As a Beauty and Lifestyle Editor who’s been giving my opinion on pretties and potions for more than a decadee, I’ve tried my fair share of products. I am lucky enough to have my desk flooded with products every month—some are here one day and gone the next. But there are always a few that truly stand out and earn a permanent place in my beauty stash. This month, I’ve discovered some real gems that are totally worth the hype. Here’s the lowdown on what made the cut.
Mecca Max Makeup Brushes: Pro-level tools on a budget
If your brush collection is looking a little worse for wear, Mecca Max’s new lineup is the perfect upgrade. Designed by makeup artists who know their stuff, these brushes blend, buff, and define like a dream. The Precision Eyeliner Brush makes the sharpest wings effortless, while the Detailed Buffing Brush is my new go-to for concealer and contour. At these price points, they’re an absolute steal.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold + Vitamin C: The glow booster
There’s a reason Alpha-H’s Liquid Gold is a cult classic, and the new iteration infused with Vitamin C takes it to another level. This exfoliating treatment packs a punch with 5% Glycolic Acid, sloughing off dead skin cells and banishing dullness overnight. The added Vitamin C helps brighten and even skin tone, making my complexion look refreshed and radiant. After four weeks of use, I noticed smoother texture and an undeniable glow. If you’re looking for a product that works while you sleep, this is it.
Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Cream: Skin rehab in a tube
This moisturizer is the equivalent of a good night’s sleep and a green smoothie for your skin. Packed with resilience-building peptides, vitamin B5, and niacinamide, it hydrates while tackling fine lines, dullness, and fatigue. From the first application, my skin felt plumper and more nourished. After a week, I could see my complexion looking noticeably healthier and smoother. If your skin is feeling stressed and in need of serious TLC, this is your new best friend.
Dermalogica Cleanse and Glow Set: A spa-worthy ritual
Dermalogica certainly brought the goods this month so they deserved a second place on my list. I’ve always been a believer in double cleansing, and this set makes it an indulgent experience. PreCleanse melts away makeup and sunscreen, while the Special Cleansing Gel leaves skin fresh but never tight. The Daily Microfoliant is a longtime favorite—its rice-based powder activates with water to gently buff skin, leaving it baby-soft. Plus, the reusable wristbands? Genius for keeping water from running down your arms during cleansing.
Everlasting Candle: The luxe home must-have
Look I know this isn’t strictly a beauty product but it sure makes my home look beautiful so I am COUNTING IT. Candles that never melt? It sounded too good to be true, but Everlasting Candle’s sleek, steel wicks are a game changer. Paired with their signature Pristine Oil, these candles offer a clean-burning, smoke-free ambiance that lasts indefinitely. Whether you’re a home décor enthusiast or just love a cozy vibe, this is a statement piece worth investing in. There are loads of different shaped vases to hold the oil, as well as wicks made from different metals, so you can mix and match colours and shapes depending on your home vibe. I’ve had gushing comments on it every time someone has come to my house, and it’s making me itch to get a few more for different rooms.
Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Matte & Brightening Sun Serums: SPF, but make it luxe
I’m a firm believer in daily SPF, and Mecca Cosmetica’s new sunscreens make protection a pleasure. The Matte Sun Serum is a dream for oily skin—it absorbs quickly, controls shine, and sits beautifully under makeup. Meanwhile, the Brightening Sun Serum is packed with niacinamide and liquorice root to boost radiance while offering SPF 50+ protection. No white cast, no greasy finish—just perfectly prepped skin. Use in conjunction with a good ol’ hat and shirt combo for proper sun protection and make sure you reapply liberally.
Kit Functional Fragrance Bundle: Scent therapy in a bottle
Fragrance is more than just smelling good—it’s about how it makes you feel. Kit’s Functional Fragrance trio taps into aromatherapy with blends that support different moods. Calm is perfect for unwinding after a long day, Energy is an instant pick-me-up, and Unwind sets the scene for deep relaxation. Whether spritzed on pulse points or used as a room spray, these scents work like magic.
Final thoughts
This month’s lineup is all about products that deliver results—whether it’s skincare that transforms overnight, tools that make makeup effortless, or home essentials that elevate your space. If you’re looking to refresh your beauty routine, these picks are a great place to start.
From time to time, we may receive products as gifts for consideration. However, we are under no obligation to feature or endorse any product. All opinions shared in this magazine are our own, based on genuine experience and unbiased reviews.
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
