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Was it just us or did this year fly by? 2008 witnessed some pretty spectacular times for us here at Beauty Beast–for one thing, it’s the year we started! We can say with certainty that had it not been for some of these incredible products, we wouldn’t have had nearly as much incentive to blog our hearts out daily. Now, it’s safe to bet that everything we’ve featured over the past few months has a special place in our hearts (check the archives, people!), but there are a few that stood out, which we thought warranted some extra attention as we enter the New Year. These gems got us through good times and bad, and are sure to faithfully follow us into 2009. So without further ado, Beauty Beast presents Deidre and Hannah’s Beauty Favorites of 2008!

Deidre’s Picks:

Clinique SuperFit Foundation (pictured): This is the softest liquid-to-powder foundation that I’ve ever used!  It feels light and airy, but still delivers a sheer amount of coverage to even out skin tone and cover up imperfections.  It also provides a beautiful, dewy finish and never ends up looking matte or dry.  I love it!

Tarte Cheekstain in Blissful: Tarte’s Cheekstains are still my favorite way to give my cheeks a lasting flush of color.  When the brand released Blissful (a glowy, peachy, pink) earlier this year at Bergdorf Goodman, I knew it would be perfect for me.  Thankfully, it is now available on their Web site.  This is a shade I wear almost every day of the week.  It is that flattering.

Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder (pictured): I honestly don’t know how I ever lived without this translucent powder!  I had been using Bare Minerals Mineral Veil prior to this (which is also a great product), but once I felt how soft and finely-milled this powder was, I switched over for good.  This gives the skin a beautiful soft-focus finish for a flawless look.

Skyn Iceland Pure Cloud Cream: I have found my holy grail moisturizer.  Although the price tag for this product is a little steep ($75 for 1.7 oz), I don’t think I can go back to using something different.  This product feels cushiony and soft on my skin.  It isn’t heavy or oily and it has helped reduce some of the redness in my cheeks.  The scent is light and refreshing.  I never want to be without it.

Benefit Full Finish Lipstick in Lady’s Choice: I spent a good portion of the past couple years searching for the perfect pink nude lipstick.  And then Benefit made all my lovely lip dreams come true by releasing three new spring shades including Lady’s Choice– a sweet, rose-tinged nude.  I love the color, but the formula also never dries out my lips, and that is a huge plus in my book.

Hannah’s Picks:

Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Union Square (pictured): Nothing evokes New York City for me like the scents of Bond No. 9, and a trip to Manhattan isn’t complete until I’ve browsed the latest collections. The company, whose fragrances pay homage to New York City and its surrounding neighborhoods, outdoes itself every time with each new release, and is second to none when it comes to the highest quality formulations, packaging and branding. Choosing a favorite is close to impossible, but my scent of choice for 2008 came down to Andy Warhol Union Square. Inspired by Warhol’s love of springtime in New York City, and boasting a bold print from his Flowers portfolio, this scent will lift your spirits year-round. Lily of the Valley and green stem waft over midnotes of blue freesia and white birchwood, above an amber and musk base.

Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Bath & Shower Cream: Before this rich cream wash is out of the tube, I already feel as though I’ve been transported to an ancient far off land of idle relaxation and luxury. Infused with Tahitian Monoi Oil, Tiare flowers soaked in Coprah Oil and Frangipani flowers, this gentle paraben-free formula thoroughly cleanses without over-drying skin. Perfect on sunburned and chapped skin alike, my entire body is left feeling soft, nourished and renewed each time I shower.

T3 PRO Wet or Dry Straightening Iron: I jumped on the T3 bandwagon early, and they still manage to surprise me around every turn. Ever on the forefront of innovation, the latest (pink version!) PRO Wet-or-Dry Straightening Iron has not only taken the edge off of the dreaded styling of my long, thick hair–it’s made the whole process exponentially more enjoyable. Developed for use on wet or dry hair, the tourmaline technology coupled with an intricate design for infusing moisture and reducing damage leaves hair looking salon-perfect every time.

Revlon 3D Mascara in Blackest Black: Yes, with the hundreds of mascaras I’ve tried this year (and throughout my life), it always leads back to this steal from Revlon. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been asked whether I’m wearing false lashes while I’m wearing this revolutionary product (which has yet to be duplicated by another company, though not for lack of trying). The uniquely sculpted brush features short bristles for extreme fullness, long bristles for maximum length and a tapered tip to reach tiny corner and bottom lashes. The regular formula lasts for more than 24 hours at a time without smudging, flaking or caking. Because of this, I’ve never found it necessary to use the waterproof version. Two warnings, however: First, I’d be careful of wearing this during the day, as it does not offer a simple or natural look. This one is all about drama and intensity. Second, removing it is not the most pleasant experience–I tend to go through many a makeup removing pad. Totally worth it.

Zelens Intensive Triple Action Eye Cream (pictured): I’ve sort of been on a subconscious eye care kick this year. I’ll be pushing 25 in two years (yes, I’m counting), and I’d rather not have it push back. This lightweight but incredibly potent eye treatment cream instantly reduces puffiness and congestion, tightens and firms to reduce wrinkles, and fights free radicals to prevent premature aging. I wear it morning and night, and while results are noticeable instantaneously, continued use seems to turn back the clock. I won’t go anywhere without bringing this. It also looks damn attractive on a vanity.

Well, there you have it. We’re still a little shocked that we were able to get it into one feature. Stay tuned to see what excellent products make our lists for 2009. Thanks so much for being a part of our journey this year, and have a safe and BEAUTIFUL New Year!!

Love,
Hannah, Deidre and Beauty Beast