#InsiderFavourites: Fashion and beauty insiders share the one product they can't stop going back to

Everyone has that one beauty or lifestyle product they can’t live without—the scent, the skincare, the ritual that feels like second skin. We asked 25 insiders from fashion, beauty, and lifestyle to reveal the must-haves they always return to. From Lauren Gottlieb’s wedding-day fragrance to Prerna Massey’s go-to calming body lotion, these selections aren’t just products; they’re personal stories and timeless favourites that insiders swear by and always restock.

Lauren Gottlieb, actor-performer

I wanted a special fragrance to mark the most meaningful moment of my life—my wedding with Tobias Jones in Tuscany. On a whim, I walked into a Diptyque store where the saleswoman asked me a bunch of questions: “Where are you getting married? What time of the year? Which flowers?” She then carefully guided me towards Do Son by Diptyque. It’s warm and delicate, and evokes the golden glow of the Italian sun. I also gifted it to my bridesmaids, so we all share the scent, forever tied to some of the happiest days of our lives.

Divita Anjesh, content creator

Santal Royal by Guerlain was the first luxury fragrance I ever owned—gifted to me by my father who was working with the brand at the time. With every whiff, I’m transported to the warm evenings in Dubai, reminiscent of my childhood spent in the Middle East.

Aprajita Toor, footwear and accessories designer

For me, Cinéma by YSL is not just a perfume, it’s a childhood memory. Velvety and luminous, the scent is soaked in drama and just the right amount of vintage glamour. It reminds me of home and warm afternoons in the loving embrace of my grandmother.

Arpita Mehta, fashion designer

Dolce & Gabbana’s The One takes me back to my early 20s, when life was carefree, unpredictable, and a whole lot simpler.

Nitibha Kaul, content creator and entrepreneur

Fantasy by Britney Spears was the first-ever perfume I convinced my parents to buy me as a little girl. Every time I wore it, I felt empowered...like a diva, daring to dream big. While I no longer own a bottle, I’d love to pick one up from a vintage market!

Tarini Peshawaria, content creator

The Chemist at Play 5% AHA Underarm Roll On works for my sensitive underarm skin. It keeps foul odour at bay and lends an oh-so-fresh feeling without stinging or burning.

Alaviaa Jaaferi, content creator

The Le Labo Body Cream smells insane, and the comforting aroma really sticks to the body. I always get compliments!

Krutika Raut, content creator

The Body Shop Satsuma Shower Gel makes me feel instantly refreshed. I love its clean, soothing fragrance; it’s become such a feel-good part of my bodycare routine.

Alicia Kaur, model

I exfoliate my skin up to twice a week, often after shaving or when it feels particularly rough. I lather on a generous amount of the Forest Essentials Silkening Shower Wash Indian Rose Absolute on exfoliating gloves, and then turn to cold-pressed coconut oil for moisturisation.

Prerna Massey, model and content creator

The Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Moisturizing Body Lotion is my go-to for winding down. The refreshing aroma puts me in a relaxed state, especially during hectic shoot days when I need a quick reset. Plus, it’s super hydrating and leaves a light, crisp scent that lingers on without being too overpowering.

This article first appeared in Cosmopolitan India's July-August 2025 print edition. 

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