HuffPost Shopping Awards 2024: Celebrating the Best in Beauty and Hair Care
Our dedicated shopping reporters have rigorously tested and evaluated hundreds of products across the beauty spectrum, from luxurious high-end items to affordable drugstore gems. Their mission: to identify the highest-quality and most effective products that deliver exceptional results. We are thrilled to unveil this year's HuffPost Shopping Awards winners, a curated list of standout items that have earned gold-medal status. Dive in to explore these spectacular products and find new favorites to enhance your daily routine. Plus, take advantage of exclusive discounts available to HuffPost readers to celebrate these award-winners.
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey: A Timeless Cult-Favorite
Clinique's Black Honey Almost Lipstick has endured as an iconic makeup staple, beloved by many for its nostalgic appeal and versatile formula. This tinted balm offers a perfect balance of color and hydration, making it an ideal low-maintenance daily lip product. The sheer, buildable shade provides a romantic hue that complements all skin tones, earning it a devoted following. Senior shopping writer Tessa Flores praises its comfort, noting, "My favorite part about the Almost Lipstick is how comfortable it feels on the lips." The emollient-rich formula, infused with seed oils, delivers moisture without the stickiness of glosses. While Clinique offers three shades, Black Honey remains the star, with the brand claiming it sells seven tubes every minute. Its resurgence on social media platforms like TikTok has solidified its place among beauty must-haves. HuffPost readers can enjoy a 20% discount on Clinique's website with code AH20OFF.
Maple Holistics Biotin Shampoo: A Reviewer-Beloved Hair Care Solution
This unassuming shampoo from indie brand Maple Holistics has secured a spot on the HuffPost Shopping Awards list thanks to its effective formula. Infused with biotin, rosemary oil, tea tree oil, vitamin E, and argan oil, it aims to promote thicker, healthier-looking hair while supporting scalp health. Dermatologists, including Dr. Marisa Garshick, highlight that ingredients like rosemary oil can strengthen hair and potentially accelerate growth by improving scalp circulation. Although biotin's role in hair growth is debated, other components like evening primrose and jojoba oils address dryness and brittleness. Reviewers report reduced hair fall, faster growth, and even new hair growth in sparse areas, making it a worthy addition to any hair care routine.
Erborian CC Red Correct Cream: The Ultimate Redness Neutralizer
For those dealing with redness from conditions like rosacea or general irritation, the Erborian CC Red Correct cream is a game-changer. This K-beauty product doubles as skincare and makeup, formulated to neutralize redness and calm the skin over time. It includes centella asiatica (tiger grass) for soothing properties and glycerin to hydrate and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. With SPF 25 protection, it offers both immediate and long-term benefits. HuffPost senior reporter Lydia O'Connor calls it "a miracle product," praising its ability to blur imperfections and reduce red undertones. While ideal for lighter skin tones, it may leave a white cast on more melanated skin.
Violette_FR Bisou Balm: A Holy Grail Lipstick for a Just-Bitten Look
Violette_FR's Bisou Balm has risen to the top of a crowded market, earning rave reviews from beauty enthusiasts and casual users alike. Its sheer-matte formulation creates a soft, blurring effect reminiscent of just-bitten lips, with buildable color payoff. Available in up to nine shades, from nude beige to deep berry tones, it features nourishing ingredients like rapeseed oil and antioxidants. HuffPost editorial director Kristen Aiken, who owns every color, appreciates its blurring effect that mattifies texture without requiring precise application. This innovative lipstick stands out for its unique finish and ease of use.
Cécred Hair & Edge Restoring Drops: A Viral Serum for Hair Growth
These restorative drops have garnered viral attention online, with reviewers hailing them as "heaven in a bottle" for thinning hair. Formulated for all hair types, they aim to improve density and restore fullness. Managing editor Marquaysa Battle's positive experience, noting halted hair loss and restored hairline, cemented its award status. Dr. Dina Strachan explains that key peptide ingredients in the drops could theoretically support hair growth and prevent loss. With a cult-following and frequent sell-outs, this serum is a valuable addition to comprehensive hair care routines.
Merit Lip Duo: A Versatile Lip Combo for All Generations
Merit's Lip Duo, consisting of a hydrating lip pencil and nourishing gloss, has won over users across age groups, from TikTokers in their 20s to those in their 60s. The pencil offers sheer, buildable color with a balm-like finish that doesn't tug on lips or settle into wrinkles. Infused with antioxidants like pomegranate and jojoba, it strengthens the skin's moisture barrier. The gloss, with shea butter and omega-3 fatty acids, provides a featherlight texture that adds shine without stickiness. This combo delivers effortless, polished looks with high-quality ingredients.
iRestore Red Light Therapy Helmet: An Investment in Hair Health
As red light therapy gains popularity for hair loss, the iRestore helmet stands out as an FDA-cleared device using 282 lasers and LED lights to stimulate follicles. Dr. Brendan Camp notes that low-level light therapy can increase cellular energy in hair follicles, potentially aiding growth. While pricey, it's designed for conditions like alopecia and pattern baldness, with reviewers praising its efficacy. HuffPost readers can access discounts through April, making it a consideration for those seeking advanced hair care solutions.
Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara: A Splurge-Worthy Lash Enhancer
Lancôme's Lash Idôle mascara features a lightweight formula with white tea extract to condition lashes while providing volume and lift. Its curved brush design separates and lengthens lashes without clumping. Reviewers, including older users, commend its ability to deliver youthful-looking lashes without smudging, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear.
L’Oréal Voluminous Mascara: A Drugstore Icon for Effortless Lashes
This affordable mascara from L’Oréal is a favorite among editors for its ability to volumize and lengthen lashes naturally. Shopping reporter Tessa Flores praises its buttery viscosity and long-lasting wear, noting no flaking or smudging even in heat. Enriched with panthenol and ceramides, it conditions lashes while offering impressive staying power.
Bagsmart Crush Toiletry Kit: The Ultimate Travel Companion
This spacious toiletry kit from Bagsmart earns its award for exceptional design and functionality. With four compartments and water-resistant material, it organizes full-sized products to prevent leaks during travel. Contributor Shawna Hudson describes it as a "Mary Poppins" bag that minimizes unpacking needs. HuffPost readers can get 20% off with code HP20OFF, making it a practical addition for beauty enthusiasts on the go.
