Nicola Chapman Shares Her Favourite Beauty Launches Of 2024
@NicolaChapman
Fragrance Favourites
“I am a ‘Portrait of A Lady’ by Frederic Malle stan and it’s been hard to find another scent I like as much. However, Victoria Beckham’s ‘21:50 Rêverie’ comes close. Launched this year, I reach for it so often. It’s expensive, but worth it if you want to invest in a fragrance that feels different. For me, fragrance is a statement – probably the biggest you can make – as it’s putting a scent out there that then reminds people of you. The 21:50 scent is throaty, sexy and strong. At the opposite end of the spectrum, I loved Loewe’s ‘Aire’ this year. It’s so fresh and pure – like linen.
Must-Try Mascaras
“There are two mascaras I loved this year. First, No7’s The Full 360 Ultra Mascara which I’d go as far as to say is the best I’ve ever used. It’s the one I reach for when I don’t have the time to layer up because it immediately gives lashes that false-look effect. Victoria Beckham’s Future Lash Mascara is great too. I started using it this year and though I normally dislike tubing mascaras, this is a bit of a hybrid formula. It doesn’t come off in one big clump, it comes off in tiny flakes, yet it stays put with no smudging whatsoever. It’s subtler than No7, so a great daytime option. I also rate No7’s Define & Enhance Mascara which comes in a flattering brown.”
Budget Buys
“NYX’s Litch & Snatch Brow Tint Pen costs less than £12 and is incredible at drawing in subtle hair strokes. I don’t want bold and strong brows right now – though I think they will make a comeback – I just like a little definition. I love NYX’s Slim Lip Pencil in ‘Nude Pink’ too. It’s £4 and as good as higher-end formulas on the market.”
Hair Heroes
“This year, my hair has become so dry and brittle. It’s baffled me as I don’t do much to it. But my remedy was a shampoo and conditioner by the brand MooGoo. Its formulas are all natural and milk-based, not to mention organic. I’ve enjoyed using the brand, as it’s taken such good care of my scalp. I also invested in oils this year to nourish my scalp and I’ve focused on working from the root down. I bought my oil from Dr Graham who helped me through dermatitis – I can’t recommend him enough. I’ve also loved Hair by Sam McKnight’s Happy Endings Nourishing Balm. Sam showed me the best way to use it, which is to massage it onto the ends of your hair to give it a bit more texture and movement. Another hair favourite was Morrocan Oil’s Frizz Shield. I spray it on damp hair before blow-drying and it controls static and flyaways."
The Investment Tool
“I adore the ZIIP Halo, which I started using this year. It’s the strongest device I’ve ever used and you notice the difference in your skin immediately. Again, it’s an investment, but the results are unrivalled. It uses both microcurrent and nanocurrent technology, so it helps treat uneven texture and redness while lifting and tightening skin. I really do rate it. Everyone I work with agrees it’s brilliant, which is testament to its efficacy.”
Base Basics
“Speaking of Makeup By Mario, I loved his SurrealSkin Liquid Foundation and Concealer. The two work so nicely together. Another great base launch was M·A·C’s Studio Radiance Foundation and Concealer. The shades come up darker than the original formula, but the coverage is lovely with just enough radiance. It’s great for those days when you want that bit more coverage – like a wedding day or a big evening out. Once it’s on, it won’t dissolve on your skin. The concealer also has a slightly powdery finish that doesn’t budge.”
Brands Worth The Hype
“I get sent a lot of products, but there’s roughly three to four core brands I get very excited by. They include Lisa Eldridge and Rare Beauty. I didn’t want to love the latter as it’s celebrity-founded, but the ethos and quality are so impressive. Lastly, Makeup By Mario and Victoria Beckham are both brands that offer great products that are so easy to use.”
Glow-Givers
“Sculpted by Aimee’s Liquid Lights was one of my favourite launches this year. A blusher and highlighter in one, it works for all skin tones and gives your complexion such a healthy flush. Her whole range is brilliant and well worth checking out. I love the Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek Sticks by Katie Jane Hughes too, which have just dropped. I was hopeful they wouldn’t be too shimmery and they’re not at all – matte with a creamy texture, they give cheeks instant volume and bounce.”
2024 Empties
It’s hard to reach the end of a product, but that’s what happened with Joonbyrd’s Daydreamer Firming Body Serum. Wow, this stuff is good. Some find the scent overpowering but I love it – it’s creamy and comforting, and leaves you feeling so clean. It’s a real experience to use, which is what you want from body care. Plus, I see a real difference in the appearance of my skin – it looks smoother and tighter. It’s my go-to in the summer – I call it the equivalent of glass tights. The Violet Haze Exfoliating Body Scrub is also lovely. It buffs away dead skin cells to leave behind an unbeatable luminosity.”
Lastly, What 2024 Won't Replace
“I buy Augustinus Bader moisturisers every year, despite the expense. The Rich Cream is my favourite – I’ve used it for five years and never steer away from it. Why? Because it works and doesn’t trigger my dermatitis. It nourishes my complexion, making it look so soft and supple. Another product I want to find a replacement for – because it’s costly – is Chanel’s Les Beiges Bronzer. It gives great coverage and colour, so if you have redness or uneven tone, it dilutes it rather than just being a serum or liquid on top. If anyone finds something better, DM me.”
@NicolaChapman
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