In the ever-evolving world of beauty, new products launch constantly. Our editorial team tests dozens each month to separate the truly exceptional from the merely trendy. This week, three standout launches from Neutrogena, Chanel, and Byredo earned top marks from our beauty testers for their performance, innovation, and results.
Neutrogena's Answer to Chapped Lips
First on the list is a solution for a common Canadian winter woe: dry, chapped lips. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Lip Mask promises instant nourishment with a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and shea butter. It comes in two sheer shades: colourless Sheer Ice and a subtle Sheer Berry.
Our tester, battling a winter-weary pout, found the mask delivered immediate moisture and comfort without any sticky residue. "A little of this lip mask goes a long way," she noted, praising its ability to provide ultra-hydration while maintaining a lightweight feel. It's a practical and effective pick for harsh weather. The product is priced at $30 and available through retailers like Amazon.ca.
Chanel's Luxe Eye Area Revival
For those seeking a moment of high-end self-care, CHANEL's Le Lift Flash Eye Patch makes a compelling case. These eye patches are designed with low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid to target dehydration in the delicate under-eye area. Made from a lyocell textile imprinted with the CHANEL logo, they are as photogenic as they are functional.
Our tester put them to the test after a long flight, a classic scenario for tired eyes. "The lightweight textile means they stay in place, even when worn while doing something," she reported. The result was a visibly smoother, plumper, and more refreshed eye contour. While an investment at $158, they offer a chic and effective treatment for a quick pick-me-up, available at Chanel.com.
Byredo's Scent of "Good Vibes"
The final standout is a fragrance that coincides with a major retail expansion. Byredo's Alto Astral Eau de Parfum launched as the cult-favourite brand arrived in Sephora stores across Canada. The scent's name comes from a Brazilian Portuguese expression for optimism and "good vibes," blending unexpected notes of coconut and aldehyde with incense, jasmine petals, and sandalwood.
"This elixir is unlike anything our tester has tried before," we found. It strikes a unique balance between rich coconut, warm musk, and a hint of fresh florals, creating a profile that is sexy, unique, and not overly sweet. Priced at $310 for 50 mL, it's a distinctive olfactory statement available at Sephora.
These three products, tested in the week of January 6, 2026, represent the best in current beauty innovation—from accessible drugstore skincare and luxury treatments to niche fragrances. Each addresses a specific need with a formula that impressed our critical testers, proving that great beauty finds can come from any shelf.
