6 Products We Gave a Second Chance (And Now Love)

Glossier Lash Slick

Glossier Lash Slick $16.00

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"I have always been into really thick, dramatic lashes—and search for mascara to help facilitate that. I like inky-black, over-the-top, fluttery goodness. So, when Glossier launched Lash Slick, a mascara meant to look natural in an "everyday" sort of way, I gave it the cold shoulder. "I don't want a mascara that doesn't look like I'm wearing mascara," I said at the time. Then I quickly changed my tune. Glossier's formula is the only one that doesn't smudge, flake, or leave those raccoon-y clouds below my lashline. And, yes, it is natural-looking—but it lengthens, separates, and curls my lashes into the fluffiest, softest things I've ever seen. If I'm wearing mascara during the day (or during a time when I really don't want smudges), you can guarantee it's Lash Slick." —Hallie Gould, senior editor

Dermaflash Luxe Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device

Dermaflash Luxe Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device $199.00

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"This is one of those tools where you really need to read the instructions, because you won't get the maximum result if you're not using the right angle or pressure. When this at-home dermaplaning tool landed on my desk, I couldn't unbox it fast enough. I hurriedly washed my face, popped a blade on the end, and started attacking my peach fuzz. I was unsuccessful, blamed the tool, and gave it to a coworker. About a year later, I had a meeting with a rep for the brand, who told me it's important to pull your skin taut and move in upward, sweeping motions. I listened to her and gave the Dermaflash a second try, and it has legitimately transformed my skin. Using the correct technique lifts away my peach fuzz and dead skin cells, leaving me with super smooth baby seal skin." —Holly Rhue, associate editor

DevaCurl Melt Into Moisture Matcha Butter Conditioning Mask

DevaCurl Melt Into Moisture Matcha Butter Conditioning Mask $17.00

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"The first time Deva Curl’s Melt Into Moisturize Mask came into my life I was taking way better care of my hair. I think of that time now as my 'newly natural' attention to detail, where every wash-and-go had to be perfect. After the first use, I remember thinking my hair was softer and more hydrated but nothing special—so, I continued my search. Years later, my wash days are much more spaced out, leaving my hair dry and thirsty by the time I’m ready to co-wash. I’ve recently added this mask to my routine again (and wow, the difference is noticeable right after rinsing). My hair is softer and my curls stay defined for so much longer. It’s formulated with matcha green tea butter, which is great for locking in hydration. So much so I even use it as a leave-in here and there. I'm definitely not going to sleep on this mask again." —Star Donaldson, associate social media editor

Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara

Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara $18.00

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"I don't roll the dice very often when it comes to mascara. My blonde, thin, short lashes need a lot of support, so when I find a volumizing and lengthening formula that doesn't clump or flake off, I stick to it and wave my hand at anything else that comes my way. Though, there was something about the Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir mascara that intrigued me: Its lengthening proprietary complex was inspired by Jacobs' mom who would shave off tiny fibers from black velvet ribbon to Macgyver her own lash extensions, which, in all honesty, just sounds luxe enough to swipe it on.

"My first few encounters with the hourglass brush and perfectly thick (but not too thick) formula went swimmingly, but for some reason, I eventually reverted back to my usual tubes to, I don't know, play it safe. But after seeing its sleek black hexagonal figure staring back at me in my makeup organizer each morning, I decided to give it another whirl. This was months ago, and at this point, I can't imagine returning to my old faithfuls. I even had a makeup artist recently comment on how well the quality read on my lashes. We'll see how long this love affair lasts, but for the interim, we're in a committed relationship." —Lindsey Metrus, senior editor

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum $39.00

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"I expected a lot the first time I tried this serum. Based on the name of the product alone, I was anticipating this formula would sit on top of the skin a bit, creating that reflective 'glass skin' effect. Instead, it absorbed like a regular serum and didn't seem to make much of a difference in my skin. Months later, I accidentally packed Peach & Lily's Glass Skin Serum on a trip to Florida and was shocked when I saw photographs of myself. In my dim bedroom lighting, I couldn't see the real results this serum delivered. But under the sunshine, my skin looked luminous, smooth, and reflective—truly like glass. Now I wear it every single day and revel in the fact that everyone thinks I'm wearing some kind of expensive highlight." —Holly Rhue, associate editor

SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum

SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum $281.00

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"It's so hard to judge a skincare product in just a few tries. It really does take time to see results, and that's not a bad thing. But, given my usual penchant for instant gratification, I cast off this serum after just one use. My dear god, was I wrong. It's now one of my absolute favorite products and I use it twice a day. The bottle features two active formulas (they're in separate chambers until you pump them out and mix them together on the back of your hand), one with protein (aka growth factors) and amino acids and the other with peptides and antioxidants. Together, it's an anti-aging and brightening powerhouse that very literally helps to regenerate your skin cells. I can't recommend it enough. It's expensive, I know, but it absolutely delivers real results after about a week or two of use." —Hallie Gould, senior editor