The Harper’s Bazaar beauty team is fastidious about formulas and ingredients, constantly seeking out the very best new innovations that the industry has to offer. With thousands of launches happening across skincare, haircare, body, fragrance and make-up annually, we understand just how confusing it can be to navigate the aisles.
Every year, our editors compile the 100 most effective and luxurious new products ā all carefully tried and tested ā to bring you the annual Beauty Best of the Best Awards, a curation of the everyday essentials and remarkable new creations worth investing in.
Read on, and get ready to add to cart.
THE BEST OF: MAKE-UP
Dreamy colours and refined textures to enliven every complexion.
Best dramatic mascara
LancƓme HypnƓse Drama Mascara
This reimagined classic offers a statement thickening effect to lacklustre lashes.
Best primer
Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer
This lightweight hydrator adds a veil of moisture to the skin, creating a smooth canvas for make-up.
Best single eyeshadow
By Terry Ombre Blackstar Eyeshadow
Layer this long-wearing cream eyeshadow stick for an instantly chic smoky eye.
Best finishing powder
Nars Soft Matte Advanced Perfecting Powder
Eliminate unwanted shine with ease using this ultra-fine, natural-looking compact powder.
Best for reds
Guerlain Rouge G The Customisable Ultra-Care Lipstick
This stylish lipstick ranges boasts a generous menu of shades, finishes and luxury fashion cases.
Best liquid lipstick
Carolina Herrera Good Girl Lip Liquid
Vibrant pigments and a velvety smooth finish make this indispensable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Best eye pencil
Hildun Beauty Silk to Set Kajal Liner
This emollient, full-pigment eyeliner is perfect for adding subtle definition to any make-up look.
Best stick concealer
ClƩ de Peau BeautƩ Concealer Stick
Use this precise, creamy concealer stick to effortlessly disguise hyperpigmentation, blemishes and redness.
Best brow pencil
Kosas Brow Pop Dual-Action Defining Pencil
This micro-fine pencil is ideal for creating believably hair-like strokes in sparse brows.
Best tinted moisturiser
U Beauty The Super Tinted Hydrator
With a lightweight blend of, hyaluronic acid, collagen and peptides this hydrating tint is a true skincare make-up hybrid.
Best sheer foundation
Chanel Les Beiges Foundation
Available in 41 shades, this skin perfector provides gentle coverage and a natural glow.
Best lip gloss
Bobbi Brown Extra Plump Lip Serum
This glossy formula uses six botanical oils, including jojoba seed and avocado, to nourish dry lips over time.
Best tinted lip balm
A smoothing lip balm formula that offers bouncy, dewy hydration alongside a subtle, prettifying tint.
Best liquid eyeliner
Sisley Ligne Noire Eyeliner
This waterproof, one-stroke eyeliner was made for sweeping cat eyes and subtle wings alike.
Best buildable foundation
Merit the Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
At the intersection between foundation and concealer, this handy touch-up pen is offers a light-to-medium coverage that remains breathable all day long.
THE BEST OF: SKINCARE
Hard-working actives in elegant formulas to keep your complexion glowing with good health.
best overnight treatment
EstĆ©e Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Night Power Bounce CrĆØme
With 30 years of research behind it, this cream uses moringa-plant extracts to reduce fine lines and boost hydration.
Best vitamin c serum
Sarah Chapman Vitamin C Power Serum
A combination of two forms of vitamin C along with niacinamide and pigmentation-brightening tranexamic acid promises a brighter, clearer complexion without causing breakouts.
Best face oil
Eve Lom Renewal Treatment Oil
Beyond nourishing parched skin types, this proprietary blend of ten plant oils also works on improving elasticity and softening the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Best skin prep
Dior Dreamskin Care & Perfect Le Fluide Perfecteur
A multitasker that readies your skin for make-up by blurring out pores and smoothing texture. Use on its own or under concealer.
Best new brand
Focusing on the skin-mind connection, not only does Neurae’s velvety textures replenish lost moisture, the uplifting scent helps to bring a sense of joy and calm into your routine.
Best hydrating spf
111Skin Repair Sunscreen SPF50+
Aside from delivering stellar sun protection, this luxurious SPF is also powered by 111Skin’s proprietary NACY2 blend which repairs, soothes, and restores the skin.
Best skin plumping serum
A cult classic that moves with the times, Double Serum now new actives to help improve fine lines and encourage a lit-from-within radiance.
best everyday moisturiser
Alpha-H High Tide Water Cream
A refreshing splash of hydration that feels good on all skin types, all year round.
best retinol
A firm favourite of Bazaar editors and dermatologists alike, this uses the vitamin A-derived retinaldehyde to iron out creases and restore elasticity.
best for hyperpigmentation
Drunk Elephant C-Firmaā¢ Fresh Day Serum
Packed with glow-boosting ferulic acid, vitamin C and pumpkin enzymes, this potent formula takes on dark spots and hyperpigmentation like no other.
Best exfoliator
Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant
When mixed with water, this waterless powder turns into an extra gentle exfoliator that sloughs away dead skin without compromising delicate complexions.
best night eye cream
LancƓme Advanced GƩnifique Eye Cream
Wake up with brighter, more hydrated under eyes. The silky texture sinks in quickly and doesn’t clog up combination skin types.
best face tool
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask
With impressive clinical results behind it, this LED mask uses red and infrared light to improve the overall skin texture and amp up the glow.
best everyday cleanser
Tatcha The Matcha Cleanse
This soap-free gel swiftly removes daily grime without leaving the skin feeling stripped of all moisture.
best hydrating serum
Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate
Whether you have oily, combination or dry skin, this brilliant serum will leave it feeling stronger and looking fresher over time.
best day eye cream
Noble Panacea The Absolute Restoring Eye Cream
Eight hours of restful sleep, in every sachet. This eye cream does the hard work of not only diminishing dark circles, but also giving slack skin a subtle lift.
best cleansing balm
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
This cleansing balm melts away every stitch of make-up and can be used with or without a warm flannel, as the clever formula emulsifies with warm water.
best make-up remover
Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Micellar Water
A favourite of make-up artists, this French pharmacy staple effectively removes every trace of stubborn foundation and long-wearing lipstick.
best retinol alternative
Beauty Pie Youthbombā¢ 360Ā° Radiance Concentrate Serum
Now 50% Off
Packed with peptides and marine actives, this potent serum helps to plump up fine lines and encourage elasticity.
Best mist
Augustinus Bader The Face Mist
Not all mists are created alike. This one by Augustinus Bader protects against environmental damage as it hydrates.
best moisturiser for oily skin
Trinny London Energise Me Niacinamide Moisturiser
Oily skin types require hydration too. This niacinamide-rich formula rebalances grease-prone complexions while delivering moisture that does not clog up the pores.
Best for sensitive skin
Orveda The Bio-Tech Emulsion Sheer
Fragile complexions will benefit from Orveda’s formulas, which uses biotechnology to deliver fermented ingredients and prebiotics to help strengthen the skin and ease any redness or reactions.
best skin-boosting mask
A creamy treatment that uses camellia husk to exfoliate, white clay to clarify and ceramides to slough away dullness without compromising the skin barrier.
Best blemish solution
La Mer The Deep Purifying Mask
Tackle breakouts and detoxify clogged pores with velvet gloves. This charcoal-infused mask uses the brand’s patented Miracle Broth to restore luminosity while salicylic acid and lactic acid encourages skin clarity.
THE BEST OF: BODY
The scrubs, sunscreens and serums to maintain soft skin and gleaming limbs.
best body scrub
NĆ©cessaire The Body Exfoliator
Great body scrubs are anything but abrasive. This one uses extra-fine particles to simply polish the skin without causing micro-tears.
Best nail treatment
Biosculpture Ethos Rosehip Cuticle Oil
A good cuticle oil will help extend your gel manicure. Massage into nailbeds and underneath the nails to maximise its nourishing benefits.
best gradual tan
Lancaster Self Tan Golden Body Gel
Now 15% Off
The easiest way to cheat a two-weeks-in-the-Riviera glow, all year long.
best nail polish
This two-step nail system delivers punchy tones and lasts up to two weeks, all without requiring a salon appointment.
the body treatment
For specific skin issues, be in hyperpigmentation or body acne, look to Klira’s prescription-grade formulas. It’s bespoke to your needs.
best body cream
Joonbyrd Little Love Body Lotion
Beauty editors have long flocked to consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite for effective results. Her body care line combines her scientific know-how with clinically-proven ingredients. The cherry on top? Each product smells utterly delicious.
best bath oil
Aromatherapy Associates Forest Therapy Bath & Shower Oil
Pop a capful into your bath and let the woody aroma ease your senses. And relax…
best suncream
Vichy Ideal Soleil Face & Body Sun Protection Milk SPF50
Now 20% Off
The silky texture wears comfortably in humid weather yet impart just enough hydration for the winter – all without imparting a white cast.
best body wash
HermĆØs Hair and Body Shower Gel
Come for the impeccably chic (and refillable) glass bottles, stay for the elevated scent.
best multi-use balm
Ren Clean Skincare Evercalm Barrier Support Body Balm
A useful jar to have in your arsenal for cracked elbows, ragged cuticles, dry heels, chapped lips and everything in between. Just warm it up in your hands before massaging in.
best hand wash
Commune Seymour Hand Wash
Thoughtfully crafted in Somerset, Commune’s refillable (and recyclable) hand wash proves that eco-conscious beauty can feel just as elevated.
best after sun
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Post UV Exposure After Sun Lotion
Soothe redness and burns with this cooling cream. It’s safe for very sensitive skin, too.
best hand cream
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
A combination of shea butter and nourishing plant oils offers instant relief to parched hands.
best body oil
This Works Deep Sleep Night Oil
A combination of soft vetiver and chamomile signals your body that it’s time to unwind for the day.
THE BEST OF: HAIR
Clever stylers and nourishing treatments are our must-haves to ensure great hair days.
best for colour care
Redken Acidic Color Gloss Shampoo
The sulfate-free, colour-enhancing formula promises to maintain vibrant tresses.
Best scalp treatment
Larry King Clean As A Whistle Deep Clean Scalp Scrub, Ā£18
This gentle exfoliator sloughs away excess sebum and product build-up without aggravating the scalp.
Best hair dryer
GHD Duet Blowdry
Now 25% Off
An aerodynamic airflow system and snag-free bristles deliver a bouncy, glossy finish.
best styling product
A true styling hero, Money Mist not only protects against heat, it also detangles, strengthens and restores hydration.
best serum
Arkive The Good Habit Hybrid Oil
Run a small amount through damp tresses to seal in moisture and take care of frizz. Those with fine strands will love how light this is.
Best for gloss
TresemmƩ Lamellar Shine Cream
Now 50% Off
If it’s a reflective shine you’re after, make this your first port of call. It helps with softness, too.
best dry shampoo
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo
Extend the blow-dry with this editor-favourite dry shampoo, which works hard to refresh the roots and enhance volume.
Best for damaged hair
CĆ©cred Fermented Rice & Rose Protein Ritual, Ā£49
A two-step system that uses powerful plant proteins to revive weakened strands.
best bonding treatment
Kerasilk Kerasilk Strengthening Bond Builder
Going deep into the hair structure, this reparative treatment significantly takes care of compromised strands and prevents future breakage. Perfect for processed hair.
best heat protector
Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray
If your hair routine involves heat styling, this fine mist will coat it in a layer of protection so your locks stays hydrated and healthy. It smells absolutely divine, too.
Best for curls
Fenty Hair The Rich One Moisture Repair Conditioner
Never one to rest on her laurels, Rihanna’s groundbreaking Fenty Beauty line now makes excellent haircare that nourishes curls, coils and everything in between.
best for conditioning
Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Conditioner
This plant-powered formula restores moisture, softness and shine without weighing down the hair.
best for intense nourishment
KĆ©rastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Originale Hair Oil
Now in a refillable bottle, this modern icon promises shine, minimises frizz and protects from breakage.
best multi-styler
Shark Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer
Whatever your preferred style, this versatile styler will achieve the look in record time.
best for clarifying
LāOrĆ©al Paris Elvive Hydra Pure 72h Purifying Shampoo
Finding a shampoo that offers a deep cleanse without drying out the mid-lengths or leaving fine strands feeling coarse is a tall order, but this ticks all the boxes.
best for volume
Hair by Sam McKnight Cool Girl Volume Blow Dry Foam
From the master of supermodel hair comes this featherlight foam, which helps to deliver plenty of volume with no unwanted crunchiness.
THE BEST OF: FRAGRANCE
Our pick of the most irresistible scents, from captivating oud to reviving citrus and warm vanilla.
Best Green
L’Artisan Parfumeur Premier Figuier Extreme Eau de Parfum
Ripe, juicy figs nestled in an arboreous wood. Catch hints of sandalwood and verdant greens in this lasting scent.
Best Floral
Gucci Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden Tears From The Moon Eau de Parfum
White peonies and lily-of-the-valley come together in an elegant spring bouquet.
Best For Summer
Penhaligon’s Alula Eau de Parfum
Vanilla grows up with grounding notes of cardamom oil and invigorating black pepper.
Best For Travel
Cartier Les NĆ©cessaires Ć Parfum
Slip this objet d’art into your bag for on-the-go spritzing.
Best Candle
Trudon Versailles Scented Candle
The grande dame of candle perfumery. The bright Rococo blue vessel houses an airy mix of florals, honeysuckle and oak.
Best Fresh Perfume
Maison Francis Kurkdijan Petit Matin Eau de Parfum
A clean and citrusy scent that’s set to bring lightness to your mornings.
Best Citrus
Fendi Sempre Mio Eau de Parfum
A grown-up orange blossom with plenty of depth and glow.
Best Updated Classic
Tom Ford Eau d’Ombre Leather Eau de Toilette
A spic leather scent lifted by green facets of vetiver and patchouli.
Best Newcomer
Balmain Carbone Eau de Parfum
Plush suede and zesty cumin infuse warmth into this striking maximalist expression.
Best For Powdery Notes
Chanel Les Exclusifs de Chanel ComĆØte Eau de Parfum
A chic, sophisticated cloud of powdered iris and heliotrope petals.
Best Chypre
Dries Van Noten Mystic Moss Eau de Parfum
Masterfully fuses aquatic freshness with zesty citrus and earthy elegance.
Best Oud
Dior Oud Ispahan Esprit de Parfum
This is an exquisitely smooth and linear oud composition with maximum impact.
Best Vanilla
Celine Zouzou Eau de Parfum
A deliciously balmy gourmand with cosy amber and sugar-sweet caramel accords.
Best Hair Perfume
Givenchy Irresistible Hair Mist
Trails of sparkling pear and powdered rose swishes from the strands with every move.
Best For Evening
EstƩe Lauder Knowing Legacy Eau de Parfum
A spicy-rose and woody twist on a sophisticated classic.
Best Perfume Oil
Maison Louis Marie Maison Louis Marie Antidris Cassis Perfume Oil
Run over the wrists and neck, green accords of oakmoss and white rose linger in an airy sillage.
Model: Jamilla Hoogenboom at Premier Model Management.
Hair by Chris Sweeney at One Represents.
Make-up by Natsumi Narita.
Nails by Ami Streets.
Stylistās assistant: Sabrina Leina.
Set design by Drap.d.
Beauty by Rabanne.