Editors’ empties: 36 beauty products we’ve used to the very last drop

CosRX makes some of my most-loved skin care products, but by far their most well known is this snail mucin serum. I’ve introduced several people to this product and have yet to hear a bad review. Gentle, plumping and affordable, it’s an excellent introduction into the world of K-beauty and keeps my face from feeling tight and de-hydrated. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor 

I am not sure who Paula is, but this product has me considering naming my first-born child after her. This cruelty-free serum is a facial exfoliant that is gentle for daily use. It reduces lines and smoothes my skin. When I first started using it I noticed a difference only after two applications/two days. Add the hassle-free, easy use with the impressive results the product has on my skin, and I was hooked. I travel a lot and move around quite a bit. I apply just a couple drops on my palm and apply it on my face followed by my face lotion, and that’s it. Paula, you’re awesome. — Roy K. Lee, operations and strategy lead

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is the one beauty product I truly can’t live without. I’ve been buying it for over a decade, and it’s been with me throughout my teens, college years and all the seasons of my life since then. I particularly love the moisturizer for fall and winter since the squalane, glycerin and number of natural oils in the formula make it feel like a cushiony gel cream. It keeps my combination skin balanced and hydrated. A few years ago, I started hoarding my empty jars of the moisturizer with the intent to take them back to Kiehl’s for recycling — now that I’ve reached a substantial number of them, it’s probably time to make a trip to a Kiehl’s store! — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

I’ve tried dozens of moisturizers, and nothing comes close to this one. My skin looked and felt better after just a few uses and continues to be hydrated and glowing at every use. The texture is so cloudlike and absorbs quickly and isn’t heavy or greasy — it’s the perfect moisturizer for winter. While the jar is huge, I’ve used it so religiously that I’m almost out. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

I can’t even begin to count how many tubs of this luxe balm I’ve gone through over the years. Fans of the double cleanse know an oil-based cleanser works wonders when it comes to removing makeup, sweat, grime, etc. from your skin before you move on to a gel cleanse, and Then I Met You’s offering is the best in my book. I’ve found it to be extremely effective yet gentle, with a texture that can only be described as divine, but what really hooked me was the delightfully fruity scent. — Chelsea Stone, senior editor 

If there is a beauty product to rule all beauty products, Aquaphor might be at the top of the list. Curling iron burn? Aquaphor. Dehydrated lips? Aquaphor. Want to slug? Aquaphor. Dry skin anywhere? Grab that Aquaphor. I keep a container for at-home use and also own multiple lip balms to stow in bags and coat pockets. It’s a high-value and versatile drugstore product that I doubt will ever leave my beauty routine. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor 

Dr Loretta is one of my all-time favorite dermatologist-founded skin care lines, and I’ve tested almost all of its products. Out of those, this is the one I return to time and time again. Whenever my skin feels dull and tired, I add this back into my regimen until I use up the whole bottle. Within a few days of using it in my morning routine, my skin will be glowing and radiant. It contains tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (a deeply penetrating and stable form of vitamin C) to brighten and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. And since vitamin C and sunscreen are a must-have dynamic duo in skin care, I see amazing results whenever I use this serum and Dr Loretta’s Universal Glow Daily Defense Mineral SPF 40 (another product I’ve used every last drop of). I just wish the bottle were a bit bigger and the price a bit lower, but the visible results are more than worth it. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

Orange you glad I am sharing this product with you? CeraVe’s Vitamin C serum is my go-to. I have tried other vitamin C serums, including those with a higher percentage of vitamin C, and find that this product is smooth, quick-absorbing and easier to apply as the consistency is a bit thicker. I tend to apply a bit more on my neck, but my face isn’t the jealous type so it’s OK. It comes in an easy applicator so it’s quick to apply. — Roy K. Lee, operations and strategy lead

This is another product where I’ve gone through one bottle in a year already and [I’m] almost out of my second. This anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial spray is a must-have. The spray is made with hypochlorous acid, which helps relieve conditions like dry eye and blepharitis. It also has improved my skin texture and keeps acne at bay. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

I tried quite a few face oils before finding this one from Biossance — they all felt too heavy on my skin or had a strong smell — but dare I say, its Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil is near perfect. The ingredients have left my skin looking noticeably glow-y, and oil feels light on my skin and absorbs nicely, all with a pleasant rose scent to boot! I especially love to use it in combination with my gua sha for a true skin care treat. — Chelsea Stone, senior editor 

My old moisturizer was just not cutting it for New York winters, so last year I tried this First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream and now it’s my year-round go-to. I use it day and night and love that it’s lightweight and hydrating without leaving a greasy film on my skin. If you’re not too picky about fragrance, you can normally score a scented, jumbo-sized 12- or 14-ounce container for a great deal around big shopping holidays, a size that normally lasts me six to seven months of twice-daily use. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor 

As Chelsea mentioned, an oil-based cleanser or balm is essential for a double cleansing routine, and Farmacy’s fan-favorite Green Clean Cleansing Balm my go-to pick. It never fails to melt away my waterproof eyeliner, mascara or even red lipstick without a trace. Plus, Farmacy’s giftable trio of the cleansing balms has become a repurchase for me every holiday season. Last year’s came with fruity scents, while this year’s is tea themed. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

These days there’s a serum for every skin care concern under the sun, but I’ve found myself reaching for Caudalie Vinoperfect time and time again over the years. Whether I’m looking to clear up dark spots in the aftermath of a breakout or just brighten up my complexion in general, it always delivers. — Chelsea Stone, senior editor 

I use this gentle cream morning and night, and my skin cannot get enough of it. I was fully expecting my skin to go completely nuts during my pregnancy, but I credit my glow to this fragrance-free moisturizer made with soothing ingredients like green algae and coconut extract that’s given me baby-soft skin and a noticeably brighter complexion. It offers a little bit of grip and leaves my skin with a matte finish, making it the perfect primer for makeup and subsequent products in my skin care routine. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor

I wouldn’t normally spend this much on one skin product, but I cannot say enough things about this at-home peel. It really is worth the splurge as it lasts several months and gives me the same results as going to a professional. Even after one application, my skin is absolutely glowing and I get so many comments on how great my complexion is. This is not for everyone as it is quite strong on certain skin types, but I use one every two weeks and find it really effective at combatting fine lines and wrinkles. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor 

I have gone through two bottles of this serum this year alone. It is my absolute favorite. It absorbs quickly, has a lovely subtle scent and makes my skin feel super soft and look hydrated and plump. If you don’t want to take my word for it, this serum has almost 5 stars and 2,000 reviews on Sephora. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

Mascara is the number one makeup item I can’t live without. I’ll give up lipstick and even concealer as long as I have my mascara fix. I’ve probably tried 50% of mascaras out there, and I keep coming back to Roller Lash by Benefit. It lengthens and thickens lashes without clumping, lasts all day but is really easy to remove at night — no panda eyes to be seen! I often get asked if I have eyelash extensions when I use Roller Lash and that’s the best compliment I can get. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor 

My skin can always use some smoothing out after applying moisturizer, but I have always disliked using foundation because it never looks natural enough (and tends to make me look older because it seeps into wrinkles). Which is why I am so thankful that Bobbi Brown’s Jones Road has my back with this light, whipped, tinted moisture balm. Just a dollop on my fingertips adds the perfect amount of light coverage — and I can easily add my other Jones Road faves without feeling weighed down, like the line-erasing, light reflecting Miracle Balm. — Tobey Grumet Segal, reviews editor

I swear by this lip plumper! The Makeup By Mario MoistureGlow Plumping Lip Serum is the only plumper I’ve used that doesn’t leave my lips feeling dry, adds a beautiful tint and lasts hours. I don’t even need to wear a lip liner with it to get that full lip look. It also comes in a variety of colors and is cruelty-free. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

I’ve gone through several of Charlotte Tilbury’s Beauty Light Wands over the years. They come in a range of glow-y shades that are perfect for highlighting. The squeeze-tube format makes it easy to apply and one of my favorite travel-friendly beauty products. I’m nearly to the end of the Pinkgasm radiant finish shade, which is basically like a blush and highlighter all in one. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

I have the worst oily skin ever, and finding a good setting powder has always been challenging. But one day, I came across the Dermablend Loose Setting Powder, and I have never looked back. This has been my go-to powder for six years now, and it’s my holy grail. It’s cruelty-free and will last you a long time! — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

I have been using this Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant for a few months now, and to say I love it is an understatement. It is made without aluminum, alcohol, parabens and phthalates, which is just a bonus to the amazing smell. I always get Bergamot & Hinoki, and it smells like I just left a spa. It is long lasting and super fresh! The brand even has body wash and lotions to match the smell. — Tyler Holdender, social strategist

I tried this rich body butter for the first time this year and quickly used up the entire jar, then restocked with the bigger 6.7-ounce tub and used that one up too. It has a fruity, citrusy scent that reminds me of Starbursts and a thick but not heavy application that leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. The body lotion is a lifesaver during the cold, dry months, so I need another one on hand stat. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

This super-lightweight serum contains hyaluronic acid, aloe, vitamin C and glycerin for a refreshing and soothing layer that sinks right into the skin. I apply it before body lotion or body oil to lock in all the goodness. It’s safe for sensitive skin and can even be used on the face, so although it’s a bit pricey, it’s a multiuse product. I’m on my third bottle and find that a few pumps can cover my whole body, which means it lasts a while. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

When was the last time someone commented on your bathroom’s hand soap? Never? About half of everyone who’s been to my apartment has commented on how good this soap smells and feels, and that’s the conservative estimate. I don’t actually remember how I got the first bottle of LeVerden’s Bamboo Hand and Body Wash — I think it may have been left behind by my apartment’s previous tenant — but I can’t go back to Softsoap after stumbling across this somewhat bougie soap. Everything else I own is pretty modest, so it’s nice to treat myself in this one specific area. — Daniel Rathburn, associate editor, programming

I can’t count the number of bottles of this dry oil I’ve gone through in my life. It is my holy grail beauty product. It absorbs quickly into the skin, and the smell is heavenly. If you’re going to splurge on anything, let it be this because it’s worth buying over and over again. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

My hair has the look and feel of a Brillo pad when I don’t use this mask, but it’s on the pricier side so I hoard it for special occasions. I coat my (very long) hair in a small dollop, and it instantly detangles it and creates more shine once I style it. Since I’m down to my last drop, I mix a dime-sized amount with my regular conditioner and the combo is just *chef’s kiss*. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor

This shampoo and conditioner have truly changed my life (and my hair)! As someone with thick, coily, 4C-textured hair, I’ve always struggled finding a product that can properly hydrate and detangle my hair. I made the switch to Mielle a year ago after its Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Oil went viral, and now I can’t imagine using any other products for wash day! My scalp feels healthier than ever, and each wash really brings out the natural curls in my hair. I’ve found that the shampoo and conditioner is not only consistent but does a great job deep cleaning my scalp — something I can’t say about the many “natural hair” care products I’ve tried! — Madison Yerke, digital content strategist  

I have naturally curly hair, but my curls always look limp whenever I go more than a day without washing my hair. I’ve been using this drugstore styling spray to refresh my day-old curls for years, and it’s even more reliable than some of the more expensive hair products I’ve tried. It makes my curls look much more defined and bouncy without feeling weighed down. I have the spray on Amazon Subscribe & Save, so I pretty much never run out. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor 

As a curly-haired person, I know as well as anyone that sometimes your strands need a dose of hydration. In those moments, I always reach for this mask from Bread Beauty Supply. It’s rich without being too rich and leaves my curls looking mirror-shiny with renewed bounce. Major bonus: It comes in a functional pouch instead of a plastic bottle to reduce waste. — Chelsea Stone, senior editor 

I have spent years — and I mean years — shopping for the perfect dry shampoo. Most left my hair greasy and limp or had a chalky residue. This one, however, is everything I’ve ever looked for in a dry shampoo, and it’s almost time for a restock. I use it every single week and save money on shampoo and my water bill because I can go longer between washes. — Lindsey Smith, associate editor 

The chokehold this perfume has had on me since eighth grade is unfathomable. I’ve gone through several bottles in several iterations (the rosé version is also to die for), but I keep going back to the OG warm floral scent. It’s so unmistakably feminine yet playful, and it just really makes me feel like myself when I wear it.  — Marissa Miller, contributing editor

A few years ago, I decided I needed to have a signature fragrance. After hunting through beauty and department stores, ordering sample kits and all-together smelling more test strips than I’d care to recall, I found a sample of Replica’s Jazz Club. While I normally wouldn’t be drawn to something with key notes of pink pepper, rum and tobacco leaf, this unisex fragrance just excites my nose in ways that no other fragrance has. The woody notes make me feel powerful and refined while the slightly vanilla dry down helps give the scent warmth, making it perfect for fall and winter. I wait all year to douse myself in this, and as soon as the temperature drops below 60 degrees, I sprint to spray this scent. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor 

Yves Saint Laurent Libre has been my signature scent for more than three years, and I’ve convinced plenty of friends and coworkers to purchase it after they’ve complimented me on it. Strangers have even stopped me on the street to ask what perfume I’m wearing. The fragrance has notes of lavender, orange and musk that make it much more unique — and a bit bolder — than your typical floral perfume. I always buy the bigger bottles because they’re a much better value, but I keep a mini size in my purse. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor 

My Dior and Le Labo-wearing friends may tease me about this, but I’m a fan of this cologne. It’s a refreshing and crisp scent — citrus and cedar mix — that I think competes with the best. It’s pretty strong, so I use it lightly. I just put a spray on the bottom of my neck and go about my day. — Roy K. Lee, operations and strategy lead