What Our Insiders Think of the Latest Beauty O-Ward Winners

Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Oprah Daily editors tried hundreds of beauty products before deciding on this year’s 56 haircare, skincare, and makeup winners, each of which stood out for its true innovation.

We couldn’t wait to hear how our Oprah Daily Insiders liked the winners, so we sent them to some eager volunteers and asked for their thoughts—and their selfies. Check out the gorgeous results.

Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Maybelline Tattoo Studio Brow Lift Stick

“I can never do my brows very well. But this brow stick darkened them better than anything else I’ve ever tried. Yay!” —Kaywanda

The Good Mineral Lucent Finishing Powder

“I love the color of this. I do my usual makeup routine and then dust on this powder to absorb oil and shine. It does a great job. I look fresh and photo-ready.” —Kaywanda


Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Virtue Frizz Block Smoothing Spray

“My natural hair is a combination of voluminous, frizzy, and wavy, and this spray tames the frizz while maintaining the volume. I’ve tried many frizz sprays from other brands and by far this is the best!” —Jennifer

Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

“This spray definitely holds my curls while maintaining volume. It also smells lovely and gives my second-day hair new life. This is perfect for anyone who needs to refresh flat strands.” —Jennifer

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Glass Hair Water

“I’ve noticed more shine since using this water. If your hair needs more hydration, I highly recommend this.” —Jennifer

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Resurfacing Body Scrub

“This is the holy grail. It leaves my skin feeling nourished and baby butt soft! I use it once a week to exfoliate flaky skin. I have eczema, so I’m careful about the products I use, and this product didn’t irritate me.” —Jennifer


Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

MAC Colour Excess Gel Pencils

“These are AMAZING. They offer vibrant, long-lasting color; they stay in place even in 90+ degree heat! The selection of colors is perfect for those looking for a simple, natural look as well as those who want a colorful vibe.” —Kelly

L'Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Facial Water Mist

“Nothing conveys summer like the smell of coconut and a slightly sun-kissed face, and this delivers both. Usually, my skin is either pale or sunburnt, so I’ve never had a chance to enjoy a "tan" until now. The tint is subtle; it gives my freckly face just a touch of summer color.” —Kelly

Estée Lauder Supreme+ Youth Power Cream

“I've been plagued with dry skin for decades, and my parched, 40-something-year-old face fell in love with this cream instantly. It has a refreshing feeling and a pleasing floral scent. It doesn't leave a heavy or oily feeling like many others I’ve tried before.” —Kelly

Essie Hard to Resist Nail Strengthener

“Because nail polish tends to chip and peel, it's been easier to skip wearing it altogether. However, this sheer tint gives my hands a polished, clean look and lasts. It glides on easily and dries quickly, which is a huge win for me. I'm an artist, and now I can post my painting videos, attend gallery openings, and shake hands with new confidence.” —Kelly

Origins Mega-Mushroom Treatment Lotion

“This feels extremely refreshing, and the scent is just as pleasant; it reminds me of an earthy cedar forest with subtle hints of citrus. I use it after I wash my face but before I moisturize. It's going to become part of my regular skincare routine.” —Kelly


Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Smashbox Photo Finish Illuminate Glow Primer

“This smoothes over any little imperfections and discoloration I have and makes my skin feel refreshed. For a natural look, I don't layer on foundation. I just added little bit of mascara and a nude brown lipstick.” —Franchesca

U Beauty Barrier Bioactive Treatment

“This is my absolute favorite. It feels like a mask that I can sleep in. My face is really hydrated and rejuvenated when I wake up. 10/10.” —Franchesca


Photo credit: Hearst Owned
Photo credit: Hearst Owned

Ilia Multi-Stick

“I'm enjoying the compact size of this multi-stick, and I especially like that it can be used as a cheek stain without a mirror, blender, or brush—I applied it in a moving vehicle! Super easy.” —Li-Ting

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

“This is a terrific cleanser—even for someone with very sensitive skin. The biggest draw for me is that it's a very economical option, plus accessible at nearly any drugstore.” —Li-Ting

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