By now, you’ve probably surmised we test-drive a lot of beauty products here at Who What Wear. From nail polish and makeup to hair and skincare, we’re eyebrow-deep in all things new, exciting, and wish list–worthy. That said, due to the number of products we come in contact with, we’ve become very nitpicky beauty consumers. Within seconds, we can tell if a new hair oil is too heavy, and we’re quick to ignore a serum that yields disappointing results.
The good news? We’re far more often impressed than unimpressed after trying out a new product, and usually, we can’t wait to spread the word to all of our fellow beauty lovers (that’s you!). Therefore, we’ve decided gushing over our latest fave products should become a monthly ritual. You can expect a full report every 30 days or so that details the highlighters, hair wands, and overnight skincare saviors we’ve fallen head over heels for.
For the most part, we’ll be covering buzzworthy launches, as those typically take up most of the action atop our product-filled desks, but we won’t dismiss new-to-us products, either. Sometimes, our best discoveries are found on a friend’s vanity or on someone’s face at the bar (true story). Ahead are the best beauty products we tried in February! Grab your game face and wallet because you’ll need both.
Erin Jahns, Beauty Director
CHANEL
Chance Perfumed Hand Creams
“I’ve been splitting my time between Minnesota and L.A. for the past few months, and the second I land back in the former, my hands start to crack and flake. Not only are these mini hand creams chic and handy, but they also smell dreamy (duh, they represent Chanel’s three iterations of the designer’s cult-loved Chance scent), and they actually help heal and hydrate my depleted winter skin.”
“I’ll admit that this was sent to me, and I quickly swiped it on without giving it a second thought. (I try not to be a jaded beauty editor, but sometimes, I can’t help it.) Anyway, within seconds, my lips started to prickle in that classic lip plumper way that I love, and I re-reached for the electric-yellow tube I had thrown into my purse. Then, I quickly looked in the mirror. Not only did my lips feel instantaneously smooth and soft, but they also had the prettiest hint of shine and glimmer. And yes, they also looked plumper and a tad darker than their natural shade. I wasn’t expecting this to become my most-used beauty product of February, but here we are, and I can’t recommend it enough. If you’re in the market for a not-so-basic balm that ticks quite literally every box, go ahead and click order.”
EvolveTogether
Natural Deodorant in Havana
“I have flirted with natural deodorants for years, but ultimately, I can never make a freaking commitment. (Either they don’t deodorize—point blank—or my body somehow adapts and they stop working for me after a few months.) This one, however, has me in a monogamous relationship. A) It smells terrifyingly good—I have Havana, which smells like it could be a floral-woodsy $300+ perfume if it wanted to be. B) It glides onto your underarms with zero stickiness or chalky clumps. C) It actually keeps me smelling fresh, and, like I mentioned, expensive, for a full 24 hours—even through a workout.”
Shawna Hudson, Associate Beauty Editor
Lunik
Calendula Complete Deep Vegan Cleansing Oil
“I recently realized the cleansing oil I was using to remove my makeup contained some questionable ingredients (ugh), but this eight-ingredient formula I tried from Lunik is so similar and much more affordable. It’s so hydrating and has a lot of slip to it, so it removes sunscreen, makeup, and other grime so quickly. It also rinses off really easily for a cleansing oil and never leaves your face with a greasy residue.”
Skinbetter
Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment
“My aesthetician and I love Skinbetter Science products. Yes, they’re expensive, but Skinbetter is one of the only high-end brands I think is completely worth the money. Each formula is so thoughtfully crafted, and this new offering from the brand is so good! It’s loaded to the brim with super hydrators, making it great for dry, dehydrated, mature, and post-procedure skin. I won’t be using this as my everyday moisturizer, because it is intense, but it will seriously come in handy during the winter when I need something extra.”
Skinbetter
Alpharet Clearing Serum
“I had not one but two Skinbetter favorites this month! When I tell you this serum cleared up a good amount of my acne after one use, I’m not exaggerating! It is definitely strong, so if you have sensitive skin, be aware of that and start slowly, but the formula is perfect for anyone who wants a two-in-one product that incorporates both a retinoid and a BHA like salicylic acid.”
SkinCeuticals
Hydrating B5 Gel
“This hyaluronic acid serum from SkinCeuticals has been a miracle worker for my skin. It took me a long time to realize that my skin was dehydrated and needed water not extra moisturizer or oil. This serum provides great water-based hydration and has plumped and moisturized my skin like no other in a matter of a few weeks. It’s a great option if you’re dealing with breakouts and want something minimally formulated but still incredibly hydrating. The addition of vitamin B5 also helps speed up the process of acne healing.”
Youth To The People
Superberry Firm + Glow Dream Body Butter With Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid + Antioxidants
“This is, by far, my favorite bodycare launch of 2024! The accompanying body scrub and cleanser in the brand’s new trio are equally as good. The body butter is an absolute dream. It smells delicious (but not artificial in any way), leaves my skin so hydrated, and gives it a subtle glow.”
Lubriderm
Advanced Therapy Body Wash
“Honestly, I’ve tried so many bodywashes at this point, but nothing beats a good drugstore formula like Lubriderm’s. This new offering from the brand saved my dry winter skin. It’s hypoallergenic and contains super hydrators like ceramides, vitamin E, and vitamin B5. It leaves your skin so soft out of the shower.”
Natalie Gray Herder, Editor, Branded Content
Tower 28 Beauty
Lipsoftie Hydrating Tinted Lip Treatment Balm
“Tinted lip balms are seemingly everywhere these days, but this new one from Tower 28 has quickly become my favorite. It’s super hydrating and adds just the right amount of color. I throw it on when I’m headed to the gym or layer it up with my favorite liner for a night out.”
Mane
Power Bottom Base + Jumbo Hair Waver, Wand & Curling Iron
“I’m always looking for ways to add volume to my superfine hair, and this tool gives me the beach waves I dream of. This is another incredible launch from our favorite hair gal, Jen Atkin.”
T3
Singlepass Curl 1.5″ Ceramic Long Barrel Curling and Wave Iron
“Continuing on my hair journey, I’ve been testing out T3’s newest launch, and I think my photo speaks for itself. The blowout style curls held their shape overnight, and the wand was super easy to use for even a hair novice like me.”
Kaitlyn McLintock, Associate Beauty Editor
Canopy
Bedside Humidifier
“This humidifier made the craziest difference in my skin overnight—literally. I slept with it in my bedroom, and after one night, my skin looked smoother, calmer, and plumper. Plus, it got rid of that uncomfortable tight and dehydrated feeling (which I’ve been dealing with since December). It even doubles as an essential oil diffuser. I’m completely obsessed with it, and now that I have it, I never want to sleep without it.”
Eighth Day
Regenerative Serum
“I’ve only been using this do-it-all serum for a week, and I can tell it’s making a difference in the state of my skin. My rosacea has calmed down significantly, my hyperpigmentation has faded, and the enlarged pores around my nose and chin look smaller. It’s thanks to a cocktail of peptides, growth factors, and immunostimulants that mimic the molecules found in human skin cells. Translation? It dramatically heals and resets skin.”
Victoria Beckham Beauty
Satin Kajal Jewel Liner
“This eyeliner is so creamy and pigmented. I sketch a little near my lash line and blend it out easily with a brush for an easy and subtle smoky effect. I can’t decide which shade I like best, so I’ll just say all of them. Is that an option?”
Minu
Brightening Sunscreen Minerals Broad Spectrum Spf 30 Gel-Cream
“I’m picky when it comes to sunscreen, but this formula is next level. It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, PA++++, blue light defense, and infrared protection. The gel-cream texture is lovely, and the slight bronze tint makes me look fresh and glowy without any makeup. I’ve been reaching for it every morning, and I actually—get this—look forward to putting it on, so I know it’s a winner.”
Ere Perez
Cacao Bronzing Pot
“I love an easy-to-blend bronzer, and this cream formula is the epitome of that. I swirl a damp makeup sponge in it, messily dab it on the perimeters of my face, and somehow, I look perfectly and naturally sun-kissed. It’s one of those rare products that became instant staples in my makeup bag.”
Revlon
Colorstay Makeup for Normal/dry Skin With Spf 20
“Sometimes, drugstore makeup gets overlooked, but this foundation is a budget-friendly gem. Even though it’s a third of the price of the other foundations on my bathroom vanity, I was kind of shocked to see how flawless it looked on my skin. The first time I wore it, I had two people compliment me and ask me for my skincare routine. Enough said.”
Emma Walsh, Associate Beauty Editor, Branded Content
The Skinny Confidential
Mouth Tape
“If Lauryn Bosstick tells me to tape my mouth shut at night, you bet I’m doing it. I know what you’re thinking: Wait, what? Though the concept of it might seem intimidating, this practice actually has tons of health and beauty benefits, like a more sculpted jawline, deeper sleep, less snoring, and way more energy in the morning. I’ve been using it for a couple weeks now, and I’m a believer. Bosstick’s pink tape is the only one I’ll use.”
Flower Beauty
Spotlight Liquid Highlight
“I’m going to get right to it: This drugstore highlighter completely blew me away. It gives this perfect glow that complements and enhances my skin, but it still looks so natural. TBH, I like it better than ones I’ve tried that cost over $80 more. My favorite shade is Opal, a luminous white-gold color.”
Clearstem Skincare
Hydraglow Stem Cell Moisturizer With Bakuchiol
“When I first heard the Clearstem founders speak on a podcast, I was immediately intrigued by their story and beyond excited to try their line. This moisturizer specifically has given me a dewy radiance like I’ve never had before—and that’s saying something. It has bakuchiol and squalane (two essentials for glowing skin) and also has blueberry and pomegranate oils that give it this sweet, yummy scent. I’ve also been loving the Hydraberry Mask as a moisturizer.”
Saltair
Oil-Infused Body Wash in Golden Hour
“This time of year, I’m seriously longing for summer. And Saltair’s new bodywash has come to my rescue. The moisturizing formula has notes of sunflower, pineapple, and coconut—it literally smells like a tropical island, and I can’t get enough. There’s even little flecks of gold that leave this gorgeous finish on your skin and make for the most bougie shower experience. For only $15, it’s an affordable luxury that you need in your self-care routine.”
Boka
Teeth Whitening Strips
“Most teeth whitening products irritate my sensitive teeth and gums, but then I found these. They have nontoxic, enamel-safe ingredients that are gentle but still effective and give me the bright and sparkling pearly whites I want.”
Saie
Glossybounce High-Shine Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil
“When it comes to lip glosses and oils, if there is even a hint of stickiness, I won’t find myself reaching for it. Let me just say that this lip gloss–oil hybrid is the answer to my sticky lip gloss aversion. The formula is so glassy, hydrating, and long-lasting, and the shade Kiss adds a perfect clear shine on top of a lip liner.”
Glossier
Cloud Paint Gel Cream Bronzer
“I’ve never been a cream-bronzer girl (shocking, I know). I find that some formulas can be hard to apply and end up looking a little bit muddy. That being said, I decided to give this Glossier cream bronzer a go, and I have legitimately used it every day since. Not only is it so easy to apply (I use a dense dome brush), but it also looks incredibly natural-looking and skin-like.”
Aniyah Morinia, Editor, Branded Content
Parfums de Marly
Perseus Eau de Parfum
“It took over 20 years, but I finally found my signature scent. This scent has strong notes of citrus, which is my absolute favorite smell and feels perfect to start spritzing once spring rolls around. I was shocked by how long it lasted and can’t wait to continue wearing it all season.”
Sol de Janeiro
Mini Delícia Drench Body Butter for Intense Moisture and Skin Barrier Repair
“The cold weather in NYC these past few months has left my skin super dry, so I’ve been slathering this body butter on daily. Unlike most body butters that feel super thick and greasy, I can blend this in super easily, and it doesn’t feel like I have a bunch of oils on my skin. Bonus points for how good this smells.”
Danessa Myricks Beauty
Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder
“I’ve received numerous compliments on my base this month, and I have to personally thank Danessa Myricks for it. This skin-blurring balm powder melts into your skin and adds such a natural flow and all the coverage I need for a light makeup day. It’s super easy to layer with foundation and other base products, too.”
Topicals
Slick Salve Glossy Lip Balm for Soothing + Hydration
“My lips have never been more hydrated! I find myself having to reapply my lip combo because the winds have been so strong, but this balm lasts for hours in all kinds of weather conditions. The product went viral, and there have been some discussions on its stickiness, but I think it adds the perfect amount of shine without feeling like I can’t rub my lips together. I already know it’ll be a favorite next month, too.”
Kristen Nichols, Associate Director, Special Projects
Armra
Immune Revival Unflavored Stick Packs
“After spending quite a long time under the weather this fall, I wanted to boost my immunity and put a lot of research into what could help. Editors, friends, and my research all led me to Armra Colostrum’s immunity revival supplement, and I haven’t been sick since incorporating this into my wellness routine. It also has a long list of benefits. Strengthened immunity is one of them, as well as improved skin and gut health.”
Cymbiotika
Liposomal Elderberry
“Another new essential in my daily immunity health routine? The liposomal elderberry immune support pouches from Cymbiotika, which help to combat colds and other illnesses.”
Cymbiotika
Liposomal Glutathione
“Another wellness product I love from Cymbiotika: the Liposomal Glutathione for gut health.”
Allyson Payer, Senior Editor
Dae
Fairy Duster Volumizing Dry Shampoo Powder
“One of the main things I dislike about dry shampoos is that they have a tendency to spray anywhere but where I meant for them to go, and I usually spray either too much or too little. I find that this non-aerosol powder is so much easier to control, and it looks really natural when you blend it in with Dae’s dry shampoo brush (which I highly recommend getting when it comes back in stock).”
Dieux
Air Angel Collagen & Peptide Hydrating Gel Cream
“I’m a little late to the party, but I finally tried a few Dieux products and was instantly hooked. My favorite is Air Angel. I can see why it has a perfect rating on Sephora. It leaves a little glow but still absorbs quickly, and it smells faintly of delicious coconut. I’ve been wearing it under makeup (can confirm that it’s lovely) and using it at night after retinol—10 out of 10.”
Sachajuan
Ocean Mist Volume Hair Mousse
“I prefer for my hair to have a beachy wave, but it gets pretty flat in the winter. This mousse is exactly what I needed. It’s like a less drying wave spray that’s easier to apply and creates more volume.”
Tiff Soga, Managing Editor
DamDam
Citrus Glow Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Acid Serum
“When I say this serum gave my skin back a glow that the winter weather and heater dryness threatened to dull, I mean it. The result felt instantaneous, and my skin not only looked brighter but felt plump, bouncy, and nourished. After two weeks of daily use—I have incorporated this product into my morning skincare routine after my toner but before my eye cream and moisturizer—I can confidently say this product has become one of my top two most beloved vitamin C products across all of the ones I’ve tested (the other being the This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum). Japanese skincare has historically always worked well for me (I am of Japanese, Taiwanese, and Vietnamese descent, so it does feel made for my skin type), but the way my skin feels genuinely happy, radiant, and buoyant whenever I apply this product is unparalleled. A+++++ from me!”
DamDam
Mochi Mochi Luminous Plumping & Hydrating Moisturizer
“I mean, candidly, let’s be honest: This product is just plain cute. Mochi Mochi? My absolute fave, and the product lives up to its satisfyingly gluten-y name! If you’re only familiar with mochi via the viral strawberry mochi ice cream cakes sold at grocery stores, that’s not the firm but chewy texture I’m talking about. The process of making mochi is a beloved cultural tradition that involves pounding a special type of rice with a higher sugar content than your average, which has been soaked in water overnight. After cooking in steamer trays, the rice softens with a bit of gentle resistance and is transferred into a warm mortar. Standing in a circle, folks pound the dough into the mortar with special pestles, rhythmically, like a drum circle, the sound of which evokes centuries of tradition and joy! The mochi becomes a smooth, gelatinous, flowy mixture coated in cornstarch that stretches without sticking, quite unlike marshmallow but oozes a similar ‘I just want to sink into you’ texture. That’s what this moisturizer feels like—pillowy, light, and buoyant. I feel like a perfectly formed little mochi ball, hydrated and plump, after slathering myself with this moisturizer. I know I’m biased and tend to love all things that honor my multiethnic cultures, but this product has quickly become one of my most joyful ways to nourish my skin!”
“This Sweed Beauty Cloud Mascara is seriously so good. I have always had trouble finding a mascara that doesn’t irritate my eyes, until this one. I lean into minimal makeup looks, for the most part, so I love the buildable nature of this mascara. The applicator is also one of the best I’ve seen. It does an amazing job of separating my lashes as I brush on the product.”
Hyper Skin
Gentle Brightening Gel Cleanser With Mandelic Acid
“This face wash has become my go-to cleanser. I love the jelly consistency and that it aids in brightening up hyperpigmentation over time. Hyperskin is a Black-owned business, and it’s been really special getting to find skincare created by someone who looks like me.”
Juvia’s Place
Blushed Liquid Blush
“This is easily my favorite blush product that I’ve used in a while. A little does go a long way since the formula is very pigmented. I truly believe it’s great for all skin shades, and it seriously blends in so beautifully. It is Black-owned as well, so unlike many other beauty brands, you can tell the Juvia’s Place team took into consideration making products that mesh well with melanated folks. It lasts so very long, too, which is great for my bank account!”
Sierra Mayhew, Associate Editor
AnneMarie Borlind
Hyaluronic Eye Pads
“I heard rave reviews about this eye mask and was really looking forward to trying it. It certainly did not disappoint. The gentle pads were easy to slide out of the packaging and onto my eyes, and the hydration was instant. I have been getting more fine lines in the winter due to dehydration, so using this once a week has been a game changer.”
Donna Karan New York
Cashmere & Palo Santo Perfume
“This perfume immediately became one of my personal favorites at the first smell. The bottle is so beautiful it could make for great coffee table décor, and the scent is the definition of warm, cozy, and inviting. The entire fragrance line from DKNY integrates fruity top notes, so the peach sweetens the delivery while the woody and earthy palo santo rounds it out with a touch of vanilla.”
“I’ve gotten so many compliments ever I started adding this fragrance into my routine. I’m a big fan of layering scents right now, and having the deep notes of this one pair with lighter and sweeter fragrances is the perfect combination. It has a masculine flair to it that makes me feel powerful.”
Ilia
The Base Face Milk Essence & Lightweight Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid
“My skin can get pretty dry this time of year, so I’ve been adding an extra step before my makeup to hydrate my skin. I’ve been loving the Ilia Base Face Milk ever since it launched because it makes me skin shine underneath my makeup and it’s never too oily. It’s a super-light layer of hydration that rounds out any look.”
“I recently had a facial where I was encouraged to incorporate a toner into my routine to improve my texture. I’ve always thought of toners as a quick fix to acne or dark spots, but ever since seeing the results of this product, I consider it a daily essential.”
Dr. Loretta
Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
“Most of my cleansers are built to either fight acne or exfoliate, but too much action can leave my skin fatigued. On days when I need to be extra gentle, I’ve been using the Dr. Loretta Hydrating Cleanser, and my skin feels baby soft afterward. I feel like I get a good cleanse without any irritation or dehydration.”
