The Best New Beauty Products To Try This December

Introducing the new skincare and makeup buys to hit Hong Kong this month.

From festive-themed bath bombs to an organic home facial kit and body treats from an up-and-coming local skincare brand, there’s plenty to get excited about in the world of beauty this month. Here are all the new beauty buys we’ll be adding to our wish list…

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December
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August

New Beauty Buys To Try This Month

December

SKIN NEED, “Body Line” Gift Sets

Independent local skincare brand SKIN NEED launches its debut “Body Line” this month with the arrival of two must-have gift sets, each showcasing a curated collection of the label’s new “nature-meets-science” skincare signatures. Founded by biochemist Christal Leung, these vegan and cruelty-free products have been especially formulated for the specific Hong Kong climate and conditions, using the very best organic raw materials. Take your pick from the “Carry Love Around” or “A Lover’s Chest” set, both of which include a fortifying body oil, body cream and hand cream. The latter further includes additional treats, including a calming pillow spray, collagen lip softener gel and an embroidered robe.

SKIN NEED, “Carry Love Around” Gift Set, available online at WULT for $398
SKIN NEED, “A Lover’s Chest” Gift Set, available online at WULT for $998

Jurlique, Smoothing Body Exfoliating Gel

Smooth, radiant skin is yours for the taking this month with Jurlique’s new Smoothing Body Exfoliating Gel. The special formula gently exfoliates and polishes the skin thanks to the addition of walnut shell powder, while an infusion of hydrating rosa gallica flower, botanical extracts and herbal antioxidants work to clarify and soothe. Pair with the brand’s bestselling Softening Body Lotion for optimum results.

Jurlique, Smoothing Body Exfoliating Gel, available in-store at Jurlique for $295

Hourglass, Curated Sets

Festive cheer abounds with Hourglass’ exclusive seasonal Curated Sets, which save you up to 15% on its most popular products. We have our eyes on the Radiant Pink Blush & Lip Gloss Duo for a pretty in pink glow, along with the Shimmering Eye Gift Set, featuring the Scattered Light Glitter Eyeshadow, Unlocked Mascara and an Hourglass Eyelash Curler. The Curated Sets are available to shop online only.

Hourglass, Curated Sets, available online at Hourglass from $270

AOR, Home Facial Combo

With salons due to close, it’s worth stocking up on skincare treats if you’re hoping to indulge in some pampering this Christmas. Luckily, AOR (short for An Organic Revolution), in collaboration with natural beauty pioneer BEYØRG, has you covered with its new Home Facial Combo. The set includes the brand’s hero Intensive Moisturising Mask: a revolutionary two-in-one sheet mask which combines the benefits of a mask and serum, and promises to leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated and instantly nourished long after it has been applied. You’ll also find a set of Detox & Brighten Clay Masks, Shampoo and Conditioner. All AOR products are certified by Cosmos Organic, one of the strictest organic cosmetics certifications in the world, and are suitable for those with extra sensitive skin.

AOR, Home Facial Combo, available online or in-store at BEYØRG for $1,700

Oribe, Gold Lust Collection Set

Give yourself the gift of good hair days with Oribe’s Gold Lust Collection Set. The limited-edition pack includes the brand’s Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo and Conditioner, along with the Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, packed full of nourishing jasmine, edelweiss flower, lychee, sandalwood, cassis, bergamot and argan extracts. Your hair will be back to its healthy, lustrous prime in no time.

Oribe, Gold Lust Collection Set, available in-store at JOYCE Beauty for $900

Lush, Christmas Bath Bombs

It’s not Christmas without some themed Lush goodies. From lavender snowmen to orange and patchouli bells and pink blackcurrant puddings, this year’s offering is every bit as adorable as expected. Make sure to stop by its Harbour City pop-up, located in the Ocean Terminal Lobby, for your chance to participate in a festive workshop where you can learn how to make the famed bath bombs yourself!

Lush, Christmas Bath Bombs, available online or in-store at Lush from $45

November

Byredo, Eyeshadow 5 Colours

Branching out from perfumes, Byredo delights with its first ever eyeshadow collection. Available in three beautiful colourways, each compact features five pressed powder shades in varying finishes: matte, metallic and ultra-glitter. Lightweight and long-lasting, with easy-to-blend textures, Byredo recommends using your fingertips for application, smudging it on the lid for effortless “rock ‘n’ roll” glamour. Colour-wise, “Syren” consists of fresh, vibrant hues (think violet, chartreuse and royal blue), while “Sciomancer” favours dramatic jewel tones. Last but not least, “Corporate Colours” is a cheeky nod to the neutrality of this palette, perfect for your everyday look. The Eyeshadow 5 Colours is the latest launch in Byredo’s makeup collaboration with Isamaya Ffrench.

Byredo, Eyeshadow 5 Colours, available in-store at Lane Crawford for $620

Augustinus Bader, The Essence, Exfoliating Toner

New in from luxury skincare brand Augustinus Bader is a multi-tasking “three-in-one” toner designed to hydrate, exfoliate and repair cells without disrupting your skin’s balance or causing irritation. The super-silky formula contains the brand’s signature ingredient, TFC8® – an Augustinus Bader-exclusive complex of amino acids, high-grade vitamins and synthesised molecules which work to repair and renew the skin. The Exfoliating Toner seamlessly glides onto the skin, gently exfoliating dead skin cells and toning its new surface layer to reveal a smoother, more hydrated complexion.

Augustinus Bader, The Essence, Exfoliating Toner, available online or in-store at Lane Crawford for $675

Benefit, Magnificent Brow Show

Time to get those brows on fleek, and Benefit is making it that bit easier with its limited-edition “Magnificent Brow Show” set. The bundle includes five full-size brow favourites, including the Gimme Brow+ Volumising Eyebrow Gel, Goof Proof Eyebrow Pencil and Ka-BROW! Eyebrow Cream-Gel Colour, for only 52% of all the products’ original price. While the set is worth $1,125, you’ll pay just $585. Who else loves a bargain?

Benefit, Magnificent Brow Show, available online or in-store at Sephora for $585

Dior Backstage, Glow Face Palettes & Lip Maximizers

Just in time for the holiday season, Dior Backstage has launched a new colour collection for its Glow Face Palettes and Lip Maximizers, all inspired by shades of gold. Available in three dazzling hues – Rose Gold, Yellow Gold and Copper Gold – they’re just the thing to add a little festive shimmer to your everyday look. For those new to the range, the Glow Face Palettes deliver an instant touch of radiance, and can be used to contour or highlight, as well as on the body (across the décolletage and shoulders) and as eyeshadows. The Lip Maximizers on the other hand have been designed to impart maximum volume and shine, leaving lips plumped and nourished.

Dior Backstage, Glow Face Palette, available in-store at Dior Beauty Boutiques for $430
Dior Backstage, Lip Maximizer, available in-store at Dior Beauty Boutiques from Tuesday, 1 December for $250

YSL, Or Rouge Le Serum

Reformulated for 2020, YSL’s Or Rouge Le Serum is here to transform your skin, tackling signs of ageing and protecting your skin cells with a heady mix of powerful antioxidants. The star ingredient here is Moroccan Saffron – specifically Saffron pistil distillate and Saffron water. Together with five precious botanical oils, including Argon, Almond and Evening Primrose, the formula works to re-ignite epidermal cell energy to dramatically repair and renew the skin. The non-sticky, fast-absorbing serum is said to instantly plump the skin, leaving behind a faint trace of delicate Saffron fragrance.

YSL, Or Rouge Le Serum, available online at Selfridges for $1,785 or in-store at YSL Beauté from $2,800

Christian Louboutin Beauty, So Rouge Lipstick

Leave it to Louboutin to come up with the perfect red lipstick. So Rouge boasts gorgeous satin, sparkly texture courtesy of ultra-reflective pearls suspended inside the lipstick. The sleek, lightweight formula glides onto the lips and stays put for up to six hours, even underneath your face mask! Plus, it comes in a stunning glittering red vial with a silver ribbon and gold cap for added luxe.

Christian Louboutin Beauty, So Rouge Lipstick, available online and in-store at Lane Crawford for $800

October

Harlow

Taking us back to basics this month is skincare brand Harlow, new to Hong Kong by way of The Spa at Four Seasons. Born out of founder Chrystal Macleod’s desire for thoughtfully and aesthetically designed whole ingredient self-care goods, Harlow prides itself on its short ingredient lists (under 12 to be exact) and eco-friendly approach to packaging. Hero products include the Flora Toners, which are ideal for priming skin with a boost of hydration before makeup, as well as the dewy Skin Gloss that’s perfect for achieving an effortless glow.

Harlow, Flora Toners, available at The Spa Four Seasons for $520 each
Harlow, Skin Gloss, available at The Spa Four Seasons for $290

Byredo, Tobacco Mandarin Extraits de Parfum

Inspired by the ancient city of Tangiers, Byredo’s latest scent contrasts bright citrus and spice with dark, smoke-filled sophistication and intrigue. Here, top notes of Mandarin, Coriander and Cumin play together with creamy Leather and Labdanum, while the smoky cloak of Tobacco, tinged with Oud and Sandalwood, anchors all.

Tobacco Mandarin is the final addition to Byredo’s quartet of Night Veil Extraits de Parfums – the more concentrated and refined sister of the brand’s line of Eau de Parfum. Just a small amount of extrait de parfum lasts for many hours, radiating through the heat of the body to become more deeply related to the wearer.

Byredo, Tobacco Mandarin Extraits de Parfum, available in-store at Lane Crawford for $2,450

Aesop, Aromatique Candles

Treat yourself to some “me time” this month with Aesop’s new line of vegan Aromatique Candles. Created in collaboration with Barnabé Fillion, there are three evocative scents to choose from, including the floral and spicy Aganice, woody Callippus and the lightly smoky Ptolemy. All the names are inspired by ancient Greek astrologists – a reference to the capacity of candlelight to instil a calming sense of wonder, much like the stars in the radiant night sky.

Aesop, Aromatique Candles, available online or in-store at Aesop for $800

Urban Decay, Stoned Vibes Eyeshadow Palette

Get ready to shimmer with Urban Decay’s new vegan eyeshadow palette. Featuring 12 new shades – four creamy matte hues and eight dazzling shimmers – it’s ideal for both work and play. Expect intense colour pay-off along with beautiful velvet textures. As an added bonus, each shade is infused with genuine crystal tourmaline for good vibes all round.

Urban Decay, Stoned Vibes Eyeshadow Palette, available online or in-store at Sephora for $500

Clarins, Total Eye Lift

For an eye care option that takes on puffiness, dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles and even firmness, look no further than the Clarins Total Eye Lift. Suitable for women of all ages, this skincare newcomer champions botanical ingredients, with a formula that’s 94% derived from natural origins. In particular, Cassie Wax and Organic Harungana Extract work together to lift and smooth, while Shea Butter wraps the area in a cocoon of hydration. The result? Clarins says you’ll be able to see a visibly lifted eye contour in just 60 seconds!

Clarins, Total Eye Lift, available online or in-store at Clarins for $600

Hourglass, AMBIENT™ Lighting Edit

With everything you need to finish, brighten, contour and highlight, Hourglass delights with the travel-sized palette of our dreams. Housed in a chic, gold compact, the AMBIENT™ Lighting Edit features six gorgeous shades of blush, bronzer, highlight and finishing powder – three of which are brand new! It’s your one-way ticket to a glowing complexion. As an added bonus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, and comes with a double-ended Lighting Edit Brush for easy application. A mini size is also available, featuring four bestselling shades.

Hourglass, AMBIENT™ Lighting Edit, available in-store at Lane Crawford for $710
Hourglass, AMBIENT™ Lighting Edit Mini, available in-store at Lane Crawford for $520

Esse, Resurrect Serum

Coming to the rescue of those with sensitive and sensitised skin is word-leading probiotic skincare brand Esse and its brand new Resurrect Serum. Harnessing the hydrating and anti-aging properties of the “Resurrection Plant” sourced from the oldest desert in the world (the nickname comes from its unique ability to come back to life in a matter of hours after it has been dried out), the formula is both moisturising and great for restoring skin elasticity. The other key ingredient? Tyndallised probiotics, which work to shift the skin’s microbiome to a more balanced state.

Esse, Resurrect Serum, available in various locations across Hong Kong for $920

September

ghd, Rise Volumising Hot Brush

Lush, voluminous hair is yours for the taking this month with ghd’s newest styling tool: the Rise Volumising Hot Brush. Promising to deliver instant, effortless volume, this easy-to-use tool is a multitasker, helping you to add shape, body and fullness to your locks. The 32mm barrel is perfect for creating soft waves and texture, while the smooth-touch nylon bristles ensure tangle-free styling. For best use, start by gently lifting your hair at the roots before gliding effortlessly through the lengths to achieve that beautiful full-body bounce.

ghd, Rise Volumising Hot Brush, available online or in-store at Sephora for $1,590

IT Cosmetics, Superstar Foundation Brush

Prepare to get starry-eyed over this limited edition Superstar Foundation Brush, new in from IT Cosmetics this month. Star-shaped novelty aside, this pretty foundation brush features award-winning Heavenly Luxe cruelty-free synthetic hair for effortless, streak-free application of your favourite liquid, cream and powder foundations. The streamlined holographic handle has been custom-designed for precision control, giving you flawless, airbrush-worthy results every time.

IT Cosmetics, Superstar Foundation Brush, available online and in-store at Sephora for $250

Natasha Moor Cosmetics, MOOR Power Mascara & Kohl It Magic Eyeliner

Eponymous makeup brand Natasha Moor Cosmetics, founded by Hong Kong-based makeup artist Natasha Moor, has expanded its range with the launch of two new eye products. The MOOR Power Mascara, designed to volumise and lengthen lashes, is both water-resistant and smudge-proof, coming with a tapered brush that has been designed to catch every little eyelash. For maximum impact, pair it with the Kohl It Magic Eyeliner (also new), which glides across the eyelid for easy application.

Natasha Moor Cosmetics, MOOR Power Mascara, available online and in-store at Sephora for $205
Natasha Moor Cosmetics, Kohl It Magic Eyeliner, available online and in-store at Sephora for $160

Ultra Violette

SPF has come a long way from the greasy, white concoctions of our childhood. And now Australian brand Ultra Violette is pushing the envelope further with its line of “skinscreen”. New to Hong Kong (and exclusively available at Joyce Beauty and Lane Crawford), every product here has been designed to work with your current skincare and makeup products. Beautifully hydrating, they’re comfortable enough to wear daily and are loaded with UVA and UVB protection. Ultra Violette’s hero product is the Queen Screen – a luminising serum with an SPF of 50+. Best used as a makeup base, this non-greasy, anti-aging essential is packed with antioxidants and boasts a milky, weightless texture which glides on the skin, complete with the subtle scent of roses.

Ultra Violette, Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Sun Serum, available in-store at Joyce Beauty for $305
Shop selected items from the Ultra Violette range online at Lane Crawford

Urban Decay, All Nighter Ultra Glow Primer & Setting Spray

Give your makeup look staying power (yes, even in this heat!) with Urban Decay’s new All Nighter Ultra Glow Primer and Setting Spray. This dynamic duo, both with vegan formulas, will keep you looking fresh for a cool 12 hours. The Setting Spray comes infused with hyaluronic acid and agave extract to help give your skin a dewy, youthful radiance. As for the Primer, expect a weightless gel texture which effortlessly glides onto the skin, leaving a sheer, healthy glow.

Urban Decay, All Nighter Ultra Glow Face Primer, available online and in-store at Sephora for $320
Urban Decay, All Nighter Ultra Glow Setting Spray, available online and in-store at Sephora for $280

THE LAB by blanc doux

Are you someone who suffers from extremely sensitive skin? Then allow us to introduce you to renowned Korean skincare brand THE LAB by blanc doux. Newly-arrived in Hong Kong, this affordable brand is famous for its use of low molecular hyaluronic acid (for which it currently holds the patent). This key ingredient is 200 times smaller than the hyaluronic acid used by other skincare brands on the market, allowing it to be absorbed more deeply into the skin. The result is a skincare line that truly lives up to its promise of added moisture, elasticity and radiance. We recommend starting out with the Oligo Hyaluronic Acid 5000 Toner, which is THE LAB’s best-selling product, along with the calming Relief Sheet Masks ($269 for 10).

THE LAB by blanc doux, Oligo Hyaluronic Acid 5000 Toner, available online for $188
THE LAB by blanc doux, Oligo Hyaluronic Acid Relief Sheer Masks, available online for $269 (10 pieces)
Shop the full range online here

Aesop, Sublime Replenishing Night Masque

Between maskne, pollution and humidity, Aesop’s Sublime Replenishing Night Masque couldn’t have come at a better time. Five years in the making, this vitamin-rich, lightweight gel-cream is the brand’s first ever dedicated night masque, and boy is it out to impress. Packed with generous doses of Vitamin B, C, E and F, this product works to replenish any lost nutrients while simultaneously offering sustained hydration, ultimately leaving skin feeling soft, supple and nourished. Best suited to dry, dehydrated, dull, patchy or mature skin.

Aesop, Sublime Replenishing Night Masque, available online at Selfridges for $800

Charlotte Tilbury, Jewel Pot

While our smiles remain hidden behind face masks, it’s time for the eyes to shine. Enter Charlotte Tilbury’s new Jewel Pots. This cream-to-sheen eyeshadow promises to bejewel your eyes in diamonds, and comes complete with diamond powder for a brightening jewel-like glow. Available in two beautiful shades – Pillow Talk pink and the gold-flecked Walk Of No Shame – use your fingers for a sheer, soft and natural finish, or apply with a brush for an intense, bedazzling smoky eye.

Charlotte Tilbury, Jewel Pot, available online or in-store for $275

Caudalie, Limited Edition Beauty Elixir

Caudalie’s cult Beauty Elixir gets a pretty in pink upgrade with this new limited edition packaging, released in celebration of its 25th anniversary. For the uninitiated, this multi-tasking spray sets make-up, tones and tightens pores, and gives skin an instant boost of radiance. The 100% natural and vegan formula, infused with Grape Extract, Lemon balm, Mint Balm, Orange Blossom and Rose, is the perfect refreshing beauty pick-me-up. And it smells heavenly too!

Caudalie, Limited Edition Beauty Elixir, launches online and in-store at Caudalie on Thursday, 17 September, priced at $120.

August

IT Cosmetics, Bye Bye Under Eye Illumination

It’s all about luminosity with IT Cosmetics’ new Bye Bye Under Eye Illumination. This pick takes its cue from the cult-favourite Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer but draws on the latest Drops of Light Technology for that coveted “lit from within” glow. The formula is infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, along with anti-ageing hydrolysed collagen, peptides and antioxidants to help improve the appearance of wrinkles. It’s also full coverage and works to conceal any imperfections. Ideal for all skin types, we recommend using this all-in-one skincare meets makeup solution in conjunction with your usual eye cream to effectively hide any fine lines and dark circles.

IT Cosmetics, Bye Bye Under Eye Illumination, available online or in-store at Sephora for $220

Hourglass, Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Want the look of lash extensions in an instant? This new mascara from Hourglass promises more definition, more lift and more length for transformative, high-impact results. The formula is smudge-proof, yet effortlessly slides off with warm water for easy removal. Best of all, as the first launch in Hourglass’ Unlocked series (which aims to unlock the cages of wild animals in captivity), this mascara is vegan and cruelty-free, with 5% of all profits going to the animal-focused Nonhuman Rights Project. Talk about beauty with a cause!

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara, available in-store at Lane Crawford for $260

Oribe, Serene Scalp Collection

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, so if you’re serious about embarking on a lifetime of good hair days, it’s time to start paying attention to your overall hair health. Here to help with that is Oribe’s Serene Scalp Collection. Designed for those prone to dandruff or irritation, the line includes an exfoliating scrub, thickening treatment spray, a balancing shampoo and conditioner, and an intensive leave-on treatment. Packed with luxurious extracts and oils which work to instantly moisturise and calm the scalp, these products will set you on the path to healthy hair in no time.

Oribe, Serene Scalp Balancing Shampoo, available online or in-store at Lane Crawford for $380
Oribe, Serene Scalp Balancing Conditioner, available online or in-store at Lane Crawford for $390
Oribe, Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub, available online at Net-A-Porter for $370
Oribe, Serene Scalp Thickening Treatment Spray, available online at Net-A-Porter for $540
(Other Oribe Serene Scalp products available in-store at Joyce Beauty)

Atelier Cologne, Clémentine California Summer Limited Edition

Atelier Cologne’s popular Clémentine California scent gets a summer makeover this month courtesy of French artist Quentin Monge. The sensual scent epitomises the heady warmth of summer with sweet-smelling notes of Italian clementines, Turkish juniper berries and Vetiver from Haiti. Evoking scenes of blue skies, sunshine and endless miles of sparkling beachfront, this delicate yet refreshing unisex perfume comes housed in a beautiful limited edition bottle, complete with an illustration aptly inspired by all things Californian cool.

The limited-edition Clémentine California is available as a 100ml bottle and comes with a complimentary Quentin Monge-designed beach towel.

Atelier Cologne Clémentine California, available online or in-store for $1,175

Charlotte Tilbury, Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

There are no two ways about it: heat, humidity and face masks are a match made in beauty hell. It seems no amount of powder or long-lasting formulas can stop our makeup from disappearing into a melted mess as the day goes on. Luckily for us, beauty guru Charlotte Tilbury has just launched her first setting spray. As well as offering an additional layer of hydration, the spray primes and sets for up to 16 hours, instantly locking in your look for flawless makeup that lasts the whole day long.

Charlotte Tilbury, Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray, available online or in-store at Lane Crawford for $290

Givenchy, Prisme Libre Powder

Givenchy’s bestselling loose powder, Prisme Libre, is arguably one of the brand’s most iconic makeup creations, and now that legacy is set to live on thanks to the launch of four new shades. The original made waves with its four-in-one approach, combining four powders of different colours together (two corrective tones and two luminous hues) to mimic the skin’s natural radiance. The extension of the line sees more colours than ever before, allowing the Prisme Libre experience to be tailored to all skin tones. Formula-wise, light-reflecting particles ensure an opalescent glow, while soft-focus spheres blur any small imperfections. Did we mention that it’s also exceptionally pretty? That’s reason enough to splurge in our books!

Givenchy, Prisme Libre, available online or in-store at Sephora for $510

Dolce & Gabbana, Golden Lights Collection

Inspired by the magic of golden hour, when day softly fades to night, Dolce & Gabbana’s Golden Lights Collection makes it easy for you to cheat your way to an effortless summer glow. The collection is made up of two new additions: The Baroque Lights Highlighting Powder and a limited edition shade of The Only One Lipstick in Blooming Garden. Available in three luminous hues (Precious Gold, Antique Bronze and Opulent Pink), the powder works to offer buildable radiance thanks to its pigmented texture and lightweight formula. As for the lipstick, the pretty coral pink is sure to warm up any makeup look. Both products come in the brand’s stunning signature gold packaging, complete with an intricate damask motif.

Dolce & Gabbana, The Baroque Lights Highlighting Power, available in-store for $530
Dolce & Gabbana, The Only One Lipstick: Blooming Garden, available in-store for $310

Wildsmith Skin, Active Repair Nourishing Cleansing Balm

Nature and science come together in Wildsmith Skin’s new cleansing balm. This rich and nourishing skincare pick makes use of the best natural ingredients, together with the latest bio-actives, to deliver real results. Ideal for dull and dehydrated skin that’s prone to breakouts or premature ageing, it features eight precious oils – including antioxidant-rich rosehip, antimicrobial calendula and the exfoliating seabuckthorn seed – and rich butters for a deep cleanse which will leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated and protected. Just what we need after spending the day with face masks on! Use morning and evening as the first step in your skincare routine.

Wildsmith Skin, Active Repair Nourishing Cleansing Balm, available online at Lane Crawford for $735

Featured image courtesy of Tin Iglesias for Sassy Media Group, image 1 courtesy of SKIN NEED, image 2 courtesy of Jurlique, image 3 courtesy of Hourglass, image 4 courtesy of BEYØRG, image 5 courtesy of Oribe, image 6 courtesy of Lush.