Phyl Clarke on the best-selling cosmetics that have star quality.
Star quality: that elusive something that shines out and demands our attention. Squillions of euro are spent annually on research, production and advertising of new cosmetics products, not to mention packaging, which in some cases, costs more than the product inside.
Some do not even return the money invested in them - the electronic voting machines of the cosmetics world - while others just keep on selling and selling, getting the customers' vote time after time.
These were the thoughts going through my head the other day, as I trawled through the maze of cosmetic stands, each with an alluring range of colours and textures, each with their own version of the "look" of the season. But most brands make their money on a few star products. What really sells? What are the products with that certain "je ne sais quoi"?
CLINIQUE
There was worldwide protest some years ago when Clinique dared to suggest that its Black Honey lip shade was to be discontinued. Beauty editors lamented, and a shopping frenzy ensued as women sought to stock up on their favourite shade. Eventually, Clinique decided to relent, and customers were spared the task of finding another "perfect" shade. Clinique's best-selling skincare product, Dramatically Different Moisturiser (€40), is part of their three-step skincare programme and also has legions of fans. From their 13 different foundation ranges, the top seller is Superbalanced foundation in shade Ivory, costing €26. Lip shade Nude Splurge (€19) is also very popular.
LANCÔME
Lancôme's skincare top seller is the relaunched Absolue Premium BX Advanced Replenishing Cream, which claims to offer rejuvenation, nourishment and radiance. Just as well, as you'll have to part with €130 for it. The ever popular Juicy Tubes (€17.50) still fly off the shelves, and the foundation Teint Idole in shade 03 (suits everyone, I'm told) is another front runner (€36).
DIOR
The award-winning Capture R 60/80 eye cream, selling for €48, is a runaway success for Dior, and is constantly on order. Their 5-colour eyeshadow sets (€45.50) are beautiful combinations of five harmonious shades, but it's the set called Mystic Jade that customers walk away with most often.
YSL
No surprises at . Touche Eclat (€28.50) is possibly the most imitated product of them all. Many have tried, but none have bettered the under-eye brightener that brushes away tiredness, fatigue and stress. Along with Lisse Experts treatment cream (€47) and Luxurious Volumising Mascara (€25.50) these are what the people at YSL call the "must haves". Rouge Pur Lipstick in Rosewood (€26), a great everyday colour that seems to match whatever you're wearing, is a recent hit.
ESTÉE LAUDER
It pays to have the "face" of your brand snapped at all the top events, and Estée Lauder has a lot to thank Liz Hurley for. Her use of Advanced Night Repair (from €48), helps it to top their skincare poll, while the neutral Tender Blush in shade Nude Blush (€33) and lip colour Crystal Rose (€21) keep us coming back for more.
SHISEIDO
This company is famous for its skincare research and its Day Essential Moisturiser (€46) is their most popular product. Lifting foundation is a rich cream formula said to minimise fine lines, plus it has the added benefit of SPF 15 (€40). Two lip shades jointly top the best selling list: Salmon Rose and Nuance Rose, both €22.
ELIZABETH ARDEN
Onward through the red door of Elizabeth Arden. I'd be surprised, no flabbergasted, if its top product was not the acclaimed Eight Hour Cream. And would good old Flawless Finish foundation beat the others across the line? Yes, on both counts. The multi-purpose Eight Hour Cream (€25) is a handbag staple, and Flawless Finish in shade Honey Beige (on special offer for €15 at selected outlets) is still its most popular seller. A newcomer among its top sellers is Plump Lipstick, which is said to plump up the lips, and Perfect Fig is the shade most customers take home.
BENEFIT
These products hail from San Francisco, and have a fun approach to make-up and packaging. But don't be deceived, there are some effective potions behind that girlie exterior. Dear John (€38), is its best-selling skincare product: a day/night cream all in one. Dr. Feelgood (€29.50), is a primer and pore minimiser which is another best-seller and treats skin into the bargain. They call it "Supermodel in a bottle". (€24), a highlighter favoured by Kylie Minogue, gives a subtle gleam to the face.
CLARINS
This company is renowned for its skincare, and has a star product in Beauty Flash Balm (€32). This has a mildly tightening effect that lifts the skin. Award-winning Hand and Nail Cream (€18) now comes with SPF 15, which makes it a good choice, and Shade 09 in their Extra Firming Foundation (€38) is the one that needs to be restocked most often.
CHANEL
Just to show us that new is not necessarily better, the skincare favourite from is Hydromax gel and cream, which suits all skin types and costs €52. , at a whopping €230, is a luxurious cream that must show results as buyers they keep coming back for more. Bronze Universal is a year-round best seller costing €34, and this product also has a loyal male following. Two of Chanel's newer products have been selling up a storm. The Inimitable mascara (€24), is a current favourite of mine, and the new foundation Teint Innocence (€43), is proving a hit with the punters.
I could keep going, and will check in with other brands in the future, but I hope this has given you some good information for your next expedition to the make-up counter.