From the Vault: Beauty Products I’ve Loved for 20+ years
I pretty much came out of the womb, beauty-obsessed and someone who’s been in the beauty industry for over two decades; I’ve tried and tested thousands of products. Yet, a few timeless gems have earned permanent spots in my routine. These classic beauty staples have stood the test of time, blending nostalgia with lasting effectiveness. Let me take you through the beauty products I still swear by and have used for 20+ years.
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
A true icon, Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in Black Honey is the ultimate “your lips but better” shade. It’s universally flattering and has been a go-to for me when I want that perfect balance of color without the heaviness of a full lipstick. It’s been around since 1971, proving it’s more than just a trend. This is a lipstick that has seen me through all sorts of phases, and it never fails to deliver.
Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray
While Urban Decay may not be "vintage" in the traditional sense, the All-Nighter Setting Spray is definitely a staple. Launched in 2010, it has revolutionized the setting spray game. It locks in makeup like no other, keeping everything intact for hours. No matter how my makeup evolves, this spray remains a non-negotiable in my beauty arsenal. In fact, I don’t use a makeup primer; I use this setting spray before I apply my foundation and concealer and layer it along the way before I finish it with a final mist. My makeup is budge-proof utilizing this method.
Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector
Launched in the early 2000s, this corrector remains a lifesaver for tired eyes. Dark circles don’t stand a chance with its peachy, creamy formula. It blends like a dream, and color corrects even the most stubborn discoloration. It’s one of those products I reach for when I want to look instantly refreshed, no matter how much sleep I actually got! It’s available in 10 shades.
NARS Laguna Powder Bronzer
NARS Laguna Powder Bronzer is the gold standard for sun-kissed skin, and I’ve been using it since it first came out. Recently, I’ve also started loving the cream version for its dewy finish (and as I’ve gotten older!) Both versions give a beautiful, natural warmth to the skin, whether I’m doing a quick everyday look or going full glam. Laguna just hits differently! It comes in several shades, as well as matte and shimmer finishes.
Heritage Store Rose Water & Glycerin Facial Mist
Nothing feels more refreshing than a spritz of this old-school beauty mist. Heritage Store has been around since 1969, and their Rose Water & Glycerin Facial Mist is the perfect combination of hydration and refreshment. I use it after cleansing, dampen my beauty blender with it, as a makeup refresher, or just as a pick-me-up throughout the day. It’s my little bottle of zen in the midst of a busy day.
MAC Sleek Satin Lipstick in Dubonnet
Dubonnet is the red lipstick that every bold lip lover needs in their collection. Launched in 2002, this rich, deep red is powerful yet sophisticated. The amplified finish gives it an ultra-creamy texture that feels luxurious, and the color payoff is intense without being too matte. It’s the perfect red for making a statement without feeling overdone.
Bumble and Bumble Thickening Go Big Volumizing Treatment
Bumble & Bumble’s Thickening Go Big Volumizing Treatment is a true hair hero, especially for those of us who love big hair. It’s been in my rotation for years, and I love the volume and body it gives without weighing my hair down. A few spritzes of this at my roots and my strands are full and bouncy, perfect for days when I want that extra oomph. Sometimes, I will even use it to refresh my roots with a round brush.
NARS Afterglow Lip Shine Gloss in Orgasm
Ah, NARS Orgasm—a name that needs no introduction. The lipgloss is iconic, and the blush and other Orgasm products they’ve launched are equally gorgeous. That peachy-pink with a hint of shimmer gives the lips a subtle yet seductive glow. It’s flattering on all skin tones, and I love how it adds just the right amount of shine without being sticky.
CND Solar Oil
I’ve always believed in the importance of taking care of my nails, and CND’s Cuticle Oil has been my go-to for as long as I can remember. This vitamin-rich oil smells like almonds while keeping my cuticles hydrated. I use it daily to maintain healthy, polished nails that look fresh, even without polish. I keep the classic nail polish bottle at my desk, and it now comes in a brush pen for travel, which is super handy!
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
Micellar waters might be trendy now, but Bioderma Sensibio H2O was ahead of the curve. This French pharmacy staple has been my go-to for gently removing makeup and cleansing the skin. It’s perfect for those days when I want a no-fuss cleanse without stripping my skin’s moisture. I wear contacts, and it never irritates my eyes either.
Naturopathica White Tea Antioxidant Mask
This mask from Naturopathica is a soothing, antioxidant-rich treatment that has been a staple in my skincare routine for years. With white tea, aloe vera, and calming botanicals, it helps soothe and hydrate my skin, especially when it’s stressed. I love applying it as a moisturizer and sleeping with it on for an overnight treatment, waking up to a refreshed, glowing complexion.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Last but certainly not least is a product that’s been a staple in my skincare routine for years: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Salicylic acid is the OG for clearing pores and smooths my skin texture without irritation. It’s one of those products that consistently delivers clear, glowing skin and is a non-negotiable part of my weekly skincare regime.
These beauty products have proven to be worth it time and again. They’ve been in my routine for years, and despite all the new launches that flood the market, these staples remain my trusted go-tos. They’ve become iconic for a reason—because they work!
