In the ever-expanding world of beauty, it can be overwhelming to know which products truly deliver on their promises. From viral makeup must-haves to cult favorites, many cosmetics boast impressive claims but vary widely in performance. To help you navigate this landscape, here’s an honest review of the most popular cosmetics tried and tested—breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and what’s worth your investment in 2025.
1. Foundation: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place
What We Loved: This foundation is a longtime cult classic known for its incredible staying power and full coverage. It handles oil control and humidity well, making it ideal for long days or special occasions.
What to Consider: The formula is matte and can feel heavy on dry skin, so moisturizing beforehand is essential.
Verdict: Highly recommended for oily and combination skin types seeking lasting coverage.
2. Mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational
What We Loved: Delivers dramatic volume and separation with a fan-shaped wand that coats lashes evenly. It’s budget-friendly and widely accessible.
What to Consider: Not waterproof, so it may smudge in humid conditions or on oily skin.
Verdict: A great everyday mascara that enhances lashes without clumping.
3. Lipstick: MAC Retro Matte Lipstick
What We Loved: Offers intense pigmentation and classic matte finish in a variety of shades. It’s highly pigmented and long-lasting.
What to Consider: The matte formula can be drying, so a lip balm is recommended for comfortable wear.
Verdict: Ideal for those who want bold, enduring color and don’t mind a matte texture.
4. Eyeshadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked Honey
What We Loved: A versatile palette featuring warm gold and amber tones with a mix of mattes and shimmers. The shadows blend smoothly and have good pigmentation.
What to Consider: The color story is somewhat limited to warm hues, which may not suit every skin tone or preference.
Verdict: Perfect for fans of golden, sun-kissed looks.
5. Concealer: Tarte Shape Tape
What We Loved: Known for full coverage and crease resistance, this concealer brightens under eyes and covers blemishes flawlessly.
What to Consider: The formula can be thick and may settle into fine lines if not blended well.
Verdict: Excellent for those needing serious coverage, with proper application.
6. Setting Spray: Urban Decay All Nighter
What We Loved: Keeps makeup intact for up to 16 hours with a lightweight, non-sticky finish. It controls oil without making skin look cakey.
What to Consider: May feel slightly drying on very dry skin types.
Verdict: A must-have for long-lasting makeup, especially in warm weather or for events.
7. Blush: NARS Orgasm
What We Loved: Universally flattering peachy-pink shade with subtle shimmer, adding a natural flush and glow.
What to Consider: The shimmer may not appeal to those who prefer a completely matte finish.
Verdict: A timeless blush that suits most skin tones.
8. Highlighter: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
What We Loved: Creamy, blendable formula with a radiant glow that doesn’t emphasize texture.
What to Consider: Limited shade range; some colors may appear too light on deeper skin tones.
Verdict: Great for a natural, luminous highlight on light to medium complexions.
9. Eyebrow Product: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
What We Loved: Fine tip allows precise application for natural-looking brows. Long-lasting and easy to blend.
What to Consider: May not provide enough volume for very sparse brows alone.
Verdict: Perfect for shaping and filling brows with definition.
10. Lip Gloss: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb
What We Loved: Non-sticky, hydrating gloss with a beautiful sheen and subtle tint. Enhances lips without overwhelming color.
What to Consider: Not intensely pigmented—more of a natural glow than bold color.
Verdict: Ideal for a fresh, everyday glossy finish.
Final Thoughts
Testing some of the most popular cosmetics reveals a spectrum of performance and suitability. Many iconic products live up to their reputation, delivering impressive results when used with the right techniques and skin types in mind. Ultimately, the best products for you depend on your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
This honest review aims to help you make informed choices and invest wisely in cosmetics that enhance your natural beauty and confidence in 2025.