The CYOUNG Awards 2024: My Top Beauty Picks of the Year!

A curated collection of skincare and makeup must-haves for every season.

CYoungCYoungJan 2025
The CYOUNG Awards 2024: My Top Beauty Picks of the Year!

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Mentioned Products

Hello everyone, CYOUNG here! Can you believe 2024 is almost over? It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year, and now we're on the cusp of another. Time truly flies when you're having fun, and for me, a huge part of that fun involves exploring the world of beauty. As a dedicated beauty enthusiast, I've made it my mission to share my experiences with you every single week, which translates to 52 videos a year. And in each of those videos, I showcase around 10 different products. That means I've personally purchased and tested over 500 beauty products this year! While my wallet might be feeling a little lighter, my knowledge and passion for beauty have definitely grown.

From this vast collection of products, I've meticulously curated a list of the absolute best of the best for my annual CYOUNG Awards. My selection process isn't solely based on price, although affordability is certainly a factor. Ultimately, quality reigns supreme. I need products that I can consistently reach for, trust implicitly, and confidently recommend to my clients. This list encompasses a diverse range of products, from innovative Korean skincare gems to trusted Western favorites and even some unique Japanese must-haves. I've categorized them by product type to make it easier for you to find what you're looking for. So, without further ado, let's dive into my top picks for 2024!

My skin type is generally normal, but it tends to get significantly drier during the winter months, and it's also quite sensitive. This plays a big role in the products I gravitate towards.

Cleansers: Gentle Yet Effective

I've experimented with various types of cleansers, including oils, balms, and milks. Recently, however, I've been particularly drawn to cleansing lotions. Even if you don't wear makeup, thoroughly removing your sunscreen is crucial. A simple splash of water or even micellar water isn't enough to completely cleanse your skin of SPF. Cleansing lotions offer a gentle yet effective way to remove sunscreen and impurities without stripping your skin's natural oils, making them a fantastic option for those with sensitive skin who might find oil cleansers too harsh.

Save on select product(s) with promo code on Amazon.com

This cleansing lotion (insert product link here) has become a staple in my routine. Its lightweight texture melts away sunscreen and makeup effortlessly, leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed, not tight or dry. It's also fragrance-free, which is a huge plus for my sensitive skin.

Save  on select product(s) with promo code  on Amazon.com
Save on select product(s) with promo code on Amazon.com

Cleansing Lotion

tl;dr

Lightweight, fragrance-free cleansing lotion.

Pros
  • Gentle, effective, fragrance-free.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Makeprem Cleansing Lotion

Makeprem is a hugely popular brand in Korea, consistently ranking high on Olive Young's bestseller lists, and for good reason. This cleansing lotion is incredibly gentle and effective. Even after cleansing, my skin doesn't feel stripped or tight. I also find it super convenient, especially when my hands are sticky and oily from applying sunscreen. Sometimes, even washing my hands with regular soap doesn't completely remove that residue, but this cleansing lotion erases it effortlessly.

Toner Pads: A Gentle Exfoliation

Toner pads have taken the Korean skincare world by storm, but I confess, I don't use them as frequently, especially in the winter. My sensitive skin tends to get red and irritated easily, so I prefer to avoid the daily wiping action.

Rice Toner Pad

However, this toner pad is a total game-changer. Unlike other toner pads I've tried, this one is incredibly gentle and hydrating. It doesn't irritate my skin at all, and it leaves my complexion feeling soft and smooth. The rice extract in the formula helps to brighten and even out my skin tone. (insert product link here)

Rice Toner Pad
Rice Toner Pad

Gentle Exfoliation

tl;dr

Gentle, hydrating toner pad with rice extract.

Pros
  • Gentle, hydrating, brightening.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Serums: Hydration and Repair

After cleansing and toning, it's time for serum.

Triple Collagen Serum 4.0

This serum is my absolute holy grail. It's a powerhouse of hydration and has significantly improved my skin's texture and elasticity. The collagen in the formula helps to plump up my skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It's a must-have in my routine, especially during the colder months. (insert product link here)

Triple Collagen Serum 4.0
Triple Collagen Serum 4.0

Hydration and Repair

tl;dr

Hydrating serum with collagen for improved skin texture.

Pros
  • Hydrating, improves texture, reduces fine lines.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Eye Care: Brightening and Depuffing

The skin around our eyes is delicate and requires special attention.

Bean Hydrogel Eye Patch

These eye patches are incredibly soothing and hydrating, and they help to reduce puffiness and dark circles. They're a lifesaver, especially after a long night or when my eyes are feeling particularly tired. The hydrogel material adheres comfortably to the skin and allows the serum to penetrate deeply. (insert product link here)

Bean Hydrogel Eye Patch
Bean Hydrogel Eye Patch

Brightening and Depuffing

tl;dr

Soothing eye patches for puffiness and dark circles.

Pros
  • Soothing, hydrating, reduces puffiness.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Sunscreen: A Non-Negotiable Step

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, no matter the season.

Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics

This sunscreen is my current favorite. It's lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast, and provides excellent broad-spectrum protection. It's perfect for everyday use and layers beautifully under makeup. The rice and probiotics in the formula help to soothe and protect the skin. (insert product link here)

Relief Sun
Relief Sun

Non-Negotiable Sunscreen

tl;dr

Lightweight sunscreen with rice and probiotics.

Pros
  • Lightweight, no white cast, soothing.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Makeup: Enhancing Natural Beauty

Now, let's move on to makeup.

VIDIVICI Long Wear Skin Fit Cushion

This cushion foundation provides excellent coverage while still looking natural and skin-like. It also lasts all day without getting cakey or creasing. The compact packaging makes it perfect for touch-ups on the go. (insert product link here)

VIDIVICI Long Wear Skin Fit Cushion 15g Set (+Refill 15g+Skin Illumination 10ml) | OLIVE YOUNG Global
VIDIVICI Long Wear Skin Fit Cushion 15g Set (+Refill 15g+Skin Illumination 10ml) | OLIVE YOUNG Global

Natural Coverage

tl;dr

Natural-looking cushion foundation with long wear.

Pros
  • Excellent coverage, long-lasting, compact.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

DEAR DAHLIA Petal Drop Liquid Blush

This liquid blush blends seamlessly into the skin, giving a beautiful, natural flush. It's also incredibly long-lasting. The petal-shaped applicator makes it easy to apply and blend. (insert product link here)

DEAR DAHLIA Petal Drop Liquid Blush 4g | OLIVE YOUNG Global
DEAR DAHLIA Petal Drop Liquid Blush 4g | OLIVE YOUNG Global

Natural Flush

tl;dr

Long-lasting liquid blush with natural finish.

Pros
  • Seamless blend, long-lasting, easy application.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Kate Rare Fit Gel Pencil N

This eyeliner is incredibly pigmented and glides on smoothly, making it easy to create precise lines. It's also waterproof and smudge-proof, so it stays put all day long. (insert product link here)

Kate Rare Fit Gel Pencil N
Kate Rare Fit Gel Pencil N

Precise Eyeliner

tl;dr

Pigmented, waterproof eyeliner for precise lines.

Pros
  • Pigmented, waterproof, smudge-proof.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

This creamy formula blends beautifully and gives a soft, diffused look. It can be used on both lips and cheeks for a monochromatic look. (insert product link here)

Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot - 30 Colors
Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot - 30 Colors

Monochromatic Look

tl;dr

Creamy formula for lips and cheeks.

Pros
  • Blends beautifully, versatile use.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Bloody Liar Coating Tint

These tints are incredibly pigmented and long-lasting, and they come in a wide range of stunning shades. They provide a beautiful, velvety finish. (insert product link here)

Bloody Liar Coating Tint - 11 Colors
Bloody Liar Coating Tint - 11 Colors

Velvety Finish

tl;dr

Pigmented, long-lasting tints with velvety finish.

Pros
  • Pigmented, long-lasting, wide range of shades.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

My Fave Mood Eye Palette It's Neat Collection

These palettes offer a beautiful selection of both matte and shimmer shades, making it easy to create a variety of looks. The shadows are highly pigmented and blend effortlessly. (insert product link here)

My Fave Mood Eye Palette It's Neat Collection - 2 Types
My Fave Mood Eye Palette It's Neat Collection - 2 Types

Versatile Eye Palette

tl;dr

Versatile eye palette with matte and shimmer shades.

Pros
  • Highly pigmented, versatile, easy to blend.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

mude Inspire Skinny Curling & Multi-Fixer Volumizing Curling Mascara

This mascara adds length and volume without clumping or smudging. The skinny brush allows for precise application, even on the lower lashes. (insert product link here)

mude. Inspire Skinny Curling / Multi Fixer Mascara | OLIVE YOUNG Global
mude. Inspire Skinny Curling / Multi Fixer Mascara | OLIVE YOUNG Global

Dramatic Lashes

tl;dr

Lengthening mascara with precise application.

Pros
  • Adds length and volume, no clumping.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

Choco Eyebrow Powder Cake

This brow powder is easy to use and creates natural-looking brows that last all day. It comes with two shades, allowing you to customize the color to match your hair. (insert product link here)

Choco Eyebrow Powder Cake (2 Colors)
Choco Eyebrow Powder Cake (2 Colors)

Natural Brows

tl;dr

Easy-to-use brow powder for natural look.

Pros
  • Natural-looking, customizable shades.
Cons
  • None mentioned.

True Dimension Radiance Balm

This balm adds a subtle glow and can be used on the high points of the face or all over for a dewy finish. It gives the skin a healthy, radiant look. (insert product link here)

And that concludes my CYOUNG Awards for 2024! I hope you enjoyed this roundup of my favorite beauty products. I've included links to all the products mentioned throughout the article. Thanks for reading, and I can't wait to share more beauty discoveries with you in the new year!

True Dimension Radiance Balm - 4 Colors
True Dimension Radiance Balm - 4 Colors

Subtle Glow

tl;dr

Radiance balm for a dewy finish.

Pros
  • Subtle glow, versatile use.
Cons
  • None mentioned.