When you’re moved to write a review of a beauty product, it’s either because it made your skin freak out or you’re truly obsessed with it and have never seen your complexion look so good—there’s no in-between. So the stars, hearts, and blurbs (both angry and raving) mean a lot for those who are scrolling through in the hopes of finding that perfect addition to their top shelf.
And at a place like Sephora—a serious mega-shop with thousands of skin-care and makeup SKUs—the products with high marks are true stars. What does it take to stand out at this beauty mecca? Enough glow-inducing, body-moisturizing, bold color-providing benefits that a customer just has to take to the internet to show the love.
And, with the makeup mecca upping its natural beauty game, you can see how well the cleaner options are faring versus standard brands. The verdict? From Drunk Elephant‘s superstar serums to indie brand Captain Blankenship’s beach hair essentials, there are loads of 5-star reviews. (So much for that “natural products aren’t as good” myth.)
Here are the 10 non-toxic hair, skin, and makeup items that are winning the popularity contest at Sephora right now.
Herbivore Botanicals Lapis Facial Oil, $72
It’s perfect for top shelfies, yes—but this oil is also ideal for fighting inflammation, thanks to blue tansy oil and amaranth squalene, both of which soothe pimples.
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, $90
Say buh-bye to dullness overnight with this exfoliating serum, which uses AHAs, BHAs, and horse chestnut (a natural reparative extract) for a one-two brightening punch.
RMS Beauty Champagne Rosé Luminizer, $38
Match your cheekbones to your go-to summer drink: RMS Beauty, known for its cult-fave highlighters, does it again with this gorgeous, shimmery pink color that also hydrates with a concoction of oils.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway, $34
This rich cleansing balm not only removes the day’s grime, but also nourishes with Moringa, ginger root, and sunflower oil.
Bare Minerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15, $28
It’s a light, strictly mineral foundation that actually lets your complexion breathe—and it provides much-needed sun protection.
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask, $58
This one’s a real glow-getter—apply, chill for 15 minutes, and the pink clay, pomegranate enzymes, and willow bark will work their magic to help rid your skin of any impurities. Bonus: It’s not too harsh for sensitive types.
Dr. Roebuck’s Anti-Aging Moisturizer, $45
This Aussie brand’s fan favorite is an ultra-nourishing cream with gentle ingredients—like lavender, rosehip, and macadamia oils—that make skin feel buttery-soft.
Kopari Coconut Lip Love, $10
Coconut oil can do just about anything—and it’s ultra-moisturizing on lips. This tropical-tasting balm is a genius way to heal a chapped pout.
Captain Blankenship Mermaid Dry Shampoo, $24
This indie brand has nailed the formula for dry shampoo—the much-raved-about product makes second- (or even third-) day-hair look fab. The secret: a mix of arrowroot and baking powders that doesn’t weigh down strands with chemicals.
Ilia Lipstick Crayon, $24
A semi-matte crayon (with uber-hydrating sunflower and coconut oils!) gives you a pop of color and an easy, fun application.
If you’re looking for more items to add to your top shelf, here are the best beauty launches from last year. And these are all-natural alternatives to the buzziest products (like that Kylie Lip Kit).
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