Cosmopolitan’s 2023 Holy Grail Beauty Awards

“As soon as you swipe on this bold matte, the pigments lock onto your lips for 10 (!) hours of smooth, smudgeproof wear.” —BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR

“I love everything about this liquid lipstick. The sophisticated applicator, the budgeproof formula (srsly, it lasts through hours of water bottle chugging), and the impressive shade range (the reds are my all-time faves) are all so good.” —ABBEY ADKISON, EXECUTIVE VIDEO PRODUCER

“If I had to choose between these four longish-lasting shades, I would choose…all four. Sorry, but they’re just too fun not to mix and match throughout the day. I keep two in my purse and two at my desk and reapply whenever I need a quick pop of color. —SASCHA DE GERSDORFF, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

“There was zero transfer on my cups, straws, and utensils while wearing this lip stain. It’s perf if you want a quick flash of color on your lips that doesn’t need to be reapplied multiple times a day.” —CHRISTEN A. JOHNSON, LIFESTYLE EDITOR

“Happy to report that this lip liner—which comes in 14 opaque shades—has zero skipping or dryness while drawing it on, and it doesn’t suck the life out of your skin either.” —CHLOE METZGER, DEPUTY BEAUTY DIRECTOR

“I love that this is basically a souped-up lip oil—it is ultra hydrating and gives lips the kind of mirrorlike shine that will get you noticed.” —JULEE WILSON, BEAUTY EDITOR-AT-LARGE

“Not to be dramatic, but this plumper has made me reconsider my yearly lip filler appointment. It uses super-cool technology to deliver hyaluronic acid into your lips to give them extra fullness both immediately and over time.” —BG

“I can’t get over how easily this creamy pencil glides across my lids and lash lines. The level of color payoff you get is also unreal.” —MEKITA RIVAS, EDITOR

“This pen’s marker-style felt tip makes lining my upper lash lines and nailing that sharp cat-eye shape actually doable—plus, it creates an opaque black color in just one swipe.” —BG

“As someone who doesn’t know how to do their brows well, this ultra-fine-tipped pencil always makes me feel like a pro.” —JW

“Sure, this tinted gel gives my brows instant oomph in just a few swipes—but it’s also infused with a conditioning serum that thickens natural brow hairs in eight weeks. That’s the real magic.” —LAUREN BALSAMO, DEPUTY BEAUTY DIRECTOR

"After using RevitaLash Advanced, my lashes looked way more dramatic—even without mascara.” —JAIME MARSANICO, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

“I wore this on a red-eye flight and through a day of back-to-back meetings without once wiping black from under my eyes. Incredible.” —LB

“Want dense, fluffy, fanned-out lashes? Try this mascara, which not only has some of the coolest packaging I’ve ever seen but also makes my lashes look at least five times thicker than normal after I brush on two coats.” —BG

“This corrector comes in five different shades, but the orange one is a must if you have dark circles. Layered under concealer, it basically works like a magic eraser for shadows.” —VERONICA LOPEZ, SEX AND RELATIONSHIPS EDITOR

“I bow down to this mid-weight concealer. It leaves my under-eyes brighter and smoother and feels like a serum on my skin.” —CM

“There’s nothing worse than bronzer that looks like bronzer, which is exactly why I love this for adding natural-looking warmth to my skin. It’s all about the ‘did she or didn’t she just get back from the Caribbean’ glow for me.” —LB

“Two is always better than one. You’ve got a velvety powder hue and a vivid cream hue in one dope compact with this stellar blush.” —JW

“No cream or powder contour can give you sculpted cheekbones quite like this liquid formula from Tarte can, and I’m willing to die on this hill. It’s super blendable, long-lasting, and incredibly easy to apply.” —SIENA GAGLIANO, ASSOCIATE EDITOR

“I lightly dust this shimmery highlighter across my cheekbones and nose for a glowy sheen or tap it onto the highest points of my face with my finger for a legit blinding shine.” —BG

“The most un-powdery powder ever! It feels SO light on my skin and layers seamlessly with my bronzer, blush, and other makeup.” —MADDIE HIATT, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

“This is just one of those products that’s begging to go viral. It creates the absolute smoothest canvas for makeup, so you can get that ultra-glassy airbrushed finish from your foundation.” —MADELEINE FRANK REEVES, DEPUTY EDITOR

“The OG version is just a *tad* too dewy for my oily skin, but this new one with a matte finish is perfection.” —LB

“The best part about these complexion-perfecting drops is that they are super lightweight and buildable—which means quick application and I look like my best self.” —JW

“You can equate this foundation with the viral ‘cloud makeup’ trend. It covers all my acne and dark spots, doesn’t cling to rough texture spots, and lasts for 16-plus hours—legit my fave foundation of the year.” —BG

“This full-coverage foundation leaves my dry skin with the dewy, gloss-like finish that’s usually reserved only for Facetuned influencers and post-facial celebs.” —CM

“TY, Morphe, for this gift to my face. Each palette (there are five shades total) is filled with a brightener, a contour, two bronzers, two blushes, and two highlighters designed with individual skin tones in mind.” —CM

“A few spritzes give my makeup a natural glow and soften any uneven texture thanks to hydrating glycerin. I even like to mist it on midday to soothe my skin with niacinamide.” —BG

“It’s a cult favorite for a reason: As you dust it on, hyaluronic acid spheres in the powder break open to hydrate skin while silica helps mattifying makeup.” —CM

“Skip the messiest part of wearing falsies—the glue—with these pre-bonded clusters that seamlessly stick to the underside of your lashes.” —JW

“EltaMD’s line of SPFs—including this new zinc-based version—is the GOAT for protection sans breakouts, irritation, or white cast.” —LB

“This completely clear, smoothing SPF is essentially a primer-sunscreen hybrid. So unlike all the ultra-glowy SPFs out there, this cuts down on my shine while protecting my skin.” —BG

“Thanks to honey and ceramides, this isn’t one of those clay masks that sucks the gunk from your pores *and* all the moisture from your face.” —LB

“This is hands down the best face-washing experience. The oil-to-milk formula is so thick and creamy—I have super-dry skin, so this was perfect for every day without overdrying.” —MALLORY ROYNON, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

“Just a few gentle swipes easily remove black eyeliner and mascara (even the waterproof kind) without stinging or irritating my sensitive eyes.” —JM

“My acne-prone skin is picky about cleansers—can’t be too moisturizing or too drying either. Which is why I love this Goldilocks one, which has a rich, foamy lather without leaving my skin tight and squeaky.” —BG

“Finally, a cream cleanser that is delicate but still gets the job done. The brightening and balancing antioxidants are the stars of the show.” —JW

“This is technically a gel, which I love because it feels like nothing on your skin but plumps and smooths like no other. Plus, it layers great with other skincare and makeup.” —LB

“Did you see me out way too late last night, sucking down one too many martinis? No, you didn’t…at least, that’s my story, and this serum that gave me nine-hours-of-beauty-sleep eyes and I are sticking to it.” —ROSA HEYMAN, EXECUTIVE DIGITAL EDITOR

“These felt amazing on (especially after keeping them in the fridge), and they also didn’t slide around, which is always my biggest pain point when using eye patches.” —HANNAH CHUBB, ASSOCIATE LIFESTYLE EDITOR

“Part eye treatment, part concealer, this lightly tinted cream instantly wakes up your eyes and makes your whole face look brighter.” —TAMARA FUENTES, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

“I’ve been burned (quite literally) by harsh acne products in the past, but I love how this gentle lotion cleared up my whiteheads and blackheads without drying out my skin.” —LAYNIE ROUCH, FASHION ASSISTANT

“These lil patches are literally the easy way to deal with breakouts. They’re basically invisible when they go on, and they turn white when they’re done working their magic. Easy-peasy!” —MH

“I’m normally not a fan of face scrubs, but this is the exception. It removes dead skin cells and dislodges all the gunk in my pores but is still super gentle thanks to perfectly round exfoliating beads that won’t scrape or tear skin.” —LB

“The closest thing to an IRL treatment with celeb facialist Shani Darden? This two-step peel. Every time I use it, my skin looks brighter and more even and my pores are tighter and less clogged too.” —LB

“Sign me up for any skin cream that makes me feel like a Rich Bitch. The consistency of this velvety cream is thick in the very best way, and I always wake up feeling extra glowy the morning after application.” —RS

“This is one of the few moisturizers I’ve tried that keep my oily, acne-prone skin hydrated without clogging my pores or making my skin bumpy. The formula is simple and straightforward and pairs perfectly with my more active serums and treatments.” —LB

“Yum, yum yum—this cream is legit packed with the fatty ceramides that your skin barrier relies on to stay strong, plump, and hydrated. If I could bathe in this stuff, I would.” —CM

"This cream is sooo rich. I spread it evenly across my skin at night, and it leaves my face feeling ultra-smooth and plump—plus it really helps reduce the looks of fine lines and wrinkles with continued use." —BG

“I love the light exfoliation I get with this toner (shout-out to mandelic and lactic acids), but I also don’t feel like it’s too tight or dry afterward, thanks to the formula’s barrier-boosting urea and ceramides.” —BG

“The science behind this essence (it feels like an ultra-lightweight serum) is seriously impressive. The formula features Fibroquin, Revela's proprietary collagen-boosting molecule that firms and lifts skin without causing any irritation (ahem, retinol).” —LB

“My dry face drinks this stuff right up. It’s fragrance-free, whichI love, and loaded with hyaluronic acid to instantly hydrate skin and keep it that way for hours.” —ABBEY ADKISON, VIDEO EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

“My acne and acne scars have responded, like, shockingly well to the combo of brightening azelaic acid and clarifying salicylic acid in this lotion. After a month of use, they’re pretty much nonexistent.” —LB

“As the queen of splotchy skin, I lowkey threatened my partner when I discovered he had been using this golden nectar. It’s the only thing that has actually made a tiny bit of difference in my redness, and I now guard it with my life.” —CM

“I’m using this serum in tandem with tretinoin and it totally balances the drying effects, leaving my skin plump, dewy, and hydrated. Even my aesthetician commented on how good my skin looked at my last facial. High praise!” —KATIE BUCKLEITNER, DIGITAL ART DIRECTOR

“A great alternative to Rx retinoids, it has visibly smoothed my fine lines and brightened my skin without causing any flaking or redness.” —MR

“This has been such a great addition to my skincare routine. Whenever I use it at night, my skin looks calmer and clearer when I wake up in the morning.” —BETHANY RENNARD, JUNIOR DESIGNER

“This is an amazing product. I’ve been using it as a spot treatment on acne scars and sun spots, and I saw a decrease in excess pigment within 10 days of consistent use.” —EMILY ADAR, SENIOR VISUAL EDITOR

“Short of dipping your body in a bowl of warm, soothing oatmeal—*dreams*—this 2 percent colloidal oatmeal cream is the next best thing for calming and moisturizing itchy, irritated skin.” —CM

“Niacinamide is one of the buzziest antioxidants rn, and this hardworking serum packs a 10 percent punch. I use it in the morning under sunscreen to brighten up my tone and protect my skin from environmental damage.” —LB

“You can mix this with oil for a sheer glow or layer it with highlighter for a seriously shiny effect. I used it for a recent photo shoot and my skin was next-level luminous.” —TARAH-LYNN SAINT-ELIEN, FASHION EDITOR

“This luxe oil cocoons skin in a blanket of lightweight, fast-absorbing moisture and won’t transfer to your sheets or clothes either.” —LB

“There’s truly nothing more satisfying than scrubbing my arms and legs with this stuff. It gets rid of dulling dead skin cells and curbs body breakouts too.” —LB

“This lathers up nicely, leaves my skin clean but not squeaky, and is super affordable too (aka everything you could want in a body wash).” —HANNAH CHUBB, ASSOCIATE LIFESTYLE EDITOR

“NYC summers have turned me into the sweatiest of humans, but it’s nothing this odor-blocking bb can’t handle.” —BG

“There’s nothing easier than this stick sunscreen for beach and pool days. It swipes on easily and the SPF 50 formula is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.” —LB

“This SPF feels and smells amazing. I used it on a recent trip to Hawaii, and my skin was nice and hydrated with zero white cast—and the serum texture feels so lovely that I genuinely looked forward to reapplying.” —TAMARA FUENTES, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

“Upgrade your current routine with this balm that's spiked with a plant-based alternative to retinol. The way it melts into skin and softens rough, uneven texture is nothing short of miraculous.” —LB

“This lotion is like a grown-up version of that cucumber melon scent that was everywhere in the late ’90s/early 2000s. It instantly relieved my parched skin (winter/spring in New York is no joke) and the scent is refreshing but subtle.” —ERIKA W. SMITH, SENIOR ASTROLOGY EDITOR

“I go through about six jars of this glow-giving body butter a year because being ashy is never an option.” —JW

“I’m team body bar soap all the way, and this one from Good Time is my obsession. It’s infused with little exfoliating bits to get skin extra smooth and clean—plus it’s sustainably produced without any plastic.” —LB

“I honestly have more bumps than I do smooth skin on my body, so trust me when I say these acid-based wipes are magical at softening the rough bits without leading to major dryness.” —CM

“When mixed with my moisturizer, these self-tanning drops gave my bod the most natural and beautiful glow, which can be tricky for someone with pale skin like me. I used about six drops, and the color was seriously perfection—you wouldn’t know it was fake unless I told you!” —SIENA GAGLIANO, ASSOCIATE EDITOR

“I refuse to shave without this stuff. The squeeze tube is so much easier to use than traditional shaving cream canisters, and the ultra-moisturizing formula always makes my skin feel silky-smooth.” —LR

“To say I was ~known~ for smelling like Glossier You in college would be a grave understatement. Which is why I was elated when it launched an aluminum-free deodorant in the same fragrance to layer up with my perfume and mask B.O. throughout the day.” —BG

“I’m soaking in this when my nerves are shot and my skin needs some extra TLC. So basically once a week.” —JW

“Some ingrown treatments leave your skin dried out and burning, but this one breaks down and calms bumps with exfoliating salicylic acid, brightening niacinamide, and soothing green tea extract.” —CM

“These are a must in my bag. They’re perfect for a quick refresh after a sweaty commute or a long flight, and they take up zero space.” —BR

“I’m obsessed with Iota’s curated line of elevated essentials—especially this calming and smoothing serum for bumps and irritation.” —BG

“I’ve pretty much phased out regular lotion thanks to this innovative hydrator. Rub it into wet skin in the shower and prepare to be seriously silky.” —LB

“This body lotion is a total classic. I love that it’s unscented (fragranced lotions and creams often irritate my sensitive, eczema-prone skin), and it leaves my skin so soft and smooth.” —KRISTIANA MORELL, JUNIOR MOTION DESIGNER

“Even though you can get these at the drugstore, they felt just as the luxe as the fancier shampoo and conditioners I’ve bought for nearly five times the price. The lather on the shampoo is amazing, and the conditioner left my hair super shiny and strong.” —BR

“The first time I used this shampoo and conditioner, I thought my waves looked a bit smoother and more defined. But then when I met up with a friend for karaoke later that night, she told me I looked like I belonged in a shampoo commercial, so the effect was even stronger than I thought!” —EWS

“I’m always on the lookout for good curly hair products, and this shampoo is the best. It accentuates my natural curl pattern and leaves my curls ultra shiny too.” —KM

“The dynamic duo my textured hair is obsessed with. They keep my curls clean, moisturized, and happy—what more could you ask for?” —JW

“I’ve tried a lot of products that promise volume, but this set actually delivers—and smells good as hell too. Bonus points for the super-rich lather that forms within seconds of being massaged into your ol’ noggin.” —RH

“First, we need to talk about the scent. This duo smells so good, you’ll exit the shower with a head of hair smelling legit like a mochaccino. Second, I’ve really noticed a difference in the thickness of my hair. After a month of use, I’m hooked.” —LL

“Most shampoos and conditioners like this are designed to prevent fading, but none actually enhance your hair color like this duo. My light brown hair looks brighter and shinier after using this—just like if I got a pro glaze.” —BG

“This purple-tinted shampoo and conditioner are clutch for keeping my blonde nice and bright between highlight appointments. It’s a small investment for such a big $$ savings (the price of professional color in NYC is no joke).” —KB

“This two-in-one saves me time in the shower and really helps keep my scalp clear and hydrated. And the creamy lather feels ultra luxe too.” —EA

“I love how clean this clarifying shampoo makes my hair and scalp feel without being overdrying or making my ends feel like straw. It’s perfect for when you haven’t washed in a few days or before prepping your hair for the K18 leave-in mask.” —LB

“Anything that makes my wash day an absolute joy is definitely award-worthy for me. This milky cleanser keeps my hair clean and juicy—I’m in love.” —JW

“Fine-haired girlies, this spray will sop up excess oil *and* give you that just-left-the-beach lift…without any of the gritty sand feel.” —RH

“I love the cool feel this gives my scalp—and thanks to the rosemary oil and biotin in the formula, my hair looks and feels fuller too.” —JW

“I can’t sing the praises of this formula enough. Gold-star apple cider vinegar and salicylic acid help dissolve flakes and neutralize itch, while vitamin B3 works to soothe inflammation.” —CM

“I didn’t see a single white speck in my hair or scalp for a full week after using this scrub. It’s such a confidence booster for anyone with dandruff.” —EA

“My go-to salon closed a year ago, so I was long overdue for a haircut when I tested this treatment. That said, the results were impressive—and visibly after just one use. My hair felt stronger and shinier and my ends way less frayed and dried out.” —JM

“I’ve been using this every night for almost a month, applying half a vial on my scalp and paying special attention to the areas where I know my hair is the thinnest, and I’ve noticed such a difference in the fullness and thickness of my hair.” —LL

“This made my curls softer and shinier after one use, and within a few weeks of making it a regular in my routine, my hair felt healthier too.” —MELANIE CURRY, ASSISTANT EDITOR

“When my hair looks dull and feels weighed down, I reach for this rice-water rinse that lightly cleanses and leaves my hair with a glass-like shine.” —BG

“This is so much more than a regular old leave-in conditioner. I use it to air-dry, scrunch, and style my waves; create slick looks; and refresh my ends.” —MR

“This serum is the only reason my hair looks acceptable after seven-plus months without a cut. It uses a blend of plant oils to seal up frayed ends, and it helps minimize frizz and flyaways.” —LB

“Smooth two drops through the ends of fine hair for shine and definition or massage a dropper’s worth through coarse hair to protect and moisturize. It’s the unicorn of oils, TBH.” —CM

“Some heat protectants just sit on top of my strands and leave them greasy and sticky. But this one absorbs right into damp hair and leaves it feeling so damn soft (shout-out to lightweight avocado oil and squalane), all while protecting from heat damage too.” —BG

“This is my hairstyling secret weapon. I do a deep side part, flip my hair upside down, and then spray this from root to tip—and the amount of volume I get with minimal flyaways is amazing.” —MR

“Two words: laid and slayed. My edges stay put and stay hydrated when I use this coconut water--and aloe-laced wax.” —JW

“I have a very subtle natural wave, so this gave me a touch more curl and texture, which brought out more of that rocker/shag look I strive for. And it didn’t leave my hair hard or tangly either, like a lot of styling creams tend to do.” —MR

“Not too heavy but not too sheer, this just-right formula leaves my fine curls feeling moisturized and clumped, thanks to its jojoba oil, soybean oil, and aloe vera.” —CM

“I really love the dense, creamy texture of this cream. It deeply moisturizes my curls and makes styling so easy.” —MC

“This is a must-have braid refresher. The blend of essential oils, sea moss, and herbs helps balance your scalp and hydrate your hair.” —JW

“You know that whole day-to-night thing magazines promise you? This is it but in haircare form. It saved my pony after a particularly sweaty workout when I had to go straight from the gym to dinner with friends.” —RS

“The combo of tuberose, blue iris, and orange blossom notes smells just like walking through a garden on a warm summer day. So dreamy.” —BG

“Phlur has successfully bottled summer-in-Amalfi feels with this bright and sunny mix of tangerine and lemon.” —BG

“This smells absolutely delicious—and it really lasts too. I can wear it at night and still smell the jasmine and vanilla notes in the morning.” —VL

“This luxe scent comes in a glam purple-and-gold bottle that’s the star of my bathroom shelf. And the juice inside? A juicy blend of orange, cedarwood, and freesia.” —ES

“I wear this fragrance on nights out when I want to smell ~delectable~, thanks to its notes of chocolate, jasmine, and sandalwood. It’s v sexy and sophisticated, not sickly sweet.” —BG

“The fruity floral red berry and jasmine notes really pack a punch…but aren’t too overwhelming for brunch, the office, or just running errands.” —VL

“This will announce your arrival before you even step into the room. I love its formal vibes—like, I’d pair it with a ball gown if that were the life I led.” —MR

“I’m not normally a fragrance person, but spritzing this through my hair makes me feel like a GD supermodel. I just spray and shake my waves around à la Gisele.” —RS