It seems like new makeup and skincare products never stop rolling out onto store shelves, and 2017 was no exception. With something different hyped up every week, though, how are you supposed to separate what really works from what doesn’t? Fortunately, the shining stars of the beauty world were clear in 2017, and 2018 is on track to be just as great.
Here are our favorite discoveries from 2017.
Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
A true sign of a product that people just can’t get enough of? When it’s sold out again and again. Fortunately, though, you can get your hands on the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask now. With a blend of soothing watermelon extract and hydrating hyaluronic acid, this mask is well known for softening and plumping skin as you sleep. And alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) work overnight to exfoliate your skin to leave it smooth and fresh all day long.
GLAMGLOW Firming Glitter Mask
Face masks definitely hit their stride in 2017, and GLAMGLOW became known as the brand to turn to for a mask that you can paint on and peel off. They even stepped up their game with a firming peel-off mask that’s packed with glitter yet still provides the same benefits GLAMGLOW’s masks are known for. Social media users love this one for taking glittery skincare selfies. So tighten and tone your skin—and take a few shots for Instagram while you do it—with this mask that’s just as fun as it is effective.
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
There weren’t many beauty launches in 2017 that were as highly anticipated as that of Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, and the brand definitely didn’t disappoint. One of the most coveted items of the collection was the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, a medium- to full-coverage foundation designed to look soft, smooth, and silky on the skin. The best part? The brand is inclusive of a wide range of skin tones; the foundation was released in a whopping 40 shades right off the bat!
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
Looking for the next best thing after the release of Tarte Shape Tape? Look no further than the Radiant Creamy Concealer from NARS, a full-coverage concealer perfect for covering, correcting, highlighting, and even contouring. The formula isn’t just meant to cover imperfections, though. Packed with vitamin E, grape seed extract, and more, this concealer is meant to nourish the skin while it sculpts and corrects.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette
Anastasia Beverly Hills is a powerhouse brand, and the Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette was one of their most anticipated releases. This is the perfect palette for both day and night looks, with 14 shades ranging from creamy neutrals to bright berry tones and even a deep chocolate brown. Complete with a mirror and a dual-ended brush, it’s the perfect versatile palette for taking on the go to create any look.
Stila Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow
If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect glitter eyeshadow without the mess, the Stila Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow is what you’ve been waiting for. The creamy formula is simple to apply—thanks to the fluffy applicator—and it’s easy to blend out once it’s on the eye, so you can combine with other shadows for a flawless look. The best part is that it’s lightweight, giving you a heavy dose of glitz and shine without the heavy feeling. Not a glitter fan? Check out the new Stila Shimmer and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette
Highlighting wasn’t a new phenomenon in 2017, but Hourglass definitely upped the game when it released the Ambient Lighting Palette. These powders were designed not only to catch the light but to diffuse and soften the way it looks when it hits your skin, giving you the perfect lit-from-within look with just a few swipes. With three universally flattering colors, this palette helps to highlight the skin in a way that filters out harsh lights, giving you a soft, refined glow.
Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops
There are some who prefer a glow that can be seen from outer space, and for those individuals, there are the Custom Enhancer Drops from Cover FX. The drops allow you to customize your glow, using a little for a subtle shine or a lot for a look that gives off the vibe of liquid metal on your skin. Use the drops alone or mixed in your foundation or body lotion for an all-over radiance that’ll catch the light…and maybe even an eye or two.
Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
It’s no secret that Fenty Beauty has been slaying the game ever since its launch, but the hype isn’t just about the foundation. If you’ve been looking for the perfect red lip product, look no further than Fenty’s Stunna Lip Paint in the shade Uncensored, a universal red that’s made for any skin tone. With one-swipe coverage and a 12-hour wear time, it’s the ultimate smooth liquid lip you’ll turn to again and again.
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask
When your lips need a little love thanks to all of those drying liquid lipsticks—or even just because of the cold weather—Bite Beauty has you covered with their Agave Lip Mask. It’s the ultimate lip balm, packed with jojoba oil and agave nectar. And did we mention the brand is 100 percent dedicated to using only food-grade ingredients in its products? Take it with you for all-day use or apply it as an overnight lip mask for soothed, soft lips anytime.
So, what’s next in 2018?
Though the new year has just gotten started, there are already some standout products in the beauty world.
Jade Roller
Looking for smoother, tighter, de-puffed skin without taking the time to put on a mask? Though jade rollers aren’t a new invention, they’re definitely having their moment in 2018, and it’s not hard to see why. Proponents claim that jade rollers can help you improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and smooth fine lines.
NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation
Hot on the heels of their Radiant Creamy Concealer is NARS’ Radiant Longwear Foundation, a medium- to full-coverage foundation with a 16-hour wear time. Meant to stay put through anything, the formula is designed to smooth and perfect the skin, all while giving it a fresh and natural look.
Kat Von D Studded Kiss Crème Lipstick
Say hello to your new favorite lipstick, the Studded Kiss Crème Lipstick from Kat Von D. Packed with pigment, these lipsticks are designed to provide one-swipe coverage with a creamy, light feel on the lips. With 40 shades and three finishes, everyone can find their new go-to color.
Hourglass Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel
Looking to fill in your brows without taking the time to really sculpt and carve them out? Hourglass’ new Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel was made to help shape and fluff your brows in the half the time, thanks to its tinted formula that’s packed with microfibers. Just swipe through your natural brow hairs to fill them in and keep them looking fab all day long.
