New York, NY – [Insert Date] – The highly anticipated third annual Who What Wear 100 Beauty Awards have concluded, and the secrets to achieving that coveted glow are starting to emerge. In a recent episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Beauty Director Erin Jahns sat down with Editor in Chief Kat Collings to pull back the curtain on some of the most exceptional beauty products to grace the market this year. Their discussion offered an insider’s look at the meticulously curated list, highlighting a range of categories from transformative haircare to complexion-perfecting makeup, and even an unexpected, yet essential, tool.
The podcast episode serves as a direct portal into the rigorous testing process, which involved in-house beauty editors alongside a distinguished panel of celebrity experts. This collaborative approach ensures that the awarded products not only meet but exceed the expectations of both industry professionals and discerning consumers. Jahns and Collings delved into specific product revelations, offering insights into why these particular items stood out in a crowded field.
The Rise of the Scalp Scrub: A Must-Have for Healthy Hair
One of the most consistently praised products, earning accolades from multiple beauty power players, was Roz’s Salt Scalp Scrub. This innovative treatment has quickly become a staple for those seeking to achieve optimal hair health from the roots up.
"Both of our hairstylists commented on this one and reviewed it and said that it’s a must to remove buildup and give your scalp a refresh," Jahns revealed on the podcast. The scrub’s efficacy in tackling product residue and impurities was a recurring theme among the expert panel. This diligent cleansing action, they noted, is crucial for creating a pristine canvas for styling and for promoting a healthier scalp environment overall.
The stylists emphasized the scrub’s role in weekly hair rituals, highlighting its ability to impart incredible volume at the roots and establish a fresh base for the rest of the week’s styling. Beyond its detoxifying properties, the formula is also described as remarkably gentle, making it an ideal pre-event treatment for occasions like weddings or red carpet appearances, where a flawless foundation for hair styling is paramount.
Haircare Innovations: Achieving Glassy Shine and Overnight Repair
The hair category saw significant innovation this year, with several products earning high praise for their performance. Beyond the scalp scrub, Chris McMillan’s Glassy Smooth Hair Oil emerged as a standout winner for best hair oil. McMillan, a renowned stylist with a clientele of A-list celebrities, launched his eponymous line last year, and this particular oil has quickly garnered attention.
"All of his products are great, but his Glassy Smooth Hair Oil won for best hair oil, and it is so great," Jahns stated. The oil’s ability to deliver a coveted "glassy" finish without any residual oiliness or heaviness was a key factor in its selection. This delicate balance makes it suitable for a wide range of hair types, providing a polished look without weighing hair down.
Another transformative product highlighted was Crown Affair’s Overnight Repair Serum. This leave-in treatment is designed for effortless application before bed, offering a lightweight feel and a pleasant scent. The true magic, however, is revealed upon waking. Users report a noticeable reduction in the appearance of split ends, with hair feeling stronger and shinier. This "easy win" for better-looking hair combines instant gratification with the promise of cumulative results over time, making it a compelling addition to any nighttime beauty routine.
Makeup Mastery: Universally Loved Essentials and Luxurious Indulgences
In the realm of makeup, the quest for universally flattering and high-performing products is ongoing. The Who What Wear Beauty Awards identified several key players that have earned their stripes.
Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray was singled out as a product that "literally anyone or almost anyone could pick up in Sephora and love," particularly for those who utilize base makeup like concealer or foundation. As temperatures rise and the summer months approach, this setting spray’s ability to lock makeup in place without a heavy feel is invaluable, ensuring a fresh and enduring finish.
A true multi-tasker that has garnered significant acclaim is the MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil. This "OG" product, as Jahns described it, has become a favorite among celebrities and makeup artists alike, frequently appearing on TikTok and in professional kits. Its versatility is its superpower: it can be used as a lip liner, eyeliner, eyeshadow, or even a blush, and it boasts a range of iconic shades to suit diverse looks. This adaptability makes it an indispensable tool for achieving a multitude of makeup styles with a single product.
For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the MAKEUP BY MARIO Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette in its original formulation secured its place as a repeat winner. This palette has achieved legendary status, with both makeup artists Renée Loiz and Lila Childs, alongside aesthetician Candace Marino and celebrity hairstylist Bridget Brager, singing its praises. Its enduring appeal lies in its curated selection of matte shades, offering unparalleled versatility for creating both subtle and dramatic eye looks.
On the more luxurious end of the spectrum, the Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation was recognized as a significant splurge that delivers exceptional results. Contrary to what the "matte" descriptor might suggest, this foundation offers a sophisticated, cloud-like finish that avoids the overly dry or cakey appearance often associated with matte formulas. Instead, it provides a refined, non-dewy finish that enhances the skin’s natural texture without looking overly wet or heavy, embodying a true "less is more" approach to complexion perfection.
Skincare Transformation and Innovative Tools
The awards also celebrated products that offer a more holistic approach to beauty, focusing on skin health and innovative solutions.
MARA’s Pearl Peptide Glaze Hydrating Facial Essence has quickly become a top-selling product since its announcement. Described as "dreamy," this multi-functional essence acts as a hybrid toner, essence, and serum. Its immediate transformative effect on the skin, imparting a luminous and hydrated glow, has captured the attention of consumers and experts alike.
Beyond topical products, the tools category highlighted a surprising yet impactful innovation: the Qure Skincare Shower Filter. Priced at $99, this easy-to-install filter is designed to significantly improve hair and skin health by reducing 99% of chlorine, heavy metals, and harsh minerals typically found in tap water. These impurities can contribute to dryness, stripping, and dullness. By filtering these elements, the Qure shower filter enhances the efficacy of all other beauty products used in the shower, making it an investment in a more comprehensive and effective beauty routine. Jahns emphasized its role in improving the performance of other products, underscoring its foundational importance in a well-rounded beauty regimen.
The Enduring Appeal of Tried-and-True Favorites
The consistent recognition of certain products, like the Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Palette, underscores the value of enduring quality and performance. These are not fleeting trends but rather foundational items that continue to impress year after year. The panel’s ability to identify both groundbreaking new arrivals and consistently excellent existing products highlights the depth and breadth of the beauty landscape.
As the Who What Wear 100 Beauty Awards continue to set the benchmark for excellence, The Who What Wear Podcast provides an invaluable platform for sharing these insights directly with the audience. The conversation between Erin Jahns and Kat Collings offers a compelling narrative of discovery, celebrating the innovation, efficacy, and sheer delight that the beauty industry consistently delivers. Listeners are encouraged to tune into the podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify to gain further insights and to explore the full list of winners, empowering them to make informed choices in their own beauty journeys.
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Nila Kartika Wati
Jia Lissa
