Beauty Products We Put to the Test: Hits, Misses, and Surprises

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Every week at The Beauty Lab Podcast, we get curious about the beauty world and test products that catch our eye (or our Instagram feed). In this roundup, we’re diving into brushes, skincare gadgets, eyeliners, sunscreen sprays, and even a stun-gun hairbrush (yes, you read that right). Some lived up to the hype, others left us wanting more—but all gave us plenty to talk about.

Curls Defined: Bounce Curl Brush

If you’ve got waves or curls, you’ll want to know about this. The Bounce Curl patented brush is designed with ridges and mixed bristles that separate curls into ribbons as you brush. It works on tight coils, looser waves, and everything in between. Whether you’re wearing your curls every day or just on off-duty weekends, it adds definition without frizz. Check it out here.

Reapplying SPF Made Simple: Kopari Sun Shield Soft Glow

The biggest sunscreen question we hear: how do you reapply when you’re already wearing makeup? Kopari’s Sun Shield Soft Glow solves that. It sprays on like a setting spray but adds SPF protection plus skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid. The bonus shimmer gives your complexion a fresh, glass-skin glow while protecting against UV damage. Check it out here.

Red Light Reality Check: LuminiLift 2.0

The LuminiLift device promised visible lift, smoother skin, and fewer breakouts thanks to its green, red, and blue light settings. After 6 months of use, the lifting effect never showed up. While the vibrations feel soothing and the light modes might help with breakouts, the dramatic before-and-after results seen in ads weren’t our experience. We’re not sharing this link as it’s not recommended.

Glide-On Color: Wonder Skin Longwear Eyeliner

Finding an eyeliner that goes on smooth and stays put can be tough, but Wonder Skin delivered. The “Licorice” shade is a true, rich black that glides across the lash line without tugging. Thanks to its fast-drying technology, it holds up against watery eyes and long days without smudging. Check it out here.

Beauty Meets Self-Defense: Hairbrush Stun Gun

This one had us laughing and also a little impressed. At first glance, it’s just a hairbrush. But remove the top and it transforms into a stun gun. It’s rechargeable, lightweight, and concealable—though we’re not sure TSA would approve. Whether you see it as genius or gimmicky, it’s definitely unique. Check it out here.

Fresh + Clean: Salt & Stone Deodorant System

Salt & Stone’s Neroli & Basil deodorant is aluminum-free, smells fresh without being overwhelming, and actually works. Paired with their body wash, lotion, and fragrance spray, you can create a full body-care routine that layers beautifully. It’s a little pricier than drugstore products, but the quality and scent payoff make it worth it.  Check out the Deodorant, body wash, and fragrance. 

Blurring Powder That Delivers: Luminance Milano

Loose powders can be tricky—too heavy, too ashy, or just plain ineffective. Luminance Milano’s blurring powder lived up to its promise. The translucent white shade blended seamlessly into olive-toned skin, while other color options (banana yellow, sunflower, pink) give options for different undertones. It sets makeup lightly while minimizing imperfections. Check it out here.

Final Thoughts

From curl-friendly brushes to SPF sprays you’ll actually reapply, some of these finds really impressed us. Others, like the LuminiLift, didn’t hit the mark. That’s why we love sharing both the hits and misses—because beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. If there’s a product you’re curious about, send it our way. We’ll gladly test it and share the real results.