7 Best Beauty Drops of 2023
The best of the best and nothing less.
In my professional opinion, 2023 was a bit “meh” for beauty launches. Transparently, I’ve felt this way for quite some time about the state of beauty.
Post-pandemic, we’ve been in this “stuck” phase where every one is dropping everything under the sun in regards to skincare, haircare, body care, makeup and beyond, but nothing is actually landing. On the complexion front, brands are stukk missing the mark when it comes to including darker hues — this has STILL been a constant conversation, that I’m quite frankly tired of. There still aren’t many brand sthat are well versed in in textured hair, so the drops there are still out of touch and as far as skincare… well….peptides is the ingredient that seems to have everyone in a chokehold and the innovation has been less than exciting…. but, such is life.
However, though my thoughts may be a bit forward, it would be remiss of me not to mention the brands that did the damn thing in 2023. Yes, I started that work at Hypebae with the 2023 installment of the beauty awards, so you a have a glimmer of an idea of where my head, heart and wallet is.
Ahead, you will find an intimate listing of the brands that caught my hearts and dollars for this year. Keep reading on for more.
MAC Cosmetics - Studio Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation
If I’m being honest, IMO, this was the best foundation release of 2023. In today’s beauty landscape, it’s hard for me to find the perfect complexion shade without having to mix 2-3 ranges to achieve my perfect hue. However, with this drop, there are 56 shades and I was able to find one that was meant entirely for me.
Perfect for oily, dry and acne-prone skin, a few pumps (just a few) are all you need to get the party started. What more can you expect from a serum-powered foundation that is formulated with hyaluronic acid and jojoba oils?
Rhode Skin - Peptide Lip Tint
Mrs. Bieber’s brand Rhode Skin shook the tables down it hit the scene with the cult-loved Peptide Lip Treatment in 2022, now in 2023, the brand shook us down again with the drop of Peptide Lip Tint.
The four universal shades really are worth every nickel, penny and cent. Equipped with the same benefits of the OG peptide lip treatment but with color, yo’ll be more than pleased by adding your email to the anticipated waitlist — as it is currently stocked out.
Makeup By Mario - SurrealSkin Awakening Concealer
Listen, I’m not normally a concealer girl.I’m one of the ones that swore religiously by my NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (IYKYK.) However, when Makeup By Mario dropped this baddie, it instantly became a favorite of mine.
Very rarely do concealers actually lift and set itself as many claim, but this one does exactly what is says it will do. I actually was fortunate to have Mario test the concealer on me himself and received rave reviews on the finish. Take my word for it.
Tom Ford Beauty - “Cafe Rose” Eau de Parfum
If you’re a fan of rose perfumes, than this one is for you. Who knew that coffee and rose went so well together? The notes in this fragrance are fairly simple, but they come with quite a punch — which in return makes “Cafe Rose” a transitional scent that can go from day to night with you.
Glow Recipe - Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum
We know that Peptides ruled the skincare world in 2023. Glow Recipe was definitely on the list of brands that aced the use of the buzzy ingredient this year. Infused with pomegrante extract, this serum is literally botox in a bottle.
Glossier x Starface Pimple Patches
This collab between Glossier and Starface came in at the tail end of the year, but better late than never. This sold-out collab puts a fun spin on your normal pimple patches, complete in the cutest millennial pink compact. Glossier’s mantra is “You Look Good,” and Starface reimagined how we engage with acne/pimple breakouts. This was truly a match made in heaven.
Topicals - “Slick Salve” Mint Lip Balm
Everything about “Slick Salve” Mint Lip Balm is a 10/10! The product is meant to soothe, heal and moisturize severely dry lips, but I also use this on pimple breakouts and more. The tingle from the mint formulated into the balm makes it even more enticing to use it everywhere. We love a multi-purposeful product that does all of the things it needs to do.