Makeup and beauty must-haves that actually make getting ready fun

From skin-loving masks to pout-perfecting glosses, these beauty heroes have earned their cult status for a reason. Here’s your ultimate edit of must-haves that truly deliver on their promise.

Too Faced Ribbon Wrapped Lash Tubing Mascara, ₹2,650

For lashes so fine, get your hands on this mascara that boasts cutting-edge Ribbon Wrap™ technology. Clump proof, flake-resistant, unparalleled lash length, and lift—need we say more?

Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask (Cool Mint Chocolate), ₹1,100

Mint choco? Sign us up. Presenting the limited edition variant of a cult classic—this mask soaks up excess sebum, tightens pores, and gently exfoliates the skin for an oh-so-fresh feeling.

Dr.Jart+ Prejuvenation Firming Bakuchiol Cream, ₹4,800

Make way, collagen-boosting bakuchiol takes centre stage. This cream tends to wrinkles and fine lines for a firmer, even-textured visage. Better yet, it’s super safe for sensitive skin.

Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain, ₹2,450

Benetint now comes in two new shades—raspberry and dark cherry. Known for its staying power and au naturel finish, the sister shades add to Benefit Cosmetics’ repertoire of legendary products.

Smashbox Halo Plump + Glow Lip Gloss, ₹2,200

Available in seven scrumptious shades, this ultra-plumping lip gloss goes beyond the call of duty to nourish your pucker for up to six hours. If you experience a tingling sensation upon application, rest assured, it’s working. Bonus: It’s non-sticky.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour, ₹3,600

Meet this easy-to-blend, weightless contour for chiselled cheekbones and a razor-sharp jawline. Just dot, blend, and you’re good to go!

Acqua di Parma Arancia di Capri La Riserva EDP, ₹17,500 for 50ml

Heady notes of blood orange, mandarin, basil, suede, and cedarwood come together to give you a scent that lingers on.

Skin Deli Brightening Serum, ₹699

A potent blend of niacinamide, alpha arbutin, tranexamic acid, and natural extracts, this power-packed formulation grants you improved luminosity, tackles hyperpigmentation, and leaves you with radiant, even-toned skin.

AESTURA Atobarrier365 Hydro Soothing Cream, ₹2,000

Rejoice, skincare girlies! This K-beauty kingpin has entered the Indian market. Best suited for oily and combination skin, the lightweight formula doubles down on moisturisation without clogging your pores.

Clayco. Matcha Enzyme Scrub with AHA & BHA, ₹799

Jump aboard the matcha bandwagon with this enzyme-infused exfoliant. It warrants a deep cleanse, all while diminishing the appearance of enlarged pores and fading dark spots.

KIKO Milano Building Base Mascara, ₹1,050

Pre-game your lashes with this efficacious primer promising improved volume, length, and lift. Don’t wish to deck up? A single swipe of this (minus a mascara topcoat) should suffice.

Chloé Nomade Lumière d’Égypte EDP, ₹12,500 for 75ml

An amalgam of blue lotus, jasmine absolute, and kyphi accord, this floral-aquatic fragrance is an olfactory sensation.

Mac Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation, ₹3,400

A brand new formula, refillable packaging, and an expanded range of 60 shades, this fan-favourite has secured its spot in our carts—and hearts.

All images: The brands

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

Also read: #InsiderFavourites: The beauty, hair, and skincare products these pros swear by

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