Nina Crighton, a Senior Fashion and Beauty Affiliates Writer who previously worked at Boots, has identified four viral beauty products worth purchasing, all priced at £21 or less. She recently visited the Liverpool Clayton Square Boots store to test the latest trending items.
Korean Skincare and Heatwave-Friendly Products
According to Crighton, the current focus is on Korean skincare, featuring hydrating SPF and calming toners for a glowing 'glass skin' look. Heatwave-friendly products include long-lasting lip stains and gripping primers to maintain freshness in humid conditions.
Top Four Picks Tested by the Expert
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer - £11
The e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is a gel-based hydrating primer that grips makeup for hours. It has smoothing qualities beneficial for those with texture or enlarged pores. Apply before makeup and wait 30 seconds for it to set. The non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores, making it safe for acne-prone skin, and it works well in hot or humid conditions. It is widely considered a cheaper alternative to the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer (£29.50).
TIRTIR Matcha Skin Toner 150ml - £21
The TIRTIR Matcha Skin Toner is a Korean toner with soymilk that calms redness, hydrates, and restores the skin's natural balance. Use it as the first step after cleansing to balance excess oils and help serums and moisturisers absorb more effectively. It is mildly acidic, so those with very sensitive skin might prefer La Roche-Posay Soothing Tonic Lotion For Sensitive Skin 200ml at £16.50.
Wonderskin Wonder Blading All-Day Lip Stain - £18
The Wonderskin Wonder Blading All-Day Lip Stain is a peel-off lip stain that lasts for hours. Available in 16 shades, apply the stain like a liquid lipstick (don't be alarmed by the blue colour), wait a minute, then peel it off to reveal the stain. It is ideal for those working long shifts or who dislike reapplying lipstick. While cheaper alternatives exist (like Sacheu for £14), Crighton finds this one lasts longer.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics 50ml - £15.50
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is an everyday organic sunscreen that delivers a lightweight, non-greasy feeling. Use it as the last step in your skincare routine year-round, especially when UV levels are high. Suitable for all skin types, it can double as a moisturiser and SPF for normal to oily skin. It contains vitamin-rich rice extract, oil-balancing niacinamide, and anti-ageing ginseng extract.
