Which new beauty products are worth buying this month? I’ve put the latest viral launches to the test to find the ones that genuinely deliver.
With new products and buzzy ingredients dropping daily, separating beauty breakthroughs from clever marketing can feel like a full-time job. Does that eye-wateringly expensive serum really work? And is that viral ingredient actually worth trying?
Some buys are all about convenience, others are simply fun, and then there are the ones you can’t stop hearing about. This month’s edit has a bit of everything – from a viral wet-to-dry shampoo and a clever red lip smudge to Birkenstock’s unexpected foray into nail polish.
Consider this your shortcut to the beauty launches worth knowing about – and adding to cart. Here’s what’s caught my attention lately.
Bouf Grease Lightning Dry Shampoo, $34.95
Following the success of its hair growth tonic, Bouf has dropped its latest innovation: a wet-to-dry dry shampoo. Sounds odd, but it’s surprisingly clever. Spritz onto your roots, massage in and, for extra zhuzh, give it a quick blast with your hairdryer. As it dries, it absorbs excess oil from the scalp. Social media sensation and Bouf shareholder Indy Clinton’s impressive results sparked debate, some questioning whether the product alone could deliver her fresh-from-the-salon locks. My hair wasn’t quite as glossy, but my roots looked noticeably cleaner and I managed to eke out an extra day between washes.
Birkenstock Plant-Based Nail Polish, $30
Birkenstock is stepping beyond its iconic sandals with the launch of a nail polish and footcare range. And it makes perfect sense – when your toes are on full display in a pair of Birks, you want the pedi to match. The collection includes five shades inspired by its seasonal footwear colours, alongside a base and top coat. Each polish delivers a glossy finish, so you can skip the clear coat – though it’ll help extend wear. The formulas are also 100 percent vegan and plant-based, with no noticeable difference in application.
Ed&i Body Rumour Lip Smudge, $48
We all know lip pencils, but what about a lip smudge? Local brand ed&i’s new shade is a clever, more wearable take on the classic red lip. The creamy matte formula can be applied with a crisp outline or ‘smudged’ with your finger for a softer edge – my preferred way to make a bold red feel less intimidating. It doesn’t feel dry despite the matte finish and can be layered with your favourite red lippy or gloss. Plus, it comes with a handy free sharpener.
Essano Hydration+ Milky Toner, was $20 now $11.69
A toner is an easy way to add a hit of hydration to your skincare routine without the heaviness. This is a great entry point if you’re new to toners or don’t want to splurge. Formulated with four types of hyaluronic acid, plus plumping and soothing ingredients, it’s suitable for all skin types. Use morning and night after cleansing, or under makeup for a smooth, hydrated base that helps extend wear. Affordable, effective and easy to find at most chemists and supermarkets.
Revlon Glimmer Shadow Multi-Stick, was $33 now $20.99
Revlon may not be the first name that springs to mind for trendy makeup, but this clever multitasker is a saviour for effortless eyeshadow looks – no MUA skills required. Simply scribble the crayon-like stick across your lids and blend with your fingers or a brush. There’s even a jelly tip on the other end for easy buffing. The pigment is decent and buildable, taking you from day to night while wearing well without flaking. You can even double it as a highlighter for a subtle cheekbone glow.