My Must-Try Makeup Marvels: The Beauty Gems and Gadgets That Captivated Me Last Year

I was amazed by the overwhelming presence of cosmetics and tools in 2024, following years of skincare obsession in the industry. Saie, a reasonably priced US makeup brand, made a significant impact. With the notable exception of its complexion offerings (which require enhancement), the product range is superb. Dew Bronze (£20), a remarkably simple, naturally appearing bronzing liquid, was its standout release. I found myself reaching for it repeatedly, blending it into my cheeks and temples with their now-essential Base Brush (£21). While Saie could charge less for its products, it generally exceeds expectations.

In terms of pricing, the high-street successes kept rolling in. Elf’s smudge-resistant, £7 Lash XTNDR would have been my top mascara regardless of the cost.

Revamped Garnier is now so reliably impressive that I’m growing weary of my own praise. To say the least, the 2024 introductions Vitamin C Daily UV Brightening Fluid Sheer Glow (£12.99) and Soothing Hyaluronic Aloe Cream Cleanser (£9.99) are worth your investment. For a larger monetary commitment, but worthwhile for access to one of Britain’s premier dermatologists, consider Dr. Emma Craythorne’s Klira, a personalized subscription skincare program.

Hermès Barénia (£70), an upscale, stylish, subtly sophisticated combination of rich woods and dried fruits, was my fragrance of the previous year – and only partly due to its stark contrast with the trending, dessert-like scents currently in vogue.

There were more complexion-related launches (foundations, primers, concealers) than any other category. The finest of these were the heavily publicized Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Foundation Stick (£35), which is essentially not a foundation at all, and the largely overlooked Make Up For Ever HD Skin Hydra Glow Foundation (£38), which certainly qualifies as one.

I’m typically not inclined toward pricey beauty devices, but 2024 changed my perspective. I acquired the Dyson AirStrait (£449.99) with plans to send it back, yet it has proven to be the finest tool ever for straightening hair – if one can overlook the steep price and the plug resembling that of a mobile home. It offers a sleek, shiny, long-lasting blow-dry with no creases, slight frizz, and minimal effort, without the risk of harming the hair with traditional straighteners.

My admiration for my Ziip Halo (£379) has only grown; it is the most effective facial device I’ve ever utilized. Its immediate tightening and contouring effect, particularly around my jawline, makes it a substantial asset for me and, unanimously, my numerous friends who now possess one. I thought I had lost mine last summer and urgently bought a replacement – that’s how reliant I’ve become on it.