Team BD is back with the first edition of The Desk Edit for the year.
To kick things off, we've reviewed all our favourite beauty products of 2024. From mascaras and exfoliators, to everything in between, these are must-haves to keep front of mind over the next month and beyond.
Read our honest thoughts below.
To read more about the products, click the brand name.
Aja's picks
Yves Saint Laurent Lash Clash Mascara: Last year was the first year I experimented with coloured mascaras. As a strictly black mascara gal, I dipped my toe into the world of coloured shades and fell in love with the YSL Lash Clash Mascara in Uninhibited Brown. The natural hue worked with my lashes and I found it the perfect compliment to all the eyeshadows I use on a daily basis. I love the way it's not too harsh and doesn't make a huge statement. I'm not sure I'm game enough to try any truly bold coloured mascaras, but consider me a convert to brown!
Emma Lewisham Illuminating Face Exfoliant: When I think back to 2024 and what my must-have products have been, I can't go past the Emma Lewisham Illuminating Face Exfoliant. The iconic purple bottle sat in my shower every day this year, and I went through multiple refill pouches. On days I don't use this, my skin tells me about it and begs for it. Even though it is a physical exfoliant, it is oh so gentle on the skin barrier which I appreciate. It removes all dry skin and leaves my complexion glowing. This product is an A+ in my book, and I highly recommend giving it a go this year.
Scarlett's picks
Glow Lab Brightening Exfoliator: Last year I found myself reaching for the Glow Lab Brightening Exfoliator in the shower weekly! It has been a game changer to my shower routine. It’s perfect for anyone seeking smooth and glowing skin. It's a gentle exfoliator, infused with omega 3 and 6 that help to gently buffs away dead skin cells without feeling harsh or irritating. Perfect for sensitive skin, it leaves your face feeling refreshed and polished after every use. With regular use, I’ve seen a visible improvement in my skin's texture. If you’re looking for a gentle yet powerful exfoliator, the Glow Lab Brightening Exfoliator is definitely worth a try.
Tower 28 Swipe Serum Concealer: As someone who suffers from dry skin all year round, I struggle to have my makeup sit without it absorbing so quickly into my skin and becoming cakey. A few months ago, I went to MECCA and purchased the Tower 28 Swipe Serum Concealer. This has very quickly become a staple in my makeup routine. This serum concealer is lightweight, providing buildable coverage while still feeling incredibly breathable on the skin. It blends seamlessly and offers a natural finish that doesn’t look cakey or settles into fine lines, making it perfect for anyone with dry or textured skin. I also find it covers my redness, blemishes and dark circles with just a tiny amount of product. It can easily be worn as is without foundation if you are looking for a more natural makeup look. I highly recommend it for a natural, glowing look and will definitely be using this product well into 2025.
Rachel's picks
Maybelline New York Super Stay Up to 24HR Skin Tint: The Maybelline Super Stay Up to 24HR Skin Tint has been the best foundation I tried in 2024 and honestly, ever. It has officially earned HG status from me! I’ve worn this skin tint foundation almost every day since I received it eight months ago as I just love the way it brings life to my face. I do prefer a more natural makeup look and this is the perfect product to achieve that. This skin tint evens out my complexion perfectly, giving me the right amount of coverage, and leaves my skin with the most beautiful, natural glow. I also love the lightweight formula that feels comfortable on my skin all day and to top it off – the shade 36 is my exact shade match. I haven’t had to mix shades for the first time, a huge win! It has been my go-to base product for the days out running errands, to the office days, and literally everywhere else in between. A makeup essential I will never be without.
Dermal Therapy Tinted Lip Balm – Cherry Red: As a lover of the natural/minimal makeup look, the Dermal Therapy Tinted Lip Balm in the shade Cherry Red is my absolute favourite lip product. It’s the perfect combo of my already favourite lip balm – the classic Dermal Therapy lip balm (the only lip balm that actually works to keep my lips soft and hydrated all day), with a very flattering cherry red tint. Against my tan complexion, this shade is the perfect pop of colour, especially for the summer. I love that the colour is buildable too so I can work the intensity to match the occasion, with an added subtle sheen to the lips. Not to mention the incredibly hydrating and protective formula it’s based on that keeps my lips comfy all day. This cute little red tube has literally taken place of all other lip balms and lipsticks in my handbag stash since it came into my life, giving me everything I need in one: hydration and tint. I go everywhere with this baby!
Sarah's picks
QV Face Foaing Cleanser: This product has cemented itself as my go-to face cleanser. It’s one of the few foaming cleansers that do not strip the skin, but still manages to break through oils and makeup. It’s light weight formula coupled with vitamin E creates a balance to leave skin feeling fresh and protected. I have sensitive skin redness-prone to and I’m prone to redness so this cleanser is an absolute god send!
Lacoste Original Eau de Parfum: I recently purchased the Lacoste Original Eau de Parfum after seeing they partnered with the United Cup Tennis this year and it was the perfect universal male fragrance option I have come across! I have always loved the timeless elegance of the Lacoste Brand and relied on its quality and innovative design – and the brands approach to fragrance is no different. Creating a classic is something many try and fail to accomplish, but Lacoste executes this effortlessly with a fragrance that is distinct and powerful. The woody base in conjunction with sandalwood and patchouli creates a soft signature scent that sets the wearer apart. I purchased this fragrance for my brother, and it has fast become his go to for everyday wear. The bottle is also sleek enough for travel, but still looks premium when displayed at home (a combination that is often hard to achieve). Overall, such an incredible gift for men of all ages that cements itself as a scent staple.
