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Sometimes you just find that perfect product. You know the one, a product you simply can’t wait to use when you get up in the morning. For me, at the moment, it is the Smashbox Highlighter in Hollywood & Highlight. If dewiness and a healthy all-year round glow is what you're after, look no further.
As a beauty editor I get to test some of the best and most luxurious new products available or about to launch. But let me tell you, pretty packaging and high prices are, however, not always a sign of a great product.
I rate new cosmetic products by asking some of these questions: What does it promise the consumer? Is it bang for buck? And, what matters most is, does it actually do what it says? Does it work?
Here are 15 products that…
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1. Kiehl’s Skin Tone Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream, R525.
Why is it a favourite?
I love a product that does more that one thing. 'Cause, who has the time?! This is moisturising, has a high SPF and it corrects and covers skin all in one. The smell is also divine, so clean and comforting.
2. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant, R225.
Why is it a favourite?
When going on holiday this is the first thing I pack. It is a super-serum for dry skin, especially lips, but also works wonders on sunburn and insect bites.
3. Micellar water (I am currently using the Bioderma Hydrabio Micellar Solution, R199.95 for 250ml - launching mid-May)
Why is it a favourite?
Life before micellar water, yo, I can't even imagine it anymore. Cleansing water with magnetic properties that attracts makeup is truly a must-have product for anyone who wears makeup. This has made removing eye-makeup a breeze as it is so quick, efficient and soothing all at once.
4. Lancôme Genifique Eye Light-Pearl Eye-Illuminating Youth Activating Concentrate, R 900.
Why is it a favourite?
This product will see the dark circles under your eyes pack their bags. It's incredibly cooling and the the ball applicator has a draining effect, which is ideal for those with puffy morning eyes.
5. Smashbox Highlighter in Hollywood & Highlight, R320.
Why is it a favourite?
I've already declared my complete and utter love for this product, but it will truly make you look dewy as a crisp spring morning.
6. All Cetaphil products
Why is it a favourite?
This is proof that packaging means absolutely NOTHING! Cetaphil products are humbly packaged, but they work - especially on sensitive skins. It feels and smells clean and really keeps your skin moisturised for longer than most other brands. The price points are also great.
7. optiphi Intense HA Serum, R1095.
Why is it a favourite?
Hyaluronic acid is packed with anti-ageing properties, so don't let the word "acid" scare you off. It is a powerful humectant (moisture binder) that'll keep your skin plump and hydrated.
8. Nimue Exfoliating Enzyme, R409.
Why is it a favourite?
We all forget to do it but exfoliating is really important - especially if you want to remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. Now, I've never trusted a scrub, all those beads and particles. No thanks. This chemical exfoliant by Nimue is simply divine as it contains pineapple and papaya enzymes that clear away dead skin cells without you having to scrub and rub your face to a red pulp.
9. Bioderma Cicabio Soothing Repairing Care SPF 50+, R180.
Why is it a favourite?
This product is heaven for people like me harboring big scars. It moisturises and prepares while it also protects the skin against the sun with a high SPF.
10. Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate, R755.
Why is it a favourite?
Oils, oh glorious oils! It's a myth that people with oily skin can't use oil-based moisturisers. Rich face oils like this one by Kiehl's is ideal for winter and it will give your dehydrated skin the love it needs.
