Beauty Editors’ Top Picks – February 2020

What we’re loving, coveting and “borrowing” from the Gritty Pretty beauty cupboard this month.

“Aveda Rinseless Refresh Micellar Hair & Scalp Refresher ($32) is a no-rinse spray that really does instantly refresh your hair and scalp. Plus, it smells lovely, thanks to essences like jasmine, ylang ylang and mandarin. I love using this product to get an extra day out of my hair between washes. It works in a few ways: you can use it after a gym session to quickly freshen up, spritz straight onto the scalp or spray all over to help with frizz. Definitely follow the instructions (holding four to six inches away from scalp before massaging in) or there could be a bit of residue.” – Erica Wildey, Business Development Manager.

“Day to day, I’m not a big makeup person. I’ve got more of a skin first, makeup second philosophy. Having said that, when I have a fancy event to go to, I like to amp up the makeup factor a little bit – just to feel nice, you know? That’s where Estée Lauder Re-Nutriv Foundation ($145) comes in. This medium to full coverage foundation is the real deal: it covers a multitude of sins and won’t budge for a solid eight hours. For me, this foundation stands out against all of the other full coverage formulas due to the radiance factor: it is infused with millions of micro-fine gems to create a luminous finish.” – Erin Cook, Beauty Director.

“I love anything green. And oily. And plant based. My skin has been a little hormonal as of late and Votary Super Seed Serum ($145) has definitely helped to settle it. Within days it had visibly calmed. Packed with broccoli seed, rosehip oil, hyaluronic acid and peptides to support the skin’s micro-biome, it felt so good to feed and nourish my skin. Also sustainable packaging = big tick.” – Amie Jones, Art Director.

“A gloss that provides a rich shine but isn’t super sticky is hard to come by, but luckily for me (and now, you) the Dior Lip Glow Oil ($52) is exactly that. More nourishing than your traditional gloss, the oil is packed with cherry extract to help fight against environmental stress and dryness. Initially intimidated by the bright orange shade that landed on my desk, I was skeptical as to whether I would wear it. However, I soon realised that Dior’s Colour Reviver Technology means that the colour reacts with your lip’s moisture levels to create a customised hue. A true your-lips-but-better shade! Wear it alone, underneath lipstick for a boost of hydration or as a glossy topper – either way it is a great addition to the 45 lip products swimming around in your bag (or car or bathroom cabinet). The applicator is also a highlight, with the large, fluffy doe foot delivering the perfect amount of product. Every. Single. Time.” – Rose Garnett, Editorial Assistant.

“Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial ($80) truly lives up to its name. I wore it to bed as an overnight mask three times and woke up with glowing, plump and hydrated skin every time. I did have a few irritations on my cheeks by the end of the week, however, my skin is quite sensitive and I have been trialing different products of late. The formula contains a healthy dose of ultra-nourishing niacinamide, ceramides and omegas, making it a great companion for a long haul flight.” – Eliza Hynd, Head of Partnerships.

“Living by the beach, I’m very aware of the need to include a good SPF in your daily skincare regime. However, some of these products do leave you looking very greasy and shiny and clog your pores! Enter the Mecca To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen ($40). This clever product provides protection and moisture without any of the unwanted side effects. I also really like the matte finish – it sits well under makeup without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s a great size and can easy fit inside your handbag if you’re going outside and need to reapply throughout the day.” – Sue Hoffman, Brand Partnerships Manager.

Are there any products you’d like to see Gritty Pretty editors review next month? Tell us in the comments below. We’re all ears!