I'm a beauty expert, I test various beauty products every month, and here are the top new launches priced from £16.
Every day brings a new learning opportunity, and I recently discovered something intriguing about my preferences - my aversion to hand cream has softened, thanks to an unusual factor.
Usually, I dislike the greasy residue and smeared fingerprints that follow hand cream application. However, I've found a novel reason to apply it excessively - attractive packaging.
Much like a child will eat vegetables when hidden within a colorful dessert, the appeal of hand cream improves when it's housed in eye-catching packaging.
One specific product that stood out was the Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Hand Cream, priced at £52. The hand cream comes in three scents inspired by well-known fragrances, and the packaging, available in pastel hues and a hexagonal shape, fits comfortably in the palm of my hand.
In addition, the Dior Le Baume Toile de Jouy limited edition with Balm Holder (£68) caught my attention with its dedicated keychain and rubber case, effectively transforming it into a stylish fashion accessory.
Both products offer terrific formulas, with minimal stickiness after use and subtle scents that complement rather than clash with perfume.
While these items may seem exorbitantly priced, after giving up frequent gel manicures following the holiday season, I've managed to accumulate savings. Hence, I justify the expense since these products last longer than manicures of the same price.
Moreover, this month has been favorable for Dior releases, as the Dior Diorshow Overvolume Mascara (£35) has also impressed me. I've always appreciated Dior mascaras, with the Overcurl Mascara (£35) from over a decade ago being one of my initial luxurious beauty investments.
Initially, I assumed I'd dislike the volumizing mascara because it often leaves lashes heavy and clumped together. However, the super-flexible brush effortlessly separated and defined my lashes while adding volume without causing them to stick together. It doesn't flake or irritate my sensitive eyes, and it has proven reliable even during my constant hay fever-induced weeping.
Another highly anticipated launch for me was the Clarins Double Serum Light Texture (£65). When Clarins announced the introduction of a lightweight version of the popular Double Serum (£65), I was thrilled.
I favor products that offer multiple benefits, so the blend of brightening antioxidants, hydrating squalane and glycerin, collagen-boosting tri-peptides, and soothing aloe, oat, and turmeric to reduce redness and inflammation, perfectly suits my preferences.
The serum quickly absorbs, leaving my skin feeling light yet nourished, and after only a few weeks of use, my skin appears healthier. I eagerly look forward to seeing the results when I finish the bottle.
The Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Roll-On (£26) also captured my attention immediately due to its practical design. Although I usually dislike applying body oil, the roll-on eliminates the mess, making it incredibly convenient, even for post-dressing applications.
I often hesitate to praise entire brands, but after discovering Tocobo in the new-in section on Boots.com, I couldn't help but try their entire product line.
The Tocobo Multi Ceramide Cream (£21) caught my attention due to its unique mousse-like texture that rapidly absorbs without leaving a greasy residue. This features make it suitable for all skin types.
Similarly, the Tocobo Cotton Soft Sun Stick SPF50 PA++++ (£16) is impressive due to its velvet finish, making it an ideal option for wearing sunscreen daily.
In 2025, various beauty trends are expected to emerge, including hair gloss treatments for enhanced shine and color, rejuvenation treatments like Rejuran for improved skin texture and elasticity, ginseng cleansing oil and panthenol cream for a simplified skincare routine, under-eye brighteners for a fresh look, and cluster lashes for dramatic volume. Peel-off lip stains are anticipated to be popular for their long-lasting, transfer-proof color, while cherry-coded aesthetics may become prevalent.
In the realm of nail trends, Goddess Nails and Aura Nails are expected to be noteworthy for their ethereal and celestial appearances.
In light of my newfound appreciation for aesthetically pleasing packaging, I've incorporated luxury hand creams such as the Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Hand Cream and the Dior Le Baume Toile de Jouy limited edition into my lifestyle, making a statement in both fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden.
Expressing my preference for multifunctional skincare products, I've found the Clarins Double Serum Light Texture, with its blend of brightening antioxidants, hydrating squalane, and soothing aloe, perfectly suited for my skin, enhancing not just my appearance, but also my home decor with its elegant bottle.
