ELLE’s First Class Beauty 2024

“Baby hairs are not the easiest to master, and excessive manipulation of the edges can cause thinning or breakage. The same way we use a cleansing oil to thoroughly break down all our face products from the day, this one was created specifically to do the same for edges. Following the success of the viral Rosemary Mint Strengthening Oil, this cleansing oil removes old, dried-up edge control, courtesy of rosemary, mint, biotin, and witch hazel, to keep hair refreshed until wash day.”—NP

“My poor hair has suffered through years of heat styling without protection. It’s so much happier now that I spray it down with this heat protectant before straightening it. I can barely tell that I’ve applied anything, but the spray does soften my strands and prevent frizz—and, of course, supplies protection against up to 450°F. The scent is something to behold, too; I’ve gotten multiple compliments on how my hair smells with this product in it.”—CL

“Dae makes you feel good about what you’re putting into your hair. Whereas some dry shampoos typically come in aerosol spray form, this one is a talc-free powder that sops up oil on the strands and blends into the hair seamlessly, regardless of your hair color, with no residue left behind.”—NP

“Spending hours in the sun and swimming in the salty sea can’t be beat. However, you’ll find that your tresses are often dehydrated and frizzy after your adventures. Enter: The Color Wow Money Mist Leave-In Conditioner. Because it’s so lightweight, it won’t weigh down fine strands like mine; instead, it provides a burst of moisture and protects against heat and UV rays. I even find that the spray helps my natural waves retain their texture and resist frizzing up, and detangling is a breeze when I spritz it on right after a shower.”—CL

“Let me spill the beans: Tangle Teezer’s latest launch is composed of 85 percent castor beans in an effort to cut down on unsustainable materials. The brush is still just as gentle and deft as the brand’s other offerings, and it has two layers of teeth: a longer one to undo wet tangles and another to smooth the strands. I dread brushing my hair wet, because I can hear the tears as they happen, but I’m never afraid with this one.”—CL

“Is it your natural Brazilian tan, or did you get some help from Sol de Janeiro’s Rio Radiance Oil? No one will ever know. This body oil contains SPF 50 and gives your skin the gift of glow. It’s going to be my travel companion all summer long.”—DJ

“Fans of the original Orange Gelée rejoiced earlier this year when Vacation brought back the classic orange-tinted SPF. Due to its gel-to-oil formula, rich with shea butter and coconut oil, the sunscreen leaves behind a sun-kissed glow without any stickiness or residue. The formula doesn’t smell like sunscreen, either; its scent is a blend of sophisticated notes of bergamot, patchouli, and sandalwood.”—CL

“This chemical sunscreen won’t leave your skin dull, gray, or greasy. I was pleasantly surprised when I applied it to my face and didn’t need to follow up with a primer. This lightweight formula plays so well with my makeup and doesn’t make me break out.”—DJ

“If you’re anything like me, you’ll apply sunscreen everywhere before stepping onto the beach and often neglect your lips. Now that I have Seaweed Bath’s lip SPF on hand, I have no excuse; the zinc oxide-powered lip balm feels so moisturizing and comfortable on the lips that it’s never a chore to reapply.”—CL

“Finding a mineral sunscreen that says it works for all and actually does is a tedious process—but that all ends with Live Tinted’s Hueguard. With a slight tint and hydrating ingredients, Hueguard works in three parts: it primes, protects, and moisturizes.”—NP

“This cream is the result of over a decade of research and development, bringing science to your skin. The formula includes bio-placenta growth factors and lab-grown peptides that mimic human growth factors to rebuild collagen and reverse visible signs of aging. It has a yellow tint, but rest assured, it hasn’t gone bad. It gets its hue from the nutrient-rich blend, which includes sea buckthorn oil, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and a peptide complex. I highly recommend incorporating the O2 Niacinamide Eight Active Serum and O2 Caffeine Eight Active Eye Cream alongside this product for a simple but effective skin care routine. It’s been a game changer for my skin.”—DJ

“La Mer’s Purifying Mask serves one purpose: ridding your skin of the deep-seated dirt and debris that could wreak havoc come morning. Formulated with La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth—a mélange of vitamins, sea kelp, minerals, and more—and a clarifying ferment made of antioxidants and enzymes, your skin will appear clearer and pores more refined.”—NP

“We’re told to eat our vegetables, but don’t forget about the powers of fruits as well. In this formula, pineapple stars as the potent enzyme working to slough away dead skin while polyglutamic acid, a humectant, restores moisture. Even pitted against a full-glam face, Rhode’s pineapple cleanser can take on the challenge—and succeed—in just one wash.”—NP

“Although every day doesn’t require a double cleanse, I turn to this superfood toner when I want to ensure my skin is free of leftover makeup and environmental impurities. The two-in-one formula also exfoliates and nourishes, and it’s packed with antioxidants from the fermented berries.”—DJ

“We all love the warmth of the sun’s rays, but they can be responsible for some of the most visible signs of aging. Medik8’s potent vitamin C serum contains a powerful and stabilized form of the antioxidant, along with ferulic acid, which work to brighten skin as well as diminish and prevent dark spots and wrinkles.”—CL

“I come from a Caribbean family and spend a lot of time at the beach and on boats. EltaMD UV Clear 46 is a mainstay in my morning rotation, so I was elated when the brand released a tinted version. It blends seamlessly into my skin, resulting in an even tone that’s protected from the sun.”—DJ

“A true bad gal doesn’t have to forgo her flawless makeup look for sun protection. Marrying skin-soothing ingredients with the superb finish of its skin tints, Fenty Skin’s Hydra Vizor Huez matches your complexion, smooths skin, and imparts a sheer-yet-buildable coverage that makes you forget you’re wearing sunscreen.”—NP

“I tend to shy away from liquid bronzers, because they leave my skin looking muddy, instead of adding warmth and a sun-kissed glow. Not this one—Saie’s bronzer is perfect for beginners as it blends easily and provides a dewy finish. Start with a few dots, because it’s highly pigmented.”—DJ

“The trick to mastering vacation makeup isn’t a skin tint or mattifying setting spray. While both are important, an all-encompassing face palette in a bi-fold case is the true must-have. Compact and lightweight, this product features six shades for easily customizable concealer, foundation, or even contour. Housed on the opposite side are blush shades to make your makeup work for you, not the other way around.”—NP

“Olaplex has been keeping our hair healthy for years, and it’s finally designed a product to boost our brows. Not only does this serum promote new growth and definition, it also works as a brow gel to keep those little hairs in place—perfect for no-makeup-makeup days. You’ll notice that your eyebrows feel softer over time.”—CL

“This waterproof lip liner won’t budge once you apply it. There are five flexible shades to choose from; my go-to is Café Touba, a hickory brown that gives me a natural, effortless look when paired with my favorite lip treatment oil.”—DJ

“A vacation is the perfect time to change up your look with a bold lip color or two. The new shades of Bobbi Brown’s Extra Plump Lip Serum include a juicy raspberry, a bright red, and other eye-catching hues. However, there are plenty of softer ones if you’d like to stick to those. Plus, the botanical oil-rich serum is so sheer and forgiving that I reapply it throughout the day sans mirror.”—CL

“I can’t stand lip balms that feel thick and goopy. I want the formula to sink into my skin and moisturize it, but I don’t want the balm to suffocate my lips. Tower 28’s SOS LipSoftie fits the bill with its non-sticky formula and an ultra-hydrating blend of jojoba oil, lysine, and shea butter. The product gets bonus points for the round applicator, which makes it fun and easy to apply.”—CL

“This lip oil has earned a permanent spot in my everyday tote bag, because it feels so nourishing on my lips. With 92 percent natural origin ingredients, this skin care-makeup hybrid coats my lips with a beautiful, soft tint and leaves them moisturized with a subtle sheen. Plus, it’s not sticky like other lip oils—another reason why I always keep it around.”—DJ

“You know what pairs well with a tequila-soaked mojito? A soft kiss of color on the rim from your new favorite lipstick. The Slim Lip Color Shine coats your lips with an emollient-rich wash of color that’s pigmented with just one swipe.”—NP

“I love nature and spend a lot of time outside in the summer. But when temperatures turn hot and humid, it can be disastrous for your makeup. When I don’t want to risk my foundation sliding off, I’ll opt for this formula for photo-ready skin. It’s buildable but dries quickly, so make sure your skin is hydrated, and apply it intentionally with a beauty blender—otherwise, your makeup might look splotchy.”—DJ

“Lately, I’ve been wearing this highlighter under my skin tint to give my face a subtle glow. It has skin-loving ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which immediately hydrate your skin and brighten it over time.”—DJ

“Shaky, unsteady hands have found their reprieve. Formulated with champions in mind, this eyeliner from Serena Williams is a summertime dream. Draw your wings without fear of the color fading or migrating. Even better, the quick-drying formula and matte finish allow you to step out in the sun, ready to conquer whatever curveballs are thrown your way.”—NP

“The rose-colored palette is perfect for everything—literally! I use it as eyeshadow, blush, lip liner, and lipstick. It’s nice to have one palette that can do it all. It’s a permanent staple for me while traveling.”—DJ

“This setting spray went viral for a reason. Spray this fine mist across your face to keep your makeup in place, no matter what’s going on. My glam always stays fresh on hot days.”—DJ

“Botox isn’t for everyone—and by everyone, I mean me. I’m not quite ready for injections, but I do want to minimize and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Each of these treatment sets contains semi-circle patches to target crow’s feet, strips for your forehead expressions, and a patch for frown lines. The blend of retinol, vitamin C, and a peptide complex keeps my skin smooth and bright.”—DJ

“Have you ever finished shaving only to discover spots of hyperpigmentation left behind from body acne and pesky ingrown hairs? The Fur Dark Spot Vanish Patch is dotted with microdarts full of brightening ingredients, like niacinamide and tranexamic acid, to banish those dark spots for good. It takes at least six hours for the microdarts to dissolve, so the patches are perfect for leaving on during an international or cross-country flight.”—CL

“Can’t go to the spa? Try one of these eye masks, and the spa will come to you. The self-warming mask comes with hooks for your ears, so you can sit back and relax. The packaging says it steams, and while I didn’t experience that, it still had a calming effect.”—DJ

“No need to run from aging, but there are a bevy of products available to delay those early signs, including these golden collagen-boosting and elasticity-restoring hand masks. The serum is comprised of hyaluronic acid, peptides, and more to keep your hands soft, youthful, and bright.”—NP

“This isn’t your everyday lip gloss. This formula plumps and hydrates, instantly minimizing fine lines, and leaves my lips super soft. It comes in 14 different shades, my favorite being Shanghai, a vibrant red.”—DJ

“While natural deodorants are arguably better for you, many fall short of staving off body odor. AKT is the only natural deodorant that lasted through my Saturday morning Orangetheory workout, followed by a day of errands. My favorite of the scents is Orange Grove, which reminds me of Fruit Loops. If its efficacy doesn’t impress you, its presentation sure will. Packaged in a tube, you can squeeze it onto your fingers or apply it with AKT’s gold applicator for a luxurious experience. Pro tip: Purchase the golden key to roll down the tube, and squeeze out every last drop.”—DJ

“Shea Moisture is one of my go-to hair brands, so I was excited when it expanded into deodorant. The Even Tone formula contains vitamin C and niacinamide and will have your armpits summer-ready in no time.”—DJ

“I gave this to a friend who doesn’t need to do much to start sweating, often leaving her with wet marks under her arms, on her lower back, and even on her intimate areas. This deodorant was the solution to years of embarrassment, and now she’s ready for summer.”—DJ

“There’s nothing unsexy about deodorant, especially with Santal Bloom in your arsenal. A proven ally, even in the most stifling heat, your pits have never been treated better. Salicylic acid eradicates odor and keeps the pits clear of hyperpigmentation or painful ingrown hairs with a long-lasting formula that’s perfect for every lifestyle.”—NP

“By Rosie Jane champions the idea that a well-rounded olfactory experience doesn’t start and end with perfume. Outside of its eau de parfums, it offers natural deodorants that are all aluminum-free with a pleasant smell to match. Each spray kills odor-causing bacteria via a blend of aloe vera, glycerin, and sugar cane alcohol.”—NP

“I love using this oil—it leaves my skin so hydrated. The fast-absorbing formula minimizes the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. Whether used by itself or to amplify the richness of your body cream, this product softens your skin and makes it smell like roses. It also acts as a great floral base for scent layering.”—DJ

“This cream and powder highlighter duo can be used in multiple ways. When I want a dewy finish, I start with the cream and lightly press it into the high points of my face. For a bolder look, I apply the powder directly. If you mix both, you get a beautiful depth that’s unmatched.”—DJ

“Mutha might as well have named this cream Mutha Body Butter: Vacation Edition. Inside the purple jar is the same rich concoction of cocoa, shea, and mango seed butters from the beloved original formula, but the cherry on top is the sprinkle of mica that glimmers and glows when applied to the skin. Feel free to tell everyone you woke up like that—it’ll be our little secret.”—CL

“Are your legs looking a little dull in that bikini? A few swipes of this tinted serum will do the trick. This isn’t quite a tanning lotion, but it gently enhances your natural skin tone to reveal a filter-like finish worthy of a magazine cover.”—NP

“Last summer, everyone wanted to smell like pistachios. This summer, Irene Forte wants you to put them on your face. The star ingredient of this anti-aging oil is phytomelatonin, the plant version of melatonin, which contains powerful antioxidants to boost skin renewal and combat the effect of free radicals. This is the final step in my nighttime skin care routine, and I wake up with smooth, soft skin without fail.”—DJ

“Soft Spot smells like the aroma of summer approaching. The soft, citrusy scent dances with aquatic florals and dries down to reveal a smooth musk. This will be my go-to for summer nights.”—DJ

“If you can’t make it to St. Barts this summer, you can still create the vibe via this heavenly aroma. In one sniff, this tropical scent will transport you to the Caribbean. I can’t get enough!”—DJ

“For the uninitiated, this is a floral, citrusy fragrance with an earthy, green finish. It’s fun and playful but not overpowering, making it the perfect airy scent for schmoozing at an outdoor soirée.”—DJ

“The first word that comes to mind when I smell Thousand Palms is green. Inspired by a lively oasis in the middle of the Mojave Desert, its notes of bell pepper, coriander leaf, and patchouli conjure visions of lush palm trees swaying in the wind. The scent is available in a chic, TSA-friendly solid, but I always have a bottle of the extrait waiting for me at home, just in case.”—CL

“What’s better than snacking on almonds? Smelling like them. L’Occitane’s body wash packages the same heavenly aroma found in its cult-favorite shower oil and body milk in this creamy whipped formula that nourishes the skin with sweet almond oil.”—NP

“Sara Happ is an ELLE favorite—our entire team loves the brand’s various lip balms and glosses. But the sugar- and oil-based lip scrub is our most prized possession. Dry flakes stand no chance against the formula, which gets our pouts smooth, silky, and ready for lipstick within seconds.”—CL

“Properly prep your skin ahead of makeup application with this gentle face exfoliator. EADEM’s signature FastFade technology smooths and brightens with AHAs and PHAs, reducing texture and upping your makeup game. The formula also soothes the skin using rice water and colloidal oatmeal, preventing irritation or a weakened skin barrier.”—NP

“My skin care sin is that, sometimes, I don’t regularly exfoliate, leading to dull and textured skin. But these resurfacing pads make exfoliating a breeze. They are powerful, so if you are new to acid exfoliation, I’d use this product every three days to start. If you have sensitive skin, opt for Naturopathica’s Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel instead.”—DJ

“Why not wake up and start your day with a burst of citrusy goodness? The exfoliating properties of the plant-derived konjac jelly in this body wash tackle dead skin and reverse dullness, sans any harsh stripping. Follow up with the fragrance mist and body lotion to keep the good vibes going.”—NP

“For a while, I was washing my hair nearly every single day. But this formula provides a deep, thorough cleanse that keeps oil and flakes at bay, allowing me to go days without shampooing. Traveling with just a carry-on? No problem. The brand just released a travel-size version that’ll sail through TSA.”—CL

“Purchase this to own the best flat iron on the market. This tool heats up in 20 seconds to 365 °F, and its advanced motion technology prevents overstyling and heat damage. The ghd Chronos is also a favorite in the ELLE office.”—DJ

“I rave about this round brush to anyone who will listen. I’m currently growing out a bob, and it’s reaching all of those awkward lengths where the most manageable way to wear it is to straighten it, instead of wearing my natural-but-unpredictable waves. But that doesn’t mean I want to spend a lot of time styling, especially while on a trip. That’s where Mane’s Hot Round Brush comes in. Minutes into running it through my tresses, my hair is smooth and bouncy, with no tangles but plenty of shine.”—CL

“Although at-home (or at-hotel room) treatments can’t come close to an in-office treatment, Althaea Skin’s C∙A∙R∙A Multi-Modal Tool is an impressive on-the-go alternative. With powerful blue and red lights, the device works to fight acne, plump skin, and repair the harm that sun exposure and pollutants wreak on our face during the day. Because it’s so compact, I don’t hesitate to slip the tool into my carry-on, even on weekends away.”—CL

“I usually prefer to bring my own hair dryer rather than rely on the device that may or may not be in my hotel room. After all, I have no idea how it’ll perform or how much dust—or something worse—has been stuck in the dryer for months. The SilkyAir Pro works for pretty much everybody since it has three magnetic attachments: a diffuser, a small concentrator, and a wide concentrator. Heat damage is kept to a minimum too, since the tool constantly assesses the air temperature and tweaks it automatically when things are getting too hot.”—CL

“Lightweight and compact, this laser device is the at-home hair removal companion you’ve been looking for to upkeep maintenance. Powered by 133 flashes per minute, the Pure Mini Lite is suitable for the body and face and reduces hair growth, when consistently applied, in about 12 weeks.”—NP

“Calling all Barbz! Nicki Minaj collaborated with her longtime nail artist Yvett G to dream up a collection of stunning press-ons inspired by the rapper’s famously attention-grabbing sets. The first collection features nearly a dozen designs in various classic shapes and lengths to match any outfit and vibe. I tried a French manicure set, and they were so thin and nicely molded. Everyone thought I had gotten a gel mani on my natural nails!”—CL

“Glam girls, you don’t have to hit up the salon before hopping on a plane to your next destination. Pop this kit in your bag and apply the press-ons during the ride—you’ll land with a fresh and fun set that makes it look like you spent an hour with your favorite nail tech.”—CL

“If you’re headed to a balmy, verdant paradise, it only makes sense for your fingertips to match. OPI’s Pricele$$ is a creamy green that echoes the leaves of thriving flora. The polish dries quickly to prevent accidental smudging and can stay chip-free for up to seven days.”—CL

“Opt for this polish if you want to get into the jelly nail trend while nourishing your nails at the same time. It leaves a natural and buildable rosy glow, and it’s perfect for the clean-girl aesthetic or anyone trying to rehab their nails from an acrylic manicure gone wrong.”—DJ

“Sometimes, my feet don’t necessarily need another pedicure, but rather a polish change. This nail polish kit, which is great for weekend trips, contains the perfect shade of red, a ballerina pink, a two-in-one top and base coat, and a nail file—everything you need for a DIY mani-pedi. Bonus: The polish lasts a long time.”—DJ