First Class Beauty 2023

“As an island girl, I was instantly drawn to this product and its sea-sourced ingredients, including plankton, kelp seed oil, and moringa to help smooth cellulite, encourage collagen production, and leave skin hydrated and smooth. I used this every day for a month and noticed my skin was smoother and firmer. Moringa is a superfood, but it’s also a super ingredient for your skin. This body oil is basically like a vitamin for my complexion.”—DJ

“Sandy seaweed in between your toes can ruin any beachside outing. Good thing the seaweed found in Osea’s offerings is there to help, not annoy you. Used in all Osea products, seaweed is an underrated superfood packed with nutrients and antioxidants that have anti-aging benefits. The Undaria Body Lotion deeply nourishes the skin with a hyaluronic- and collagen-packed formula that leaves your skin smooth to the touch.”—NP

“Sunscreen reapplication can be tedious if you don’t have Cay Skin’s SPF Mist on hand. Founder Winnie Harlow is known for her radiance, and quick and easy sun protection is her brand’s most important message. With the SPF Mist, your body is coated in nourishing hyaluronic acid, brightening vitamin C, and moisturizing sea moss to create a protective barrier that leaves you ready for the island sun year-round.”—NP

“Skip the supplements, and opt for a patch. Yes, a literal patch can help you catch up on your Zzzs mid-air or post-flight. Dream by The Good Patch gently eases you into sleep mode with help from valerian root, melatonin, and hops. The result is a restful glow, sans the groggy, hangover feeling from other supplements on the market.”—NP

“This body serum feels like a lightweight lotion and quickly absorbs into the skin, so it doesn’t slow down my morning routine. It doesn’t feel greasy or oily and instantly makes my body feel silkier. While it claims to lift and tone, I haven’t seen those results yet, but I do like how soft and moisturized I feel.”—DJ

“The aroma of Sol de Janeiro is synonymous with vacation, but the new After Hours scent is serving sexy and sophisticated. Its mix of jasmine, patchouli, and amber make for a warm and alluring fall or winter scent and a perfect base for layering—a luxury perfume at an affordable price. This has quickly become my nighttime scent—a few spritzes after I step out the shower, and suddenly my evening is much more romantic.”—DJ

“Glasshouse candles are known for their incredibly pungent throw, and each scent transports me to a faraway place. This limited-edition candle reminds me of a cinnamon boil—no clean up required.”—DJ

“This diffuser looks so elegant. The simple design and neutral colors really allow the scent to stand out. The aroma of fig and cassis creates a warm berry scent that permeates throughout your space. I have this by the entrance to my door, and without fail, I’m always complimented on how good my home smells.”—DJ

“Are you a scent bubble or neck and wrists type of fragrance gal? Well, the newest addition to Kayali’s fragrance world offers a well-rounded sensory experience. After spritzing your Kayali scent, light a fire to the accompanying wood—or “bakhoor,” doused in one of the Oud smells—to ignite the intoxicating aroma.”—NP

“Like a warm embrace from the big guy in your life, Father Figure envelopes you in a blanket of earthy and aquatic notes that feel like the worn-in sweater you stole from him years ago. Fig opens the woody-watery concoction, which settles on the skin to reveal a creamy, vanilla smell.”—NP

“Sulwhasoo has had me in a firm grip since I was introduced to the Gentle Cleansing Oil. Moisturized, radiant, youthful skin has always been the brand’s mission, and it continues with the First Care Activating Serum. Supporting the skin’s barrier with the brand’s signature Sulwhasoo Master Complex, ginseng, herbs, and more, the serum boosts elasticity to keep fine lines and wrinkles away—and radiance coming.”—NP

“This serum was founded by Aaryan Ramzan, a trans man who underwent hormone therapy and couldn’t find a skin care routine that could adapt to his changing skin. And while I may not be undergoing the same treatment, travel, time, and dry environments causes my skin (and thus my skin care routine) to fluctuate. This organic serum not only adapts to your skin and its needs, but the micro-emulsion technology ensures the formula penetrates deeply into the dermis. If you suffer from hormonal acne, this serum helps combat it, all while boosting collagen and reducing fine lines.”—DJ

“I automatically feel better than everyone when I use my SkinBetter Mystro Active Balance Serum. Plant-based adaptogens make up this unique formula that smooths rough texture and gradually reduces uneven complexion.”—NP

“Longtime celebrity esthetician Angela Caglia recently launched her eponymous skin care line with one product: the Cell Forte Serum. Formulated with real exosomes and epidermal growth factors (sans any human DNA), this potent anti-aging product helps repair your skin barrier from sun damage and fine lines. Basically think of this serum as the byproduct of stem cells, which are often used to help repair your body. I’ve been using it twice a day and notice my skin looking healthier and my smile lines softer. ELLE has predicted exosome therapy will soon be bigger than botox, and for over-the-counter solutions, this topical formula is leading the way.”—DJ

“Yes, everyone is obsessed with K-beauty, but how much do you know about J-beauty? This serum is a great introduction to your skin care routine. It features the Japanese citrus fruit amanatsu for its vitamin C benefits and hyaluronic acid for hydration. I normally skip out on vitamin C, because I am not a fan of the sticky formula, but this product goes on smooth and absorbs quickly into your skin. My skin definitely looks brighter over time, and instantly after application, you get a healthy glow.”—DJ

“Travel puts your skin through the wringer and can cause an onslaught of skin woes, from dryness to congestion to dullness. When your skin needs support the most, the Rich Cushion Cream is the thicc, teeny friend you can always rely on. Armed with a blend of emollients and humectants such as squalane and glycerin, along with fruit extracts, the formula seeps into the skin to plump and hydrate.”—NP

“Changes in altitude or environments can dry out your skin. Give your skin a boost of hydration with Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Water Cream. The formula trains your skin barrier to retain more moisture and promises up to 100 hours of hydration. No cakey makeup over here!”—DJ

“Many of the ingredients in this luscious cream are straight from the reservation where founder Ruth Ann Thorn resides. The hero ingredient is acorn oil, which has been used for more than 23,000 years by Native tribes for its nutritional benefits (yes, you read that right). Acorn oil is high in antioxidants to nourish the skin, and this is the only beauty brand on the market to use the powerful kwilla-acorn oil.”—DJ

“If you love the effects of lip plumpers but aren’t into the irritation that comes with them, this tripeptide treatment is for you. Hyaluronic acid keeps your lips moisturized while the tripeptide complex slowly plumps your lips over time. It’s not the same as a lip filler, but I no longer have to overapply my lips.”—DJ

“I’m not loyal to any cleansing balm—anything that can effectively remove my makeup in one swipe is always good in my book. But after using Ranavat’s Cleansing Balm once (after a five-hour matte makeup look, might I add), I feel like maybe I’m ready to settle down. After all, Ranavat makes it easy to be a devotee. The magic lies in its rich, buttery melt, thanks to key stars like mango and shea butter, which lend a faint, sweet aroma to make the dreadful makeup takedown process pleasurable.”—NP

“These Little Mermaid-themed reusable eye patches won’t cause you to break up with your favorite under-eye serum, but it will enhance it. The silicone creates a vacuum-like seal to your skin, locking in your products and helping them absorb better into your skin. I like to sleep with them overnight to maximize the benefits.”—DJ

“I’ve used this primer for more than six months, and it’s a 3-in-1 product with skin care in mind. In addition to priming your eyes for your concealer, it doubles as a color corrector and the formula contains four percent niacinamide to help brighten your under eyes over time. You are on the road to radiance with this product!”—DJ

“With a lofty price tag and a luxurious experience to match, Armani’s Crema Nera Eye Treatment marries nature and science to produce a silky solution, all powered by seven types of peptides to encourage firmness and anti-aging therapy.”—NP

“Splashing your face with water throughout your flight or during a layover is a quick fix to look (and feel) more awake. But how about an illuminating eye cream that overturns dullness long-term? Bright Eyes by Hero Cosmetics invigorates the eye area with caffeine and niacinamide sprouting from a stainless steel tip to depuff, brighten, and correct.”—NP

“These new, chic eye patches have changed my morning routine. They hug your under-eye area perfectly and, in 20 minutes, leaves this delicate area hydrated. I like to apply these as I’m getting ready in the morning, before I put on my makeup. When your under-eye area is moisturized, your makeup lays better (and lasts longer). Overtime, this softens the fine lines, and you won’t see makeup settling in cracks and creases.”—DJ

“You can still look your best, even in the midst of an unwanted breakout. Acne and makeup typically spells disaster if you’re not using the right products (and cleaning your brushes, but that’s another story for another day). Sealed by Topicals is a primer tailored to sensitive skin. The squeeze tube deposits a lightweight, gel-like substance that coats the skin in a protective film comprised of retinol, peptides, and enzymes to gently resurface the skin while also filling in pores to smooth texture—all under your makeup.”—NP

“Call me lazy, but I love when my favorite products are morphed into sprays. European Wax Center’s OG Ingrown Hair Mist attacks ingrown hairs head-on with glycolic acid, tea tree, and lavender to preserve your investment. Plus, over time, your skin becomes visibly brighter and smoother, making your next wax appointment a breeze—or close to it.”—NP

“The best compliment anyone can give someone like me is that my skin looks brighter and clearer. What follows is a shy smile, because I know a secret they don’t: Farmacy TXA Toner. This toner is the one sliver of hope I have that bright, clear skin may arrive sooner than I expected. Azealic and tranexamic acid are the Jordan and Pippen of this formula, working together to lighten dark spots and prevent what causes them.”—NP

“The perfect time to correct body acne is the winter with exfoliant-packed washes like this gem from Kosas. The fruit enzymes and acids—glycolic, mandelic, and lactic—are powerful enough to erase any signs of skin care battles. Plus, the fruity, fresh scent is the invigorating push I need to withstand the impending cold weather.”—NP

“Peel season is here, baby! If chemical peels aren’t in the budget as of yet, Dermalogica’s Peelfoliant is an effective alternative for resurfacing and rejuvenating the skin. It’s gentle but packs a major punch; for three minutes, a potent medley of acids—including glycolic, lactic, salicylic, and tranexamic—and fruit enzymes unclogs pores, reduces uneven tone and texture, and smooths fine lines and wrinkles for a fraction of an in-office peel.”—NP

“During a recent facial with an esthetician, my skin embarrassed me. ‘Your skin soaked up every ounce of the hyaluronic acid serum,’ she told me. My skin was thirsty and wasted no time airing me out. I made a vow to give it the proper hydration it deserved, and Medik8 Bio-Cellulose Mask is what it needed. As the name suggests, this sheet mask is the ‘ultimate recovery’ for parched, congested skin, thanks to hyaluronic acid and algae extract, which deeply nourish and plump the skin.”—NP

“Artichoke dip, absolutely. Artichoke in my mask? Who knew this is exactly what I needed to keep my skin balanced and healthy. Artichoke is a great anti-aging ingredient that’s rich in vitamin C, so in addition to brightening, it minimizes large pores, is anti-inflammatory, and high in antioxidants. The artichoke sheet masks from this K-beauty influencer-founded brand comes with a lot of serum, so much so that I’m able to put leftover product on my neck, décolletage, and chest. The mask really stays on your face and seems to really help your skin absorb the product. My skin always feels so rejuvenated after I apply it, and I’m left with a brighter glow.”—DJ

“Oily skin spells disaster for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Here’s a mask that saps up excess oil and clarifies the pores with kaolin clay. Since clay can be drying, the Lunalis Clay Mask also restores moisture with prickly pear and almond oils.”—NP

“The waiting period between your last pedicure and the impending one is the most humbling. Your nail polish isn’t completely grown out, yet chapped heels and calluses are starting to form on the balls of your feet. Clapotio’s Foot Masks are indulgent little socks that gently exfoliate dead skin using fruit enzymes such as pineapple and papaya.”—NP

“Pesky dry cuticles, be gone! That’s what happens with this skin-softening hand mask. I like to use this before a trip to my nail salon or in between manicures. The masks are easy to use with little to no mess or clean up.”—DJ

“This feels more like a serum than a sunscreen, with its ultra-lightweight and silky texture. It also doubles as a makeup primer and pairs perfectly with your skin tint for the perfect glow.”—DJ

“This spritz smells like vacation, and I love that it’s in a spray bottle for easy application. It lays well under your makeup and doesn’t cause pesky pilling. The invisible formula ensures you don’t have to worry about that dreaded white cast and the smell keeps me spritzing (and protected from the sun!) all day long.”–DJ

“No matter the form your SPF comes in, sun protection is a must. Rose Inc bottled up subtle radiance and protection in one serum that layers beautifully under makeup and shines on its own. Beat winter dryness with this lightweight formula fueled by squalane for added hydration.”—NP

“This sunscreen is so easy to use, and the packaging is smart! With a 360-degree nozzle, you can make sure even your hardest to reach parts are protected. The formula easily blends into your skin and doesn’t make your melanin look gray.”—DJ

“Sun protection for your lips is just as important as protection anywhere else on your body. (You don’t know true agony until you’ve felt sunburnt, dry lips.) Naked Sunday’s Glow + Go imparts a subtle sheen that uses antioxidants (vitamins C and E), raspberry seed oil, tomato extract, and SPF 50 to keep your lips juicy, nourished, and burnt-free.”—NP

“Retinol in any form is a surefire way to pique my interest. After just a few days of using the Triple Pro-Retinol Renewal Cream, I woke up with smoother, brighter skin and flattened breakouts. The texture is creamy and light but still rich enough to create a moisturizing barrier.”—NP

“Clinique boasts this serum is as effective as a laser, and after several weeks of use, it will make you want to break up with your dermatologist. The formula is strong, so those with sensitive skin should tread lightly. But if you want results and you are not ready for a prescription formula, give this a try. The product sinks quickly into your skin and over time will not only help you achieve a healthy skin barrier, but also clear, smooth, plump skin.”—DJ

“Pumpkin as a drink isn’t my speed. However, pumpkin in my skin care is something I can get behind. The Byroe Pumpkin Pro-Retinol Cream is a dream for parched, dehydrated skin. It delivers subtle radiance on top of the skin, while retinol, bakuchiol, and ceramides that melt into the skin to reverse signs of aging.”—NP

“So, I never use retinol (I know, I know). I’ve always been scared of ‘the purge’ and feared my skin becoming sensitive or raw. Sepia created this retinol that has not only improved my skin but instantly makes it feel softer with every use. It’s strong but not too strong, so my skin didn’t undergo any negative reaction, and thus far, I’ve only had positive results. This should be the gateway product for all retinol users.”—DJ

“I’m a fan of any product that lightens the look of scars my body acne leaves behind, specifically on my chest and upper arms. Gladly, the Body Retinol by Nécessaire helps to clear out any evidence of scar picking (I’m human!) and smoothes the skin.”—NP

“After an acrylic nail job resulted in stress fractures and brittle nails, I was desperate for a fix. Repair and strengthening formulas were not doing the trick fast enough. Who knew all my nails needed was a little red light therapy? The best part is that your nails don’t need to be bare to get the benefits. StimuNail works while wearing nail polish, press-ons, or gel. Also, the device is compact and lightweight, so you can literally throw it in your tote bag and go.”—DJ

“As a gel extension connoisseur and recovering gel polish addict, I relish staring at a fresh nail set every month. Sadly, excessive manipulation to my nails sometimes leave them crying for reprieve. I pride myself on giving my nails a break by going into full recovery, err, repair mode. This serum from OPI strengthens weak, brittle nails using a vegan formula that, when used on bare nails for at least six days consecutively, restores the keratin lost through damaging manicures.”—NP

“Skip the hassle of the multi-step chrome nail process, and just buy yourself these iridescent delights from Apres Nails. With one swipe, your nail is covered in a celestial hue that enhances whatever base is layered on top.”—NP

“After ruining my nails with acrylics, gel seemed to be the next best option; however, I’d get nervous at how abrasive nail drills felt while removing gel polish. Green Flash is a vegan, plant-based formula sans methacrylate monomers (the ingredient that makes gel polish so hard to take off). This LED nail polish lasts 10 days and can be removed in less than 30 seconds with nail polish remover. No nail drills necessary!”—DJ

“Marsai Martin may be known for her acting skills, but the 18-year-old is also stepping into the beauty game with a line of press-ons that come in all sorts of shapes, lengths, and designs. You can pop them on with nail glue for a longer lasting manicure or use nail tabs if you need a temporary nail look. She even has 3D nails with a butterfly design, and this cocoa shade is the perfect DIY latte mani.”—DJ

“Can anyone truly grow tired of blush? Cream blush exists at the intersection of liquid and powder formulas, which has the former’s radiance and the latter’s staying power. Kulfi’s iteration has a soft blur that packs enough pigment with one dollop, but can be built up to your desired intensity. What you’re left with is a gorgeous summery flush, no matter the season.”—NP

“I tend to dance between three different concealers, and no additional brands have been able to break into my fold as a long-term contender. That’s until this Iconic London Concealer Duo landed on my desk. One side is almost like a brightening primer; I swear it helps the concealer (located on the other side) lay even better. The formula doesn’t settle into my fine lines under my eyes, and the highlighter adds this luminosity to my under-eye area without any annoying flashback in photos.”—DJ

“Can lipstick be art? Well, Muzigae Mansion sure thinks so. The glass-like packaging looks like someone crumpled it, then squeezed a lip tint inside for an artsy effect that stands out on your makeup vanity. For me, it’s a conversation starter every time I whip it out in the women’s bathroom. And it doesn’t just look good, it also feels good on my lips. The lip tint is uber-hydrating, pigmented, and creates a dewy gloss.”—DJ

“Through karaoke tears and eight-hour work days, Victoria Beckham’s Eyewear Eyeshadow Sticks have proven to be the reliable new staple of my makeup bag. Easy to swipe across the lid or wear as a liner—Sunflower, my favorite, adds an awakening illusion to any eye look—EyeWear plays well with other eye products and doesn’t budge.”—NP

“As soon as the temperature dips, full-coverage, matte formulas are all I care about—and now, skin tints. Hourglass created a lightweight, light-coverage ‘veil’ that sits so comfortably on my skin that I no longer think about foundation. Adopting a skin-first formula, this tint hydrates and cushions the skin with squalane and hyaluronic acid.”—NP

“Spending all night creating the perfect twist-out only to wake up with limp, frizzy curls on the takedown is every curly girl’s nightmare. However, this curling cream from the Mane Choice is an absolute dream. The formula is packed with avocado oil, agave nectar, vitamin E, and more to form juicy, hydrated, frizz-free twists.”—NP

“This is my go-to shampoo post-protective style, as it really loosens up and removes product buildup. As a micro-exfoliant, it doesn’t get tangled in my curls and coils and really seems to dissolve onto my scalp. The charcoal leaves my hair feeling extra clean; however, unlike other clarifying and exfoliating shampoos, this one doesn’t leave my scalp stripped of its natural oils.”—DJ

“Guerlain knows that bees are important to our future, so it’s no surprise that the brand focused on these creatures’ sweet elixir as the main product in its latest collection. Honey is a popular humectant, which is just a fancy word for moisturizer, and this shampoo is the haute couture of shampoos. Check out the conditioner as well, which helped to easily detangle my hair. Both products smell absolutely divine and left my hair strong, shiny, and soft.”—DJ

“Scalp care is what proffers the best healthy hair results. This scalp rinse fuses rice water, touted for its hydration benefits, and sake water, which is rich in probiotics, to break down buildup and restore balance to itchy, irritated scalps.”—NP

“I’ve gifted this product to my mother and have told all my friends about it, too. This mud masks uses 26 minerals from the Dead Sea to help revitalize your scalp. While initially this was for your hair, the company received so much feedback that it was helping clear up people’s eczema and other skin-irritating conditions. So, yes, it’s that powerful. People come from all over the world looking for a healing effect in the Dead Sea, and it can be right there in your shower caddy. Think of it as a vitamin for your hair. ”—DJ

“Is it a makeup brush or a face tool? It’s both! Add a spa-like effect to your morning makeup routine with Glossier’s new Stretch Brush. This design of this brush was well-considered; it perfectly fits the curves of your face. When I apply, I don’t know if I’m giving my face a quick lymphatic massage or just applying my base. It can get into the curves under your eyes and around your nose. It opens and closes, so the brush isn’t exposed, which minimizes opportunities for bacteria and contamination but also prevents makeup from getting everywhere. I love it!”—DJ

“Beloved by the poster child for glass skin, Hailey Bieber, Medicube’s Age-R Booster is the sidekick to practically any treatment serum in your routine. Using electric pulses to penetrate the serum deeper into your skin, this five-minute treatment tightens pores, improves elasticity, and, of course, grants you glass skin.”—NP

“We pay so much attention to our face that our neck is often one of the first signs of aging. This red light neck enhancer is a perfect way to combat lines and wrinkles. The cordless design allows you to move about freely, and a remote control allows you to time the treatment for 10 or 20 minutes. And while it’s designed for the neck, I flip it around to give my back a dose of red light therapy. This is also very lightweight, comes with a travel bag, and can be charged on your computer, making it the perfect travel companion.”—DJ

“Add this on top of any moisturizing conditioner for the best stimulating treatment ever. With three heat modes, the heated cap melts the conditioner or deep treatment into your hair, so you’re left with soft, bouncy, luscious strands that are prepped and primed for the next style.”—NP

”No one goes on vacation to be themselves. Here’s a three-barrel curler from Beachwaver that allows you to morph into three different personalities with the switch of a button. Opt for the Curly Cone for tapered, tight spirals; the Mega Cone adds bombshell waves throughout your head; and the Classic Cone offers more uniform curls.”—NP