September's Best Beauty Buys

From a homegrown milky toner and an intelligent hot tool that promises zero heat damage, to the latest Zen scent, the mascara we’d take to a desert island, and more. Spring’s latest beauty drops won’t disappoint…says editor Trudi Brewer.

 

Image BeautyEQ

 

Spring has landed with a seriously good beauty edit — from clever new technology to formulas we’re already obsessed with. Here’s our pick of what to covet this month.

Tailor DEW DROP, $39.50

 

Lightweight, fast-absorbing, calming, hydrating - not the usual job of a toner - but here is the clincher: it will also support the skin barrier while preparing it for anything else you layer on top. How? Three ceramides (NP, AP, and EOP) support the skin barrier, alongside ectoin, a hydration-supporting molecule that helps skin cope with environmental stressors. Then comes the K-beauty nod: centella asiatica (cica) to soothe, plant-based PDRN to support the skin’s natural renewal processes. Finally, niacinamide helps improve the appearance of uneven tone, pores, and redness. This is toner reimagined — less about stripping skin back and more about giving skin what it actually needs: hydration, comfort and barrier support.


 

Meet the straightener that thinks for itself. The ghd Sculpt is the next generation of intelligent styling, using smart technology to monitor what’s happening between the plates and adjust heat as you move through your hair. Instead of blasting every section with the same temperature, it adapts to your styling technique—helping reduce unnecessary heat exposure while delivering smooth, glossy results. While it’s been created to smooth, you can create polished waves too; it’s smart styling - less guesswork. The new ghd Sculpt is also available in black.


 

Die-hard Nars mascara fans: consider your lashes officially lifted. An all-in-one option that delivers eye-opening lift, length and volume with 16-hour smudge- and flake-resistant wear. Its 3D film-flex formula and Argan oil coat lashes and lock the colour in place, conditioning your lashes over time. Clump-proof, humidity-proof and seriously long-wearing - meet the mascara worth making room for in your makeup bag. Available in Starstruck Black (pictured here) and Infamous Brown.


 

A high-shine hit of lustrous colour without the stickiness, this cushiony lip glaze smooths and visually plumps for a fuller-looking pout. The clean formula is powered by hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and smooth, plus vitamin E and botanical oils to condition lips. Think lipstick impact, gloss-level shine and serious comfort. We adore this new shade, Pink Suede.


 

This is your invitation to slow down and unwind. This scent is a floral-musk cocoon designed to help you reconnect and find calm. Bergamot and jasmine bring a sparkling freshness, while iris and vanilla soften into warm cedarwood for a sensual, soothing finish. Inspired by the tranquillity of a Zen garden, it’s less a fragrance and more a sensory ritual for the day. Spritz it on your skin, hair or your pillow before bed. We’re sold.
Available in 30ml, $140, 50ml, $ 200, 100ml, $225.


 

A cult favourite, refreshed. Bobbi Brown’s iconic Vitamin Enriched Face Base+ has had a serious glow-up. The new formula now delivers five times the total vitamin concentration, with added niacinamide, more vitamin B5, increased vitamin C, and boosted hyaluronic acid to hydrate, brighten, and smooth the look of skin. Still the much-loved cream-primer hybrid, it creates a plump, nourished canvas that helps makeup apply more seamlessly and last longer. Same cult status, but with a more sophisticated skincare-led formula.