Family Secrets

Tried, tested and true – looking at beauty industry’s cult favourites

The beauty industry is competitive – new and innovative products emerge everyday with larger and more far-fetched promises. While we can be overwhelmed with options these days, it’s nice to know that there are some products that have stood the test of time. From toners to mascaras, we look the products that have remained popular throughout the decades.

The Witch Knows Best

No, we are not about to cast a spell for beautifully even skin, but witch hazel will leave you just as spellbound. The plant extract has long been known for its healing properties – treating everything from bruises to hemroids. The properties in witch hazel that make it an excellent healing agent, also make it an excellent toner, as it shrinks blood vessels and pores to its normal size when used regularly. Witch hazel is also an affordable alternative to expensive toners as it can be found for under $5.00.

Ice Cold Cream

One of the most notable beauty products, cold cream has existed for nearly two-thousand years and has been a necessary part of a woman’s beauty regimen. Cold cream can be used as a cleanser, deep-cleaning face mask, moisturizer, and eyelash conditioner. Known for its deep moisturizing properties, the cream leaves skin baby soft, not dry or tight. The main ingredient (mineral oil) dissolves the oil on your face, instead of stripping your face of its natural oils. There are various cold creams available but the most popular are Pond’s as well as Boot’s.

8 Hour Miracle

It’s no exaggeration to say that Elizabeth Arden’s 8 Hour Cream is a miracle in a bottle – created in 1930, the cream got its name because of a loyal client who used the cream to treat her son’s skinned knee and eight hours later, it was healed. The cream helps protect, soothe and moisturize skin, has anti-inflammatory benefits, and comforts minor weather burns, scrapes and abrasions. To use, simply smooth directly on with fingertips whenever and wherever needed. Avoid contact with eyes.

Strong Hold

For a long-lasting hold, turn to L’Oreal Elnett hairspray. In 1961 the hairspray was introduced and delivered a long-lasting hold from a super-fine mist that disappeared once brushed through. The product was been banned in North American in 1987 due to due to its use of fluorocarbons as propellants and was reintroduced to the North American market in 2009 and is now available at Shopper’s Drug Mart. This hairspray is known to be the secret of many a runway stylist and is easily a cult favourite.

The Eyes Have It

If there is one brand you can rely on for quality mascara at an affordable price, it’d be Maybelline and no other mascara in North America compares to Maybelline’s Great Lash Mascara, the best selling mascara in North America; one is sold every 1.5 seconds. The formula has stood the test of time and has not changed since it was introduced back in 1971. The formula is flake-free, suitable for everyday use but can be layered for a thickening effect.

Secret Garden

A multi-purpose balm, Smith's Rosebud Salve has been in demand since 1895 and is a popular secret among Hollywood stars and makeup artists. The balm can be used to aid in the relief of dry/chapped skin, blemishes, and diaper rash. Rosebud Salve is an excellent lip moisturizer and provides a natural looking gloss. A glossy, non-sticky, non-waxy, texture makes this balm stand out. Ultimately the salve is known for its excellent moisturizing properties, much like the 8 hour cream, and has a strong cult following like the rest of the products featured.