Big call. HUGE. But goodness, there were some goodies this year.
As a beauty editor who has this crazy weird job where I try tons of new beauty launches for a living (??), it's rare that I actually finish products. Not to say that they go to waste - they'll usually be passed on to family, friends, or the Mamamia office. Lucky cats!
Watch: Let's take a trip down memory lane and remember when I put lube on my face. What a time! Post continues below.
But there are some golden nuggets that I can't let go of. The stuff I hold sacred and don't let anyone try because I love it that much.
So, I thought I'd write up a cute little listicle - because you love listicles!
Below, I've pulled together the very best products I tried and loved in 2022.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Serum, $65.95.
I wrote a whole article about how much I loved this serum, so I won't harp on too much about how good it is. But! (Oh gosh, here she goes again) - it's everything I expected and more.
The newest member of the tight Cicaplast range, this serum soothes and hydrates your skin, making everything feel comfortable, plump and healthy. It's part of my MVP squad for when I pare everything back in between trying products.
Mesoestetic Age Element Brightening Concentrate, $89.50.
Brighter skin this way, folks! I love everything Mesoestetic do - it's a science-backed brand that delivers real results without the BS. And the most recent range, formulated specifically for ageing skin, is no exception.
Featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C, it's just the ticket for brighter, even skin. Such a goodie. Watch your back, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum!
Dermalogoica Daily Milkfoliant, $99.
I was always too scared to use the cult Dermalogica Microfoliant Exfoliator because I'm a sensy Sue - but then they launched this.
It's a super gentle exfoliating powder that polishes away dead skin and dullness, without irritating your face. You simply mix it with water and it turns into this beautiful buttery formula. Used it up, quick smart.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, $38.99.
Goodness, I haven't stopped talking about this night cream since trying it - but here I go again! Have you tried this yet? You gotta. It has the most beautiful demi-matte formula, and it feels like an *actual* velvety dream on your skin.
Thick, but confusingly lightweight, it instantly smooths my skin and makes it feel comfy and happy. Like a really luxurious night cream, without the price tag.
The Beauty Chef Glow F.A.C.E Intensive Rejuvenating Oil, $75.
Yes, The Beauty Chef make skincare! This baddie contains bakuchiol (a retinol alternative), antioxidants, and over 20 plant extracts and I have to say - it's the easiest way to boost your skin's radiance by eleventy million.
Tackling the signs of ageing while supporting the skin barrier, it makes your face feel hydrated, bouncy and alive - a definite standout for me!
Ere Perez Fig-All Beauty Jelly, $45.
Oh, man. I did not expect to like this balm as much as I did. I brought it with me when I was going to a wedding on a weekend away - and I absolutely fell in love with it. It's an all-purpose balm that you can use as a mask, or cleanser - and it feels absolutely beautiful on the skin.
Mixed with water, it removes makeup like an absolute dream, and can also be applied don't the skin overnight to make your skin hydrated and plump come morning. Such an underrated product!
Go-To Much Plumper Skin, $48.
I used up two bottles of this stuff. My skin absolutely INHALED it.
I wrote a whole review on Much Plumper Skin when it first hit shelves, continued to use it and my skin loved it. It's ultra-lightweight, doesn't feel sticky or tacky and actually does what it says it's going to do. Gold star for you.
TBH Rebound Serum, $68.
Of course, this guy made the list! Created in a TBH Skincare collab with scientist Hannah English, this serum is a great little multi-tasker. Lovely and hydrating, it's everything you need for upset, inflamed skin.
I used it when my face was breaking out and when I went too hard with actives, and it was like a kiss on the forehead. I finished it right down to the last drop, which doesn't happen often with serums.
Elizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Lift and Firm Eye Cream, $115.
I've never been an eye cream girl (too lazy), but this re-formulated newbie from Elizabeth Arden is good enough to make me want to add that extra step.
It's very spendy for a small pot of cream, but if you're looking to treat yourself (or someone special) with a luxe skincare pick, this is right up your alley. It's packed with ceramides and vitamin E, delivering hydration and firmness to tired eyes. I rate it.
TULA So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub, $46.
If there's one thing you need to know about me, it's that I don't like facial scrubs. They're too harsh on my skin (and probably yours, too). That's why I was really surprised about just how much I liked this scrub from TULA Skincare. I used this down to the very. last. DROP.
It just melts into your skin and smells like a pina colada and summer holidays (yum), whisking away oil, makeup, sunscreen and your day's face without making it tight and dry. Such a lovely formula.
QV Face Hydrate And Renew Serum, $20.75.
With a list of stellar ingredients such as niacinamide and panthenol, this crowd-pleaser is a great option if you're looking to improve signs of ageing and give your thirsty skin a big ol' drink. Read: Everyone.
It's just a really great formula for all skin types - especially beginners. So, if you're confused where to start with the whole serum thing, I recommend checking this one out! It's all the proof that you really don't need to spend tonnes of money on a serum.
What are some of the best products you tried this year? Share with us in the comment section below.
Feature image: Supplied.
Love all-things beauty? Take this short survey now to go in the running to win a $50 gift voucher!