Thousands of Cosmo Readers Voted—These Are the Best Beauty Products of the Year

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.Jared KockaIf there’s one thing we know (and love) about Cosmo readers, it’s that you have strong opinions—particularly when it comes to beauty. That’s why, in addition to our annual editor-picked awards, we’ve been asking you to cast your votes for the best hair, makeup, skincare, nail, and fragrance products for the past five years. This year, nearly 12,000 readers cast hundreds of thousands of votes to make sure their favorites won.In an industry that churns out thousands of new launches every year, we expected you all to crown a few buzzy newcomers the best of the best—and you did. But what stood out even more was just how many tried-and-true staples earned your votes once again. From cult-favorite cleansers to iconic mascaras and beloved fragrances, this year’s winners prove that while trends come and go, classic products that actually deliver never go out of style.Ahead, you’ll find the full list of 151 2026 Readers’ Choice Beauty Award winners, complete with unfiltered reviews from readers just like you. And because no beauty awards package is complete without incredible inspiration, we photographed singer-songwriter and timeless beauty Sienna Spiro wearing stunning hair, makeup, and nail looks you’ll want to re-create yourself.Jared KockaCeraVe Hydrating Facial CleanserNow 16% OffCeraVe’s Hydrating Cleanser just keeps winning: This is the fifth year in a row you’ve given it the title of best face wash. “It always delivers,” one reader wrote, while others praised the formula for being gentle on even the most sensitive skin.Best Exfoliating Face WashCetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA CleanserFor a little exfoliation, you love this Cetaphil cleanser and its blend of three resurfacing skincare ingredients. Even though it’s highly effective at smoothing out rough spots, readers say the formula is gentle enough for daily use. “It really works,” one wrote.Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Micellar Cleansing WaterEver since Garnier brought its micellar water stateside in 2016, it’s been a staple in many a skincare routine for its ability to thoroughly remove makeup without leaving your face feeling dry or stripped. “I use it before my double cleanse,” one reader wrote. “It removes any makeup and environmental elements so my cleanser can work more effectively.” Another called it “my comfort product.”Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid ExfoliantMany, many Cosmo readers dubbed this liquid exfoliator a holy grail classic. They report that the formula leaves their skin feeling silky smooth but doesn’t create irritation the way some other powerful exfoliants can. “I don’t go a single day without it,” one wrote. “It’s changed my skin in the most amazing way.”Medicube Zero Pore PadsFor travel-friendly exfoliation, Cosmo readers swear by Medicube’s pore pads. Similar to the Paula’s Choice liquid, the primary endorsement is for their ability to clear skin without leaving behind any irritation. “These pads have brightened my complexion like nothing else,” one wrote. Another shared a similar sentiment, saying, “They make my face so glowy.”BYOMA Hydrating Milky TonerByoma products got plenty of love in the write-in portion of the survey, but none more than its Hydrating Milky Toner. Readers love its lightweight texture and ability to hydrate deeply. “The Milky Toner is so amazing,” one said. “It has this feel to it like no toner has ever given me before.” Another simply called it “yummylicious.”Tower 28 SOS Rescue SprayHypochlorous acid sprays are everywhere these days, but Tower 28’s SOS Rescue Spray was the first to really make a splash in the U.S. Readers who took this year’s survey called it “life-changing,” especially when it comes to reducing redness. “I truly feel my skin is more balanced and even, and my acne heals faster,” one said. “I feel comfortable recommending it to friends as well as it’s formulated specifically for sensitive skin.”Bubble Slam Dunk Hydrating MoisturizerBubble Slam Dunk won by a landslide in the daytime moisturizer category, getting more than twice as many votes as the second-place product. Multiple people said it’s the only moisturizer that doesn’t break them out, while many more praised the lightweight feel. Plus, “the packaging is amazing,” one wrote.Best Nighttime MoisturizerEstée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Night Power Bounce Cream MoisturizerReaders love using Estée Lauder’s rich Power Bounce cream as the final step in their nighttime routine, with several saying they just keep coming back to it year after year. “It helps me wake up feeling hydrated and refreshed,” one reader wrote. “It’s one of the few products that doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.”Best Barrier Repair CreamLa Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5With such a crowded category, La Roche-Posay’s win for Best Barrier Cream is particularly impressive in 2026. “It’s the best,” one person wrote. “I don’t even remember which number tube I’m on.” People love that you can use it anywhere you’re dealing with irritated skin. “It never fails to soothe and heal my skin,” another said.Charlotte Tilbury Magic CreamPeople agree that this Charlotte Tilbury cream really lives up to the “magic” claims in its name, especially for anyone with mature skin. Of course, the thick formula has serious hydrating abilities, but a more surprising callout is how well readers say it layers under makeup.The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5The Ordinary is a perpetual fan favorite, lauded for its effective formulas that mostly sit at the under-$20 price point. “It’s how skincare should be,” one reader wrote. About this hyaluronic acid product in particular, another said, “Whenever my skin feels dehydrated and looks tired, I use it and it picks it right back up!”OLAY Retinol24 Night Smoothing SerumNow 29% OffYes, readers love the Olay Retinol24 Serum because it actually works. But they also appreciate the price point (under $40) and how easy it is to find everywhere. People who are loyal to the brand are loyal to the brand: “Three generations of my family have used Olay,” one reader said.Skinceuticals C E FerulicCosmo readers love a product that’s easy on their wallets—which makes it all the more impressive that SkinCeuticals’ $185 CE Ferulic Serum took home the title of Best Vitamin C Serum for the third year in a row. “It’s the gold standard,” one reader wrote, while many others say it’s the only ascorbic acid that gives them visible results.Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing SerumClinique’s Even Better Dark Spot Clearing Serum has been through four iterations, but this latest one has seriously impressed Cosmo readers. The blend of vitamin C, niacinamide, salicylic acid, and glucosamine helps tackle hyperpigmentation from several different angles. One person summed it up simply: “It works well but doesn’t irritate my skin.”Beauty of Joseon Calming Barrier SerumWhether their redness is due to acne, skin sensitivity, or rosacea, you all swear by this K-beauty serum to combat it. “As someone who struggles with rosacea, this product is really important to me,” one wrote. “It instantly calms my redness.”The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA SerumYou can’t escape peptide skincare in 2026, but Cosmo readers voted this affordable formula (under $20!) from The Ordinary as the best of the best. The brand says it targets wrinkles and supports skin elasticity; readers say it’s just plain effective.Glow Recipe Strawberry BHA Pore-Smooth Blur DropsLots of readers listed “anything Glow Recipe” as their favorite in the poll, including this smoothing serum. The drops are a great mattifying primer under makeup but also contain exfoliating ingredients for long-term skincare benefits that are particularly good for acne-prone and oily skin.BYOMA Hydrating Recovery OilNow 12% OffByoma wins again, this time for its under-$20 facial oil. Readers love that the brand offers products that are “affordable and effective,” including this ultra-nourishing blend of squalane, jojoba oil, and sea buckthorn oil.Ole Henriksen Banana Bright + Eye CrèmeThe name of this cream pretty much says it all: Cosmo readers love how the multitasking formula refreshes their under-eye area. “It depuffs, moisturizes, and makes me look more awake,” one wrote. Another recommended keeping it on hand for the morning after a late night.COSRX The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch2026 is the year that eye patches came back into the skincare spotlight. Cosmo readers are particularly fond of this little pink pack of hydrogels from COSRX. “They are comforting, cooling, and relaxing!” one proclaimed.Laneige Water Sleeping MaskLaneige pretty much has the overnight mask category on lock, but Cosmo readers named it the Best Face Mask overall—and plenty of voters wrote in to call it their favorite product of all time. People love that it lets them wake up with bouncy, hydrated skin. “It makes me glow throughout the entire day,” one said.Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep MaskThis sheet mask from Biodance has gone viral in the past, but Cosmo readers say it’s earned those millions of views. Many raved about its ability to give them the “glass skin” effect, while others said it’s particularly nourishing after an in-office treatment. “It never fails to bring my skin back to life,” one person wrote.StriVectin TL Advanced® Tightening Neck Cream PLUSMany longtime fans of the StriVectin neck cream wrote in to sing the product’s praises. “I’ve seen such a huge difference in the texture and softness of my skin,” one said. Another focused on the pleasant-to-apply formula: “It doesn’t feel heavy or sticky.”Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50Cosmo readers have voted Supergoop! Unseen—with its clear formula and demi-matte texture—their favorite for three years in a row. In addition to being a lightweight formula that works on every skin tone, it creates a great base for makeup. “It has actually made me put SPF on my face daily, which is such a win in the long run,” one person said.Best Tinted Face SunscreenEltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF 46If you want a little tint in your sunscreen, Cosmo readers say that EltaMD’s UV Clear “can’t be beat.” It contains niacinamide to help with acne and discoloration. Plus, the brand is generally considered great for sensitive skin. As one reader put it: “It’s the perfect sunscreen.”Good Molecules Yuzu Blemish Gel Cream“Super affordable and good quality,” one reader wrote simply about Good Molecules blemish cream. At $8, it’s a hard price to beat for a powerful blend of salicylic acid, yuzu acid, licorice, and cica that treats acne while nourishing the skin.Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch OriginalHero Cosmetics helped popularize pimple patches in the U.S. with the Mighty Patch. Ten years later, Cosmo readers are still big fans, with three times as many people voting for them over the second-place runner-up. “They never fail me,” one reader wrote. “They are just chef’s kiss,” another said.Laneige Lip Sleeping MaskNow 10% OffThis lip mask might technically be made for nighttime, but plenty of Cosmo readers swear by it for 24/7 moisturization. “It deeply hydrates my lips overnight and gives a beautiful gloss if I want to wear it during the day,” one said. Another called it the “best product ever” and a must-have.Aquaphor Lip RepairAs fun as it is to try new products, it’s nice when a classic formula stands the test of time. Aquaphor has been around for over 100 years but “remains the GOAT of skincare,” one reader wrote. The Lip Repair is a mix of vitamins and shea butter that hydrates thoroughly. “My lips are changed overnight,” a reader said.Jared KockaTop Carolina Herrera, briefs Kiki de Montparnasse, tights Emilio Cavallini, shoes Jimmy Choo, belt Deborah Drattell.Salt & Stone Body WashIt takes a lot to get people excited over a body wash, but Salt & Stone has done it with this one. In addition to raving about the great foaming formula, readers also raved about the luxurious scent combos, like bergamot and hinoki and santal and vetiver. As one put it: “I’m obsessed with the smell.”Dove Deep Moisture Body WashCosmo readers say they rely on this drugstore staple Dove body wash for a cleanse that leaves their skin feeling hydrated even before adding any lotion. Plus, it can be multiuse: “It doubles as a good shave cream,” one reader attested.Beekman 1802 Pure Fragrance Free Goat Milk SoapThis Beekman bar is the epitome of a good goat milk product, with tons of readers gushing about how soft it makes their skin and the fact that it’s suitable for the whole family. “It is my number one gift to give,” one reader said, noting they buy “over a hundred bars” during the holiday season. “This is what my family and friends request.”Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum CreamMany people associate the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream with its unique, gourmand scent, but Cosmo readers say it’s more than just surface-level good. One summed up the benefits perfectly: “It leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth, absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, and has a warm, delicious scent that lasts all day.”Saltair Salt Water Vanilla Multi-Lipid Body ButterSaltair is relatively new to the bodycare game, but its affordable products have quickly become fan favorites. “The Saltair body butter has transformed my skin,” one reader wrote of the ceramide-packed formula. Others call it the “best-smelling body butter ever.”Naturium Urea 5% Body SerumFor an additional layer of hydration under their lotion, many Cosmo readers start their bodycare routine with this serum from Naturium. “It has changed my skin,” one wrote. “It’s so hydrating without making me feel sticky.” Plus, its active ingredient is urea, something dermatologists often recommend for the most dry, cracked skin.Tree Hut Moroccan Rose Shea Sugar ScrubNow 19% OffSome readers said they’ve tried other types of body scrubs but ultimately just keep coming back to this Tree Hut classic. They rave that the shea-butter-based sugar scrub makes their skin supremely smooth (“like a seal’s,” one insisted) both by getting rid of dead skin and adding moisture back in.Best Exfoliating Body Treatment The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body SerumA bit more of a specialty product, Cosmo readers love The Ordinary’s salicylic body serum for tackling bumps and body acne. The word “effective” kept coming up in write-ins about this product, with one person also claiming the serum “got rid of my bumpy skin after one use.”Best Treatment for Body AcnePanOxyl Acne Treatment Bar 10% Benzoyl PeroxideReaders agree that this classic and repeat Cosmo Readers’ Choice Beauty Award winner goes above and beyond expectations for treating body acne. “It has helped me so much with breakouts around where my sports bra is,” one self-proclaimed gym rat wrote of the bar.Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion SPF 30If you want a lightweight sunscreen with a classic beachy scent, this one from Hawaiian Tropic will fit the bill. Cosmo readers rave about how easy the creamy, fast-absorbing product is to apply and the “amazing” tropical fragrance.OSEA Undaria Algae Body OilCosmo readers are big fans of the “spa-like experience” this seaweed-infused body oil provides. They raved about its texture—lightweight, quick to absorb, never greasy—as well as the delicate fragrance. “My massage therapist constantly tells me I have great skin,” said one loyal user. “And I’m 60 years old.”L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand CreamWay before the French pharmacy boom in the U.S., L’Occitane’s ultra-rich shea butter hand cream has been a staple for many Cosmo readers. “It smells wonderful and feels so luxurious for the price,” one said in this year’s survey. “It’s a hand cream I can’t live without.”Jergens Natural Glow + Firming Daily MoisturizerNow 14% OffFor the second year in a row, Cosmo readers have voted Jergens Natural Glow as the best way to get a fake-but-natural-looking tan. The most common points of praise are that it doesn’t streak, doesn’t have the signature self-tanner stink, and makes readers look like they actually spent time in the sun.Native Deodorant StickWhen it comes to deodorant, Cosmo readers are loyal to Native. “It just works in this Miami heat!” one said. Many others second its effectiveness but also call out that it doesn’t irritate their skin like some other so-called natural deodorants.Secret Clinical Strength Invisible Solid With Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin Pack“This clinical deodorant is the only one that keeps me fresh all day long,” one reader said, simply summing up why so many people rely on Secret when they need an antiperspirant that won’t let them down. The hyaluronic acid helps keep underarm skin feeling smooth, too.Best Hall of Fame Bodycare ProductDove Original Beauty BarDove Original Beauty Bar easily solidified its Hall of Fame designation with more than twice as many readers voting for it over the second-place product. People love that it works well for both face and body, won’t upset sensitive skin, and has a nice, light scent.Best Hair Removal Tool or DeviceGillette Venus Extra Smooth RazorHair removal can be quite personal, but over 1,000 Cosmo readers are in agreement that Gillette Venus does it best. “These razors always give me the closest shave,” one explained. “They leave no bumps and I never cut myself with them,” another raved.Jared KockaBest Full-Coverage FoundationHaus Labs Triclone Skin Tech FoundationIf you need full-coverage foundation that won’t get cakey or wear off, Cosmo readers enthusiastically recommend this one from Haus Labs. They love the lightweight (but buildable) coverage, natural finish, and expansive 51-shade range.Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Gel Skin TintFor a sheer base, Cosmo readers say you can’t go wrong with Milk’s skin tint. They love its skincare-inspired formula for the way it gives them a natural, hydrated glow. As one reader put it: “It’s my skin but better.”MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus FoundationWith a whopping 71-shade range, MAC Cosmetics’s powder foundation can give a flawless finish to just about everyone. Cosmo readers rave about its ability to give great, smooth coverage, which can be tough to find in a powder formula. “I don’t leave my house without applying it,” one reader said.IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full-Coverage Foundation with SPF 50+Now 20% OffCC creams seem to go in and out of style as a base makeup formula, but the IT Cosmetics version has remained a go-to through it all. Cosmo readers particularly appreciate that it comes with SPF built in, which helps simplify their routine.Hourglass Vanish Airbrush ConcealerReaders love the Hourglass concealer for lots of reasons: It is smoothing, gives full coverage without caking, lasts a long time, and even adds some brightening under the eyes. “Hourglass concealer is the best I’ve ever tried,” one said succinctly.Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Eraser Multi-Use ConcealerFor under-eye-specific concealing, Cosmo readers swear by this drugstore staple. “It hides my dark under-eye circles so well, it’s as if it erases them,” one wrote. The sponge helps with easy application—plus, it contains moisturizing ingredients.e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip PrimerAt $10 a pop, you can’t really beat the price on this primer, and Cosmo readers say it works just as well as more expensive ones at helping your makeup stay put all day. “No drying, peeling, or making your makeup sit funny,” one reader confirmed.Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Under Eye Color Corrector“Can’t do my makeup without it,” a reader wrote about the Huda Beauty color corrector. Others love how hydrating the formula is, an added benefit beyond its ability to cover up dark circles and hyperpigmentation.One/Size On ’Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting SprayMany readers said they would vote for One/Size in every category, but the brand’s mattifying setting spray is a particular standout in product excellence. “It kept my makeup flawless after crying the whole time Louis Tomlinson sang ‘No Control’ in Cologne,” read one particularly compelling testimony.Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder“It’s an OG for a reason,” one Cosmo reader said of Laura Mercier’s translucent setting powders. That reason includes its ability to blur and set your makeup without getting cakey or settling into fine lines halfway through the day.Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer StickThis is the first of several Rare Beauty appearances on this year’s RCA list. Readers praise how easy this bronzer stick is to use, largely because of how creamy the highly blendable formula is. Plus, it’s long-lasting.Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid BlushSoft Pinch changed the liquid blush game when it first launched in 2020—and Cosmo readers still call it the best. Over 1,600 people cast their vote for Soft Pinch, and hundreds wrote in to praise its shade range, staying power, and smooth application.Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer PaletteWhen it comes to highlighter, Cosmo readers say nothing helps you get that glow like Dior’s handy quads. “I use it every day,” one reader wrote, saying they love that it can double as a sparkly eyeshadow or bronzer, too.Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops With PeptidesThe brand may not have been the very first, but Drunk Elephant can certainly take credit for popularizing bronzing drops with this perpetual favorite. “Whether I use them alone or mix them into my foundation, [these drops] give me a natural, sun-kissed look,” one reader said.Fenty Beauty Match Stix Contour SkinstickNearly 10 years after launching, Match Stix still holds a special place in contour enthusiasts’ hearts. “Nothing beats the perfect shade range and blendability of the Fenty contour stick,” one Cosmo reader wrote. “I tried it when it first came out when I was a contour beginner and still have not found anything better.”Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush DuoReaders who filled out the RCA survey gushed about Patrick Ta’s entire line, but this cream and powder blush duo was a notable standout. The two-in-one aspect, long-lasting formula, high pigment, and pretty shade range are all reasons Double-Take has top marks.ColourPop ColourPop Super Shock ShadowThe people love ColourPop, particularly these single eyeshadows that come in nearly 50 shimmery shades. “They are so creamy and glide on so smoooth but don’t settle into my fine lines,” one reader wrote.Armani Beauty Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid EyeshadowFans of liquid eyeshadow say this Armani formula can’t be beat. “It is easy to blend, doesn’t crease, and lasts all day,” one reader said. The range of browns, beiges, coppers, and golds is particularly good for neutral makeup lovers.Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Neutrals“It’s everything I need and more,” one reader wrote by way of explanation on why she loves this MBM palette. The shadows are soft and easy to blend. Plus, the shades are true neutral nudes, which can be tricky to find—especially 12 of them at once.Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner PencilReaders rave about Urban Decay’s gel liners, which have gotten a reputation for being longer lasting than many people thought possible. “It glides on sooo easily with amazing color payoff,” one reader noted. Another simply said: “There is no comparison.”NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner“This liner is proof that you don’t have to spend a lot to have the best products,” one reader wrote about NYX’s liquid version. Others laud the product for its sharp brush and saturated pigmentation that make it easy to create the cat eye of your dreams.Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky-High MascaraIts viral moment may have waned, but this mascara remains a favorite for over 1,700 readers who voted in our survey. One summed up all the high points perfectly: “It goes on well with no clumping and never smears, smudges, or flakes.”Kiss FalscaraThese itty-bitty false lashes have left an outsize impression on Cosmo readers. One called them a game changer, while another said they’re serious confidence boosters. “They stay all day and look so natural,” that reader wrote. “I get so many compliments!”Best Lash Enhancing SerumGrande Cosmetics GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing SerumCosmo readers agree that when it comes to lash-enhancing serums, no one’s doing it quite like Grande Cosmetics. “GrandeLASH helps my natural lashes look healthier, fuller, and stronger,” one reader said. “It’s one of the few products I’ve used that’s exceeded my expectations.”Olaplex Browbond Building SerumOlaplex has made an appearance in our Readers’ Choice Awards every year since we’ve launched them, so it’s no surprise the brand’s newer brow serum is a favorite, too. In addition to the peptides that are meant to create the look of fuller brows over time, the serum doubles as a gel to hold your brows in place.Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow+For a natural-looking (but slightly amped-up) brow, Cosmo readers swear by Benefit’s Gimme Brow+. One called it “my lazy day, pick-me-up, brow savior” while another applauded its 10-shade range.Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow WizThis is the third straight year that ABH has taken home the RCA for best brow pencil. Readers love that the slim pencil allows them to fill in their brows with natural-looking strokes and appreciate that it doesn’t come off until they actively work to remove it.MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick“One swipe and you feel fully made up,” a reader wrote about MAC’s opaque, matte lipstick formula. Others raved about how smoothly the lipstick glides on—and then sticks around for hours.Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Lip BlurLiquid lipstick can be tricky: It goes on easily but tends to feel quite drying. Not the case with Charlotte Tilbury’s RCA-winning formula. “It is light, soft, doesn’t dry out the lips, and wears all day,” one reader said.Dior Dior Addict Lip Glow OilFor tons of gloss without the stick, Cosmo readers swear by Dior’s lip oil. Many raved about the pH-reactive formula, which is said to transform into a slightly different light-pink shade for every person who wears it.MONDAY Haircare Volume ShampooNow 15% OffOf all the products on this list, Monday’s chunky, pink, pump-operated shampoo bottle might have gotten the most love. But the stuff inside is what really matters: Readers say it makes their hair soft, shiny, and, of course, voluminous.Best Volumizing ConditionerAmika Big Hit Volumizing ConditionerCreating a conditioner that actually helps with volume can be a challenge, but Cosmo readers swear Amika has done it. “It’s a lifesaver,” one wrote. “My hair looks the best it ever has.”Redken All Soft ShampooA classic salon product, Redken All Soft is still impressing Cosmo readers. As the name implies, its primary superpower is making the hair ultra-soft, although readers also note that it helps with their strands’ manageability.Best Hydrating ConditionerPantene Miracle Rescue Deep Repair ConditionerFor at least one Cosmo reader, it was “love at first sight” between them and this Pantene conditioner. “It smells so good. My hair is immediately hydrated and soft,” one wrote.Best Shampoo for Type 4 HairSheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine ShampooNow 17% OffThis is the third year in a row that SheaMoisture’s Curl and Shine has won for Best Type 4 Shampoo. “It’s incredible for curly hair,” one reader wrote simply. Others called out how surprisingly affordable the price point is on a product that’s so effective.Best Conditioner for Type 4 HairPattern Beauty Heavy ConditionerVoters with curls agreed that Pattern Beauty is a great line in general, but they especially loved the heavy conditioner. “My hair looks wonderful after every use,” one said. Do you need much more info than that?!Best Shampoo for Color-Treated HairOlaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance ShampooAs already mentioned, Olaplex has been a reader favorite since this beauty awards list first launched. The No.4 shampoo is lauded for its ability to revive hair after harsh chemical processes, like getting highlights or a perm.Best Conditioner for Color-Treated HairOlaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance ConditionerOlaplex is also the only brand to win for both shampoo and conditioner in its category, proving consumers really are loyal to these bond-building formulas. On the conditioner front, one reader also noted that it “smells amazing.”Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Dandruff ShampooIf it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Perhaps that’s why so many people voted for this drugstore classic as the Best Scalp Shampoo. “It’s just the best forever,” one reader wrote, while another said it leaves her hair feeling smooth in addition to taking care of dry skin and dandruff on their scalp.Best Treatment for Damaged HairK18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair MaskMany fans of this bond-building treatment claim they saw results “immediately,” with nothing else on the market comparing. “This is a must-try for dry, damaged hair,” one reader said after noting that it had become a “lifesaver” for her fine, color-treated hair.Best Treatment for Thinning HairThe Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair DensityA mere $24 is a small price to pay for a product that promises to give fuller, thicker-looking hair, but Cosmo readers swear it actually works. “The Ordinary peptide has made my hair grow so much,” one intriguing write-in said.Best Leave-In ConditionerOuai Leave-In ConditionerYes, Ouai’s leave-in gets bonus points because it smells really, really good. But more importantly, readers say it nourishes even the most damaged of strands. “I never wash my hair without it,” one reader said. “My go-to for soft and healthy hair!”Gisou Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask“So creamy and indulgent and leaves my hair so soft,” said one reader of the Gisou Honey Gloss mask. That sounds especially promising for thicker hair, but voters also said it works on finer textures, without leaving a greasy residue behind.Best Hair Mask for Type 4 HairCécred Reconstructing Treatment MaskFor an ultra-rich mask made with tighter curl textures in mind, Cosmo readers say Cécred is the way to go. It seems to live up to the brand’s claims that it makes hair shinier and visibly stronger after just one use. “Amazing product that consistently works,” one reader noted simply.Kérastase Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil“Top notch” is how one reader described this Kérastase hair oil. “Nothing makes my hair feel as amazing as that,” another said. Voters agreed that it’s well worth the higher price point for its ability to keep hair looking healthy between shampoos.It’s a 10 Scalp Restore Miracle SerumSometimes, you just have to stick with a classic. Some readers said this serum has been a part of their routine for decades, thanks to how well it moisturizes without weighing down strands.Fenty Hair The Controlling Type Hair Thickening Edge ControlNow 25% OffCosmo readers are generally a big fan of Fenty Hair, Rihanna’s latest beauty venture. This edge control gel easily smooths down baby hairs but also contains amino acids and proteins to help nourish the strands as well.Batiste Original Dry ShampooAnother longtime favorite in the hair category, Batiste has won Best Dry Shampoo every single year since the Cosmo RCAs began. “It has saved me at the last minute many times,” one reader noted of its grease-absorbing abilities. Others call out that it’s particularly good for refreshing bangs.LolaVie Glossing DetanglerOne reader called this detangler “completely indispensable” for their haircare routine. It contains peptides and ceramides to help nourish the hair, which, paired with its detangling abilities, can prevent breakage over time.K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray“They know how to treat hair right,” one reader wrote of K18. That’s true of the leave-in mask but also extends to newer launches, like this volume spray. It amps up your style without adding too much extra crunch or greasy residue.Not Your Mother's Curl Talk Lasting Definition Flash Freeze GelReaders say this maximum-hold gel leaves their curls refreshed and frizz-free. “Nothing works better,” one said, while another called out the cute packaging and highly affordable price point.Dae Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling CreamIf you’re going to rock a slicked-back style, Cosmo readers insist this is a must-have. On top of how long it keeps your strands in place, voters also raved about the sweet, citrus scent.SexyHair Big Spray & Play Volumizing HairsprayOn the flip side, if volume is your main goal, readers said you need this classic, “super-volumizing” hairspray. “It keeps a hold that is unmatched!” one person wrote in.Living Proof Perfect Day Heat Styling SprayFor weightless protection against heat styling, Cosmo readers recommend this spray from Living Proof. It can be tricky to find a product that tames frizz without making your hair feel greasy, but that’s the overwhelming consensus on what this one achieves.L'Oréal Paris Excellence Creme Universal NudesA good box dye can be tricky to come by, especially if you’re seeking colors found in nature. This one does the trick. “It doesn’t have a harsh smell. It doesn’t stain,” one reader wrote. “I love the way my hair looks and feels after using it.”Best Hall of Fame Hair ProductColor Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray“This truly works better than any hair product I have ever tried. Ever,” one reader wrote of this year’s Hall of Fame hair winner. Voters picked Dream Coat for its ability to keep hair shiny, soft, and free of frizz for the entire day.Favorite Celeb Hair BrandFenty HairRihanna continues her reign as the queen of beauty, winning favorite celeb hair brand for the second year in a row. (Remember: It’s only been around since 2024.) “These products do wonders for my curls,” one reader attested.Conair 1.25-Inch Double Ceramic Curling IronWe love a $20 hair tool that actually works. Clearly, so do Cosmo readers, with many of you calling this one “perfect” and claiming it’s lasted for a longer-than-expected amount of time.CHI 1-Inch Original Ceramic Hairstyling IronNow 56% OffAnother classic hair tool, Cosmo readers call the CHI iron a reliable favorite. Its ceramic plates glide through the hair for quick, easy straightening—and the under-$100 price point means it’s fairly accessible as far as hot tools go.Wavytalk Multi-CurlNow 30% OffTikTok is obsessed with this tool—and Cosmo readers are, too. With five attachments for under $70, the Wavytalk Multi-Curl is the ultimate in great hair tool value.Jared KockaTop Carolina Herrera, ring (worn throughout) Sienna’s own.Essie Nail PolishLaunched in 1981 (with a much-appreciated brush update in 2018), Essie remains a gold standard name in nail polish. “They’re high quality at a reasonable price,” one reader wrote. Others noted that the formula is never streaky and comes in a huge range of colors to choose from.Best Hall of Fame Nail ColorOPI Bubble Bath Nail LacquerOPI Bubble Bath is a frequent favorite on many best-of lists. In fact, it’s landed itself a Cosmo Readers’ Choice Award two years in a row. Readers called it a “perfect light pink” for every occasion and praised its long-lasting formula. “It will never go out of style,” one voter insisted.Glamnetic Ma DamnOver 1,000 people voted Glamnetics as the best press-on brand, and 360 people took the time to rave about them in the write-in portion of the survey. The general consensus? They last the longest (up to three weeks) and have the best selection of designs available.Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream“It’s like lip balm but for your nails,” one reader wrote of their choice to name Burt’s Bees’s the Best Cuticle Treatment. People love that it works well to hydrate the skin around their nails, especially because it “smells like a dream.”Tweezerman Glass Manicure SetFor anyone who’s serious about their at-home mani game, Cosmo readers say this set—which includes a glass nail file, glass buffer, clippers, and a cuticle pusher—is essential. On top of the high quality of the tools, voters raved about how portable it is.Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa ’62 Perfume MistBody mists are not often praised for their longevity, but voters swear this one from Sol de Janeiro lasts all day. People said they love how the beachy scent (a gourmand blend of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla) is intoxicating without being overpowering.Sol de Janeiro Delícia Drench Body ButterSpeaking of long-lasting scents, Sol de Janeiro makes its third appearance in this year’s list for its newer Delícia Drench body butter. The fragrance is still gourmand (it’s SDJ after all) but with some darker notes, like sandalwood and amber. Plus, the cream itself is “so thick and moisturizing,” one reader wrote.Ouai Hair & Body Fragrance MistOne reader called this mist “the best smell in the world.” That’s pretty high praise…that over 1,000 other voters seem to agree with. “It is affordable, smells so good, and lasts throughout the day,” another reader confirmed.Glossier You Eau de ParfumGlossier You has been an It Girl scent since it first launched in 2017 but has seen a new boom in popularity, at least partially thanks to an extension of the You family that launched last year. “It’s a bit of everything,” one reader wrote about why they love it. “Sweet, spicy, and tangy.”Gucci Flora Gorgeous GardeniaThe eye-catching packaging certainly doesn’t hurt Gorgeous Gardenia’s reputation, but Cosmo readers say what’s inside is truly special. “It has such a soft, beautiful, feminine scent that feels both elegant and fresh,” one reader wrote. “It lasts throughout the day.”Kayali Vanilla | 28 Eau de ParfumIf it’s compliments you seek, Cosmo readers say this is the gourmand to go for. “It’s sweet and ambery without being cloying,” one person, who said they used to hate vanilla scents, wrote. “The perfect brown sugar and tonka scent.”Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de ParfumSantal 33 went through a period of being seen as cliché, but it seems everyone has come to their senses and recognized the earthy blend for the truly great scent it is—including this year’s RCA voters. “It brings me comfort,” one said. “It commands a room,” another attested.Kayali Eden Sparkling Lychee | 39 Eau de ParfumKayali strikes again, this time with a gourmand option for fans of fruity scents. “This is my new favorite summer fragrance,” one voter wrote of the lychee-rose-vanilla blend. “I get so many compliments every time I wear it.”Amouage Guidance Eau de ParfumFor a scent that screams luxury, Cosmo readers recommend this woody floral. “It’s one of my most-worn fragrances,” one person wrote. “The frankincense note is unlike anything else.” Another person said they fall more in love with the perfume every time they wear it.Eilish Fragrances Eilish Eau de ParfumIt’s clear from the write-in responses that Cosmo readers really, really love Billie Eilish, so it’s a good thing she didn’t disappoint when she launched fragrances. Voters are equally enthralled by the spicy vanilla scent and the gorgeous gold bottle.Best Hall of Fame PerfumeYSL Beauty Libre Eau de ParfumOf all the fragrances to choose from, YSL Libre is the one Cosmo readers call their signature scent the most. “That lavender-vanilla vibe is iconic,” one reader said. “It feels so luxurious every time you wear it.”Daise Beauty“Fun,” “affordable,” and “cute” were three words many of you used to describe Daise Beauty, a bodycare and fragrance brand that’s garnered a huge following. “The formats are so much fun, and there are sooo many scents to choose from,” one of you gushed.MedicubeSocial media darling Medicube seems to translate to amazing real-life results, at least as far as the over 1,300 people who voted it the Best K-Beauty Brand are concerned. “I have loved every product I’ve tried from them,” one wrote, while others noted that Medicube products had “completely changed” their skin—for the better.Saie BeautyWhen it comes to making clean makeup, Cosmo readers say Saie’s formulas remain the ones to beat. Many people wrote in to say they love every single one of the brand’s products. “I feel the most confident in Saie makeup,” one said.Dyson Airwrap i.d. Multistyler and DryerThe Dyson Airwrap is pricey but comes with six attachments to create a wide range of styles. “It’s worth every dollar,” one reader wrote. “Because of it, I never have a bad hair day,” another said.eos Vanilla Cashmere Body LotionCosmo readers say this eos body lotion is “top tier,” especially for such an affordable price point. The vanilla scent is a particular point of praise, but voters also raved about how quickly the highly moisturizing formula absorbs.Botox CosmeticThe original onabotulinumtoxinA is still the best, according to over 1,200 Cosmo readers. “Nothing can equal its efficacy,” one wrote. “It’s the best investment I’ve made in a decade,” another said, after raving about how it makes them look “more awake, fresher faced, and wrinkle free.”JUVÉDERM“I found the JUVÉDERM fillers to be life-altering,” one reader wrote in a compelling case for this win. Others raved about how long the fillers last and the natural-looking results they feel the product provides. “The best part is no one noticing,” another voter said.Best Pro Cosmetic TreatmentMorpheus8Morpheus8—an in-office RF microneedling treatment—has won over the hearts (and faces) of over 1,000 RCA voters. “While navigating perimenopause and the many changes to body and skin, nothing has made a more dramatic impact,” one reader said. “My skin density is improved, looks tighter, and feels firmer, with fewer noticeable lines and wrinkles.”HydrafacialOne Cosmo reader called Hydrafacial “a car wash for your face.” Plenty of others simply said it’s the best facial they’ve ever had, praising its ability to combat skin congestion and create a serious post-treatment glow.Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide DropsInvesting in a product that’s gone viral can be a big lesson in disappointment—unless it’s these Glow Recipe drops you’re buying. Cosmo readers say they totally live up to the hype for their glow-inducing powers and delicious watermelon scent. “[These] were my first high-end product,” one reader said. “I’ve gone through at least seven bottles since.”Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional WhiteFor a whiter, brighter smile, Cosmo readers swear these strips are still the best pick. “The only at-home whitening treatment that’s actually worked for me,” one wrote, a sentiment that seems shared by the 1,600 other people who voted for them.Oral-B iO Series 9 Ultimate Clean Electric ToothbrushNow 33% OffGetting people passionate about their toothbrush? Now that’s an impressive feat—one that Oral-B has pulled off for the third time in RCA history. Of course, cleaning teeth well is the baseline requirement: Voters said the multiple bristle options and settings are what really set this brush apart.Biggest Beauty Game ChangerL’Oréal Paris Elvive 8 Second Wonder Water Lamellar Hair TreatmentWhen the Elvive Wonder Water treatment first launched, there were plenty of skeptics about the eight-second claim. Now, Cosmo readers call it the biggest beauty game changer across categories. “It makes my hair incredibly smooth, shiny, and frizz-free in literal seconds,” one reader wrote.Our Methodology:January 2026 to March 2026: Cosmo’s beauty team spends weeks nominating 5 standout beauty products, tools, and treatments across 151 categories (that’s 755 nominees in total!)—spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, and more. Nominees are selected based on best-selling products on Cosmopolitan.com and at major retailers, emerging beauty trends, TikTok-viral favorites, expert recommendations, editor testing, and more.April 2026 to June 2026: Cosmo launches the Readers’ Choice Beauty Awards survey. Over the course of six weeks, readers vote for their favorite products in each category or nominate their own winners. They also have the opportunity to share feedback on why they love their picks.July 2026 to August 2026: Cosmo editors analyze thousands of reader votes and comments to determine the winning product in each of the 151 award categories, while reviewing your thoughtful feedback to understand what makes these products so beloved.September 2026: We reveal the winners of the Readers’ Choice Beauty Awards, along with insights from our readers on the beauty products they can’t live without.Styled by Billie Rose Owen. Hair by John Novotny at OPUS Beauty. Makeup by Jenna Kuchera. Manicure by Honey at Exposure NY.Kara McGrath is a writer and editor with over 17 years of experience covering the beauty industry, women’s health, and a wide range of other lifestyle and wellness topics. After most recently serving as content director at Allure (2019-2025) and executive editor at Bustle (2014-2019), she is now fully freelance. In addition to Cosmo, her writing has appeared in Allure, The New York Times, Marie Claire, Business of Fashion, Playboy, NH Magazine, and more. Kara lives in New Hampshire with her dog, four cats, and a rotating cast of foster animals. You can find more of her work at karamcgrath.com.