The Best New Beauty Buys For February
All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.
SKINCARE STAPLES
Beauty Pie Happy Face Extreme Relief Cica Moisture Cream
This might be designed for those with highly sensitive, dry or rosacea-prone skin, but really, anyone can use it. It uses skin-quenching ceramides, as well as cica – a key ingredient for reducing both redness and inflammation – to soothe skin without leaving it feeling tacky or greasy. Trust us when we say it really does work – not only did we see a difference (think better hydration and a supple finish), up to 90% of testers said they felt their skin felt calmer within just one use.
Byoma Creamy Jelly Cleanser
Skin barrier care is already proving to be a huge trend this year, and new range Byoma is catering to the cause. Its seven-strong product range (brimming with strengthening ceramides and fatty acids) helps to seal moisture into the skin to limit issues like dryness, inflammation and breakouts. Everything in the line-up is also alcohol, fragrance and cruelty-free, so you can use it with confidence. Our favourite has to be this Jelly Cleanser. It latches onto dirt, make-up and excess oil, but never strips the skin. On the contrary, it’s designed to keep your skin’s pH levels in balance, and leave skin feeling comfortable and supple post-cleanse. The satisfying texture is seriously satisfying, but the results are even more impressive – expect a brighter, smoother complexion almost immediately.
Curel Deep Moisture Spray
Curel is a skincare brand that does exactly what it says. Fuss-free, it uses key ingredients to deliver results at speed. Our new favourite from the range is this Deep Moisture Spray. Created with moisture-sealing ceramides and nourishing castor oil, the fine mist quickly coats skin in a layer of hydration. You’ll find skin feels softer within days of use, while any feelings of tightness or dryness will be soothed instantly. Use it all over, and on top of make-up throughout the day to hit refresh. Gentle and effective, this is one not to be missed.
KNC Beauty Big Set Mask
Face masks continue to divide opinion, but one thing is for certain: they’re great for a bit of instant gratification. We love these new ones from KNC Beauty – a trio designed to treat all kinds of skin concerns. The Big Drip is soaked with hydrating and reparative ingredients like Irish moss, marula oil and calming rosa centifolia, while the Big Glo uses vitamin C-rich pomegranate to brighten and white lily to soothe. Finally, don’t miss out on the Big Chill. Designed to soothe and treat, it’s soaked with aloe vera and anti-inflammatory centella – ideal for those suffering with sensitivities.
Teresa Tarmey Lactic Acid Treatment
Teresa Tarmey is a big name in the beauty industry. An expert facialist, her sound knowledge and reliable results have earnt her a loyal following over the years. Now she’s pouring expertise into a range of products. Our pick is this gentle exfoliating treatment. Using lactic acid, just a small amount will dissolve dead skin cells and any other unwanted build-up on the skin’s surface for better glow. Ideal if you suffer with breakouts, but also general dullness and uneven tone, it re-plumps skin by locking in hydration long term. Use it daily, or three times a week for best results.
BODY & HAIR BASICS
Alo Glow System Mega-C Body Wash
It’s not often you come across vitamin C in a body wash, which is why we like this one from Alo Glow System. Just a small amount will whisk away dead skin cells for a smoother appearance, while avocado and marula oil offer some much-needed hydration. The scent is incredible, too – think citrus notes with a warm vanilla base.
Mario Badescu Coconut Body Scrub
If you’re after a good scrub, give this one from Mario Badescu a try. Affordable and effective, it kicks sluggish skin cells into action. Unlike other exfoliators, it’s also rich in hydrators for a silky-soft finish – think coconut oil, argan oil and ylang ylang, all of which leave behind a comforting veil of moisture – you won’t need a body cream on top. Bonus points go to the coconut scent.
Mirror Water Soak Bath Salts
A soak in the tub isn’t complete without a few salts. Using a blend of three minerals, just a few handfuls of these ones create a blissful oasis, while Canadian black spruce oil creates a heady, herbal scent to boost mental clarity. Immediately conjuring up a picture of a forest, the fragrance is cosy, refreshing and soothing all at once, while essential oils envelope the skin in rich moisture. These are great for congestion, too – simply throw in an extra handful and breathe in deeply.
Virtue Flourish Density Booster
The market is saturated with volumising hair products, but not all are created equal. Enter Virtue, whose founders discovered a key ingredient – Alpha Keratin 60ku – a protein identical to the keratin in your natural hair. It works to bind new keratin to any areas of damage, then fill them in for improved density and volume. This Density Booster formula targets broken follicles and fragile hairs to gradually repair hair for thicker, healthier-looking strands. Meanwhile, peptides and probiotics keep scalp irritation at bay. For the best results, use this daily on dry or damp hair, spraying it directly onto your scalp and through sections of your hair. It takes time to see results but stick with it – up to 90% of testers said their hair felt healthier with regular use.
ESSENTIAL STORAGE & TOOLS
Beis On The Go Essentials Case
Want to change up your make-up storage? This case from Beis ticks all the boxes. The faux leather looks chic, while the slip pockets, various compartments and built-in compact mirror make it ideal for on-the-go. It’s transparent as well, so you can see all your products at once.
Bawdy Body Gua Sha Tool
Not only does gua sha aid better circulation, but the right technique can also help you detoxify and bring down like puffiness. That means the right tool is key and this is the one taking the internet by storm. Smooth in texture, it’s been designed to provide a firm, but seamless glide. The curved angles make it easy to reach every nook and cranny, and you can use this on your face and body – just use small, fast strokes, sweeping upwards as you go.
M2 Beaute Eyelash Comb
Eyelash combs may seem gimmicky, but they can help to separate lashes for extra definition – plus, they’re brilliant for removing clumps of mascara as well. We love this one from M2 Beaute. Made from good-quality stainless steel, it has a curved edge that perfectly fits the contour of your eye as well as a long handle for good grip and control.
MAKE-UP MUST-HAVES
Nars Light Reflecting Foundation
Fans of Nars’ make-up will love this new foundation. Offering the same impressive coverage the brand is so known for, it’s great for blurring imperfections without completely covering your natural texture. The dewiness keeps skin looking healthy, while added ingredients like milk thistle and cacao peptides protect against the kind of damage caused by blue light and daily aggressors – like pollution – while simultaneously strengthening skin. It never feels heavy or occlusive, but doesn’t slide off come 4pm either – the ultimate base for 2022.
Trish McEvoy Liquid Face Colour
This gel cheek and lip stain is a must-try. Promising a fresh, youthful glow, it gives a pretty tint that screams healthy skin. It’s also easy to apply – simply twist up the colour and click for seamless application. The consistency is sheer, so you can get away with using just your fingers here, but for deeper intensity, buff it in with a brush. It’s only available in one shade, but it’s universally flattering.
Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Marker Gel
This brow gel gives you the best of both worlds, with a pencil and a gel built-in to its design. One end has a firm, thin nib to emulate ultra-fine hairs, while the soft setting gel locks everything into place with a glossy, laminated finish. Unlike similar products that can leave your arches feeling stiff, this nourishes brow hairs and promotes better regrowth over time. Find a starting point where your brows are sparser, then use short dash-like strokes to mimic the look of natural hairs.
Seeds of Colour Natural Colour Balm
We love these squeezy tubes. Not only are they versatile, they’re also kinder to the environment. Made from aluminium, they can be recycled, as can the plastic caps, while the colours themselves use natural pigments made from surplus organic fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, ingredients like coconut and castor oil provide extra nourishment and the four, suits-all tones give a dewy finish that is sheer yet buildable. Wear them on the lips, lids eyes or cheeks for a soft, healthy flush.
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