Vicki’s January Beauty Favourites

New year, new beauty obsessions! January had me discovering fresh favourites—whether it was the skincare saviour that got me through the winter chill or the makeup must-have that made my five-minute face feel effortlessly glam. From glow-boosting serums to lip colours I couldn’t stop reapplying, these are the top 10 beauty picks that earned a permanent spot in my routine (until next month, at least). —Vicki Duong

quickies. Meet your new mani obsession: Quickies press-ons ($30). This Canadian brand makes it easy to get a flawless, salon-quality manicure in minutes with a variety of lengths and shapes to suit every style. Whether you love a classic short square or a bold stiletto, there’s a set for you. Plus, they’ve teamed up with some of the biggest celebs, including Ciara Miller and Ariana Madix, for exclusive collabs that bring star-worthy nails straight to your fingertips.

skinfix. Dry winter skin? Not on my watch! Skinfix’s Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume ($93) is basically a magic balm for parched, irritated skin—think of it as a derm-approved hug for your face. Packed with exosomes (tiny but mighty skin messengers) and soothing ectoin, this silky balm-serum hybrid helps smooth fine lines, fade dark spots, and keep your skin barrier happy. 

summer fridays. Exciting news: Summer Fridays’ Dream Lip Oil ($35) just got even better, and I’m obsessed! They’ve added new shades to the lineup, and my favourite is Midnight Berry, a rich, deep berry that’s chic and moody. Same ultra-hydrating, high-shine formula I love, now in a shade that brings the perfect touch of drama.

eos. eos lotion ($20) has earned its cult-favourite status for a reason. A rich yet fast-absorbing formula provides 24-hour hydration while keeping skin soft, smooth, and nourished. Infused with 7 kinds of butter and oils, it delivers lasting moisture without feeling heavy or greasy, all with beautifully subtle, dreamy scents. A skincare staple for all-day comfort.

collage beauty. Collage Beauty’s Gesso Niacinamide Balm ($109) is the perfect finishing touch to any skincare routine. Designed to seal in moisture and enhance the benefits of your serums and moisturizers, this ultra-hydrating balm provides a protective layer while delivering the powerhouse benefits of niacinamide helping to even skin tone, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce redness.

tatcha. Tatcha’s The Brightening Eye Cream ($86) is a game-changer for tired eyes. Powered by 12-hour time-release Vitamin C, depuffing bioferments, and niacinamide, it works to visibly brighten, firm, and reduce dark circles while strengthening the skin barrier. Whether your under-eyes need a boost from hyperpigmentation, puffiness, or dullness, this luxurious formula helps restore a refreshed “I just woke up” look.

charlotte tilbury. Creating a monochromatic makeup look has never been easier with these limited-edition Charlotte Tilbury colour palettes ($81). Designed to enhance every eye colour, each palette features a mix of vibrant, blendable shades that layer effortlessly for a seamless, multi-dimensional finish. Whether you’re going for soft and subtle or bold and dramatic, these versatile hues make it easy to achieve.

youth to the people. The Superfood Body Cleanser ($53) )from Youth to the People is like a green juice for your skin packed with niacinamide, kale, and green tea extracts to nourish, balance, and hydrate while cleansing. The gentle, plant-based formula creates a rich lather that removes buildup without stripping moisture, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed.

omy labs. A micellar water that does more than cleanse. The Physiological Cleansing Micellar Water ($30) from Omy Labs removes makeup (yes, even waterproof mascara) and impurities while hydrating and soothing even the most sensitive skin. Coconut-derived micelles cleanse gently, while electrolytes from Canadian water and PHA help maintain moisture and support the skin barrier.

rhode. Rhode’s Peptide Lip Shape ($24) is here to change the way you define your lips. Unlike traditional lip liners, this contouring lip pencil is designed to blend effortlessly, enhancing your natural shape rather than just outlining it. Infused with peptides for a smoothing effect, it glides on like a dream. Perfect for creating that soft, pillowy look Hailey Bieber is known for.