Welcome to our Holy Grail Beauty Awards—a story that has never felt more necessary than in 2022.
The beauty industry has grown so much in the last few years, and the amount of new brands, products, and treatments to choose from is exciting but also absolutely overwhelming. What mascara should I buy?! Does this device actually work?! Is this eye cream deserving of the hype?! This is where we, the Cosmo beauty editors, can lend our expertise. Our team has a combined 30+ years of experience reviewing beauty products and treatments, so we’re genuine pros at cutting through the BS and finding the stuff that really truly works. These awards—an edit of the best of the beauty industry right now—are the culmination of months of swiping, swatching, and testing. It contains the 190 holy-grail-status products, tools, and treatments that we swear by right now. So next time you’re unsure of what to add to your cart or put on your face, let this story be your guide.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Skincare / Makeup / Hair / Body / Scents / Nails / Tools / Pro Treatments
All our favorite zit zappers, glow boosters, and skin smoothers.
“ScarJo’s The Outset is an allover standout—especially its eye cream, a godsend for minimizing fine lines and dark circles.” —Lauren Balsamo, deputy beauty director
“It was a surprise to see this makeup brand launch skincare, but this glow-boosting serum proves they clearly know what’s up.”
—Julee Wilson, beauty director
“Have you been waiting for a mask that fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation *and* prevents breakouts? This. Is. It.” —JW
“This powerful cleanser de-gunks pores, controls oil production, reduces acne-causing bacteria, and minimizes inflammation too. A bona fide multitasker.” —LB
“True to its name, this fluffy, cloudlike formula cocoons skin in a layer of lightweight moisture for all-day plumpness.” —LB
“Oil plus SPF sounds like a nightmare, but trust when I say this is super lightweight and hydrating. It wears like serum but protects like sunscreen.” —Chloe Metzger, deputy beauty director
“We can’t all be Shay Mitchell and get regular facials with Shani Darden, but we can use the latter’s lactic acid serum and the results are just as good?” —LB
“The blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA acids in this leave-on peel is your dull, congested skin’s worst enemy.” —Sami Roberts, beauty assistant
“This little retinoid is the only OTC product that’s ever helped my hormonal acne without destroying my skin. It took a few (very slow) months, but my level-10 zits are now a casual level 3—and I’ll take it.” —CM
“My desert-island skincare product, this SPF protects skin with zinc oxide and antioxidants while minimizing redness and discoloration with sheer, light-reflecting pigments.” —LB
“Sign me up for anything that makes me look damn near flawless when I wake up. This overnight mask uses the power of cocoa butter and camu camu fruit to add tons of moisture to your skin while you’re catching your beauty zzz’s!” —JW
“Finding a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t make you look like Casper the Friendly Ghost is a challenge to say the least. So when you do find one, never let it go. Precisely why this one will be at hand’s reach forever and ever.” —JW
“Like a multivitamin for your face, this hydrating toner plumps skin and strengthens its protective barrier with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and three types of ceramides.” —CM
“We are obsessed with any and all advice from skincare guru Cori Zeichner and board-certified derm Joshua Zeichner. So when the husband-and-wife duo launched a product line, we knew it would be good. This blemish-busting formula (it can be used as a full face mask or a targeted spot treatment) was an instant fave.” —JW
“Three things I require from my pimple patch: (1) that it’s basically invisible, (2) that it stays on all day, and (3) that it’s free from any irritating actives. These hydrocolloid patches check every one of my finicky boxes—and all for $6.” —CM
“Most gel moisturizers leave my face feeling sticky with product, but not this fast-absorbing one from Neutrogena. My skin instantly drinks up the hyaluronic-acid-spiked formula for all-day hydration.” —SR
“This is one of those products you just have to try for yourself to get the hype, but I’ll do my best to explain: It’s like smothering your face in a rich, melty frosting that makes dry-as-hell skin feel shockingly soft and smooth.” —LB
“Putting oil on your face is the right move when locking in all the benefits of serums and creams. This one is packed with rose-hip oil, so it’s also going to help clear up hyperpigmentation. Amen!”
—JW
“Peptides, mushroom extract, and rice protein in this cream are *exactly* what your neck and chest need for max smoothness and tightness.”
—SR
“Clarins is already known for its iconic double face serum, so the launch of this eye-specific formulation—which firms, de-puffs, hydrates, and revitalizes—was bound to be just as epic.” —JW
“One of the few skincare products I’ve tried that actually gives instant results, these cooling and plumping patches refresh tired under-eyes in legit 15 minutes.”
—LB
“I’m typically not a fan of face scrubs, but the little exfoliating beads in this formula are so fine and gentle that they never irritate my skin or make it look red or blotchy.” —LB
“Use this serum on clean skin as the first step in your morning routine and let the vitamin C and niacinamide protect your skin from free radicals throughout the day.” —LB
“My skin is like a sleep-deprived toddler, and this gentle serum is the only thing that’ll calm it TF down, thanks to a mix of soothing aloe, rice milk, and honey.” —CM
“Make this the first step in your new and improved skincare routine. After washing your face, it’s the boost of hydration (via two forms of hyaluronic acid and skin-mimicking ceramides) that you need before layering on everything else.” —JW
“On days when I’m too lazy to do a full face wash, I reach for this one-step micellar water. Just saturate a cotton pad with the liquid, swipe it over your face, and your makeup and sunscreen will disappear.” —SR
“I love spritzing my face throughout the day with a yummy mist. This one is the yummiest since it’s actually a serum that adds hydration and plenty of glow. Bonus points since it also works over makeup.” —JW
“If you aren’t already double-cleansing, then let this balm be your reminder to get to it. It’s a luxe avocado- and olive-fruit-based cleanser that removes makeup like a dream.” —JW
The very best for your eyes, lips, cheeks, and more.
“My number one requirement when it comes to eyeshadow palettes is wearability, and this collection of warm matte and shimmer shades (they’re truly perfect for everyday) passes the test. It’s compact enough to fit in the palm of my hand too.” —SR
“This is no-makeup makeup at its finest, folks. Just warm a little bit between your fingers and then tap it on skin—it can be worn alone or layered with makeup—for a hint of deliciously dewy color.” —LB
“Like a brightener, concealer, and corrector in one, it neutralizes shadows and discoloration in seconds. Who needs sleep or a vacay, am I right?” —CM
“I feel full-blown fancy when I swipe on one of these lippies. The ultra-saturated, head-turning hues are just as iconic as the brand that makes them.” —JW
“Say hello to your new go-to foundation for supremely glowy skin. It blends like a dream and is easy to build for times when you want more coverage.” —JW
“This immediately mattifies my oily skin without leaving my face looking cakey or dried out—plus it plays nice with my highlighter and bronzers.” —SR
“Even nonexistent brows—hi, mine—will look a zillion times thicker and fuller after 30 seconds of filling them in with this silky, long-lasting pencil.” —CM
“After wriggling on two coats of this volumizing mascara, I proceeded to spend the rest of the day staring at my come-hither lashes in every reflective surface in my house.” —CM
“When you’ve got rosacea like I do, you need a tinted moisturizer that does more than just whisper, ‘I’m here.’ Enter: my favorite formula from Smashbox, which evens out my skin’s redness without looking makeup-y.” —CM
“It’s like a liquid and a pencil liner had a very cool baby. I love the way it glides on but then stays perfectly in place even when I’m running around or sweating.” —JW
“Leave it to Laura Mercier to transform its tinted moisturizer magic into a blush. A little goes a long way with this hydrating and ultra-blendable pick. Plus, it comes in 14 beautiful hues!” —JW
“When I’m REALLY doing my makeup, like for a friend’s wedding or special event, this is my go-to. The medium-coverage liquid sets to a soft matte finish that controls shine but isn’t overly drying—and most importantly, the transfer-proof formula lasts for up to 24 hours too.” —LB
“I’ve been wearing this concealer as a foundation. The full-coverage matte formula hides all my dark spots and blends like a dream, so most of the time, it’s all I need.”
—JW
“This is the least intimidating contour product I’ve tried. On one end is a creamy color that’s easy to swipe on and build, on the other is a brush that makes blending and buffing so easy.” —LB
“Add a few drops of this serum-like highlighter to your body lotion to give your skin a dose of illumination, or dab along your cheekbones to catch every ounce of light that comes your way.” —JW
“The exact opposite of the bronzer you wore in high school, this lightweight liquid gives skin just the right amount of warmth (and zero shimmery orange effect) for a realistic-looking glow.” —LB
“If you’re going to spend time on a sanity-defying cat eye, you might as well use a liquid liner that gives back. This one is filled with conditioning peptides to help encourage lash growth each time you draw it on.” —CM
“Gotta love when you can tame and shape your brows while also giving them the nourishment they need. This gel formula is fortified with plant extracts and peptides—the perfect combo for your healthiest brows ever.” —JW
“Your dark circles are no match for this concealer. The ultra-creamy full-coverage formula instantly hides shadows, while a dose of turmeric helps brighten up discoloration with time.” —LB
“I was stuck on matte lippies until I tried this collection of high-shine hues. They give a good glisten without overdoing it and are sheer to medium coverage.” —JW
“There are very few palettes that I use every single color of, but this is one of them. From a fiery orange to a shimmery light blue, these hues aren’t for the timid—but also aren’t too wild for anyone wanting to give their look a bit of wow!” —JW
“Chances are you’ve seen this gloss all over your Instagram feed—it went viral quickly after it launched. The universally flattering tint is lovely, and the combo of baobab-seed oil and camellia oil make it ultra nourishing.” —JW
“A big shout-out to all my oily-skin friends, because this one’s for you. Mist this setting spray all over your face before you walk out the door for shine-free skin and makeup that doesn’t budge or smudge.”
—SR
“Part primer, part illuminator, part hydrating serum, this three-in-one formula can be worn alone or under makeup to plump and smooth skin while creating a soft-focus glow.” —LB
“Obsessed does not begin to describe my love for this lip stain—it applies like a tinted gloss, moisturizes like a balm, and slowly fades down to a matte stain that sticks around until dinner.” —CM
“I love using oil-blotting sheets but hate the single-use factor, which is why I’ve fully converted to zapping shine with this genius little tool. Just roll it over your face to absorb excess oil, and when you’re done? Stash it in your bag so you can use it again and again.” —SR
“Behold: the most effortless matte lipstick ever. The nondrying formula lasts for hours and doesn’t flake or fade. There are 12 colors in the collection and each has a precision tip with a built-in sharpener.” —JW
“You know the wet-skin look that’s been trending on IG? This twist-up stick can help you score it in seconds. A few quick swipes give skin a dewy-as-hell gloss-like glow.” —LB
“It was love at first sight (pun intended) when I first popped these bbs on my lids. They are lightweight, pretrimmed, and the most natural-looking falsies I have ever rocked.”
—JW
Whether you’ve got stick-straight strands or 4c curls, we’ve got you covered.
“Unlike most volumizing products, this works its magic while you’re still in the shower. Massage it through shampooed hair, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse and style as usual for major thickness and body.” —SR
“This is literally healthy hair vibes in a can. It leaves my curly updos and sleek blowouts looking unbelievably glossy and soft, like I just stepped out of a hair commercial.” —CM
“I spray this aloe-enriched conditioner all over my hair and scalp before putting on my bonnet. Come morning, my Afro is super fresh and hydrated.” —JW
“The best air-dry cream should make it look like you didn’t actually air-dry, and this does just that. Run a little bit through damp hair for softness and shine.” —LB
“I went a whopping eight months without a haircut because of this lotion. It uses argan oil and plant proteins to seal your hair cuticles and minimize breakage, making split ends disappear.” —LB
"You know those dry shampoos that somehow do absolutely nothing? Yeah, meet the opposite of that BS. This heavy-duty dry shampoo soaks up all of my third-day grease while leaving my roots smelling like a tropical vacay.” —CM
“Whether your hair needs oil all the time (*raises hand*) or just sometimes, this plant oil-based bb is the way to go. It is silicone-free and works great as a hot oil treatment.” —JW
“There are a million co-washes to choose from, so the fact that this one snagged an award is quite a feat. It really helps keep your curls hydrated while cleansing your hair at the same damn time.” —JW
“Fragile hair types, ditch whatever shampoo and conditioner you’re currently using and replace it with this duo ASAP. They repair existing damage and boost hair’s elasticity to make strands less likely to snap, break, and shed when styling.” —LB
“Whatever color you decide to experiment with (anything in the red family is my color of choice) from these box dyes will leave your hair looking soo vibrant and shiny.” —SR
“Just like you need to wear SPF every day, you need to make sure you’re using a heat protectant on your hair if a hot tool is coming anywhere near it. This serum even protects your precious strands from the sun’s UV damage.” —JW
"Healthy hair growth requires a healthy scalp. Enter: this exfoliating shampoo, which uses salicylic acid to help break down clogged hair follicles, while the thickening conditioner helps bulk up the strands you do have with strengthening amino acids.” —CM
“If you’ve got color or chemical treated hair, this is your new BFF. In just minutes (#legit) it can help add back strength and suppleness to your oh-so-tried mane. Add this to your routine stat.”
—JW
“Calling all my fine-to-medium curl folks out there—this leave-in will keep your curls moisturized and defined without completely weighing them down. Please send selfies my way.” —CM
“Shout-out to coconut oil and prickly pear cactus extract, two ingredients that will make your hair soft and shiny and lay down your unwanted flyaways with just a few rakes of this serum through your roots and length.” —SR
“A few spritzes give hair *just* the right amount of texture, grip, and soft hold for a modern beachy wave look.”
—LB
“Since DevaCurl’s recent relaunch and product reformulation, I’ve been loving this curl cream. It’s free of fragrance, silicones, and heavy oils, making it a perfect one-and-done cream for fine curls, or a moisturizing base for coarse curls.” —CM
“This scalp oil made with red and brown seaweed and kelp extract is a like a warm fuzzy hug right to the dome. My scalp tends to get dry pretty often, so I use this lightweight pick three to four times a week.” —JW
“Until I discovered this scalp scrub my roots spent most of its life bogged down by excess oil and product residue. I love that this treatment gets rids of it all so I can start fresh on wash days.” —SR
“Even though these are formulated without heavy ingredients, they still give your curls the hydration they need thanks to a dose of coconut water (the lightweight, yet still moisturizing, version of coconut oil).” —CM
“My fine hair loooooves this wash day duo. They gently cleanse and lightly condition while giving thin strands a major boost in the thickness department.” —LB
Kérastase Chroma Absolu Shampoo for Fine to Medium Color-Treated Hair
“Any shade of color-treated hair—from platinum blonde to chocolate brown—can benefit from using this shampoo and conditioner. It’s designed to repair damage (an inevitable side effect of dyeing and bleaching) and preserve your color for max richness and vibrancy.” —LB
“I can’t imagine not using this pre-poo treatment before washing my hair. I’m hooked! It’s packed with Indian Ayurvedic oils, herbs, and flowers that prep your strands for everything comes after (aka washing, conditioning and styling).” —JW
“I’m in love with these clips—I slip them around my hairline to hold back my blowout while doing my makeup, and I’ll even wear them on their own as a statement clip in an updo.” —CM
“Whether your hair is color-treated or all-natural, this gloss can give it that fresh-from-the-salon look. There’s a clear version that amps up shine, a purple one for brightening blonde tones, and a blue one for neutralizing brassiness in brunettes and red heads.” —LB
Your smoothest, softest, baby angel skin starts right here.
“Finally, a lotion that’s deeply moisturizing but lightweight enough that it’s not a sticky menace to my sheets.” —LB
“Roughness and bumps don’t stand a chance against the lemon peel, hibiscus flower acid, and AHAs in this scrub.” —SR
“All the things you want for your face—hydration, brightness, and smoothness—this does for your body in a luxe serum.” —JW
“This isn’t one of those harsh formulas that leaves you feeling like a shriveled-up raisin. It deep-cleans without stripping thanks to shea butter and cica.” —LB
“We’re all washing our hands about a trillion times a day. Just make sure you’re following up with a hand cream like this one—made with über-hydrating shea butter and coconut oil.” —JW
“It helps dull, blah skin look a little bit glowier every time you step out of the shower.” —CM
“Curly hair on my head? Great. Curly hair that manifests ingrowns all over my body? Evil. This roll-on serum keeps them in check.” —CM
“I love this body SPF for beach days and outdoor workouts. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you won’t sweat it off seconds after you put it on—plus, it’s made with zinc oxide so it’s gentle on skin too.” —LB
“Made with 97 percent organic ingredients, including energizing spearmint oil and ground coffee, this scrubby bar soap is the perfect pick-me-up for early mornings.”
—LB
“This waterless powdered hand soap is a game changer when you’re traveling. Tear open the packet, pour the powder in your hands, then add some water to create a fluffy lather.” —LB
“Yer girl is one sweaty, smelly queen whose pits defy the laws of most deodorants. But magically, this one kept me fresh and (relatively) dry all day—a true feat over here.”
—CM
“I’d almost given up on finding a natural deodorant that didn’t wear off or clump up after an hour. Just two spritzes of this spray-on deo (with an ozone-friendly nitrogen propellant, btw) keeps me fresh even on the grossest days.” —SR
“This salicylic acid–spiked body cream is the only cream that helps smooth my bumpy arms and legs without leaving me feeling sticky or tacky—which, IYKYK.” —CM
“Unlike the blotchy, streaky self-tanners of my youth, this formula transitions from a pearly colored formula to a gold as you rub it on and builds gradually with each layer.” —SR
“My skin just soaks up moisturizer and I usually have to reapply after a few hours. But not with this bb! The trifecta of Undaria seaweed, shea butter, and ceramides keeps my skin hydrated for hours and hours and hours.” —JW
“This nutrient-packed oil has been smoothing skin and fading scars and stretch marks for 35 years. Yup, it’s that damn good!” —JW
“I’m a grown woman who is obsessed with baths and I’m not ashamed to say it. That obsession is only heightened when the water is laced with these yummy salts. The hibiscus and jasmine melt my stress away.” —JW
“Honestly, I kind of looked forward to shaving my legs once I started using this cream (I know; wild). It’s thick, rich, and hella moisturizing, and it really leaves my skin feeling like silk after rinsing off.”
—CM
“Nivea is an OG brand that knows just what skin needs—like a good cleanse without stripping your skin of moisture. This creamy wash does just that and more. Plus, it is clutch for folks with sensitive skin.” —JW
“Um, this is the closest you’ll ever feel to fresh-from-the-womb skin as an adult. Shea butter, cocoa butter, and olive oil are swirled with a mega-dose of calming CBD to make you feel blissfully smooth and soft, like a swaddled bb after a bath.” —CM
“The most awesome thing about these pads is that they are made with essential oil build in that give a cool and all-day-fresh feeling. Can’t beat it!” —JW
“These tampons never ever leak—plus, the plastic wrapper won’t tear or get ripped (no matter how long it’s sitting in the bottom of your bag).” —LB
“Besides the fact that I’ve saved a fortune not buying tampons, this little cup is actually super comfortable and highly sustainable. Good for my body and the Earth!” —JW
“Come for the luxe coconut scent and stay for the cocktail of plant oils that keep skin soothed and hydrated, whether you wax, shave, or just let nature do its thing.”
—SR
“These wipes are great for giving yourself a quick refresh after a workout or a day at the beach. They’re fragrance-free, pH-balanced, and approved by gynos—all musts, IMO.” —LB
“This multitasking cream is packed with aloe vera and chamomile to soothe inflammation—whether it’s from chafing, razor burn, or ~spicier~ activities.” —SR
“PSA: You shouldn’t be using your body wash to wash your lady bits. What should you use instead. THIS! A gentle and fragrance-free vaginal wash that is specifically made for the PH balance down there.” —JW
Everything you need to be the best-smelling person in your friend group.
“One sniff and I was hooked. This new iteration of Armani’s My Way is a fresh and floral-forward take on the original with addictive notes of tuberose, orange blossom, and vanilla.” —JW
“A warm, subtly spicy scent that’s ideal for days and nights when all you want to do is be your coziest self curled up on the couch.” —SR
“Like being enveloped in a parfait, this fresh scent uses hints of pear, strawberry, and honeysuckle to leave you smelling light and sweet—not heavy and cloying.” —CM
“The apple notes in this fruity fragrance make me feel instantly happier and uplifted, ideal if you’re trying to channel spring vibes all year long.” —SR
“I’ve burned through three of these candles and I’m currently working on my fourth. The rosebud, peony, and pear create a lovely atmosphere on super-long WFH days.” —JW
“Rose extract, bergamot, and heliotrope come together to create a soft floral scent that’s a little bit warm, a little bit powdery, and a whole lot wearable.” —LB
“This is one of those spicy scents that can make day-three hair and stained leggings feel like straight-up lingerie.” —CM
“A few dabs of this oil behind my ears and on my wrist creates an addictive warm floral vibe. Also try adding it to any unscented lotion.”
—JW
“Made with pear and lotus flower fragrance oils and cane sugar-derived alcohol, this fruity floral is as clean and green as they come.” —LB
“You’ll be flipping your hair more than usual to get a whiff of this citrus-meets-floral scent. It’s also clutch between wash days.” —JW
Your DIY mani-pedi game deserves all this goodness.
“Enzymes and oils work together to smooth skin and gently dissolve calluses. It’s the team effort my dry hands and heels really need.” —SR
“Calling all lazy people: These zodiac stickers will take even the grubbiest nails from boring to pro-looking with a few seconds of sticking and a top coat.” —CM
“Proof that clean polish is just as dope as the conventional kind! These go on smooth and the colors are killer.” —JW
“Not only do these reusable press-ons have the absolute coolest design, they also adhere to nails with nontoxic, medical-grade glue, so they’ll never pop off before you’re ready to remove them.” —JW
“If you’ve never used a plant-based nail polish remover, now’s your chance. The acetone-free formula is totally clean and doesn’t dry out your nails either.” —JW
“I use this set (it includes a pumice stone, file, buffer, and clippers) to maintain my pedi between salon appointments. It’s perf for keeping heels smooth and nails the perf shape and length.” —LB
“Cuticle oils are often a drippy disaster, which is why I’m obsessed with this solid balm formula from Pacifica. Just massage a little bit on and around your nails to soften skin and hydrate nails minus the mess.” —LB
“Yes, I timed it, and yes, each of these ultra-shiny polishes dried down to an opaque, ding-free finish within 45 seconds. Two minutes for two coats of polish? I’ll take it.”
—CM
"Paint your nails with the 3-in-1 gel polish first (it combines your base coat, color, and top coat), and then cure them them under the mini LED lamp. Thirty seconds later and voilà! A super-glossy nail polish coat that lasts for up to two weeks.” —SR
“These full-coverage decals go on like stickers but wear just like a professional mani. They never chip or dent and there’s zero drying time either.” —SR
All the game-changing gadgets that will make your life *so* much easier.
“Meet the hair dryer of the future. It uses lower temps and high speeds to diffuse and blow out my curls with less frizz than traditional dryers. The end result is hair that’s smooth as hell.” —CM
“Made with a renewable bamboo handle and recycled-steel blades, this flexible three-blade razor checks both the sustainable and the works-really-damn-well boxes.” —LB
“Laying my edges is infinitely easier with this multiuse tool. Now I can execute all those sick styles in my saved folder on IG.” —JW
“The double ceramic-titanium plates on each side are a genius way to prevent heat damage, since one pass of the iron is actually four shorter hits of heat that get your hair silky smooth…fast.” —JW
“This techy toothbrush has all the bells and whistles, including six (!) cleaning settings. I like to switch between the teeth-whitening and gum-massaging modes.” —SR
“Using this wash-off treatment (it’s full of nourishing and conditioning ingredients) twice a week has been a game changer for my weak lashes and sparse brows.” —JW
“Specifically designed to target expression lines, this tool uses microcurrent to provide an immediate, albeit temporary, lifting and smoothing effect to make you look wide awake.” —LB
“There’s nothing more relaxing after a long day of staring at my screen than rubbing my face with this wand. It melts away tension while de-puffing and lifting at the same time.” —LB
“This takes multitasking to a whole new level. The fact that I can whiten my teeth while I’m sleeping is genius. Plus, it’s gentle on my super-sensitive chompers.” —JW
“The barrel gets hot enough to force my stubborn hair to hold a curl and it doesn’t snag or catch on any of the little pieces as I pull it out. In short: a dream.” —SR
“These durable stainless steel tweezers have the most perfectly angled tip that makes grabbing even the teeniest brow hairs actually effortless.” —LB
“Until my hands figure out how to grow vibrating silicone bristles, I’ll be washing my face with this tool. It doesn’t just clean—it helps exfoliate and gives my face a nice little massage too.” —SR
“There’s a reason this is one of the best-selling eyelash curlers in history: It gently clamps and curls every single little lash without pinching or ripping.” —CM
“I’m a hoarder of makeup sponges, and this cute lil option is the latest addition to my collection. It changes color when soaked in hot water (remember, Beautyblenders work better damp).” —LB
“I’m a makeup-brush snob, so trust me when I say Real Techniques brushes are the absolute GOAT. The brushes in this eight-piece set are soft, fluffy, and blend like butter, making eyeshadow newbs feel like pros.” —CM
“There’s really no excuse to still be using disposable cotton rounds when super-soft, reusable terry-cloth cotton rounds like these exist. Squeeze some makeup remover onto the round, wipe off your makeup, toss it in the mesh bag to wash it, and save yourself some $$.” —SR
“The second I started using these super-soft face towels and stopped using my perpetually dirty hand towel is the moment my skin got oh so good! Other things I love about them is that that are fully biodegradable and compostable.” —JW
“I’m the queen of ingrown hairs, so this waterproof trimmer is clutch. It gives me close-to-the-skin smoothness without irritation, and its head pops open for easy cleaning.” —CM
“The unique independent rows of bristles strike the perfect balance of being incredibly gentle on your hair and getting the job done. Amen!” —JW
“A heat-distributing ceramic barrel + tiny boar bristles = a round brush that’ll give you the fastest, shiniest DIY blowout of your goddamn life.” —SR
The facials, peels, and lasers that are actually worth your $$.
“Topical skincare is great but has its limits, so if you’re really serious about smoothing fine lines and crow’s-feet, Botox should 100p be on your radar. I’ve been getting it for years now and I’m consistently pleased with the results.” —LB
“One of the newest game changers in the injectable world, Restylane Contour is a flexible hyaluronic acid gel that moves with your face for natural-looking, non-obvious results.” —CM
“This non-invasive treatment uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production deep in the skin to smooth wrinkles and lift, tighten, and contour your face. Results take some time to kick in, so if you try Sofwave for a big event, be sure to schedule your appointment a at least three months in advance.”
—LB
“Think of this as a mini Fraxel—except it requires little to no downtime and can be used on a wide range of skin tones. Most derms recommend three or so treatments spaced a month apart for max resurfacing and skin-brightening results.” —LB
“Pixel8 takes regular microneedling a step further by combining it with radiofrequency to stimulate even more collagen production. The result? Fewer fine lines, smaller-looking pores, and an all-around smoother skin texture.” —LB
“You’ll def experience some heavy peeling and flaking for about a week after this treatment, but the skin brightening results are so worth it, IMO. Any hyperpigmentation you’ve been dealing with (including dark spots, melasma, and acne marks) will be significantly less noticeable.” —LB
“Perfect for anyone who wants to give their skin a quickie boost, this ultra-gentle chemical peel leaves you with zero downtime or visible peeling—just refreshing, glowing skin.” —SR
“It’s the attention to detail at this luxe lash shop that won me over. The artists work with you to ensure you’re getting the perfect lash length and shape. Plus, owner Clementina Richardson’s celebrity roster is stacked with stars like Mary J. Blige, Naomi Campbell, and Julia Roberts to name a few.” —JW
“It was easy to fall in love with this facial because it uses Dr. Sturm’s super-luxe skincare products. You get a superior cleansing, exfoliation, and extractions, but also an incredible facial that will tone, lift and transform you into your more radiant, glowy self.” —JW
Photographs by Chelsea Kyle
Lauren Balsamo is deputy beauty director at Cosmopolitan, where she writes, edits, and produces all types of beauty content—from product reviews to personal essays and trend reports. She has covered beauty for nine years at Cosmopolitan and has contributed to Women’s Health and Seventeen magazines as well. Follow her on Instagram.
Chloe Metzger is the deputy beauty director at Cosmopolitan, overseeing the editorial content and growth strategy of the hair, makeup, and skin space on digital, while also obsessively writing about the best hair products for every hair type (curly girl here; whattup), and the skincare routines that really, truly work (follow her on Instagram to see behind-the-scenes pics of that magazine life). She brings nearly a decade of writing and editing expertise, and her work has appeared in Allure, Health, Fitness, Marie Claire, StyleCaster, and Parents. She also has an unhealthy adoration for Tom Hanks and would like to please meet him one day, if you could arrange that. Thanks.
Julee Wilson is Beauty Editor at Large at Cosmopolitan. Previously, Julee was Beauty Director at Cosmo and Global Beauty Director at Essence and has held various editorial positions at Huffington Post and Real Simple. She counts herself lucky AF that she gets to play with beauty products for a living and tell dope stories. And if you’re as obsessed with beauty as she is, make sure to follow her on Instagram for plenty of product recs, natural hair inspo, skincare testing, and Black girl magic shenanigans.