We Tested Dozens of New Beauty Products This Month — Here's What We're Keeping for the Long Haul
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From a $5 drugstore mascara to a $52 artichoke body scrub
People / Alli Waataja
At PEOPLE, we take beauty testing very seriously. We sift through hundreds — nay — thousands of pitches and products on a regular basis, carefully swatching, spritzing, and applying the latest and greatest offerings so that we can then share with you, dear readers, those that are worth your hard-earned money.
And we're keenly aware that beauty products are subjective, which is why we consult with experts like dermatologists, makeup artists, and hairstylists to determine what will best suit our specific skin and hair types. We also boast a large testing pool of varying beauty needs so that we're each giving the products a fair trial before writing them off. Sometimes, though, there are those especially shiny offerings that we feel the need to shout from the mountaintop of bottles, tubes, and compacts, which is why we publish this monthly series of our absolute favorite picks.
Below, we're rounding up the makeup, skincare, and hair products that made us do a double-take last month — and then reach for them again and again. From a new Saie concealer that may replace a former PEOPLE-approved favorite (which was great for mature skin) to natural deodorants that actually kept us smelling fresh, here are the products we tried and loved the most this month.
Georgia Louise Vitamin A Complex No.1 Serum
“I've been reporting on the many benefits of retinol, which is considered the gold standard of anti-aging ingredients, for years, but for some reason I never used it consistently. Then I had a facial with celebrity facialist Georgia Louise (her clients include Emily Blunt, Emma Stone, and a zillion other stars you just saw all over awards season) and insisted I use a retinol and gave me a bottle of her Vitamin A Complex No.1 Serum to try, and, wow, this stuff is amazing.
“For starters, it has the texture of a super luxe face oil so it's an absolute pleasure to apply. But what really makes it stand out is that it has the highest levels of pure retinol, retinyl palmitate, and vitamins C and E, so your skin will look brighter, firmer and generally better without any irritation. I've been using it five nights a week for the last two months and have experienced zero redness, just an impressive glow.” — Andrea Lavinthal, Style and Beauty Director
Tracie Martyn Amla Purifying Cleanser
“When your job is to test products, it's rare that you get to return to ones you legitimately loved. But on Oscars night, as one celeb after another (think: Diane Lane and Camila Mendes, among others) showed up at the ceremony and parties with radiant skin courtesy of Tracie Martyn Beauty, I had to get the 4-1-1 from co-founder and CEO Marius Morariu.
“Morariu, a holistic nutritionist who formulates Tracie Martyn's lotions and potions, shared their looks were the work of the brand's (trademarked!) Red Carpet Facial, which combines best-in-class products and treatments, starting with their Amla Purifying Cleanser (dubbed liquid gold).
“One whiff of its uplifting scent and I was instantly transported to early years in my career when using this cleanser was as close as I got to feeling like a star. All this time later, the gently exfoliating fruit-enzyme blend with brightening Vitamin C still makes me glow like one.” — Jackie Fields, Deputy Beauty Director
Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm
“For me personally, few recent beauty trends have been as exciting as the lip balm renaissance. Polite Society recently joined the long list of brands that have launched upgraded formulas, and their Glossy Lip Balm has shot to the top of my all-time favorites list.
"The formula is hydrating like a thick lip mask but shiny like a gloss (with zero stickiness!), and it lasts for hours. Each shade and scent is equally delectable — from Bumbleberry to Coconut Cream — but French Caramel is my favorite — it smells like a freshly baked pastry, and leaves the perfect hint of brown.” — Karli Bendlin, Director of Content Strategy
Seaweed Bath Co. Exfoliating Jelly Cleanser
“I'm religious about reapplying sunscreen, and that usually means I have multiple layers of face sunscreen on my skin at the end of a hot day. This gentle exfoliating cleanser from The Seaweed Co. lifts every layer of product off without roughing up my skin underneath. It is officially a new skincare staple for my nightly routine.” — Erin Johnson, Associate Editorial Director, Commerce
People / Erin Johnson
Raw Sugar Living The Deep Cleanse Clarifying Shampoo
“I’ve searched high and low for the perfect shampoo because my hair profile is what I’d call complicated: on occasion I have an itchy, flaky scalp, my roots get greasy in the blink of an eye and I need to wash every. single. day. Then this Raw Sugar shampoo came along.
“I can use it daily and come out of the shower every time with a squeaky clean, but less irritated scalp, noticeable volume and, not only does my hair feel hydrated, it looks silky smooth, like I just emerged from a Hollywood blowout session.” — Michelle Lee, Editorial Assistant
Related: After 6 Weeks of Testing, We Found the 13 Best Shampoos (and Conditioners) for Dry Hair
Beekman 1802 3-Step Oily + Combination Skin Starter Travel-Sized Kit
“This is my first time trying products from Beekman 1802 and I only wish I had done so sooner. Known for its goat-milk based skincare products, the brand recently launched a vegan version designed for oily and combination skin (a.k.a. yours truly).
“The vegan formula mimics the same chemistry found in real goats milk so you get all the benefits the ingredient is known for without any animal involvement. I have been using it for the past several weeks and my skin has felt so much more balanced than it did before and I've seen a reduction of breakouts, too. (P.S. How cute is the live baby goat cam?)” — Erika Reals, Senior Shopping Editor
Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Neutrals
“The original Master Mattes palette was one of the first products I owned from Makeup by Mario, and it's been a staple in my makeup routine for years. That is, until the 'sister' palette, dubbed ‘The Neutrals,’ entered the scene.
“Everything that I loved about the original palette remained in this new collection of hues — including buildable, buttery matte shadows, a versatile array of colors suited for everyday and ultra-glam looks, and a compact that's the same size as an iPhone for easy transportation.
“I instantly fell in love with the '90s color story and sleek, streamlined shades in this palette. You can tell they're here to build a persona, a fantasy, per se, instead of mimicking skin tones, which is the object of the original palette. With this new slew of shades I’ve been able to create cool-toned smokey eyes and demure daytime makeup all with the same palette, just with a different intensity behind my brush (his E6 brush is my new go-to).
“With a shade range and formula that everyone from pre-teens to professionals will love, this is the palette every mother, friend, and beauty lover will have on their wishlist this year.” — Alyssa Brascia, staff shopping writer
Sonage Opaleze Brightening Serum
“I've only been using this brightening serum for two weeks, and already I notice a visible difference in my dark spots. The acne scars on my forehead from last month's breakout are now almost entirely gone. I also love the texture — it's thick and leaves my skin with a juicy glow. It leaves behind a lightly tacky texture that (hot tip) also serves as a great makeup primer.
“Its skin-loving power comes from the superstar brightening ingredient Tranexamic Acid (also known as TXA), alongside niacinamide and antioxidant-rich Manjistha. Plus, this serum didn't cause any reaction on my super sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. I'm in love!” — Cai Cramer, staff shopping writer
Related: The 10 Best Dark Spot Correctors of 2024, Tested by Real People
Saltair Serum Deodorant
“I have tried so many deodorants over the years — from drugstore favorites to more natural options. I’m always trying to find a natural one that actually works and keeps odor at bay. I recently switched over to Saltair’s Serum Deodorant, specifically the new Exotic Pulp scent, and I love it! It smells so citrusy and fresh, dries quickly after application, and lasts all day.
“While I don’t think this would be my go-to before a really sweaty workout, it works perfectly for most mornings. Plus, I can apply it right after shaving and it doesn’t burn or cause any irritation.” — Kayla Kitts, Shopping Editor
People / Kayla Kitts
ColorFX by Impress Press-on Manicure Nails
“I am very cautious when it comes to my nails — Gel? Powder? Acrylics? Forget it. So, I was intrigued by the advertised ‘no-glue’ adhesive for the new line of press-on nails by Impress.
“The ColorFX collection gives you the impressive look of chrome and other high-level salon techiques without spending hours or money at the actual nail salon. I've had mine on for over a week and they are still firmly in place despite lots of typing, fastening my dog's harness, and other small acts that take a toll on your nails.
“I've noticed the adhesive loosens when I take hot showers, so when I'm ready to take these off (should they not fall off themselves!), then hot water should do the trick.” — Madison Yauger, Shopping Editor
People / Madison Yauger
Osana Naturals Body Wash
“A little known fact about me: I've long finished up the body wash in my shower, but I love the bottle so much, I pour other formulas into it. (The packaging is just so lovely to look at.) But a few weeks ago, I was introduced to Osãna Naturals, a new collection of body and hair care, and I instantly got spa vibes from the sleek design. Then I smelled the delicious Vanilla and Coconut aroma. Then I found out the price: $5! Can you believe it? Not only is the formula now in my shower, but the bottle is, too.” — Jackie Fields
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum for Redness and Barrier Repair
“I've been using the Dr. Jart+ Cicapair collection for years — the viral Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment has been my savior during more rosacea flare-ups than I can count. The brand's new Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum, however, is particularly special.
“After a few weeks of use, my face was noticeably less red, and the overall texture of my skin was visibly smoother. The serum's highly concentrated formula includes cica complex and allantoin, which work to soothe irritation and support the skin barrier.
“The effects are instant — it leaves my skin supple and hydrated after every application — but it's the long-term results that really have me sold; I swear I've been applying less and less concealer as I work through my first bottle.” — Karli Bendlin
LaVanila Healthy Underarm Detox Mask
“I've been trying to make the switch to natural deodorant for years. I'll use one for a little while but then ultimately resort back to my traditional deodorant after a few weeks. However, I'm proud to announce I have switched to the natural side, thanks to the LaVanila Healthy Underarm Detox Mask.
“This charcoal underarm mask speeds up the deodorant transition process, and I'm happy to say that it really works. (I've been using it with the brand's all-natural Sport Luxe deodorant and so far, so good!)” — Erin Johnson
Hello Sunday The Everyday One SPF 50 Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
“I usually pivot to skincare versus makeup in warmer months, and right now, I'm loving this SPF moisturizer. It's super lightweight, and there's no white cast. It's such an easy step in my morning routine and leaves my skin feeling really hydrated and protected throughout the day. Plus, it's great for sensitive skin because it's fragrance-free (with UVA and UVB protection).” — Madison Yauger
People / Madison Yauger
L’Occitane Artichoke Body Scrub
“I’ve been giving my body care extra love this month, which is where L’Occitane’s new artichoke (yes, artichoke) body scrub comes in. I rub this on the areas that don't receive as much attention — the thighs, the hips — and my skin is getting brighter and firmer. Down the line, with continuous use of this spa-like smelling scrub, my skin will have a lot to thank me for.” — Michelle Lee
Byoma Brightening Body Lotion
“For me, winter means dry and sometimes cracked skin — so I keep a body lotion next to my bed as part of my nighttime skincare routine, and this Brightening Body Lotion from Byoma has officially kicked my old go-to off the table.
“Pumped with niacinamide and a tri-ceramide complex, this formula brightens and evens out your skin tone while also giving the skin barrier an extra dose of hydration, and it's made a significant difference in the feel and appearance of my incredibly dry, late winter skin. Besides being ultra-nourishing, the smell of this lotion is divine and makes settling down for the night that much easier. All of this for $13? You know you need it.” — Alyssa Brascia
Naturium UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50
“One of my resolutions for this year was to focus more on my neck with both my sunscreen and skincare. I always reach for a tinted sunscreen for my face because it’s been known to help with hyperpigmentation and melasma. For my neck, though, I have started integrating Naturium’s UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50 into my routine. The formula quickly absorbs into the skin, doesn’t pill, works well under makeup, and doesn’t leave a white cast. I can tell this is definitely going to be a beach bag staple this summer.” — Kayla Kitts
People / Kayla Kitts
Saie Slip Tint Radiant All-Over Concealer
“New holy grail alert! The Saie Slip Tint Radiant concealer might just replace every other base product in my makeup routine.
“It's the most blendable concealer I've ever tried and melts into the skin with just a few taps of my ring finger, but works just as well with a brush or sponge. (Editor's note: Cai tries several new concealers a month the second they hit her desk, so this says a lot.) The texture is watery and light, but it provides a medium-buildable coverage that I can easily layer on without any pilling or streaking. Plus, it contains niacinamide to help brighten the skin over time.
“The smooth, blendable formula is also great for beginners or for anyone who doesn’t like to wear much makeup because you can apply just a little bit with your fingers without worrying about whether you applied it correctly. It really is mistake-proof!” — Cai Cramer
Related: The Best Concealers for Dark Circles of 2024, According to Our Testers
Cover FX Radiant Start Tinted Moisturizer
“Let me start by saying that I'm not much of a tinted moisturizer nor a dewy skin girl — I've typically fallen into the camps of of medium-to-full coverage and satin/matte finishes to cancel out my redness and erase unnecessary shine, but little did I know how much my preferences would change once the Cover FX Radiant Start Tinted Moisturizer entered my world.
“I'm used to tinted moisturizers and CC creams giving me a slight dose of pigment and barely-there hydration, but this product worked overtime to brighten my skin, neutralize my rosacea-induced redness, and give my skin a believable glow (not just the byproduct of a shimmery formula). What's more is how easy it was to blend this product into my skin: I used my fingers like I would with any moisturizer and watched as the formula melted effortlessly into my skin without needing to reach for a sponge or brush for any additional blending.
“It perfectly hydrates my skin for a day's worth of wear without looking oily and plays nicely with my other hydration-forward concealers (my favorites to pair with this face base: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer or the Cover FX Skin Discovered Longwear Concealer for the under-eyes, or the Merit Minimalist Complexion Stick for blemishes).” — Alyssa Brascia
Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Deep Retreat Pore-Clearing Kaolin Clay Mask
“Oily pores are my worst enemy, which is why Benefit Cosmetic’s deep-cleaning Kaolin clay mask is at the top of my favorites list. I use this 2-3 times a week and afterwards my skin looks and feels mattified, without it feeling extremely tight. I highly recommend applying this after a long day of wearing glam — and watch the purple clay work its magic (the spots that appear during your masking session are proof of it detoxing your pores!).” — Michelle Lee
Essence Lash Without Limits Extreme Lengthening & Volume Mascara
“I have been a huge fan of Essence’s Lash Princess Mascara for years now. (And, of course, I love that it’s under $5!) So when I saw Mei Mei’s TikTok review of Essence’s brand-new Lash Without Limits Mascara, I knew I had to try it.
“I don’t know why, but I never thought to try brown mascara before, and let’s just say it’s a game-changer for my no-makeup makeup look. Just a few swipes and my lashes are transformed with a softer, more natural look than black mascara provides for my skin tone. I have officially added this mascara into my everyday makeup routine.” — Kayla Kitts
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