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Team Monde Share their 2023 Beauty Purchase of the Year
Our editorial and design team share their best beauty purchase of this year.
2023, what a year! The last 12 months has been the biggest yet when it comes to fleeting and sticking beauty trends (thanks TikTok). That fact mixed with some of the most innovative brands and products has equated to the best output the beauty biz has ever given us. Here are Team Monde's best beauty buys from the year.
Words By Team Monde
Alexandra – Founder & CEO - Tatcha Cleanser
When my favourite cleanser was discontinued, I started the painstaking process of looking for a gentle, non-stripping and moisturising product to clean my skin. By chance, I happened across Tatcha’s The Camellia Cleanser, the 2-in-1 makeup remover and cleanser, transforming my skincare routine for the better after the very first application. This is not your average cleanser, and to be transparent, it is priced accordingly, although I have to say that a little goes a long way.
Enriched with the goodness of camellia oil, renowned for its efficacy in gently eliminating even the toughest of waterproof makeup, dissolving excess oil, and leaving the skin feeling soft and nourished. At the heart of the formula lies Japanese Camellia Oil, or Tsubaki, a botanical treasure celebrated for centuries in Asia. This featherweight oil, abundant in oleic acid, surpasses olive oil in richness and boasts a heap of skin-loving vitamins such as A, B, D, and E, along with omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9.
Complementing this is the exclusive Hadasei-3™ complex, a fusion of rice, green tea, and algae, crafted through a double fermentation process, this trio of superfoods brings antioxidant-rich benefits, promising plump, petal-soft skin at any age. Essential amino acids and gentle AHAs, such as lactic acid, delicately resurface the skin while providing deep hydration.
Brittany – Head of Community - REFY Eyebrow Gel
I’ve already managed to sing this 2023 beauty buy’s praises in an article I wrote about the best Eyebrow Gels of the year, but it would be remiss of me not to mention this one again.
REFY is a relatively new brand, made popular this year thanks to it’s virality on TikTok. Specifically, the Refy Brow Sculpt has deservedly gained notoriety on apps like TikTok (thanks to creators such as @meredithduxbury) thanks to it’s versatile clear formulation and it’s hidden double applicator.
The gel itself appears as a white paste-like consistency, thicker than most others, and the iteration I’ve included here, dries completely clear. Personally, I prefer a clear or not so pigmented gel as I’ve got enough hair to start with, but there are versions of this product in different shades, too.
One of the best things about the Refy Brow Sculpt is the hidden brush duo underneath the lid of the applicator. I didn’t actually know this hidden gem was there when I purchased the product, but a quick check on socials confirmed the helper indeed was to be found inside. This half comb half brush wand is essential to the perfect application of the sculpting formula.
Julie – Head of Production - Lancome Serum
Being a lady with experiences and years behind her, I’m consistency looking for age-management tools that deliver on their promises.
I’m no novice when it comes to anti-aging serums for I have tested out quite the number since I started in my journey to skin preservation and continued health. What I can say, wholeheartedly, is that usually you get what you pay for when it comes to age-management elixirs.
A luxurious iteration that I luckily was able to get my hands on this year is Lancome’s Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Serum, and here we are.
The way this serum works is a little different as it protects and supports the skins microbiome. Thanks to a combination of 3 prebiotic- and 4 probiotic fractions, this serum seriously activates my youth thanks to a focus on balance, protection and strengthening my skin.
Enriched with millions of probiotic fractions, including Yeast-& Bifidus-Extracts, it helps to strengthen your skins barrier and improve your skins texture, radiance, elasticity and firmness.
Lancôme Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate Serum, $130, Myer
Galen – Head of Design - Le Labo Perfume
Now that travel is well and truly back on the cards, the luxury of carrying your signature scent with you wherever you go is a game changer.
The Le Labo Travel Tube Refills have been the perfect companion while globetrotting. An intoxicating blend of earthy patchouli, smoky birch, and vanilla creates a unique fragrance that lingers throughout the day. Beyond the aroma, the refillable tubes not only reduce environmental impact but allow you to indulge without compromise.
Having a fragrance to centre yourself amongst the unpredictable nature of airport, train station and tuk-tuk alike can be make or break. With this in mind, these puppies effortlessly secured their spot as my favourite beauty purchase this year.
Le Labo Patchouli 24 Eau De Parfum Travel Tube Refill 3 x 10ml, £129, Harvey Nichols
Kaylah – Writer & Contributor - EVO Mist
After what was a good hair year, I decided to attempt going from blonde to brunette. It was a decision I unfortunately regretted due to it not entirely suiting me, which meant I had to start the journey of going back to blonde. It was safe to say, my hair hated me!
Not only was it a long process but my hair constantly felt sooo dry. Thankfully, my hairdresser recommended the Evo Icon Welder Heat Protection Mist which I love. A spritz of this on my hair, after I’ve washed out my Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector and just before I use the hairdryer, has brought my hair back to life.
My blonde mane now holds shape, and is no longer left severely damaged after using heated styling tools. The best part is also that I am finally getting back my length. Yay, for more good hair days than bad hair days come 2024.
evo Icon Welder Heat Protection Mist 200ml, $42, Adore Beauty
Erin – Writer & Contributor - Dior Foundation
When I graduated from university, the weather was 34 degrees and I purchased the Dior Backstage face and body foundation.
This god send foundation stayed on, looked natural, didn’t transfer, lasted all day, and didn’t cause breakouts. You can also use less and still get a better look with less, plus it’s waterproof, glowy, and provides a natural look that’s great for everyday wear or to build up for special occasions. Also, it’s a makeup artist’s favorite, looks great on camera, so what’s not to like?
Despite the price tag, the Dior Backstage Face and Body foundation was 100% worth it, you don’t have to use much for a great look, making it a great investment plus it really allows for a long lasting makeup look and is easy to pop into your makeup bag making it my fave beauty purchase and splurge this year.
