It’s that time of the year again when I spotlight the best new products I’ve discovered. Although I haven’t been very active lately due to my University studies, I’m excited to share this roundup now that I’ve settled into a good routine. I’ll do my best to catch up on posts I’ve planned. Without further ado, let’s dive into my top hair, skin, and makeup discoveries of 2024!
Related posts: Best Beauty Discoveries of 2023
Hair
L’Oréal Extraordinary Hair Oil, Detangle Leave-in Spray, and Midnight Serum
I began using the Detangle Leave-In Spray in 2023, but it wasn’t until 2024 that it became a staple. While I still prefer leave-in sprays like the Davines Oi All-in-One , the L’Oréal Spray Leave-In won me over. As it is more affordable. A good thing, considering how fast I go through these types of products! 😅 And so naturally, the one from Davines got temporarily replaced this year.
Initially, I bought a travel size of the L’Oréal Extraordinary Oil and didn’t think much of it. While I still prefer some of the more expensive hair oils on the market — again, like Davines Oi Oil — I’ve been trying to save in this category. Returning to a full-size bottle proved to be a decision I don’t regret.
The L’Oréal Midnight Serum is one of my newest additions, continuing my exploration of overnight hair treatments. A few years ago, I tried Kérastase Magic Serum, which left my hair feeling dry and frissy. And more recently, Amika’s Dream Routine (review here), which performed similarly. In 2024, I picked up the newly launched Night Elixir from Schwarzkopf Gliss. But the L’Oréal Extraordinary Oil Midnight Hair Treatment Serum stood out the most. It lives up to its claims by hydrating and softening my hair without weighing it down or requiring me to braid it overnight. The one from Gliss isn’t bad either, but just didn’t do anything extraordinary with my hair.
Normally, I’m not fond of L’Oréal Elvital’s shampoos and conditioners… But these styling products have significantly improved my hair’s shine and health by reducing breakage and leaving it softer. The trio has helped me reduce breakage enormously since my last trim. At the four-month mark, I’ve never had so few split ends. I plan to write a more in-depth review later this year, but for now, I can confidently say these products are keepers!
R+Co Bleu Reparative Shampoo & Conditioner
At the start of 2024, I got a set with products from Kevin Murphy’s Young Again with their shampoo, conditioner, and hair oil. Unfortunately, this system seemed better in theory than how they performed on my hair. I lived off some travel sizes of Virtue hair products, and then there’s the Augustinus Bader haircare system that I wrote about earlier. But it wasn’t until I stumbled upon a great deal on the R+Co Bleu Reparative duo and started using them that I felt like I had found my match.
This duo gives me what I can only describe as “television hair”—shiny and effortlessly manageable after washing. While I often find my initial excitement for haircare products fades quickly, the R+Co Bleu line consistently proves its worth at a luxury price point. I’ve also tried their Vapor Dry Shampoo Lotion and Surreal Styling Serum, both of which impressed me, especially once I got the hang of using them properly.
Skincare
Murad Youth Renewal Eye Serum and Wrinkle Corrector
After lots of disappointment in the eye serum department, I received a recommendation to look into the eye products from Murad’s Youth Renewal line. As luck would have it, I found a set with the eye serum and wrinkle corrector at 50% off! I didn’t have high hopes, but this retinol eye serum from Murad outshines even some more expensive ones I’ve tried! (read: Medik8 r-Retinoate Eye and Verso Super Eye Serum). It’s the first retinol eye product that, over time, has delivered visible improvements to the fine lines and texture around my eyes!
As for the Wrinkle Corrector, I’ve been using it on one of my premature forehead wrinkle caused by my right brow moving as it pleases—note to self: teaching myself to move a single eyebrow as a kid wasn’t the best idea! While I’ve always been skeptical of “filler serums,” this product has pleasantly surprised me. Though it hasn’t removed the line, it temporarily reduces its appearance. —Which has helped delay any considerations of a Botox appointment.
Elizabeth Arden Superstart Skin Renewal Booster
At the start of the year, several department stores were clearing this iconic Superstart serum from their shelves. I managed to score an incredible deal on: two 50 ml bottles, two 30 ml bottles. Plus several other products from Elizabeth Arden. While their cult classic capsules are widely celebrated, this serum truly stood out for me.
My partner and I just opened the last 50 ml bottle. We mainly use it in the evenings as a booster serum alongside other treatment serums. Though marketed to enhance the effectiveness of other products — which can sound a bit intimidating — I found it more of a buffer. It helped reduce irritation and sensitization caused by retinol and chemical exfoliants.
That said, it’s equally lovely on its own, offering a calming and hydrating layer that’s versatile and effective.
The Elizabeth Arden Superstart serum has a nourishing formula that is lightweight yet highly effective, leaving the skin feeling smooth, soothed, and soft. It’s an all-around fantastic serum that strengthens the skin barrier, and I can see why it’s so highly praised.
However, considering we went through almost 160 ml in just a year, I’m hesitant to repurchase unless another amazing deal comes along. I also don’t like that the packaging doesn’t tell you how much is left. That said, it’s undeniably one of my favorite beauty discoveries of 2024!
Avéne B3 Retinal Night Cream
I accidentally tossed out the jar, so I’ll have to go without a picture. But even after testing out the Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol the recent few months — a product that had been on my wishlist forever — it was Avéne’s more affordable option that truly impressed me this year with its plumping and refining results! (read in-depth review here)
Not only does it feature 0.1% retinal (a gentler but effective alternative to retinol) and come in a generous 40 ml size, but it also softened fine lines better than many pricier options I’ve tried. I was so thrilled with its performance that I even bought a jar for my mom. At around €35, it’s a fantastic value for what it delivers!
One-brand Routine: Shiseido Energizing Line
One of my favorite things during the year was sticking to a one-brand routine. I tried mini routines from La Mer to SK-II to Tatcha, but perhaps because it was the only routine with all full-size products, Shiseido left me with the biggest impression. In my experience, you almost can’t go wrong with any single-brand routine catered towards your skin type and concerns. My skin loved every single routine I sticked to, but Shiseido stood out for its textures, results, and gentle, beautiful fragrance. I felt like if my identity were a skincare brand, Shiseido would be the one to represent me. 👑
On that note, an honorable mention goes to the History of Whoo Gongjinhyang line. I was lucky enough to snag three travel sets this year, one of which I gifted to my mom. Although Gongjinhyang is considered an entry-level line (ideal for those in their 30s), my mom, who’s in her 60s, enjoyed it just as much as I did. Be aware that their products are heavily fragranced though, but the results are exactly what you’d expect, giving you the ultimate luxury Hanbang experience. ✨
Other One-Brand Routine Highlights:
- SK-II: Perfect for a simple, streamlined, and highly effective routine — if you don’t mind fragrance. (review here)
- La Mer: The ultimate spa-like luxury experience.
- Sulwhasoo: Similar to La Mer, but with a more refreshing twist of ginseng and somewhat lighter textures. (review here)
- Tatcha: A green, Japanese-inspired spa experience with calming and elegant products that deliver hydration and refinement.
Makeup
Shiseido Daiya Fude Face Duo Brush
My fondness for Shiseido hasn’t gone unnoticed during the year of 2024. From their sunscreens to skincare, I’ve expanded my discoveries to their makeup as well. I’d been in need of a new face brush for a while. Earlier in the year, I tried the BareMinerals Smoothing Brush. While it’s a decent stippling brush, I found it sometimes left streaks, which didn’t meet my expectations.
Eventually, I turned to Shiseido. Given my positive experiences with their other products, I felt confident their makeup brushes wouldn’t disappoint. The Daiya Fude makeup brush does come with a hefty price tag, but knowing that most of my makeup brushes have lasted over 10 years, the investment felt justified. Thanks to a combination of discounts, I purchased it at 40% off retail. While still pricey, it proved worth every penny.
Slightly larger than I’m used to, it applies all kinds of foundation—cream, liquid, and powder—effortlessly, giving a flawless finish every time. While some people remove the silicone applicator, I find it handy for quick touch-ups or when I want to keep my hands clean during application. The silicone applicator is also great for applying cream blushes, as it mimics the use of fingertips perfectly.
Hermès Plein Air Complexion balm
Though its price tag is steep for what it is, this tinted balm remains a lovely discovery. Since this list focuses on new finds, and I highlighted the Shiseido BB Sport in last year’s roundup, Hermès Complexion Balm earns this year’s mention. It delivers a beautiful, natural radiant finish.
I also introduced the Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation late in the year. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more matte, natural finish. However, its performance isn’t ideal for winter, and since Shiseido has reformulated its foundations, the version I have is from the older line. As such, this will likely be its only mention in my collection.
