I've Tried Over 100 Cult Beauty Products—These 17 Are Worth the Hype

I’ve heard a lot of hype about this face cream over the last six months—A LOT—and was eager though somewhat skeptical to try it. But when Fiona Zanetti told me it was "literally a miracle in a bottle,” I knew I had to put it to the test. After months of using it at night, I can attest that it’s truly as transformative as people claim. My skin feels permanently hydrated, with a dewy finish and an even texture.

In the cluttered world of skincare products promising to make you look younger overnight, it’s hard to know what you should actually be using, but there’s a reason the C E Ferulic serum from SkinCeuticals has earned cult status. Stocked with vitamin C, it really, truly brightens up the complexion and reverses lines with regular use.

When I need a boost of hydration, nothing restores my skin like the facial treatment essence from SK-II.

Whenever my skin is feeling dull, I turn to these alpha-beta peels from Dr. Dennis Gross. They make my skin feel refreshed and return its glow. I love these so much I’ve been using them since high school.

Celebrity facialist Shani Darden (who sees stars like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Laura Harrier) has her own line of products, and they’re seriously epic. I had struggled to find a vitamin A product that worked for me, since most left my skin red or peeling, but that all changed after I tried her retinol reform. It delivers all of the perks of a retinol without the unpleasant side effects.

This candle from Byredo is supposed to mimic the scent of a library filled with old leather-bound books. I know, I know—that sounds kind of bizarre, but it’s truly the most heavenly candle, with a scent that’s warm and velvety. Take a scroll through Instagram and you’re sure to spot these candles.

Celebs swear by this foundation for the red carpet, as do I for an evening out.

There’s no question that Dior’s Diorshow mascara has a cult following, and I’m especially obsessed with the blackout formula that’s darker than the regular colour.

I know, I know, deodorant isn’t the most exciting beauty purchase you can make. But let me tell you, this is one of the best products I’ve ever purchased. Not only do I love the scent, but it’s the best antiperspirant I’ve ever tried.

One of the best-selling blushes on the market—and famous for its name. I swear by this perfect pink colour.

It’s incredible what a difference curled lashes make. They open up the eyes and instantly make me look more awake—and this curler is the very best.

For years, I didn’t realise how Beautyblenders were supposed to work. (Pro tip: Dip them in warm water before using.) Since I figured out how to use them the correct way, they’ve become indispensable as a way to diffuse makeup I’m applying.

While I’m always experimenting with lipstick shades, MAC’s Ruby Woo remains one of the most iconic colours I constantly return to. The formula is super matte, so the red won’t budge from your lips.

I always stock this at home and refuse to travel without it. It’s a micellar water that removes makeup without water, which is why you’ll always find it backstage at fashion shows.

Elnett hair spray is something I first discovered in the kits of talented hairstylists I was working with. What I love is that it leaves a flexible hold, meaning it isn’t too stiff, so you can still run your fingers through your hair.

With 1540 reviews on Glossier’s website, there’s no doubting the fact that this lip balm is popular. I’ve been using it for years, and it’s something I always carry in my bag.

Believe it or not, my dad actually introduced me to this cleanser. He has sensitive skin like I do, and this is the one of the most gentle formulas around.