Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation

$49 at SephoraView on Hauslabs.com$49 at Kohls.com

Foundation is the foundation (literally) of a great makeup routine, and this one from Haus Labs impressed me—and several other testers—thanks to its extensive shade range, buildable coverage, natural finish, and impressive wear. I can sheer it out on minimal makeup days and build it up when I’m going for a more full-glam look. It covers redness and discoloration without looking cakey, and once I lock it in with setting spray, I don’t have to worry about it fading or migrating.

Maybelline Sky High Mascara

$14

$10 at Amazon$13 at UltaView on Target

I tested nearly 30 mascaras last year alone and crowed this gem from Maybelline the best drugstore mascara. The long, narrow brush makes it easy to grip your lashes from the root, and the well-dispersed bristles separate and evenly coat them in the lengthening formula. The end result is beautifully long, fanned-out lashes. But perhaps the best part is that even though it’s not a waterproof mascara, it remains totally smudge-proof all day long.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

$361 at Amazon

$520

$380 at UltaView on Dyson.com

I know it comes with a hefty price tag, but after testing more than 10 hair dryers, I can say the Dyson is superior. While testing professional hair dryers, this one stood out for its ergonomic design and powerful airflow. I particularly appreciated the small concentrator nozzle, which helps control the airflow for targeted drying and a smooth finish. It also has multiple heat and speed settings, making it a great option for a variety of hair types. It features a technology that measures the temperature 40 times a second, ensuring no extreme heat causes damage to your strands.

Ami Colé Lip Treatment Oil

$20 at Amazon$20 at SephoraView on Amicole.com

Lip oils were super popular in 2024, and while there are so many I’ll continue to use and love, this pick from Ami Colé will be in every bag, especially during the winter months. Unlike a lot of oils that fade fast, this one has a thicker texture, which keeps its shine and hydration going strong for longer. The formula contains a blend of nourishing oils—baobab seed, camellia seed, and passionfruit seed oil—that moisturizes the lips while enveloping them with next-level shine. My lips feel soft and hydrated long after it fades after several hours of wear.

Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Concealer

$30 at Sephora$30 at UltaView on Ecosmetics.com

I have very thin skin under my eyes, so dark circles are pretty much unavoidable for me. But this concealer totally changed the game—it’s the best under-eye concealer I’ve tried in years. It has a thin, creamy texture that feels soft and lightweight under the eyes, and it’s packed with pigment, so you only need a small swipe to get the job done. Once blended out and lightly set with powder, it gives me a fresh, brightened look that lasts all day.

Youth to The People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

$39

$36 at Amazon$68 at Sephora$39 at Nordstrom

A great face wash should be a staple in everyone’s skincare routine, and this one is suitable for all skin types. The gel formula is rich in vitamins and antioxidants to brighten your complexion, as well as glycerin for moisture. It effectively washes away dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin. I tested the popular cleanser again in 2024 after years of trying other options, and I was quickly reminded why I loved it so much.