The 21 Best Beauty September Launches Are Making Me Excited for Cooler Weather
A rather cozy lineup, if I do say so myself.
- Best Lipstick
- Best Skin Tint
- Best Blush
- Best Retinoid
- Best Moisturizer
- Best Eye Cream
- Best Sunscreen
- Best Barrier Balm
- Best Longevity Serum
- Best Lavender Perfume
- Best Vanilla Perfume
- Best Hair Perfume
- Best Gourmand Perfume
- Best Coffee Perfume
- Best Unisex Perfume
- Best Makeup Bag
- Best Skincare-Infused Bedding
- Why Trust Marie Claire
September has come and gone, and while I’m endlessly happy that fall is finally here, the most exciting thing about the past month is the phenomenal beauty launches that came across my desk. If you know anything about me, you likely know that quite a few fragrances caught my attention over the past four weeks. One of my favorite gourmand notes got a delectable upgrade thanks to a new D’Orsay release; Creed has released its best perfume of all time (and I fully stand by that claim), and Frederic Malle came out with a love letter in the form of a fragrance. All of them will make a delicious addition to any scent wardrobe.
On the makeup front, MAC Cosmetics made a gorgeous addition to its current complexion lineup that is going to be fab for anyone who does their makeup on the go and loves to glow, too. Dior has released a new blurred lip formula that literally feels like nothing on the lips but lasts all day (and night if you want), and even BK Beauty, a well-known brush brand, has gotten into the makeup game and released a stellar blush formula that I simply haven’t been able to put down. As I rework my skincare routine for the colder weather, I’ve been playing around with quite a few new moisturizers, SPFs, and eye products, plus an addition to my LED device collection that takes customization to a whole new level.
Is your interest sufficiently piqued? Good. Keep reading for the details on all the products that caught the beauty team's eye this month. Plus, save the trip outside and shop the list from the comfort of your home. You’re welcome.
The 21 Best September Beauty Launches
- Best Lipstick: Rouge Dior On Stage Ink Blur Matte Liquid Lipstick
- Best Skin Tint: MAC Cosmetics Studio Radiance Skin Tint Stick
- Best Blush: BK Beauty Skin Perfecting Cream Blush
- Best Retinoid: Noble Panacea NAD+ Booster
- Best Moisturizer: One Skin Face Rich Cream
- Best Eye Cream: Neuraé Harmonie The Eye Contour
- Best Sunscreen: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Daily Face Sunscreen SPF 70
- Best Barrier Balm: Marie Veronique Senolytic Balm
- Best LED Mask: Current Body LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 3
- Best Dry Brush: La Bonne Brosse Dry Brush for Sensitive Skins
- Best Body Collection: Skinpotion Vibras Skin Ritual
- Best Body Cream: Clé de Peau Synactif Body Cream
- Best Longevity Serum: Byoma Longevit-8 Peptide Serum
- Best Lavender Perfume: Creed Iris Debonair Eau de Parfum
- Best Vanilla Perfume: Dorsay Vanilla Affair Extrait de Parfum
- Best Hair Perfume: Cécred Temple Oud Hair Perfume
- Best Gourmand Perfume: Frederic Malle Northern Love Eau de Parfum
- Best Coffee Perfume: DedCool Mocha Magic Eau de Parfum
- Best Unisex Perfume: Parfums de Marly Althaïr Exclusif Parfum
- Best Makeup Bag: Leatherology Makeup Bag in Brown Croc
- Best Skincare-Infused Bedding: Coop Cooper + Pillow and Sheet Set
Best Lipstick
Dior has done it again with the launch of the On Stage Ink Blur lipstick. Whether you opt for a full-on swipe of color, layer it, or sheer the formula out, expect a wash of pigment that won’t move until you take your makeup off, and Dior’s signature luxury packaging experience.
Review: “This is my new favorite liquid lip! I’m usually not a fan of matte lipsticks, but this one is phenomenal! It left my lips feeling so soft. I love the way the color looks on me! It’s also very buildable, which you don’t usually see in lip products. It’s a soft matte with a beautiful blurring effect. It smells great, and it’s transfer-proof! I wore it all day, and I barely had to reapply. If you think you don’t like matte lipsticks, please give this one a try!” — Sephora
Best Skin Tint
If you love a glowy complexion, MAC’s Studio Radiance tint stick blends the finish of a traditional tinted moisturiser with the convenience of stick foundation. That is to say: you can get glowy skin in minutes just as easily at home as you can in the back of a taxi. We love versatility.
Review: “Absolutely love this product! The very light coverage that I want and need. Evens you out without being obvious, and your skin shines through. Definitely a tint and very light coverage, but it’s EXACTLY what I’ve wanted and needed. Finally!!!!!” — Sephora
Best Blush
I’ve long loved BK Beauty’s brushes, and I am also an avid blush lover. So when the brand decided to launch a stick blush collection, I had to try them. Spoiler alert: Everything about them is fantastic—from the nuanced shades (afterglow is my favorite pinky bronzed hue) to the sleek and very chic packaging. The brand completely hit this launch out of the park.
Review: “Great formula! Goes on the skin so smoothly without any patchiness. Blends beautifully and the pigment builds naturally. The color afterglow is gorgeous. Will definitely invest in other colors.”— BK Beauty
Best Retinoid
Noble Panacea’s RetiNAD+ Renewal Booster feels like a magic potion in a very tiny sachet. Three forms of retinol, NAD, and niacinamide are released at particular times during your sleep cycle using the brand’s OSMV™ technology (!), which allows the traditionally harsh ingredients to be a bit more tolerable.
Review: “Everything about this booster is the epitome of grade-A skincare. The single-dose packaging, the sensorial elegance, the patented time-release technology—if you find yourself with sensitive skin after using most retinols, you might want to try this serum next.” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
Best Moisturizer
I got this cream in preparation for laser and peel season, and my goodness, I need 50 more of them. Not only does the pump packaging keep the cream germ-free, but glycerin, shea extract, ectoin, and more add a delicious hit of moisture to the skin. The brand’s OS-01 Senescence-Blocking Peptide also helps to slow cellular aging, giving the skin a more youthful appearance with continued use.
Review: “I love this so much. It is somehow thick and creamy but still spreads and absorbs beautifully. I noticed a difference the first night, and it continues to improve. My skin is plumper and brighter. Highly recommend. I even like the container.” — Oneskin.com
Best Eye Cream
When it comes to an eye cream, all I need to see is caffeine in the formula, and it’s going in the cart. That being said, Nuraé’s contour eye cream also features hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and watercress extract, which help to hydrate, moisturize, and smooth expression lines for a more softened and relaxed-looking eye area over time.
Review: “The texture feels soothing even minutes after I apply it, and it preps my skin beautifully for makeup. I reach for it in the morning, before makeup, after cleansing, and before bed. I love it and couldn’t recommend it enough!” — Nordstrom.com
Best Sunscreen
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you can start slacking on your SPF routine. Not only is this new mineral formula actually sheer (it’s inspired by K-beauty SPF formulas), but it also features bemotrizinol, which is the first new FDA-approved sunscreen filter in the U.S. in 27 years (!!!).
Review: “Absolutely adore this formula! Mineral-based, non-greasy, no white cast (on my skin tone), fragrance-free, SPF 70, and a no-mess bottle design that’s easy to use. Definitely my new favorite for this spring.” — Target.com
Best Barrier Balm
So not only does this balm help to repair your skin barrier after extensive treatments or exfoliation, but it does so while also targeting senescent, or “zombie” cells. If you’ve never heard that term before, zombie cells are essentially aging or stressed cells that have stopped dividing but remain active, releasing signals that can contribute to inflammation and visible signs of aging. All of that happening under a delicious veil of moisture that stops transepidermal water loss? Yes, please.
Review: “The immediate results are that your skin feels incredibly soft and luminous. Soft is a funny word to describe skin, but the feeling is as though my skin is perfectly moisturized, nourished, and springy. Side benefit: I especially like the way it feels around my lips. I notice when I put it on before bed, my lips feel incredibly soft and hydrated all night. (Normal lip products you keep on your lips. Normal skincare you keep to your skin. With this product, you can put it on both, and it feels really comprehensive to support aging in that area with all the little cracks leading to the lip line).” — Marieveronique.com
I haven’t shut up about my obsession with LED light therapy over the past few months, and I won’t be stopping now. That’s because CurrentBody, one of my favorite LED beauty device brands, has released the third generation of its face mask, which allows you to customize which light settings you want on specific areas of your face. Plus, if you’re super locked in with your dermatologist, they can also prescribe the best settings for your specific skin concerns. It’s genius.
Review: “I’ve really enjoyed adding the CurrentBody LED Face Mask to my skincare routine. It’s easy and comfortable to use at home, and I love the relaxing self-care experience it gives me. The mask feels premium and fits nicely on the face. I’m looking forward to continuing to use it consistently and seeing how my skin evolves over time. A beautiful addition to my beauty and wellness routine!” — Currentbody.com
I didn’t understand why I would react so heavily to some dry brushes until I realized that I have very sensitive skin, even on my body. It led to me only using a select few brushes that wouldn’t scrape my skin off, and I’m pleased to share that La Bonne Brosse is now a part of that rotation, thanks to the new dry brush for sensitive skin. Not only are the bristles wonderfully gentle, but as with all products from this brand, it’s also so aesthetically pleasing.
Review: “I love this body brush. It is incredible and has helped me. I recommend this product and this brand. Le Bonne Brosse is first-class in every way.” — Labonnebrosse.com
I came across a Virgo-coded collection of body oils and lotions from this small business recently, and when I received them, all I could say was “wow”. My favorite scent from the line is Vibras 01, which has notes of bergamot, cotton, orris, and rose petals before being rounded out by blonde cedarwood and musk. If that’s not a description of scent heaven, then I don’t know what is. That being said, all three scents featured in this core lineup smell divine, so if you don’t have to choose, well, don’t. Get them all. You’ll be well-stocked for winter.
Review: “Smells like cedar chic, and it projects so well. I pair this with every sandalwood-forward perfume I own. As always, amazing, beautiful, and tantalizing products. They last forever, and the scents are always regal.” — Skinpotion.com
Anything from Clé de Peau is an experience, but this body cream is divine. It’s meant to be paired with massages to really enhance its contouring capabilities, so I made my husband get to work. Afterward, my body felt moisturized, not sticky like some other moisturizers, and the gentle scent made a pre-bedtime routine feel super luxurious.
Review: “This is the most luxurious Body cream that I've ever tried. Not only is the fragrance invigorating and expensive, but the formula makes my skin soft and supple. My skin feels softer and smells amazing.” — Cledepeau.com
Best Longevity Serum
Byoma has gotten into the longevity skincare game with a heavy hitter, and personally, I’m here for it. A tri-ceramide complex keeps the formula sensitive-skin friendly (and leaves behind a glassy glow), while the brand’s longevity matrix (a combination of different peptides) helps to address the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. If you want to step your anti-aging routine up a notch, you can’t go wrong with this under-30-dollar serum.
Review: “I really enjoyed using this serum! The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving my skin sticky or greasy. It leaves my skin feeling soft, hydrated, and smooth, with a healthy-looking glow. I also like how easily it layers with the rest of my skincare routine. After using it consistently, my skin feels more nourished and looks refreshed. Overall, it's an easy serum to add to a daily routine, and I would definitely recommend it.” — Ulta
Best Lavender Perfume
This is the best fragrance that Creed has ever made. Full stop. Bergamot, Absinthe Leaves, and lavender aren’t typically notes I’d gravitate toward, but Iris Debonair has made it a concoction that I literally crave. I’ve been wearing it nonstop, and the compliments have felt endless.
Review: “Smooth iris and solid performance. Easy to wear and compliment-able. Glad to have purchased it.” — Macys.com
Best Vanilla Perfume
D’Orsay is one of my favorite niche brands, and Vanilla Affair is continued proof. At the heart of the fragrance are two vanilla notes that are wrapped up in tobacco, musk, patchouli, and more, and the combination takes the sweet, trendy note to new and much more sensual heights. This is vanilla for all the grown folks out there.
Review: “Great long-lasting scent if you want a pure vanilla heart, without any additional notes to distract from the star of the show. Definitely want a full bottle.” — zgoperfumery.com
Best Hair Perfume
You know that really sexy candle that Cécred came out with? Yeah, the scent was called Temple Oud, and they’ve finally released it in a hair perfume. Bergamot, oud, Haitian vetiver, and jasmine are all featured in the scent, and if you want expensive-smelling hair, pick this up. Stat.
Review: “I’ve never been so excited about a launch in my life. First, let me say I’m a Cécred stan—I have every single product in my hair cabinet, and it’s not just because they work, but because of the scent. Don’t tell anyone (even though I’m telling the world), but I actually look forward to wash day just so I can enjoy that fragrance. Now, thanks to this launch, I don’t have to wait for wash day to experience it. This type of Oud just hits different.” — Ashlyn Delaney, Associate Social Media Editor
Best Gourmand Perfume
A biscuit accord opens this cozy, slightly spicy fragrance created by Bruno Jovanovic for Frédéric Malle, and it’s just as delicious-smelling as you’re imagining. It’s followed up by some heavy hitters like leather, sandalwood, and styrax, but it doesn’t veer into animalic territory. Still, it has that projection and longevity that Malle fragrances are known for, so if you’re looking for a true gourmand from the house, start here.
Review: “Frederic Malle, what can I say—a fantastic fragrance, enveloping, warm like a soft sweater, and intimate. I love it. It's an absolute must-have for the collection. Violetta, you are wonderful, just like your fragrances. Thank you!" — allaviolettaboutique.com
Best Coffee Perfume
What’s a fall fragrance tray without a coffee perfume? Dedcool has overdelivered once again with the launch of Mocha Magic perfume. A mix of the most sensual edible notes—coffee, bourbon, chocolate—is expressed with the brand’s signature skin-scent vibe. Wear it alone or layer it with the other scents from the line (Extra Milk is my favorite) for a bespoke scenting moment.
Review: “As a gourmand girlie, I was thrilled when I heard DedCool was releasing a coffee-inspired fragrance. Their latest launch, Mocha Magic, smells exactly as I hoped it would—blending rich espresso with mocha and cream to create a truly unique sensory experience. It’s perfectly timed with the arrival of fall, already finding itself in my rotation for in-between seasons.” — Christina DAmbrosio, Deputy Social Director
Best Unisex Perfume
I couldn’t even take this perfume out of the packaging before my husband staked his claim on it. We’re both already obsessed with the original Althaïr, but this flanker takes it to a new level. The addition of notes like amaretto, saffron, and praline takes the fragrance to the boozy, more sensual side of the spectrum, and with the colder months approaching, I can’t wait to whip it out for date nights (and I’m sure my husband can’t either).
Review: “My favorite Parfums De Marly. Lasts fairly long, not too overpowering. A little sweet, a little spicy. Perfect balance of different scent profiles.” — Fragrancenet.com
Best Makeup Bag
I love a chic makeup bag; I can’t help it. Thanks to Leatherology, I think I’ve found the chicest one of them all. The brand released its signature croc train case toiletry bag in a disgustingly good brown color, and even though I’ve vowed not to take anymore trips through the end of the year, I kind of want to hop on a flight just so I can use it. Yes, it’s that serious.
Review: “Gorgeous piece, beautifully made; embossing on leather is striking. It is just beautiful, soft, and has great organization inside. I absolutely adore this case; it’s placed on my nightstand as a catch-all, and I can’t stop looking at it. Thank you.” — Leatherology.com
Best Skincare-Infused Bedding
As a beauty editor, I know the whole spiel about regularly changing your bedding. However, in all my days, I have never come across skincare-infused sheets and pillowcases, but Coop has done just that. The Copper+ set is infused with, you guessed it, copper fibers, which the brand says help reduce acne-causing bacteria. Of course, I thought it was just a marketing claim, but I was even more shocked when, according to the National Institutes of Health, copper fibers and copper particles embedded in textiles promote collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and provide antimicrobial benefits. On top of that, the sheets are also insanely soft. I don’t know who’s the genius behind the innovation at Coop, but you have all of my respect for convincing me to add sheets to my skincare routine.
Review: “I don’t play around when it comes to my sleep or my skincare, and somehow, Coop has managed to combine the two in one of the most unexpected ways ever. Not only are these sheets buttery soft, but the copper-infused fibers have antimicrobial properties. Am I about to become obsessed with skincare bedding?” — Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
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Ariel Wilson is the Beauty Writer at Marie Claire. Previously the associate beauty editor at PS, she also has bylines in InStyle, Forbes Vetted, Women's Health, and more.
Shaped by her experience in research, social sciences, and the non-profit sector, Ariel enjoys looking at beauty from a sociocultural lens, looking to avenues like politics, culture, and the arts, to inform her views on the space. That being said, as a true beauty-product obsessive, testing the latest items to hit the market, keeping up with trends, and meeting industry icons, will always be her favorite part of working in the beauty space.
When she's not working, Ariel can be found hanging out with her husband and loving on their two cat daughters: Cow and Chicken.