Our Favorite Beauty Products of May 2021
HYPEBAE editors reveal their summer skincare essentials.
Between game-changing skincare treatments and exciting new makeup launches, at HYPEBAE, our editors test out a bunch of products every month to find and share with you our latest beauty favorites. With the summer season upon us, we are refreshing our vanity cabinets with products formulated to protect, nourish and hydrate the skin without weighing it down or making it look greasy. From a clear sunscreen stick made for easy application (and a must for reapplication), to a non-stripping cleanser made popular by TikTokers, read on for the products we tried and enjoyed using this May.
For more on sun protection, our editor has rounded up the best new sunscreens of 2021.
Ole Henriksen C-Rush Brightening Gel Crème
The vibrant orange packaging of Ole Henriksen’s Truth Collection has in my mind always been synonymous with clean, zingy-fresh skin. Having in the past been slightly out of reach, the cult-favorite Danish skincare brand has now finally arrived in Hong Kong, and I can confirm that the vitamin C-infused C-Rush Brightening Gel Crème is the key to a brighter complexion. Thanks to its intensely moisturizing, anti-pollution formula, I’ve been reaching for this as a daily moisturizer. Although it feels quite rich in the jar, the gel consistency is surprisingly ideal for summer weather and adds much-needed bounce and firmness to my skin. Added bonus: it smells like a creamsicle and I love it. – Zarah Cheng, Editor-in-Chief
SUPEREGG Sound Renewal Moisturizer
Having followed Erica Choi of Egg Canvas for quite some time, I was more than excited to try her new skincare line SUPEREGG when it launched. One of the label’s inaugural products, the Sound Renewal Moisturizer didn’t disappoint. The esthetician-approved, nourishing gel-cream comes in the most aesthetically pleasing packaging. With a light consistency that preps the skin before makeup application, the fragrance-free formula is ideal for day use. – YeEun Kim, Associate Editor
CeraVe SA Cleanser
As someone who has sensitive, acne-prone skin, I’ve learned that sometimes it’s best to keep my skincare routine simple, prioritizing cleansing as well as hydration with non-fussy products. After TikTok caused the CeraVe SA Cleanser to sell out everywhere, a while ago, I was finally able to pick up a bottle from my local pharmacy. True to the reviews, the affordable facial cleanser — formulated with salicylic acid, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide — is gentle, non-drying and effectively clears skin. If you ever spot anyone stocking up on this product at the drugstore, that’s me. – Teresa Lam, Features Editor
GELCARE Nail Color “Chartreuse”
From Montréal-based GELCARE, “Chartreuse” perfectly captures summer in a nail color. The lime green gel polish is just one of the many stunning shades from the brand’s newly launched Spring/Summer 2021 collection. You’ll fine me wearing “Klein Blue” and the pastel lilac “Taro Tea” on my nails as well. – Teresa Lam, Features Editor
Nécessaire The Body Serum
A few months ago, the skin on my arms were as dry as they had ever been. There were also rough patches all over the skin that caused itchiness throughout the day. I realized that my body lotion wasn’t giving my skin enough moisture, so I turned to Nécessaire’s The Body Serum. Infused with hyaluronic acid, the product instantly provides hydration, while its niacinamide, vitamin B5 and ceramide NP components help support the skin moisture barrier. After just two weeks of using this daily, my complexion has improved, and now, my arms no longer look like they’re shedding. – Pauline De Leon, Associate Editor
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
It’s officially summer in New York, signaling the return of beach days, picnics and barbecues. Of course, outdoor gatherings require a pair of fabulous shades and plenty of sunscreen. Shiseido’s Clear Sunscreen Stick is ideal for on-the-go touch-ups (you should be re-applying every two hours) and, unlike many options, actually applies clear. The portable stick provides waterproof SPF 50 protection, without the annoying white cast — here’s to practicing safe sun. – Alexandra Pauly, Associate Editor
