Navigating the world of beauty and skin care products can be super overwhelming — especially when you’re seeing viral products online and wondering whether they’re really worth your time. You might receive some great body cream recommendations from your besties, or your fave influencer swears by this curling iron you’ve seen trending on social media. But there’s that constant worry of investing time, money, and precious space in your beauty bag. And it’s the absolute worst if you discover the product doesn’t work for you and your hair or skin type.
That’s why Her Campus and a team of 30 Gen Z beauty testers put the latest viral-favorite products to work for the 2023 College Beauty Awards. You can totally trust these recommendations for what products on your feed are actually worth your coin. Our testers have the scoop on the best products to help make your next beauty haul way easier.
Here are the must-have, viral favorite products that have earned the CBA seal of approval, chosen by our dedicated testers! From hydrating moisturizers that leave your skin radiant to versatile essentials that are game-changers for busy college students, check out these seven viral beauty products our testers absolutely adore.
BeautyBlender Power Pocket Puff ($18)
This dual-sided puff, with its precision triangle corner, is perfect for covering and setting the undereyes. “It really worked well to press powder into my skin, leaving my T-zone flawless and poreless,” says Ellie.
Beachwaver Co. Multi Barrel ($249)
This viral TikTok curling iron “makes doing different kinds of curls so easier, and I feel so luxurious with not having to twist my own hair around the barrel,” Julia says. It creates super easy beach waves for any hair type and length.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide ($10)
Looking for a new light, gel-based primer? You’ve met your match. “Not only is the consistency really good, but it blends into my skin and helps my makeup stay on. It’s definitely worth the price and I love the tube’s pump,” Camille says.
Half Magic Glitterpuck ($26)
“This product is gorgeous, the packaging is so fun, and there is so much product in the container,” Kaytlyn says. And who doesn’t love a good sparkle? With this lightweight body, eye, and face glitter, you’ll have a pink, sparkly finish that adds a subtle yet glamorous touch to any makeup look.
YSL Beauty Libre Le Parfum ($110)
Need a quick refresh before going to your next class or meeting? The YSL Beauty LIBRE LE PARFUM is the perfect perfume option, giving you a delightful burst of cool lavender, sensual orange blossom, and warm saffron that’ll keep you feeling fabulous throughout your entire work schedule. Chyna says, “Not only does it smell amazing, but it’s a beautiful bottle.”
Topicals Faded Serum ($38)
This lightweight serum makes your skin feel more alive, fading discoloration, acne scars, and more. “It helped my skin tone even out, and I’m glad, because I have a really uneven skin tone. I also noticed that my pores were getting a bit smaller around my nose, too,” says Sabrina.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream ($48)
“It smells like an absolute dream,” Madison says. “My skin feels so soft, it’s unreal.” This delightful firming body cream, which Madison says smells of vanilla, salted caramel, and a hint of pistachio, doesn’t feel thick at all — it’s really smooth and has a butter-like texture.