A New Year means out with the old and in with the new. But, before we do so, let’s take a look back at some of the top beauty products of the past year. 2012 delivered big statement beauty trends from dip-dye hair, big brows and the obsession that is nail art, to the newest must-have beauty releases. Here are our top 12 products of 2012 that are guaranteed not to break the bank…
1. Rimmel Scandal Eyes Mascara
Known for its jumbo packaging and even bigger wand, this mascara is guaranteed to give the look of long volumised lashes. The tapered brush means that you don’t have to battle with getting to those hard to reach lashes; the brush has it covered. This mascara is waterproof, which means that no matter what time of the year you choose to wear it, you will not end up having the dreaded panda eyes. This is a sure way to achieve stand out lashes on a student budget.
2. MUA Undressed Palette
Over the last couple of years, Urban Decay has been dominating the market with their Naked eye shadow palettes, however, they’re not exactly cheap. This year’s launch from MUA saw a dupe for the popular palette, meaning that you can get your hands on these colours for less. The palette holds similar shades and is a perfect palette to take you from day to night.
3. Kate Moss for Rimmel Lipstick
Released in October, Kate Moss introduced a matte range of lipsticks to her popular lasting finish collection. Bold lip colours have been a big trend of 2012 and are sure to carry on into 2013. The new range has quickly become a success after comparisons to higher range lipsticks, offering premium quality for such a small price tag.
4. Maybelline Fit Me Foundation
2012 saw Maybelline release their first gel foundation, free from waxes and fillers. With 12 shades, the brand have tried to cater to each skin tone and have released shades with undertones to fit your skin. In its short release, it has quickly become a favourite because of its natural looking effect and is sure to see you through the day or night.
5. Barry M Nail Polish
Barry M stayed one step ahead of the rest last year with the numerous on trend releases. The year saw the brand release one of a kind polishes that changed colour right down to gel inspired polishes. At affordable prices, Barry M cater to every need and is a student friendly alternative to get salon inspired nails.
6. Batiste Dry Shampoo
An essential product for savvy students who would like an extra 10 minutes in bed, Batiste Dry Shampoo comes in various scents and doesn’t break the bank. A couple of sprays into your roots will give your hair a makeover between washes, leaving hair looking fresh whilst giving volume on the go.
7. Sudocrem
2012 saw the nation gripped with a new beauty must have, and to the shock of many, it took the form of a tub of nappy rash cream. Sudocrem was revealed as a quick way of combatting acne, dry skin and redness, and is a firm favourite amongst celebrities like Cheryl and Chloe Sims. A cheaper alternative to skin creams, Sudocream is a must have for students on a budget.
8. Real Techniques Core Collection
The beginning of last year saw Youtuber turned Makeup Guru and one half of Pixiwoo, Samantha Chapman, release her highly anticipated Real Technique brushes. The Core Collection kit is a must have for any beauty fan, and comes with four essential brushes to help create that perfect canvas.
9. Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover
Bourjois changed the beauty market last year with the release of their magic nail polish remover. The jar is filled with foam coated nail polish remover, in order to eliminate the need for cotton wool. The idea? Place your nail in the jar, twist and when you remove your nail the polish is gone within seconds.
10. Collection 2000 Concealer
Being a student can often lead to late nights and the stress of assignments, and this is bound to affect your skin. However, one product stood out in 2012 as a great way of disguising blemishes and dark circles without costing the earth. Collection 2000’s concealer has great staying power, which means that it will see you through long university days and keep your skin looking great.
11. Nivea Lip Butter
A big trend of 2012 has been the lip butter, and towards the end of the year, Nivea jumped on this bandwagon with the introduction of their own butters. In three different scents, these are a delicious way to maintain moisturised lips during the colder months. Their newfound popularity is sure to carry on in 2013, offering a cheaper alternative to the lip butter trend.
12. Topshop Blush
Despite the high prices, Topshop remain a student favourite for their innovative fashion designs and it doesn’t stop here. Since the arrival of their makeup range, they have taken the high street by storm with cute packaging and great quality products. Their blushers especially stand out for their consistency; they apply as cream blushers, but dry with a powder finish. What’s better, you can even bag a discount by flashing your student card.
Written by Charlee Greenhalgh
