This year, the beauty industry has seen some of the best new product launches, revivals of old trends and an influx of social content that has transformed relationships between consumers and creators.
There has been a much needed shift for brand transparency, inclusivity, innovation, and sustainable practices – in order for the industry to keep up with not only consumers aesthetic values but also our social consciences.
Trends the team at BD have loved this year include cleansing balms, restorative hair care, underpainting and cloud skin. So, in celebration of the year coming to an end, we have compiled a list of the best products on the market.
Read our honest thoughts below, and why you should keep these offerings front of mind. After all, when you see the Tried and Tested badge, you know we’ve given it our stamp of approval.
To download hi-res images, and read more about the products, click the brand name.
Jergens Skin Smoothie Tropical Treat - Scarlett
What we think: This Jergens body lotion is so refreshing - I've absolutely loved using it this year. I've tried so many other body lotions and this is the one I keep going back to. The scent is fresh, but not too overpowering. It's also dermatologically-tested, so you know it's going to be good. I just love how hydrated and smooth my skin is!
Swisse Brightening Day Cream - Issy
What we think: After recently coming back from a European summer holiday my olive skin is quite pigmented from the sun (even after wearing a hat and continuously applying sunscreen). I have been using a mix of skincare products aimed to brighten and reduce pigmentation, one of those products being the Swisse Brightening Day Cream. I have been applying daily for the past two to three weeks and after application it leaves my skin glowy, providing a great base to then apply make-up. After several weeks the colour of my pigmentation has lightened. The formula contains active ingredients including niacinamide. Verdict: my skin tone looks balanced and overall brighter.
Ella Baché Glow Drops - Alicia
What we think: The Ella Bache Glow Serum Drops have become a staple in my skincare routine this year. I love that this can be used on the face and body to target dark spots and dullness. When using the product, you can tell the ingredients are high-grade and good quality compared to other glow serums I have used previously. I love using this serum under make-up as the light reflected pearlescent minerals shine through foundation creating a beautiful natural glow.
Weleda Cleansing Balm - Shannah
What we think: The Weleda Skin Food Nourishing Cleansing Balm has fast become a staple in my skincare routine. I generally wear a lot of make-up day-to-day and this cleansing balm has proven to be the most effective at removing it, whilst not leaving an oily residue on the skin. Upon reading the packaging I realised that the balm doubles as a face mask! I tried it out recently before a night out and found my make-up applied so smoothly and evenly. This has easily replaced up to five products in my bathroom cabinet, would 100% recommend!
Swisspers Makeup Cleansing Pads - Ashley
What we think: Swisspers 3-in-1 Cleanser Pads are a practical solution for the beauty enthusiast on-the-go! This cotton pad and cleanser hybrid allows you to both cleanse and treat your skin with the one pad. Simply activate with a bit of water and you can cleanse even waterproof make-up. Another advantage is they are made of 50% recyclable ingredients.
MOR Orange Flower and Lavender Hand & Body Milk - Lucy
What we think: With one of my favourite perfumes containing orange blossom, the MOR Orange Flower and Lavender Hand & Body Milk was sure to be a treat for my senses. This luxurious lotion is the perfect blend of zesty orange and calming lavender with a lightweight yet deeply nourishing formula that is ideal for dry skin. It leaves my skin feeling velvety soft without any greasiness. The packaging is as exquisite as the product itself, making this an enchanting, pampering experience!
DUI’T VIT E Cream - Susanna
What we think: This has been a surprisingly effective face moisturiser. Its lightweight texture effortlessly hydrates my skin, leaving it supple and revitalised. I also love the addition of vitamin E. The fine lines on my forehead have noticeably reduced, and my complexion is more even. What truly sets this apart is the long-lasting moisture it provides. A remarkable face moisturiser at this price point.
Clarins Joli Rouge Satin Lipstick - Rach
What we think: I was so excited to try the newly formulated Clarins Joli Rouge Satin Lipstick. The shade I trialed in ‘778’ is my new favourite everyday lippie! It’s a gorgeous nude that I believe would look stunning on any skin tone - the perfect ‘my lips but better’ shade that just elevates a daily no-makeup-makeup look. I also love the formula is enriched with all the benefits of a skincare product, including unique plant extracts and organic shea butter, as my lips feel soft and nourished every time. It has a beautiful radiant satin finish, great staying power and the chic gold case is refillable - a definite winner!
Kerasilk Strengthening Mask - Sam
What we think: I haven't had a great relationship with my hair since having a baby, so I am so glad I came across this Kerasilk Strenghtening Mask. This product has brought my hair back from the dead! The texture is thick and silky and smells like something from your favourite boujee hairdressers. My hair is shinier, more manageable and I have had significantly less breakage.
Alya Skin Exfoliating Sorbet - Sarah
What we think: This year, I have loved a chemical exfoliator, but the Alya Skin Exfoliating Sorbet is a 2-in-1 physical and chemical exfoliator, with its potent antioxidants and unique texture. The formula manages to gently exfoliate the surface of the skin leaving it feeling soft and bright, without irritation. I normally veer away from any scented skincare, but it actually has a very pleasant citrusy smell. This product will definitely be on heavy rotation for me this summer.
Lancôme Juicy Tubes - Aja
What we think: Lancôme's Juicy Tubes lip gloss may have been discontinued but this nostalgic gloss is back and better than ever! Now available in eight shades, the cult classic gloss leaves lips with the ultimate high-shine finish. I have to admit there's something that sparks joy when using beauty products that I once loved as a teenager, so seeing this re-release in 2023 had to be my pick of the bunch.
Main image source: Getty Images.
