English Version | Test Drive: Mirror, mirror

No magic mirror is needed to tell us who's the most beautiful. It's us. Also because we know where to find multifunctional products that make our lives easier - thus saving us years of life. And beauty.

Promises: to be a 2-for-1, both in applications and functions. Vogue's word: it is the perfect beauty product to carry in your wallet, due to its multi-functions and compact packaging. It can be used on the cheeks as blush and on the lips as lipstick. Its creamy, lightweight formula makes application easy - the product glides on to the skin, creating the perfect dewy look. Although this balm has a strong pigment, it is possible to build up more or less color, with more or less layers of product. Its natural tone makes the complexion look brighter and healthier, while moisturizing it, due to ingredients such as jojoba seed oil and grape extract.

Promises: to moisturize the skin, protect the skin barrier, and increase the skin's resistance against daily aggressions. Vogue's word: There's a lot of talk these days about protecting the skin's moisture barrier - and rightly so, since a healthy skin barrier is halfway to a flawless complexion. This serum from Vichy delivers on its promise, hydrating the skin and giving it a plumped look. The formula is super light and quickly absorbed, which makes it an excellent base for either the application of the remaining skincare or even makeup. Moreover, as its composition is simple - an 89% concentration of Volcanic Thermal Water associated with Hyaluronic Acid of natural origin - it is an ideal product for every day, even when our skin is more sensitive or irritated. It has become, for me, a must-have.

Promises: to illuminate and smooth the skin. Vogue's word: on the upper cheekbones, on the inner corner of the eyes, on the cupid's bow... Any of these places is good to apply Carolina Herrera's fantastic illuminator, which provides a radiant glow instantly. Its ultra-creamy powder texture has a pearly finish, which guarantees a flawless look for hours - making this Fabulous Skin Highliter Refill the star product to bring in your purse on a night out, when you just want to highlight your makeup, and little else. The fact that it has a cream-to-powder formula ensures greater adherence to the complexion, leaving it glowing for hours and hours. Just how we want to…

Promises: revitalize and brighten the skin, reduce signs of fatigue, stimulate the skin's collagen and defend it from pollution. Vogue's word: I confess that I haven't tried any vitamin C serums yet, as I am quite skeptical when it comes to skincare trends. I have always had quite sensitive skin, so adding a new product is a challenge. After testing this serum I can say with certainty that it has made my complexion look much brighter - and I notice that the tone is noticeably more even. Also, oxidation of the serum is not a problem as the vitamin C comes separately, in powder form, which ensures its durability. This is one of those products that got me really excited and I am very curious to see what results it will bring in the future because, so far, I'm a fan.

Translated from the original on The Pleasure Isse, published May 2023.Full stories and credits on the print issue.