As another year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the countless products I’ve swatched, tested, and worn throughout 2023. As a beauty writer and creator, new launches are a constant in my world—yet only a select few truly stand out, earning a place not just on my vanity but also in my daily life. What follows is a deeply curated edit of the products that impressed me most this year. Consider it a highlight reel of formulas that exceeded expectations, along with a few discoveries I’ve only just begun to explore but already see immense promise in.
January: A Radiant Start
The year opened with glow. The 19/99 Highlighter in Miele offered a subtle golden sheen that instantly elevated even the most minimal makeup days, while Iconic London’s Illuminator in Original brought that liquid-light effect makeup lovers crave. For a clean, modern base, Au Naturale’s Trenchcoat foundation rounded out the month—its balance of coverage and skin-like finish made it a quiet favorite.
February: Pops of Color and Gentle Care
February leaned into sophistication with Clé de Peau’s Rouge Shine in Calanthe Orchid, a lipstick equal parts vibrant and wearable. Sisley-Paris’s Phyto-Rouge Shine in Beverly Hills added another polished lip option, buttery and comfortable. On the skincare side, Youthforia’s Night Off Cleanser made evening routines effortless—a gentle yet effective way to reset skin after long days.
March: A Base Breakthrough
This month brought a trio of complexion standouts: Gee Beauty Prime Skin, Westman Atelier Vital Skin Drops, and Monika Blunder’s Blunder Cover. Each offered its own take on achieving natural, luminous skin—whether through priming, enhancing, or perfecting. Together, they set the stage for seamless makeup application.
April: Classic Reds and Defining Neutrals
April was all about timeless touches. Armani’s Lip Power in 503 proved that a red lip never goes out of style, while Too Faced’s Hot N Spicy Lip Liner delivered the structure and longevity to keep it looking sharp.
May: A Skincare-Centric Month
By late spring, skincare had center stage. Agent Nateur’s Holi Radiance and Holi Mane offered glow from the inside out, while Lawless’s Skin-Smoothing Perfecting Powder brought balance to the complexion. Luxury touches came from Tom Ford’s Shade & Illuminate in Tan Light and Sisley-Paris’s Phyto-Eye Twist in Fawn, both versatile staples. For hair, Maya Chia’s The Mane Agent provided nourishment that left strands silkier and stronger.
June: Small Luxuries for Everyday
June’s discoveries leaned practical but chic. Londontown’s Illuminating Nail Concealer and Fast Dry Cuticle Oil elevated at-home manicures, while Girlactik’s Ready in 7 Kit simplified routines without sacrificing polish.
July: Color and Care
A summer standout was Gucci Beauty’s True Pink Blush, a universally flattering pop of color that brightened any look. On the self-care side, Serum Doctor’s Flawless Feet System proved that beauty extends well beyond the face.
August: Modern Glow
Two launches stole the show: Youthforia’s Date Night Foundation, which adapts beautifully to the skin for a natural glow, and the Clé de Peau Beauté Eye Shadow Quads, whose silky textures and thoughtful color stories made them a joy to wear.
September: Refined and Resilient
Fall began with SUQQU’s The Foundation, a luxurious formula with an unparalleled finish. The MAKE Infinite Hold Brow Tint kept arches groomed and natural, while Bakeup Beauty’s Tarantulash Mascara pushed lashes to dramatic lengths. On the skincare side, Lawless’s Forget the Filler Cream and WARE’s Sonny SPF blended efficacy with ease of use.
October: Cozy Neutrals with a Twist
October saw the arrival of the RMS Crystal Slipper Blush, a luminous wash of color, and the Natasha Denona I Need A Nude Palette, which instantly became a neutral-lover’s dream. Skincare from TWIISH impressed with its multitasking formulas, while Olivia Umma’s LipTox added a playful plump to lips.
November: Elevated Essentials
A month rich with favorites, November delivered on both makeup and skincare. The Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge Foundation and Concealer duo offered luxe coverage, while U Beauty’s The Super Tinted Hydrator simplified glowing skin in a single step. On the eyes, Neen’s Swoon Shadow and Lisa Eldridge’s Night Forest Eyeliner brought artistry to everyday looks. Devices like the ZIIP Halo elevated at-home routines, and Maya Chia’s Eye Cream quickly became indispensable. Rounding it out, Parfums de Marly’s Althair provided a fragrance that was equal parts warm and unforgettable.
December: A Strong Finish
The year ended with yet more standouts. Valerie Beverly Hills Secret Weapon Foundation paired with the Tinted Moisturizer created customizable coverage, while Monika Blunder’s Architect Eyes Mascara in Brown proved the power of a soft lash look. For lips, Jennifer Belle Beauty’s Holy Grail Lipliner and Nude Envie’s Spicy Lip Liner brought definition, completing the year with elegance.
Closing Thoughts
Reflecting on 2023, what strikes me most is not just the innovation but the variety—how each month introduced something new to enhance not only how we look, but also how we feel. From high-tech devices to timeless lipsticks, from skincare breakthroughs to blushes that brighten the day, these products represent the best of the best.
Looking ahead to 2024, I’m eager to continue exploring what beauty has to offer: fresh launches, rediscovered classics, and routines that bring joy. For now, this edit stands as a celebration of a year well-lived, one product at a time.