confusing world of pregnancy-safe skincare, glycolic acid (in low concentrations) is on the accepted list of ingredients to use – particularly welcome news if you’re experiencing hormonal dullness or breakouts. If you do find yourself unable to tolerate it, all is not lost: “Lactic acid is a mild gentle chemical exfoliant and a good alternative for those who are unable to tolerate glycolic acid, or have a history of sensitive or dry skin types,” notes Dr Laftah.
What’s the best form of glycolic acid to use?
If you’re new to this AHA, an easy way to incorporate it into your routine is through a cleanser, which won’t come into contact with skin for too long and is quickly washed off. It’s also a good litmus test for sensitivity as glycolic acid is immediately neutralised on contact with water. Once you’ve acclimatised you can move on to leave-on formulations including toners, serums and moisturisers, where concentration will be a little higher. “The ideal concentration used at home is between 8 to 15%,” advises Dr Laftah.
While products like cleansers and toners that contain small amounts can be used daily, most people find once or twice week is sufficient when using anything stronger. Higher concentrations of glycolic acid will naturally yield more intensive results and offer an instant skin glow, but these should only be used by professionals. “Glycolic acid can also be used as a medical-grade chemical peel, only available in clinic, in higher concentrations of 30-70%,” adds Dr Mahto. “It should ideally be started at low concentrations and built up to avoid skin irritation, particularly in pigmented skin.” As well as the concentration, pay attention to the pH of your chosen product; those formulated with a higher pH are done so in order to weaken the acid’s strength, and therefore minimise potential irritation to the skin. If the pH of your product sits between three and four then it is guaranteed that the strength of glycolic is as it is stated on the bottle.
Are there any ingredients you should avoid while using glycolic acid?
Although it can be used seamlessly with other AHAs and BHAs, including pore-refining salicylic acid, there are some standout skincare ingredients that should be avoided while you use glycolic. “Due to the increased risk of skin dryness and inflammation glycolic acid and retinoids should not be used simultaneously,” warns Dr Laftah. If you’re desperate to reap the skin-boosting benefits of both, start using one and work up to tolerance gradually. Once you’ve established that, introduce the other slowly and only use them on alternate days. The two used together at the same time is a recipe for serious irritation, no matter how robust you think your skin is.
Can glycolic acid harm the skin?
Although it’s a gentle exfoliant, as with anything active, overuse can cause damage, particularly to the skin barrier, the skin’s first line of defence against harmful pollutants and pathogens. In the winter months particularly, the skin barrier is often compromised by colder temperatures and fluctuating central heating anyway, so caution against being too overzealous with your glycolic, especially if trying it for the first time. If you have overdone it, you’re likely to experience dryness, flakiness, redness and irritation. “The good news is [that] this is reversible,” says Dr Laftah. “By stopping the chemical exfoliant, hydrating the skin and treating any active inflammation, the skin barrier can be restored.”
“Beautiful ravers” is how Hannah Murray, lead makeup artist for the Chloé show, described the silver strobes of paint sweeping the models’ eyelids in Paris. The brand was one of many that leaned into metallic eye details of all colors for Spring 2023: Batsheva went for blotchy blues, while Dries Van Noten played up chrome gold circling the eye.
FAUX FACIAL PIERCINGS
Suddenly, having more than one ear piercing is nothing to feel edgy about. The Spring 2023 runways were surprisingly in agreement about face piercings and modifications. At Rebecca Minkoff, models wore more common dermal, septum and bridge piercings, while drag-queen and special-effects makeup artist Alexis Stone left no facial skin untouched at Balenciaga, with spikes protruding from cheeks, studs lining eyebrows and even bulging forehead prosthetics.
’70S VOLUME AND CUTS
Hairstyles from the ’70s have once again infiltrated the runway. This season, however, the looks went beyond the Gen-Z revived shag and mullet trends of the last two years: We saw ultimate volume — from rounded natural hair at Susan Alexandra and harsh blunt bobs and bangs at Paul Costello, to sleek Cher-inspired length at Versace and feathered, brow-skimming bangs at Prabal Gurung.
WILD WINGS
There are few eye-makeup staples as storied as the winged cat-eye liner. For Spring 2023, that classic style was turned up to full volume, with thicker wings outstretching beyond the end tip of the brows, and some even reaching towards the hairline. Whether covered in glitter like at Halpern or smudged out for a smoke effect at Off-White, the fullness of the wing was the key.
BARELY-THERE BROWS
If there’s one daring beauty look that pops in and out of vogue with regularity — on the runways and off — it’s bleached eyebrows. And while the full-on bleach look was surely popular across the Spring 2023 shows, we also saw the rise of a less drastic lightened brow, just a shade or two lighter than the model’s natural hair color. Think: less shock value, more your-face-but-better, allowing the brows to blend in with glossy, fresh skin.
3-D MANICURES
What once seemed reserved for only the most tuned-in nail art enthusiasts is now proving to have a place on the hands of just about anyone who wants them. From molding gel bubbles to dangling chains, this season’s runways confirmed that 3-D nail adornments will only become more widespread — whether you’d like to ease in with entry-level designs or opt for the most extravagant.
How to choose a skincare product? For most of us, it begins with trust. Do we believe in the efficacy of the skincare products (and brands) we’re thinking of investing our hard-earned money in? This goes some way towards explaining why doctor-founded skincare brands are having a moment. Given we’ve spent the majority of a year estranged from our facialists and dermatologists, it’s hardly surprising that we’ve sought the same kind of professional expertise and results from our skincare routines.
Online e-tailers like Space NK have continued to see growth in the entire skincare category over the last few months, with high-tech skincare, like doctor brands, leading the way. “We saw customers looking for more high tech solutions when clinics closed,” Suze College, head buyer at Space NK, tells British Vogue. “Investment in at-home tools is one area which continues to trend with our customers, with products like Dr Dennis Gross’s Spectralite Facewear Pro for at-home LED being a popular choice.” Searches for Dr Dennis Gross and Dr Sebagh are up 96 per cent and 60 per cent respectively on the site, while Augustinus Bader is up a huge 1,060 per cent.
Dr Barbara Sturm, whose skincare range is beloved by celebrities and beauty editors alike, says there is a strong argument for putting your money into a doctor-led brand. “Healthy skin and good skincare is all about science,” she says. “It therefore makes sense to buy skincare from a doctor, as the products are [reliably] focused on efficacy and ingredient science.” She started her own brand to cater to her patients’ post-treatment skincare needs, and to ensure they were following an effective regime to enhance in-clinic results.
Of course, they aren’t all made equal. “Doctor-led brands aren’t automatically infused with magic,” she says. “The only thing that sustains a brand is proven results.” With that in mind, British Vogue takes a closer look at 10 of the best doctor-led skincare brands that guarantee good skin results.
Dr Barbara Sturm
With an onus on combatting inflammation in the skin, Dr Sturm’s skincare line is built to heal and foster good skin health. What to pick from the line? The new The Good C Vitamin C Serum comes Hailey Bieber-approved, and you can’t go wrong with the Hyaluronic Acid Serum, either.
Augustinus Bader
Harnessing the power of a patented molecule called TFC8 (or Trigger Factor Complex), and Professor Augustinus Bader’s (world-leading) expertise in stem cell research, this is a high-tech skincare line if ever we saw one. The formulas, which essentially prompt skin cells to work hard in repair and restore mode, are fast becoming cult. Try The Cream (or its Rich counterpart), to see what all the fuss is about.
Lancer
Dr Harold Lancer is a Los Angeles-based dermatologist whose clientele is suitably starry – from Victoria Beckham to Jennifer Lopez, he is responsible for many a luminous visage. His eponymous skincare line includes The Method, a three-step system comprising the Cleanser, Polish, and Nourish, a moisturiser, to help encourage cell renewal for the smoothest skin going.
Dr Dennis Gross
If it’s smooth, glowing skin you’re after, there is a Dr Dennis Gross skincare product to help you make it happen. Opt for the Ferulic + Retinol range if you’re concerned about fine lines or lacklustre skin; the Hyaluronic range for deep hydration; and the C+ Collagen range for brightening. Oh, and you’d be silly not to try the Alpha Beta Universal Peel Pads, which he has rightly become famous for.
111 Skin
Founded by Harley Street cosmetic surgeon, Dr Yannis Alexandrides, 111 Skin was originally launched to offer his patients the right formulas to help their skin heal after treatments. Now it’s a line – loved by everyone from Margot Robbie to Priyanka Chopra – that offers unbeatable sheet masks (we love the Sub-Zero Depuffing Face Masks), as well as the latest Y Theorem Concentrate, a seven-day treatment programme designed to repair the skin barrier and alleviate stress.
MZ Skin
Ocuplastic surgeon and aesthetic doctor, Dr Maryam Zamani’s, skincare line is as chic as they come – check out that blush and gold packaging. It’s also highly effective, and caters to every skin concern, from pigmentation to dullness and dehydration. The emphasis is on a glow – something Dr Zamani herself always emanates – try the Rest & Revive serum for the ultimate overnight treatment, and expect your skin to be radiant by the time your alarm goes off.
Dr Sebagh
The rich and famous love the discreet Dr Sebagh for his injectable tweakments – and his skincare line is also as youth-giving. The whole line is high-performance and filled with active ingredients. Standouts include the Deep Exfoliating Mask, which contains lactic and azelaic acid for fresh, even-toned skin, and the Supreme Maintenance Serum for overall good skin health.
SkinCeuticals
Founded by dermatologist, professor and skincare chemist Dr Sheldon Pinnell in 1997, SkinCeuticals is a staple in many efficacious skincare routines thanks to its medical approach to high-end skincare. Its topical antioxidants, whether CE Ferulic or the newest launch, Silymarin CF, become instant essentials for anyone who tries them.
Best Overall: NARS Cosmetics Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
What We Love: It has nourishing, gentle ingredients that give it a smooth, balm-like quality.
What We Don’t Love: The applicator’s handle is a bit too long for our liking.
This NARS option is one of the most popular eyeshadow primers around, and it’s for good reason. It comes in four different shades, ranging from light to dark — so there’s an option for almost every skin tone. The best part is that it’s super blendable and easy to manipulate, so even if you don’t have a perfect match, a little elbow grease will help get you there. “It felt like a smooth balm, so it was so easy to blend in,” our tester says. “Ultimately, it’s a no-fuss primer that works well.”
One thing we wish we could change: The applicator’s handle. “I would make the handle shorter; it feels really long and too intense for how simple the product is,” she explains. “It feels like half of the packaging is an applicator, so I’d like more product in place of the larger handle.”
Price at time of publish: $45
Size: 0.26 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Number of Shades: 4
Best for Oily Eyelids: Ilia Natural Brightening Eye Primer
What We Love: This eyeshadow primer is derived from natural ingredients and won’t cause irritation for those with sensitive eyes.
What We Don’t Love: It disappears into skin right away.
If you have oily eyelids, you know just how frustrating it is for your eyeshadow to slip right off, minutes after application. This clean eyeshadow primer from ILIA, which uses natural ingredients, is weightless and won’t contribute to slippage. In fact, thanks to botanicals like rosehip oil, arnica, and jojoba, this primer actually soaks up excess oil and offers long-lasting hold. And, as you may have been able to guess, it serves as an illuminating base for makeup that can be worn on its own for a glowy boost or under shadow, but whichever you choose, you can trust that it’ll stay put.
One thing to note: It’s very serum-like, so it blends into the skin right away. While this is a great thing for some, our tester found it a little confusing. “It soaked right into my skin after I applied it, so I wasn’t totally sure if it was still there,” our tester explains. “But, I was surprised to find that it certainly was and it made my eyeshadow look more vibrant and smudge-proof.”
Price at time of publish: $24
Size: 0.14 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Number of Shades: 1
Best for Contact Lens-Wearers: SEPHORA COLLECTION Beauty Amplifier Eye Shadow Primer
What We Love: This eyeshadow primer has been ophthalmologist-tested and proven safe for those with sensitive eyes.
What We Don’t Love: The applicator isn’t very useful.
When you wear contact lenses, you avoid anything that weighs down your eyelids — it’s just plain uncomfortable. Allow us to offer you a solution: This lightweight primer from Sephora. The formula contains chamomile extract to reduce redness and irritation on the lid, so even if you get a little in your lenses, you won’t be in too much pain. Slipping and sliding likely won’t be an issue though, since it’s designed to dry down, stay put, and leave behind a flawless, translucent finish.
Although the applicator tip is easy to use and manipulate, the tester found that it’s better suited for dispensing product, rather than using it to apply the primer directly to the eye. “A little goes a long way, so to avoid using too much I’d recommend tapping a few dots onto a finger and then rubbing it onto your eyelid instead of applying it directly,” she explains.
Price at time of publish: $13
Size: 0.20 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Number of Shades: 1
Best Smoothing: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer
What We Love: The lightweight one-color-fits-all shade is designed to be used on all skin tones.
What We Don’t Love: It goes on very light, so you may need to layer it on to get more coverage.
Rihanna’s beauty line Fenty Beauty is all about inclusivity, and this eyeshadow primer is no different. The product has a light pink tone that dries down clear all skin tones. According to our tester, it has a creamy, off-white color when you first put it on, but then, over time, it blends into your natural skin tone. “I couldn’t even see it after a few minutes,” she explains. “I didn’t notice it underneath my eyeshadow either.”
The weightless formula offers light coverage, which means you might need to layer on some more to get your lids completely covered. “It took a little more product than I thought I’d need, but it went on smoothly, no matter how much I added,” our tester says. “Regardless, after applying a hefty amount of eyeshadow, I didn’t notice any creasing and barely felt like I had anything on my eyelids.”
Price at time of publish: $22
Size: 0.27 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Number of Shades: 1
Best Brightening: Rare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primer
What We Love: This no-fuss primer brightens eyelids and acts like a glue for eyeshadow.
What We Don’t Love: It only comes in one shade.
Using this eyeshadow primer is as effortless as it gets. A little goes a long way — just a dab is all you need to brighten and prep your eyelids. It goes on thick and creamy, but once you buff it out (your finger is the perfect tool), it turns velvety smooth and powdery, making it the perfect base for pigment to stick to. “It smoothed easily and provided consistent coverage across my entire eyelid,” our tester explains. “The tinted peachy color immediately brightened up my eye area, disguising the bluish veins I have on my lids.”
That’s not all, thanks to its unique tube shape, you won’t have to worry about it rolling around your bathroom sink countertop. “Tubes usually roll around my vanity if not propped up against something,” our tester says. “This tube’s flat edge ensures that it won’t roll onto the floor or potentially break.”
Price at time of publish: $18
Size: 0.10 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Number of Shades: 1
Best Hydrating: MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer
What We Love: The primer’s gel-like formula is loaded with skin-loving ingredients and goes on completely clear.
What We Don’t Love: The product is entirely made of plastic.
If you’re looking for a completely clear and totally clean eyeshadow primer, consider the Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer from Milk Makeup your match. Despite being loaded with skin-loving ingredients like aloe water, niacinamide, hemp-derived cannabis seed extract, and hyaluronic acid, the formula is crystal clear — and dries down that way too. “It adds no color to the eyelid, that way you know the only color showing up will be the color of the eyeshadow and nothing else,” our tester explains. “Plus, the product is very light; it’s the perfect medium of creaminess and liquidity.”
Our tester loved the fact that the product was entirely cruelty-free, but if she could change anything, it would be to ensure that the packaging used less plastic. “This product itself is perfect, I just wish the bottle could be made of recycled plastic bottles to eliminate waste,” she adds.
Price at time of publish: $32
Size: 0.29 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Number of Shades: 1
Best Waterproof: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer
What We Love: The primer comes in several shades, including color-correcting hues like blue and orange.
What We Don’t Love: It can feel thick upon application.
Most other eyeshadow primers on this list are subtle, skin-colored shades. This one from Laura Mercier, on the other hand, has a few unexpected ones. It comes in a range of beiges, plus a color-correcting blue and orange. The pigmented options were designed to help reduce the appearance of dark circles, spots, and redness to create a more even base for eyeshadow. If the idea of a tint turns you off, don’t worry, our tester swears it’s undetectable underneath eyeshadow. “I was worried when the product left a tint behind, but once I applied a light shadow, it wasn’t visible at all,” she admits.
If there’s anything to keep in mind, it’s that a little goes a long way. If you apply too much, like our tester did, it can feel thick. But, after a little buffing and blending, she noted that it worked just fine.
Price at time of publish: $45
Size: 0.18 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Number of Shades: 6
Best Longwearing: Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don’t Stray Eyeshadow Primer
What We Love: This formula has anti-aging properties and even works on the undereye area.
What We Don’t Love: There is only one shade.
Noticing your under-eye concealer fading by the end of the day? Try using this long-lasting primer from Benefit. The dual-action formula can be applied both on the eyelids and the under-eye area, preventing eyeshadow color from fading and concealer from creasing. It melts into the skin with ease and dries down to a matte finish.
What’s more, it is also infused with sodium hyaluronate to help hydrate the skin, along with vitamins C and E to help diminish signs of aging — meaning it’s effective as both a makeup and a skincare product.
Aside from the impressive formula, it comes with a wand that makes blending a breeze. “The wand gives you options: I could either apply it with my finger, a brush, or straight onto my eye,” our tester, Senior Beauty Commerce Editor Shannon Bauer shares. “It has just enough pigment to cover dark spots and redness, but not so much that it looks cakey or requires a perfect color match.”
Price at time of publish: $43
Size: 0.33 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Number of Shades: 1
Best Clean Formula: bareMinerals Prime Time Eyelid Primer
What We Love: This eyeshadow primer combats greasy eyelids by soaking up excess oil.
What We Don’t Love: We wish it was bigger.
Excess oil is one of the main culprits behind eye makeup slippage. So, if you have oily eyelids, check out this primer from Bare Minerals — it’s formulated specifically to prevent oil from ruining your eye makeup. According to our tester, the primer goes on watery, but once it dries, it leaves behind a smooth, silky base for eyeshadow. “To my surprise, it covered all of my little eyelid creases,” she says. Besides preventing any creasing from occurring, the primer also helps eyeshadow pigment stay intense and true-to-color all day long. We especially love that it’s oil- and fragrance-free, as well as allergy- and dermatologist-tested, so you don’t have to worry about irritation.
Price at time of publish: $19
Size: 0.1 fl oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Number of Shades: 1
What to Keep in Mind
Lasting Power
The main purpose of using an eyeshadow primer is to make your eyeshadow last longer, so an effective primer shouldn’t budge for 12 to 24 hours. The consistency of the product can also play into its lasting power. If a primer is more tacky, it can provide a ton of grip for the eyeshadow and keep the shadow in place longer, acting like a glue. No matter what the occasion is, how long you intend on wearing eye makeup, or how dramatic your eye look is, the goal is to avoid needing touch ups and a long-lasting primer (like Benefit Stay Don’t Stray Eyeshadow Primer) will ensure this.
Color Payoff
On top of keeping your eyeshadow in place and preventing creasing or smudging, a good eyeshadow primer will also maintain the color of your eyeshadow or make it pop even more. Look for a primer that will increase the vibrancy of your shadow, like Ruby Kisses 24 HR Eyeshadow Magic Primer.
Formula
According to cosmetic chemist Julie Pefferman, primers for eye makeup are pretty similar to concealers and other face makeup. “They’re usually water-resistant and offer long-wear capabilities all while ensuring safety and comfort for the eyes,” she explains. When it comes to specific ingredients, Pefferman says that in order to get a crease-less, smudge-proof canvas, silicones are the way to go. “Silicones help the eyeshadow adhere to the eyelid and offer a ton of spreadability without weighing anything down,” she says. “Many of my esthetician friends swear by the NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, which makes sense given that the percentage of silicones makes it super spreadable and gives it that long-lasting film,” she shares. But, if you’re looking for a silicone-free option, she recommends the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer, which works just as well, just without the added ingredients.
From the bee-stung red lips to her trademark platinum curls, Marilyn Monroe was – and still is – the ultimate bombshell and beauty icon, who had a penchant for glamour that resonates with so many of us today. As the Marilyn biopic Blonde divides opinion on Netflix, British Vogue takes a look at the star’s Old Hollywood beauty routine.
She stayed out of the sun
“I’m personally opposed to a deep tan because I like to feel blonde all over,” explained Monroe of why she stayed out of the sun – despite the fact it was in “vogue in California”. Forget the bronzers and fake tans many of us swear by today, she was all about the alabaster look.
She liked a very specific shade of blonde
If you’ve ever wondered what hair hue Monroe requested when she graced the colourist’s chair, you probably wouldn’t guess it was “pillow case white”. According to the author Pamela Keogh, Monroe had her hair bleached every three weeks with a roster of hairstylists including Pearl Porterfield (who also tended to Jean Harlow’s pale blonde hair) and Kenneth Battelle. To avoid washing it too much (which can affect the colour), she swore by a makeshift dry shampoo – Johnson’s Baby Powder – applying every two days to keep her hair looking fresh.
A nifty make-up artist’s trick for plump lips
How to create the full, pouty lips Marilyn was so well known for? A clever use of lipsticks, no less. Her make-up artist would apply up to five different red hues – darker, plummy reds on the outside, and lighter towards the inside – to create the illusion of dimension and plumpness. A clever tip that many make-up artists still use today.
She knew the importance of sleep
A woman who enjoyed her sleep, Monroe took between five and 10 hours of shut-eye a night in a wide single bed. On Sunday? “[It’s] my one day of total leisure. I sometimes take two hours to wake up, luxuriating in every last moment of drowsiness,” she said in an interview with Pageant magazine.
What she wore to bed
Monroe famously didn’t wear clothes to bed, stating that pyjamas and “creepy nightgowns” disturbed her sleep. What she did wear, however, was five drops of Chanel No.5, a perfume that she is also said to have added into her ice baths.
Yes… ice baths
While Wim Hof and numerous athletes have since popularised ice-cold showers and baths, Marilyn was well ahead of the curve. It is said that she used to take ice-cold baths to keep her skin firm and tight.
How she looked after her skin
Monroe joined the likes of Audrey Hepburn in regularly seeing Hungarian dermatologist, Erno Laszlo. Suffering from dry skin (she is rumoured to have obsessively washed her face up to five times a day to ward off breakouts), Laszlo prescribed the actress a rigorous skincare routine, which differed depending on the time of day and occasion. Her evening skincare routine began with an oil cleanse, using the Erno Laszlo Active Phelityl Oil, then she applied the Active Phelityl Cream and washed it off. She finished with the Controlling Lotion. All of these products are still available today.
Get the Monroe glow
While today we go wild for highlighter, Monroe got her glow in another, perhaps less tempting, way. Deploying the K-beauty trend for “slugging”, she would apply layers of Vaseline under her foundation to help skin catch the light. She was also a fan of cold cream, like Pond’s, and other iconic products we still use today, including Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream and Nivea Creme, and even olive oil, which she also reportedly applied to her skin to offset dryness.
She wasn’t a natural exercise fanatic
“I don’t count rhythmically like the exercise people on the radio; I couldn’t stand exercise if I had to feel regimented about it,” said Monroe about her approach to working out. Many of us will relate. Instead, she enjoyed a “simple bust-firming routine” which involved lifting two, five-pound weights above her head 15 times, moving from a “spread-eagle arm position”. She would do it bedside until she was tired each morning.
The deal values the total Tom Ford enterprise at $2.8 billion.
After many weeks of speculation and talks, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. has signed an agreement to acquire the Tom Ford brand. The deal will establish ELC, which was already a longstanding partner of the brand, as the sole owner of the Tom Ford brand and all its intellectual property.
The deal values the total enterprise at $2.8 billion. The amount to be paid by ELC for the acquisition is approximately $2.3 billion, net of a $250 million payment to ELC at closing from Marcolin S.p.A. ELC expects to fund this transaction through a combination of cash, debt and $300 million in deferred payments to the sellers that become due beginning in July 2025.
Under the agreement, Tom Ford, founder and CEO of Tom Ford International, will continue to serve as the brand’s creative visionary after closing and through the end of calendar 2023. Domenico De Sole, chairman of Tom Ford International, will stay on as a consultant until that same time.
The deal will also extend and expand the Tom Ford brand’s longstanding relationship with Ermenegildo Zegna N.V. to include a long-term license for all men’s and women’s fashion as well as accessories and underwear. As part of this transaction, Zegna will acquire operations of the Tom Ford fashion business necessary to perform its obligations as licensee. ELC and Zegna will align closely on the creative direction to continue building on the luxury positioning of the Tom Ford brand.
The brand’s current license with Marcolin, one of the leading global eyewear manufacturers, will also be substantially extended.
Positioning Tom Ford Beauty for Further Growth
Tom Ford Beauty, first introduced by ELC in 2006, is a luxury beauty brand with a highly differentiated collection of fragrance, makeup, and skin care. Established with an initial luxury fragrance, Tom Ford Beauty has since grown into one of the most successful and aspirational beauty brands in the world.
“We are incredibly proud of the success Tom Ford Beauty has achieved in luxury fragrance and makeup and its dedication to creating desirable, high-quality products for discerning consumers around the world,” said Fabrizio Freda, president and chief executive officer, The Estée Lauder Companies. “As an owned brand, this strategic acquisition will unlock new opportunities and fortify our growth plans for Tom Ford Beauty. It will also further help to propel our momentum in the promising category of luxury beauty for the long-term, while reaffirming our commitment to being the leading pure player in global prestige beauty.”
Tom Ford Beauty is strongly positioned in the luxury fragrance and makeup categories, areas that are expected to outperform industry growth over the coming years. This strategic acquisition supports the next level of growth for Tom Ford Beauty in key markets for luxury and online channels globally.
The brand has delivered impressive success, including growing strong double-digit net sales on a compound annual basis from fiscal years 2012 through 2022. In ELC’s fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, Tom Ford Beauty achieved nearly 25% net sales growth as compared to the prior year, and over the next couple of years, ELC expects that the brand will achieve annual net sales of one billion dollars. The brand continues to have strong momentum across channels and key markets resulting in a prestige fragrance ranking in the top 15 in the United States and top 10 in China. The brand has received over twenty awards from The Fragrance Foundation.
This top-reviewed concealer is the game-changer you need in your beauty routine.
Does the perfect concealer exist? That depends on your skin type, the time of year, and the climate. If you are looking for a great beauty product that’s actually affordable, it might seem like an impossible task. However, 96,500+ people may disagree with that sentiment.
The Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer has 96,500+ 5-star Amazon reviews and 1,900+ 5-star Ulta reviews. If you’re hesitant to try another new beauty product, this price tag is too good to pass up. You can get this bestselling concealer for only $7. Nope, that’s not a typo.
You can use this beloved product to conceal fine lines, blemishes, redness, and dark circles, according to the brand. Or you can get a darker shade and use this to contour. If you’ve tried everything, you might as well check out this amazing deal. For $7, what do you have to lose? The (the appearance of) some under eye bags.
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer, Brightener
This concealer has up to 12 hours of hydrating wear, according to the brand. It’s crease-resistant and you can use it to 1. conceal 2. color correct or 3. to contour. This applicator makes blending it so easy to blend your look and there are 18 beautiful shades to choose from.
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer Reviews
A shopper declared, “Holy grail concealer!!!! HELLO where have you been all my life? How have I slept on this drugstore product for so long?! It gets glowing reviews everywhere and now I know why. Started using concealer about 6/7 years ago and never in all those years found something that either matched my skin tone or didn’t crease and look awful – or both. From the high end to the organic to the low end, never found it. Enter this simple product and the quest is over. Formulation is light and creasing is barely noticeable on me even without setting.”
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“I was the scientist behind it. It started in my garage.” Eric Pressly is talking about Olaplex, the cult-favorite haircare brand credited with saving damaged, over-processed hair. Olaplex introduced us to the idea of “bond-building” haircare—products that can prevent or repair damage by strengthening the bonds that make up our hair’s internal structure. And now, years after kicking off one of the most successful haircare brands on the market, Pressly is back at it with a brand of his own, Epres, and new products that will be coveted by those seeking hair nirvana. “It’s the best bond builder,” says Pressly.
“We’re a trustworthy, science-led brand. So what we say we can do, we prove it. And we do it,” says Pressly. “We make claims about being the best in the space, and you can back it up with the performance of the product.” So what are the products that the newly minted Epres is launching? The first one is the Professional Bond Repair, a salon-only product that helps keep hair strong during chemical services—such as bleaching, perming, and relaxing—without disturbing the pH levels, a common factor that results in hair damage. “A lot of damage that people have is from the bleaching in the salon,” says Pressly. “And if you can stop it before it starts, then you’re in a much better position to deal with it going forward.” The Professional Bond Repair is also formulated without acid, which means professionals don’t have to be too concerned with precise measuring when they use it during chemical treatments.
