As a beauty editor of seven years, I’ve seen my fair share of sell-out products, thousands-long waiting lists and social post domination over ‘must-have’ launches. More often than not, it’s genius marketing. But sometimes, there’s truth to the hype and the ‘Holy Grail’ status is deserved.
A good sign is if the product was actually launched years ago, yet people are still talking about it and recommending it. It’s also important to still consider your skin type. If people are raving about a magical salicylic acid elixir that clears acne and balances an oily complexion, it’s not going to work miracles on a dry, maturing face. And lastly, when possible, try before you buy.
When it comes to skincare, a simple thing like smell or texture can completely change your opinion on a product, so seek out a sample if you can. Or if buying online, look for a mini or travel size version before forking out for the 50ml tub.
I myself have combination skin, with an oily t-zone, and normal to dry everywhere else. I like a fairly pared back routine, but have concerns like crow’s feet and early signs of ageing to tackle.
Sound like you too? Here are three seriously hyped products that met, and in some cases exceeded, my expectations.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold
As far as chemical exfoliants go, I am yet to find another that beats Liquid Gold. This has been a constant in my routine for years, and I continue to see it popping up on celebrity must-have lists, and recommended heavily in beauty Facebook groups. Being a glycolic acid, it’s best suited to normal, dry and ageing skin, but I also use it when I feel a blind pimple coming on and it seems to do the trick. It’s my go-to the night before filming or an event, and I always know I’m going to wake up with smoother, brighter skin.
$59.95 at alpha-h.com
Ole Henricksen Banana Bright Eye Créme
Truth be told, I’m not much of a big believer in eye creams unless it has some impressive actives in it. Particularly when it comes to claims of a brighter undereye. But this one is an AM angel. Juiced up with vitamin C and AHAs it helps to plump up my fine lines, while still sitting well under makeup, and provides a light-reflecting sheen that at least gives the illusion of brightness if nothing else. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not going to erase darkness or make deep wrinkles disappear, but I do notice when I don’t use it. And that’s pretty huge for an eye cream in my opinion.
$57 at sephora.com.au
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
Pretty packaging, K-beauty backstory, glow in the name – this pot was the perfect recipe for social media success. And sadly, it’s what took me so damn long to try it. Hyped to the max, I assumed it was good but not life-changing. However, the snot-like gooey texture, fresh real watermelon scent and instant soothing sensation have completely won my winter skin over. The watermelon and hyaluronic acid quench the thirst of my dry skin, while AHAs balance, brightens and smooths. It’s great for my skin type, but for those unsure, it does come in a smaller (and more affordable) 30ml to test the waters, which to be honest is all you really need when using it as a once in a while treat.
$35 (30ml) or $72 (80ml) at mecca.com.au
