Over the last few weeks, I’ve been talking to anyone and everyone about what they consider to be the most underrated beauty product of all time. As the beauty industry moves from one launch to another in 0-60, I can’t help but feel as though genuinely good products are getting lost in the chaos. I use so many hero products every single day, that once upon a time were the product of the moment but have since been dubbed a ‘fad’.
And I’m not the only one that feels like this. I’ve been making a note of everyone’s faves and have been testing to see if what my pals are saying is true. So from beauty bloggers to a financial analyst, here’s the products every girl should own…
HRH Shannon Lawlor (me). The Body Shop Ginger Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, £6.50
“The Body Shop sell a bottle of this Ginger Shampoo every four seconds, so why has no one I speak to heard of it? I have a really sensitive scalp and, although I don’t use this every day, when I sense a bit of discomfort, I know that I can reach for this stuff and be sorted. They’ve also just released a matching conditioner and my scalp (and hair) have never been in such good shape.”
Charlotte Brown (Beauty PR). Dove Quench Absolute Supreme Crème Serum, £6.99
“I smooth the Dove Quench Absolute Supreme Crème Serum through the ends of my hair after blowdrying (or if letting my hair dry naturally, I use it while it’s still damp) to tame any frizz or flyaways. It’s not greasy or oily like any of the other serums I’ve used, so it doesn’t weigh down my hair. I’m trying to work out 2-3 times a week and this is a real lifesaver for when I’m stuck for time. It just instantly makes my hair so smooth and shiny.”
Madeleine Spencer (Beauty Director and Makeup Artist). Zoeva 104 Buffer Brush
“I don’t think enough of a fuss is made of buffing brushes like the Zoeva Buffer Brush. Lots of people use them to apply foundation or buff powder onto the face, which works well, but I like to use them after the entire base is on to really ensure the edges are seamless and to help the makeup meld with the skin so that you don’t see makeup when you look at the face.”
Olivia Osmond (Financial Analyst). Revolution Strobe Highlighter, £3
“This highlighter from Revolution is one of the very few makeup items I keep in my work bag. A quick top up during the day keeps my makeup looking fresh and glowing. It also keep a nice shimmer and adds some brightness to my complexion on those no makeup days.”
Lauren Alexa/@topshelfieillustrated (Beauty illustrator). Collection Lasting Perfect Concealer, £4.19
“In my opinion, the Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer is the budget equivalent of Tarte Shape Tape. It provides major coverage, doesn’t dry out and comes in a brill variety of shades.”
Molly Hayward-Sampson (Fashion PR). L’Oréal Paris Miss Baby Roll Mascara, £7.99
“The L’Oréal Paris Miss Baby Roll Mascara doesn’t dry out anywhere near as quickly as some of the more expensive mascaras I’ve used. I end up being able to use it for months before it dried out. The wand is great, too. It curls your lashes really well and makes them look super long.”
Skai Pakalnyte/Scentofblanc.com (Lifestyle blogger). IT Cosmetic Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, £23.50
“I love how the texture of the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye is thick enough to cover dark areas and blemishes, yet applies so smoothly. Once applied, it doesn’t feel heavy at all and is very lightweight – I can’t believe how little you actually need, I’m talking like a sugar granule tiny. It goes so far! It’s going to last me and is so worth the money. It’s definitely one product that girls and guys need to get to know better.”
Cigdem Tanrioglu (Fashion stylist). E45 Moisturising Body Lotion Pump 500ml, £7.49
“I use E45 on my legs after shaving everyday. I love it because it moisturises without irritating my skin or leaving me feeling all grease. Plus, it’s dirt cheap!”
Ally Boswell (Lifestyle writer). Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipstick, £2.49
“I am obsessed with the Natural Collection Moisture Shine Lipsticks. There’s one, called Fig Leaves, and it’s so similar to Cherish by Mac, but way more nourishing. They’re so cheap and insanely moisturising. Not only that, but they’re long-lasting too. The pigment is incredible considering the price.”
Jade Parker (Retail manager). Essie Nail Polish in Allure, £7.99
“I’m always working with my hands and often fancy statement nails. But, there are those days when I just need to keep them simple in an attempt to rebuild any damage from acrylics or gels. Essie Allure is that classic understated colour that can cover up and smooth down the everyday damage, giving my nails the ZZZ’s they need.”