As the leaves changed and temperatures dropped in fall 2022, beauty editors and editors‑at‑large were busy testing hundreds of new launches across skincare, makeup, hair, and body care. A handful of these products quickly became favorites — not just for innovation, but for delivering noticeable results, delightful textures, or everyday utility. If you missed launching your autumn routine last year, these are the products that beauty lovers kept returning to again and again.
☀️ Sun Protection With Style
Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30
Sunscreen doesn’t have to feel boring, and this whipped, water‑resistant SPF turned heads for its light, mousse‑like feel and nostalgic scent reminiscent of vintage beach protectors. It won fans for combining robust SPF protection with an airy, classic sunscreen vibe.
✨ Face & Complexion Focus
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Face Primer
This brightening primer brought new life to dull complexions. Its creamy yellow finish smooths uneven texture and preps makeup — or can be worn alone to subtly perk up tired skin.
Ami Cole Skin Enhancing Concealer
Finding a concealer that checks all boxes — coverage, finish, and texture — can be tough. This fluid formula blends naturally, hides imperfections well, and dries to a balanced glow that doesn’t feel heavy.
Glossier No. 1 Pencil
A standout eyeliner for everyday wear, this pencil delivers a creamy glide that isn’t too matte or too glossy. With a curated shade range, it lets you make anything from a subtle definition to a bold look with ease.
Tower28 Makewaves Mascara
A playful pick that delivers lift and length without irritation, making it a fun, fuss‑free choice for those seeking eye‑opening definition.
Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant
For gentle but effective exfoliation, this powder‑to‑cream formula combines AHAs and BHAs to buff away dead skin without stripping moisture — ideal for fall skin prep.
💦 Hydration & Body Care Essentials
Cay Skin Deepwater Dew Body Serum
As humidity dropped with the season, this serum became a body hydration go‑to. It adds moisture with a soft, subtle bronze finish when used under lotion, perfect for fall glow without shine overload.
✨ Beauty Tools & Enhancements
Chillhouse Chill Tips Press‑On Nails
Not into salon appointments? These thoughtfully designed press‑on nails made it easy to score a polished mani at home. With snug fit and design variety, they became a quick, stylish way to elevate fall looks.
Crown Affair Waffle Knit Hair Towel
A simple switch from regular towels to a waffle‑knit microfiber towel made hair drying faster and gentler — a small upgrade that felt like a big quality‑of‑life improvement.
💡 Why These Picks Mattered
What connected these fall favorites was a balance of performance and pleasure — whether that meant a sunscreen you actually enjoy applying, makeup that felt effortless every day, or a beauty tool that made routines easier. Rather than fleeting gimmicks, these products answered real seasonal needs: hydration as the air dried out, makeup that lasted through long days, and skincare that helped transition from summer to fall.
🧴 Pro Tips for Fall Beauty Routines
- Layer for hydration: As temperatures drop, a hydrating serum under lotion (or even body serum before cream) gives skin an extra moisture boost.
- Primer isn’t just makeup prep: A primer with skin benefits — like brightening vitamin C — can help even bare skin look more awake on gray days.
- Choose tools that simplify: Small comforts like press‑on nails or quick‑dry hair towels make routines feel easier — and more fun.
🌟 The Bottom Line
Fall 2022 was a season full of beauty innovation, but only a select few products made the cut as favorites — ones editors, beauty insiders, and regular users kept reaching for. From a whimsical whipped SPF to effortless concealers and hydration heroes, these launches stood out because they combined efficacy with everyday playability. Whether you’re rediscovering last year’s hits or looking for inspiration for this season’s routines, these picks represent what many found most exciting in autumn beauty.
