With every new season comes an influx of new beauty products, and this year is no different. Winter 2024 is proving to offer some of the year’s most exciting beauty launches. We’ve been putting plenty of them to the test: These are the products that get our editor’s stamp of approval for the winter season.
optiphi® Hydra-Derm HA Masque (R910.00)
“I’m not exaggerating when I say that I have been the biggest fan of this product since I tried it out the first time, early on in my beauty writing career. Now, it’s been reformulated with advanced peptide technology to offer even better anti-ageing benefits. This creamy masque can be applied to the skin two or three times a week and left on overnight for best results. Not only does it leave my skin feeling soft as silk and hydrated the next day, but it has some pretty impressive anti-ageing benefits too, including improved elasticity and firmness and less noticeable fine lines and wrinkles. I cannot praise it enough – it’s one of my all-time favourites and a lifesaver during winter especially.”
Shop here.
Ungaro Diva Rouge Eau de Parfum (R855.00 for 50ml)
“How stunning is this perfume bottle? Emanuel Ungaro’s Diva fragrances are symbolic of a woman who’s a bit of a rule breaker, and I’m here for it. Diva Rouge pays homage to vintage and contemporary accents, making it a timeless fragrance you’ll wear over and over – regardless of the season. It has a floral fruity woody composition and contains some of my favourite fragrance notes, such as Italian bergamot, jasmine sambac and cedarwood. It’s a great addition to your winter scent collection and looks incredible on any dressing table.”
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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Daily Hydrating Body Lotion (R549.00)
“This was love at first sight… When it comes to Eight Hour Cream, if you know, you know! Like everyone else, I absolutely adore every product to come from the Eight Hour family, and this lightweight body lotion is no different. It feels incredible on my skin and absorbs instantly. It’s intensely moisturising but not sticky, and has a neutral scent. I use it all over my body after I shower and it leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth – no dry patches in sight. It’s filled with a variety of nourishing ingredients including shea butter and avocado oil to reinforce the skin barrier and protect against moisture loss. 10 out of 10 for me!”
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Catrice Melt & Shine Juicy Lip Balm (R90.05)
“Lots of moisture with a hint of colour? Yes please! These gorgeous new lip balms by Catrice offer just that. Vegan and cruelty-free, they have a juicy, non-sticky formula that glides across lips effortlessly. They provide a hint of colour that’s so pretty when you want a slight tint. I love the handy click-up pen mechanism, plus the skinny shaft means I can apply it with ease and without a mirror. They’re affordable and effective – a win for me.”
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SKIN functional SUN functional Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF50 (R260.00)
“I wear SPF on my face every day of the year, but I sometimes find it a little tricky in winter. That’s because my winter skincare is considerably richer, and when I layer several products my skincare pills. This is a winning consistency for me – it’s a light gel lotion that boosts hydration while reducing inflammation. It layers beautifully over my skincare without pilling and there is no white cast in sight. It’s suitable for all skin types, cruelty-free and locally manufactured. I love the texture and lightweight feel on my skin. It’s earned a permanent spot on my bathroom counter and I know I’m going to love using it during summer too.”
Shop here (plus, get 10% off when you enter our unique promo code BSA10 upon checkout. You’re welcome!).
essence Baby Got Blush Liquid Blush (R69.95)
“These little guys are so handy! Liquid blush is a great winter product because its creamy texture is hydrating on the complexion and adds a much-needed glow. Available in four shades, these liquid blushes offer natural-looking colour. It’s really easy to apply with its built-in soft sponge applicator and blends into skin without much effort. I love shade 30 Dusty Rose, and I’m pretty certain it’ll be flattering on all skin tones.”
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ghd Bodyguard Fine Hair Heat Protect Spray (R380.00)
“ghd’s Heat Protect Spray is the only one I use, and I will recommend it over and over again. Now, fine haired girls have a second option, as they’ve launched this version which is especially for thin and fine hair. The advanced formula increases the diameter of each strand, preventing fine hair from falling flat and being lifeless. It protects hair up until 230 degrees, meaning you can style away with your favourite ghd styler without worrying about damaging your hair in the process. I have fine hair and this works a charm!”
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Aromatic Apothecary Nasal Inhaler Remedy Set (R260.00)
“There is so much research around the topic of nose-breathing, and the importance of taking deep breaths through your nose. Did you know that proper, deep nose-breathing has the ability to lower your stress and improve your mental health? I love this nasal inhaler set from Aromatic Apothecary. Not only do they serve as a reminder for you to deep breathe through your nose, but each one also offers aromatherapy benefits. My favourite is the Stress-Less variant, but the kit also contains an inhaler for Colds & Sinus (great for hay fever sufferers!), Wake Up & Focus and Headache Care. They’re small and easy to keep in your handbag. I find myself reaching for at least one of them daily.”
Shop here.
