Beauty writers test hundreds of launches yearly, but finishing a product is rare. An empty bottle or squeezed tube is a high compliment. Halfway through 2026, our team shares recently finished products, from glow-boosting foundations to cult cleansers.
Bethan: Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse
Bethan Shufflebotham finished the Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse (£48) within months of its January launch. The new cream formula, suitable for all skin types, is clinically proven to increase hydration by 125% after one use, using fermented Padina pavonica and Earth Marine Water. It mimics Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish but costs more. Best for second cleanse or morning use, it pairs well with the original cleansing balm for double cleansing.
Jada: Thank You Farmer’s Water Sun Cream & Lush Oat Cleansing Balm
Jada Jones praises Thank You Farmer’s Water Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++ (£10.80 at Sephora). This moisturiser-sunscreen hybrid hydrates without white cast, uses bamboo water and centella asiatica, and works as a makeup base. She also loves Lush Oat Cleansing Balm (£16) for sensitive skin, with oats, sunflower oil, and honey. It leaves skin moisturised despite greasiness.
Jada: Kayali Eden Juicy Apple Perfume
With over 200 perfumes, finishing a 10ml Kayali Eden Juicy Apple (£28) travel size signifies deep love. The sweet, fruity scent with floral heart is consistently complimented. Her sister also finished Eden Sparkling Lychee.
Eve: Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Tint Foundation & Sweed Mascara
Eve Rowlands fell for Charlotte Tilbury’s Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Hydrating Foundation Stick (£37). The stick form is lightweight, buildable, and blends seamlessly, leaving a luminous glow. Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Some find it too glowy; alternative bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Stick (£33.50) offers subtle finish. She also finished Sweed Lash Lift mascara (£22), which provides length, volume, and curl without clumping, but requires effort to remove.
Lucy: Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balm
Lucy Addicott finished two Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balms (£33) in shade 'bare pink', lasting nearly a year each. It provides natural colour, hydrates, and works for both full glam and no-makeup days. Needs reapplication after eating but leaves pout smooth and glossy.
Lauren: Rodial Peach Lowlighter
Lauren Codling calls Rodial Peach Lowlighter (£38) her first makeup step. The peach-toned liquid brightens under eyes and lacklustre areas, melting seamlessly under foundation. At £32, it's pricy but she's on her third tube, consistently repurchasing for its natural radiance.
