Welcome to my annual and glamorous roundup of best beauty products 2023. This is where I share my best-of-the-best list of makeup that was either released during the year, or that I tried for the first time that was new to me. I think a good way to define 2023 is the year of lips. For whatever reason, a lot of lip color came my way, whether it was new releases or clearance. elf Cosmetics also declared themselves a lip brand and temporarily confused their customers on Instagram when they changed their logo from “e.l.f.” to “l.e.f.” As we go through this blog post, I will give you reviews on every item. Most of these products have their own dedicated blog post review, so I will link to them where applicable for full details and swatches. I normally do a full face makeup look, but I am skipping that this time around. I have been healing a skin condition around my lips, but it looks favorable that I will be able to update with a look later. You can find a grid of previous year’s posts at the end, as all of those items are still my favorites. Each year I am building onto those lists.
Best Makeup Products in 2023
Primer
elf Good Vibes Only Soft Velvet Primer
I will start off the best makeup products of 2023 with primer, in the same order that you apply your makeup. I hate to include limited edition makeup in these reviews, but there was several over the top products to talk about this year! The elf Good Vibes Only Soft Velvet Primer mimicks high-end primers, such as my holy grail Smashbox Photo Finish. It has a clear gel formula that smooths the skin, and somehow blurs my awful pores, even though it does not claim to have that effect! It makes the most beautiful base for makeup application, and I believe that it extends wear time. The scent is delightful. I hope that elf makes it permanent!
wet n wild megalast Eyeshadow Primer
In 2023 wet n wild updated and re-released their megalast Eyeshadow Primer, which has always been a core staple for me. Despite the formula change, it still works like it always has, and rivals high-end eyeshadow primers such as Urban Decay Primer Potion. It locks your eyeshadow down all day to prevent creasing, fading, and movement, all at a low price. You can see more in my wet n wild 2023 new products post.
Foundation
Maybelline Superstay 24 Hr Skin Tint
It goes without saying that the best drugstore beauty products 2023 must include Maybelline Superstay 24 Hr Skin Tint. I can effortlessly build this foundation to achieve medium coverage. A single light layer is perfect for a subtle no-makeup makeup appearance, while applying two layers adds a touch of glam with a natural finish. This foundation seamlessly blends with both skincare and makeup, applying smoothly and feeling lightweight, almost mimicking the texture of natural skin. The formula imparts a hydrating sensation, leaving a dewy and fresh finish that radiates a healthy glow. Application can be done with your tool of choice, though I personally prefer using a sponge. Throughout the day, I observe normal wear and tear, yet the foundation generally holds up well without fading. While it does permit natural oils to come through, the effect is subtle and not overpowering. This foundation is an excellent choice for wearing without powder, allowing you to layer creams and liquids effortlessly, or for achieving a light or no-makeup look. On my combination skin, particularly in the oily T-zone, the high level of dewiness may not be the most flattering. I suggest targeted powdering if opting for a powder-free look, although this preference varies. Powdering alters the foundation’s dewy appearance, yet it still retains a skin-like, soft, and smooth finish. You can read more in my Maybelline SuperStay Skin Tint review.
Essence 16 Hour Cover and Last Powder Foundation
I love a good powder foundation, and the Essence 16 Hour Cover and Last Powder Foundation is the right price. I can confidently attest to the smooth, lightweight, and enduring nature of their formula. Regardless of how much you layer on, it maintains a non-cakey and weightless feel – foolproof application every time! The result is always a stunning, soft-focus matte finish that you simply cannot go wrong with. Achieving a high medium coverage is a breeze, and for those with relatively clear skin, it may even resemble full coverage. Other powder products complement it seamlessly. While this powder doesn’t refine pores, a great pore-reducing primer is a fantastic companion. Towards the end of the day, I notice only minor wear and tear, with a touch of shine around my nose, but nothing too significant. I have a full detailed Essence 16 Hour Cover and Last Powder Foundation review for you to explore.
elf Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30
Next for best makeup products in 2023 is not an actual foundation, but I like to wear it as a replacement. I have discovered that the elf Sountouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 layers seamlessly with other skincare and makeup, boasting a lightweight and hydrating feel. The luminosity truly shines through when paired with other dewy makeup products. Personally, I relish wearing it alone for a no-makeup look that leaves others questioning if I have any makeup on at all. What sets this formula apart is its ability to provide a natural glow through metallic ingredients rather than relying on fine glitters. Remarkably, this sunscreen does nog clog pores or exacerbate oiliness, although the level of glow may be a bit intense for someone with combination skin like mine. Adjusting to the shine is a process, but I appreciate the product’s radiant effect. While I do nog necessarily find it extends or compromises the wear time of makeup, I still prefer using a makeup primer as a personal choice. The sunscreen carries a subtle sunscreen scent that is not overpowering. If you press your fingers on your skin, there might be some transfer of the glow, but the glowy effect remains in those spots on your face. Overall, I am pleased with this purchase and plan to reach for it on days when I prefer to skip foundation! You can see more info and before and afters in my elf Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 review.
Concealer
Loreal Age Perfect Radiant Concealer
Now in the best beauty products for 2023 I am moving on to concealer, starting with the Loreal Age Perfect Radiant Concealer. It has a creamy and lightweight formula that is buildable to a high medium coverage. It has a natural finish and does brighten the under eye. It looks so nice all day with a skin-like finish that I find myself reaching for it a lot when I need a dependable, no-fuss concealer.
elf Camo Color Corrector in Peach
I am all about a good and affordable color corrector for the under eye area, and the elf Camo Color Corrector in Peach does the job. While not offering complete full coverage on their own, the full line of color correctors can be layered to achieve the desired level of coverage and correction. The shades effectively address problem areas, though the color is visible on the skin until covered with foundation and other makeup. Some may argue that a color correcting concealer is only truly effective if it completely conceals the problem tone, but I do not view this as a significant concern. These correctors layer well with makeup and have a lasting power comparable to your complexion products. The satin finish they provide is genuinely in between dewy and matte. You can see all of the colors in my elf Camo Color Corrector review.
elf Putty Color Correcting Eye Brightener in Fair
For more color corrector, I use the shade Fair in the elf Putty Colcor Correcting Eye Brightener, and I find it to be an effective method for correcting my natural under-eye darkness while also adding brightness through light reflection. I highly recommend wearing this under your makeup (foundation and concealer) as the product’s color can be noticeable on your skin. This corrector possesses the typical elf putty feel and dries with a slightly tacky finish. However, makeup applies and wears normally over it, and it does not contribute to creasing. So, do not be bothered by the tacky finish. The optimal application method involves using a concealer brush and then blending it out with a sponge. While using a brush is more sanitary than dipping fingers into the pot, it may leave the product looking patchy or streaky, hence the need for a blending sponge to achieve that flawless, skin-like finish. You can see all of the shades in my elf Putty Color Correcting Eye Brightener review.
Physicians Formula Butter Glow Concealer in Fair-to-Light
Lasr for best beauty products 2023 concealer is the Physicians Formula Butter Glow Concealer in Fair-to-Light. Offering buildable high-medium coverage with a natural finish, this product has a creamy texture that effortlessly melds into the skin. The applicator boasts a unique design, featuring a standard doe-foot on one end and a blending sponge on the other. The product’s lightest shade, Fair-to-Light, effectively brightens the under-eye area. You can see it in Physicians Formula 2023 new products.
Powder
wet n wild 5-in-1 Essence Primer + Finish Powder
The only powder for best beauty products 2023 is the wet n wild 5-in-1 Essence Primer + Finish Powder. This powder effectively sets the skin, providing a matte finish without appearing heavy or cakey. The formula is undeniably soft and finely milled, allowing some natural oil to come through on the T-zone while showing normal wear and tear. It does extend makeup wear time, but, what truly excites me about this product is its effectiveness in setting the under eyes. Despite having under eye lines that are typically challenging to address with powders, concealers, foundations, or primers, this powder accomplishes the task seamlessly. A quick bounce of my sponge dipped in the powder is all it takes to set my lines perfectly—eliminating the need for the usual baking with loose powder. It is featured in wet n wild 2023 new products.
Brows
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze
Next up for best beauty products 2023 is all brows. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze completely dries down, leaving a matte finish that does not feel crunchy or stiff. This brow product effectively holds your brows in place for the entire duration of your makeup wear. It makes a unique claim of achieving a fluffy look, which may seem contradictory when laminating and pressing the hairs flat. However, when you go in to add tint, powder, pencil, gel, etc., your brows indeed attain a fluffy appearance. Working the spoolie back and forth enhances this effect. In essence, this product is nothing short of perfection!
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brown Pen
If you are in the market for a good felt brow pen, the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brown Pen has you covered. It produces thin, hair-like strokes with easy precision. This lasts all day, and makes a nice pairing with the Brow Freeze. I enjoy the natural, filled in and not overdone look that it provides.
Loreal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara
Last in brows is the Loreal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara. I reach for it a lot when I am short on time, because it provides hold and some tint in one step. The tiny spoolie does a great job for preicison! This has firm, yet soft hold all day.
Bronzer, Blush, Highlighter
Physicians Formula Butter Glow Liquid Bronzer in Bronze
I am moving into a mish mash of bronzer, blush, and highligher for best beauty products 2023, which showcases how this was the year of liquids and creams for me! First is the Physicians Formula Butter Glow Liquid Bronzer in Bronze. This bronzer boasts an incredibly creamy texture that is both blendable and buildable. Personally, I prefer blending it with a sponge, though a brush works well too. It seamlessly blends without removing coverage underneath and imparts a subtle glow. The color is highly appealing, reminiscent of their classic Butter Bronzer in the shade Bronzer but in liquid form. Notably, it avoids any orange or muddy tones. Even if you are hesitant about using liquid bronzers, you will find this one easy to work with. For added versatility, you can mix it into your foundation to deepen the shade and introduce a subtle glow. While it does have a slightly tacky feeling when it dries, it remains user-friendly and effective.
Physicians Formula Butter Glow Liquid Highlighter in Glow
The Physicians Formula Butter Glow Liquid Highlighter in Glow behaves similarly to the above bronzer in terms of application and wear. It comes in a lovely, universal shade that imparts a glowing wet-look without accentuating texture. For an added radiant boost, you have the option to mix it into your foundation.
GXVE Check My Glow Multi-Dimensional Illuminating Highlighter in Platinum Cowgirl
The GXVE Check My Glow Multi-Dimensional Illuminating Highlighter in Platinum Cowgirl strikes the perfect balance between a radiant champagne glow and subtle undertones, making it universally flattering. The finely milled powder texture allows for effortless application, blending seamlessly onto the skin for a natural yet captivating luminosity. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver a radiant glow without emphasizing texture, providing a lit-from-within look that lasts throughout the day. The highlighter’s versatility extends to mixing it with foundation for an all-over dewy complexion.
Kokie Soft Gradient Blush
The Kokie Soft Gradient Blush has quickly become a favorite in my makeup routine for its exceptional quality and beautiful finish. The gradient design of this blush not only offers versatility in creating customized shades but also adds a touch of visual appeal to the compact. The formula is incredibly smooth, allowing for easy blending and buildability to achieve the desired level of pigmentation. I appreciate how it effortlessly imparts a natural, radiant flush to the cheeks without appearing powdery or overly shimmery. The blush is long-wearing, maintaining its vibrancy throughout the day.
elf Luminous Putty Blush
The elf Luminous Putty Blush is a game-changer in the world of cream blushes. Its putty-like texture is both unique and user-friendly, allowing for easy application and blending. The luminosity it imparts is subtle yet buildable, giving a natural, radiant flush to the cheeks. The formula is long-lasting, providing a fresh and dewy look throughout the day. You can see all of the colors in my elf Luminous Putty Blush review.
elf Halo Glow Beauty Wands
The elf Halo Glow Beauty Wands are a must-have for achieving a radiant complexion effortlessly. The convenient wand applicator makes application a breeze, and the formula blends seamlessly into the skin. These wands offer a versatile range of shades suitable for various skin tones, providing a luminous glow that lasts. I love contoring and bronzing with the contour shades, including underpainting under my foundation. My second favorite is the highlighter. I review the entire original line in my elf Halo Glow Beauty Wands review.
Eyeshadow
Jaclyn Cosmetics Luxe Legacy Eyeshadow Palette
Next for the best beauty products 2023 is all things eyes. The Jaclyn Cosmetics Luxe Legacy Eyeshadow Palette is a true gem for eyeshadow enthusiasts. The palette boasts a rich assortment of highly pigmented and blendable shades, allowing for endless creative possibilities. I find myself reaching for it for all occasions, and it is probably my most used palette of the year.
Kara Beauty Hello Honey
The Kara Beauty Hello Honey palette is a delightful collection of warm, honey-inspired eyeshadows. The pigmentation is impressive, and the shades blend effortlessly, creating stunning eye looks. With a mix of matte and shimmer finishes, this palette is versatile and perfect for crafting both day and night makeup looks.
Kara Beauty Sunlit
The Kara Beauty Sunlit palette brings the warmth of a sunlit day to your eyeshadow collection. The variety of warm-toned shades in matte and shimmer finishes make it a go-to palette for creating captivating eye looks. The formula is smooth and easy to work with, ensuring a seamless application.
wet n wild Shadow Silk Liquid Eyeshadow
The wet n wild Shadow Silk Liquid Eyeshadow is a gem for those seeking a quick and easy way to add a pop of color to their eyes. The liquid formula glides on effortlessly, offering a vibrant and shimmery finish. Its long-lasting formula ensures that your eye look stays bold and beautiful throughout the day. There is no creasing, fading, or movement. They look just as impressive at the end of the day as they do at initial application.
Lips
wet n wild Scooby Snacks Lip Balm Stain
My lip choices are almost always long-wearing mattes as a personal preference. However, I am starting the best beauty products 2023 lip category off with another limited edition item. The wet n wild Scooby Snacks Lip Balm Stain is a playful and hydrating lip product with a hint of nostalgia. The balm provides a sheer wash of color while keeping the lips moisturized, and it fades away gracefully. The stain effect adds a touch of long-lasting color. I wish that wet n wild would bring these back to the permanent line! You can get all of the details in my wet n wild Scooby Doo collection review.
wet n wild megalast Lock ‘n’ Shine Lip Color + Gloss
The wet n wild megalast Lock ‘n’ Shine Lip Color + Gloss has a long lasting, fully pigmented lip color that is comfortable and lasts all day. It definitely flexes with the lips and never feels dry. I am not a gloss person, and the gloss will cause the lip color to wear off. My high remarks go straight to the lip color itself.
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Diamond Last Lip Cream
The Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Diamond Last Lip Cream is a luxurious lip product that combines vibrant color with a creamy texture. The formula glides on smoothly, delivering a rich hue that lasts. The diamond-shaped bullet allows for precise application. It lasts all day with a matte finish and bold color.
Loreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick
The Loreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lipstick is a matte lip lover’s dream. Its lightweight yet highly pigmented formula provides intense color payoff that lasts for hours. The comfortable wear and bold shades make it a reliable choice for a long-lasting and chic matte lip look.
Loreal Rouge Signature Matte Lip Stain
The Loreal Rouge Signature Matte Lip Stain combines the best of a lightweight feel with a long-lasting matte finish. The precision applicator allows for easy and accurate application. Despite “stain” being in the name, they wear as full coverage matte liquid lipsticks that last very well.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick is a cult-favorite for a reason. The formula is richly pigmented, delivering a bold and opaque finish. The long-lasting and comfortable wear make it a standout in the liquid lipstick category.
Eyeliner & Mascara
wet n wild Breakup Proof Skinny Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Ultra Black
Last for best beauty products 2023 is eye products. The wet n wild Breakup Proof Skinny Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Ultra Black lives up to its name by offering a precise and long-lasting eyeliner option. The skinny applicator allows for intricate lines, and the waterproof formula ensures that your eyeliner stays intact throughout the day. I used my pen up this year simply because I loved it that much. I was not trying to empty it!
elf Big Mood Mascara
The elf Big Mood Mascara is a budget-friendly gem that delivers impressive volume and length to your lashes. The hourglass brush ensures that every lash is coated, and the formula is both buildable and clump-free. This mascara is a go-to for achieving bold and dramatic lashes without breaking the bank.
Shop Best Makeup Products of 2023
Conclusion
As I wrap up my exploration of the best beauty products 2023, it is evident that this year has brought forth a remarkable array of innovations and enhancements in the world of cosmetics. From game-changing formulas that effortlessly marry effectiveness with elegance to versatile products, the beauty industry has truly flourished. Whether it is the luminous glow of a carefully crafted highlighter, the seamless blendability of a revolutionary foundation, or the transformative power of eyeshadow palettes, these products invite individuals to express their unique styles while enjoying the benefits of top-tier formulations. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
Are any of these products on your ride-or-die list?
See the Best Beauty Products of Previous Years:
| Best Beauty 2020 | Best Beauty 2021 | Best Beauty Products 2022 |
