It wasn’t a vintage one, but it wasn’t all bad either. Whether we were stuck in lockdown (again), socialising alfresco or attempting something that resembled a BNO, these are the beauty hits that got us through another rollercoaster year.
Without further ado, let’s take a moment to review our favourite products of the year before the clock strikes 12 on 2022.
23 December 2021
Rose Quartz Eyeshadow Palette
When Huda drops a new palette it's kind of a big deal. Her latest offering stars 18 shades of tickled pink, glittering golds and earthy tints in a mix of dreamy textures.
The hype: “Yet another belter from Huda! Absolutely stunning shades and formulas. No one quite lives up to her eyeshadows. They are full of pigment and so smooth and blendable. Able to create such different looks too. My new fave!” - Keara, customer review
No. 8 Bond Repair Moisture Mask
One of Olaplex’s most anticipated launches, this mask works by repairing fragile hair damaged by heat, chemical or colour treatments, leaving you with a supple, soft, moisturised mane.
The hype: “There’s three girls in my house, but we all have different textures of curls, so it’s hard to find the “perfect” conditioner. The Intense Moisture Mask hits the mark! With just one treatment, we each saw an improvement in terms of shine, texture and smoothness. My damaged, dry hair drinks in the moisture without feeling heavy or greasy, but it’s light enough for my daughter’s fine, tight curls, too!” - Bridget, customer review
Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Dermatologist-founded, Tik Tok-famous skincare brand CeraVe is loved for its simple, effective and affordable products. Its latest budget-friendly drop - a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum - is no different. It does exactly what it promises, smoothing and hydrating skin for a healthy, plumped-up look. A winner for all skin types.
The hype: "I could definitely see a difference after a week. My skin appears brighter and smoother - it's my new go-to serum that I use morning and night." - Karen, customer review
Charlotte's Refillable Magic Cream
Charlotte’s much-loved Magic Cream went refillable and recyclable - and we’re *so* here for the guilt-free skincare routine. First created backstage to transform models’ skin before fashion shows, this rich moisturiser became so iconic Charlotte had to bottle it. We'll be forever thankful she did.
The hype: "Wow. Everything about this cream is amazing: the rich consistency, the thickness, and how great it is to wear before applying makeup! A little goes a long way. It’s so smooth and smells good too." - Zain, customer review
Moisture Surge 100 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Our fave gel-cream moisturiser came through with a brand new formula and we were impressed. The oil-free launch now has next-gen technology to help skin create its own internal water source - a dream come true for literally all skin types. The plump and glow-y results speak for themselves.
The hype: “I have tried many moisturisers and nothing compares to Moisture Surge. It glides on your skin so softly and really hydrates your skin. I like that it's really lightweight.” - Gigi, customer review
Peptide 21™ Wrinkle Resist Serum
Packed with a line-fighting complex of 21 different peptides and proteins, this serum hones in on every area of the face and neck for skin that looks noticeably plumper, healthier and more youthful. It's an investment in long-term skin health and we appreciated every last drop.
The hype: “Absolutely amazing! As a 29 year old that’s obsessed with skincare I am a firm believer in stopping small wrinkles in their tracks before they get worse. And this is a perfect product for that. After a month of use I feel like I don’t even need to wear a lot of makeup anymore. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE.” - Torie, customer review
Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream
The cult US beauty brand finally landed in the UK and we couldn't get enough. This full-coverage foundation does everything you need and more: it hydrates, plumps and protects - all while helping cover uneven skin tone and blemishes. A multitasking beauty that doesn't crease or crack - what more could you possibly need?
The hype: “The best foundation I've tried this year. I've started recommending it to everyone I know.” - Sarah Wu, Glamour
They're Real Magnet Extreme Lengthening & Powerful Lifting Mascara
Its long name is fitting, for this mascara is all about length, length and more length. The magic of Benefit's latest addition to its 'They're Real!' mascara collection lies in its brush and formula, both of which are magnetically charged to deliver the longest lashes of your life.
The hype: “If you love lashes that make people ponder 'are those false lashes?', this is the one for you.” - Lottie Winter, Glamour Beauty Editor