For us, as much as we're suckers for pretty packageing [1], our beauty products have to actually work for us [2], otherwise, what's the point? For every gorgeous #shelfie we see on Instagram, there are the products working double duty behind the scenes, and they're the ones we want to spotlight today. We couldn't imagine living without them, and we know our beauty routines would never be the same.
Our editors rounded up the products they always return to. Without fail, these 10 picks have stood the test of time, and we love them for it. From multipurpose balms [3] to classic cleansers and medicine-cabinet staples, these editor-approved picks deserve their moment in the sun.
Aquaphor
"Ever since I was a kid, Aquaphor [5] ($13) has been a part of my beauty routine. My mom uses it as her body moisturiser, and she has the softest skin ever. I slather it on my legs whenever I wear a skirt or dress because it gives skin the prettiest gleam. I'll never be without it." — India Yaffe, editorial assistant, Shop
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
"I love Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser [6] ($19 for two) both as a gentle cleanser for my face and body since I have pretty sensitive skin." — Lauren Hendrickson, head of Shop and Affiliate Growth
Weleda Skin Food
"Here are just a few things I have used this magic Weleda Skin Food [7] ($10) for: sunburn, dry cuticles, burns, razor bumps, keratosis pilaris, a jellyfish sting, and a weird rash on my face that I never truly understood. It's really thick and oily, it takes a while to sink in, and it has quite a strong herbal smell that not everyone will love, but it truly does work wonders to soothe, moisturise, and protect skin. I don't go anywhere without a tube and always have a spare on standby." — Gemma Cartwright, senior editor, POPSUGAR UK
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant
"This Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant [8] ($24) has a permanent place on my nightstand, and it truly works. I slather it on before bed and wake up with the most hydrated lips." — Tori Crowther, assistant editor, POPSUGAR UK
Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly Skin Protectant
"I'm constantly combating chapped lips, and a few years ago when I had my wisdom teeth taken out and the sides of my lips were raw and cracked from the surgery, my oral surgeon recommended using Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly Skin Protectant [9] ($6) to regain hydration and heal them. It was life-changing. I'm not sure why I never thought of it before, but now it's all I use. It keeps them moisturised and plump for hours. Plus, you can't beat that price. I have one for every bag, my nightstand, and even my car." — Krista Jones, assistant editor, Shop
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
"When I get those pesky pimples, or even feel one coming on, I immediately reach for my Mario Badescu Drying Lotion [10] ($17). I apply it as a spot treatment before bed and wake up in the morning to a clear complexion. It's like magic." — IY
Yes To Tomatoes Clear Skin Blemish Clearing Facial Wipes
"I like working out, but I know there's nothing worse for my skin than sitting in sweaty clothes. That's why I keep these Yes To Tomatoes Clear Skin Blemish Clearing Facial Wipes [11] ($10) in my bag constantly. After I exercise, I use them to wipe myself down, and they've done wonders for preventing body breakouts." — IY
Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo
"It's a classic for a reason. If I'm ever battling dandruff, I reach for this Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff Shampoo [12] ($13, originally $17) because it actually works." — IY
Hydrogen Peroxide Antiseptic Solution
"Another beauty secret from my mother: anytime I've got a cut or abrasion, I swab it with Hydrogen Peroxide Antiseptic Solution [13] ($6). It's also a lifesaver for after I've had my eyebrows done; just one swipe and some of the redness goes down immediately. I always keep an extra bottle in case I run out." — IY
Tweezerman Stainless Steel Slant Tweezer
"This Tweezerman Stainless Steel Slant Tweezer [14] ($23) is the best tweezer I've ever used. One time, I had a full-on panic attack because I went on a weekend trip and forgot this at home. It does its job and is both the least painful and most exacting tweezer I've ever used." — IY