6 Genius Products: The Best New Beauty Trends
Many beauty product trends come and go. (Remember hair crimpers and shampoo-plus-conditioners?) But each year, cosmetic companies release some technologies that can help make your life easier -- and make you look even more beautiful. Here are six of my favorite beauty breakthroughs to help keep you gorgeous all year long.
1. BB Creams
This magic potion is a one-stop-shop for all skin types and tones: It acts as a serum, moisturizer, light foundation and sunblock all in one. Apply to clean skin, or under your foundation if you need extra coverage. A little of this cream goes a long way; simply dab off the excess with a facial tissue. There are a number of brands, which range in price, but I’ve found they’re all created equal.
2. Hair Oil
I’m not talking about your mama’s hot oil treatment! From Moroccan to shea nut butter to argon, these silky serums transform your tresses from dull and damaged to smooth and silk. Made from essential and natural plant extracts, these oils tame fly-aways, add shine and prevent breakage. To use, apply a few drops to wet or dry hair. You can also dab a little on dry cuticles and ashy elbows!
3. Lip Gloss Plumpers
You’ll basically die and go to Angelina Jolie lip heaven with these volumizing lip polishes. These super-shiny glosses are made with ingredients that stimulate lip collagen, resulting in a fuller pout. Use alone or over lipstick, and blot away excess with a facial tissue. I recommend testing before investing, since some can tingle…and not in a good way.
4. Hair Color Sprays
Let’s take a moment to raise a glass and say grazie to the geniuses who dreamed up these root cover-up products. Whether in a spray, powder, or mascara form, these concealers help cover grays between trips to the salon. They’re also available in fun shades, such as purple, so you can add a pop of color to your mane. Look for brands that are free of sulfates and parabens, such as Rita Hazan’s Pop Color Spray.
5. Eyebrow Kits
Now there’s no excuse for barely-there brows! These brow kits contain all you need to shape your own brows. First, tweeze away stray hairs. Then use the angled brush to apply brow powders, following the natural shape. Lastly, set with a little wax to keep hairs from straying.
6. Eye Shadow Primers
Creased eye shadow is so 2012. This lightweight cream helps keep eye makeup flawless from day to night. Apply the primer as a base beneath your shadow for longer-lasting color; apply just enough to cover your entire lid. You can also use it on its own as an eye-brightener. My pick: one with a shimmer effect like Too Faced Shadow Insurance in Candlelight. Finish the look with a little eyeliner, and you’re good to go!
