The 8 Winter-Proof Products Our Editors Are Currently Testing

In the middle of winter, everyone just wants to slough off dry, dead skin and bring on the glow. So as beauty products build up into an inescapable mound on my desk, I dole them out to help the cause. Try this moisturizer or slather on this serum, I advise my fellow editors, with the ultimate goal of truly testing out everything and bringing a serious radiance to their complexions.

When I checked back in with them on how the products were working, I heard amazing anecdotes—some so good that I just had to share. Here, Well+Good editors sound off on the current glow-getters in their lineup, including a cholesterol-rich serum, multitasking moisturizers, a heart-opening essential-oil rollerball that's like self-care in a bottle.

Keep scrolling to check out the products W+G editors are currently testing.

Marie Veronique + Kristina Holey Barrier Lipid Complex, $95

When chemist-turned-skin-care brand guru teamed up with renowned facialist Kristina Holey to launch a power trio of serums, I was hooked. Then, the two released even more products for a comprehensive line you can use for your entire regimen—this serum included. According to Veronique, your skin's barrier is made up of three sources of fat: ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol—which is exactly what this contains. The creamy serum feels like it's instantly plumping my complexion, and my face has looked healthier ever since I started using it. —Rachel Lapidos, associate editor

Maapalim Face Moisturizer, $28

I use a really intense and drying toner which doesn't pose that much of an issue for me in the summer. But in the winter, my skin dries up and becomes a cracked desert floor—so I'm often left with half-finished tube of moisturizers that just didn't work out. This Maapilim one, however, has been a saving grace. It's got a slightly thicker consistency than most without feeling heavy. I put it on and when I wake up my skin is still looking pristine and hydrated 24 hours later. —Tamim Alnuweiri, assistant news editor

Tata Harper Clarifying Spot Solution, $32

This spot treatment was such a lifesaver for me. Whenever I felt a breakout coming on, I'd slather it on at night—and it would always stop the pimple in its tracks. The formula also didn't dry out or irritate my skin like a lot of other products I've tried before, which is a major bonus (especially this time of year). —Mercey Livingston, editorial assistant

8 Faces Boundless Solid Oil, $88

I've never met a face or body oil that I didn't like, but a solid oil with eight different uses take the cake. The ultra-nourishing ingredient label starts with shea butter and ends with bergamot essential oil; in between, the formula is layered with other carrier oils such as jojoba and sea buckthorn; fruit extracts like amla and citrus; and floral essential oils like grapefruit and lavender. I've found that it helps with everything from taming flyaways to hydrating my heels—so you truly can slather it from head to toe. —Ali Finney, senior editor

True Botanicals Antioxidant Booster, $90

This magical powder takes the antioxidant powers of an apple peel and turns it into a skin-brightening dust you can sprinkle into your serum or moisturizer for an added glow. Ever since I started using it on the reg, my complexion's noticeably more even and bright. Bonus points for making me feel like a mad scientist when I mix it into the cream that I'm using. —Rachel Lapidos

 

Kora Organics Heart Chakra Aromatherapy Oil, $48

Miranda Kerr swears this essential oil helps cure heartbreak, so I decided to give it a shot after a breakup. Inhaling the aroma of sweet rose made me feel like I was gifting myself a beautiful bouquet. Rose is said to be good for heart-opening, and considering how the romantic scent urges those nearby to lean in just a bit closer, I can see why. —Emily Laurence, senior editor

Kosas Cosmetics Color & Light Creme in Tropic Equinox, $34

I’ve always shied away from highlighters, fearing the instant flashback to 2007’s glitter epidemic. Instead, I dab a ballet-pink blush on my cheekbones and under my brows and call it a day. Then, I snatched the new Kosas highlighter-bronzer creme palette from my coworker’s desk (thanks, Rach!), and there was no going back. The nearly translucent sheen gives me the dewy look I’d always wanted—without evoking “Toxic”-era Britney Spears—and the cream texture blends easily into my skin with no sticky residue. —Abbey Stone, managing editor

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial, $80

Bless the time-saving souls who formulated this mask, sparing girls around the globe hours-long trips dermatologist's office for resurfacing treatments. This 20-minute resurfacing peel with 25 percent alpha-hydroxy acids and two percent beta-hydroxy acids is no match for the dullness that winter brings. I slather it on, flip on an episode of 30 Rock and by the time Liz Lemon has saved TGS for the billionth time, I've rescued my complexion from dead skin cells, revealing brighter, glowier skin underneath. Winter skin: You've been dealt with.  —Ali Finney

To make room, here's the easiest way to de-clutter your medicine cabinet. And, for some extra glowy tips, this is the smartest skin-care advice we've learned from celebrities in 2017.