9 Editors Reveal the Freebies that Became Their Must-Have Beauty Products

“I received a Chanel cream blush in a gift bag. The texture was different than other cream blushes, and the shade felt like a replica of my own flush. After hitting the pan, I found out it had been discontinued. Then recently another beauty freebie came along to soften the blow: its sister, Chanel’s Les Beiges blush stick in “No. 21.” It’s not exactly the same, but it’s pretty close. I’ll be stockpiling this one.”

– Sarah Daniel, Beauty Editor

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Colour Stick Blush in “No. 21” ($51, thebay.com)

“I’m always on the hunt for the perfect brownish-nude lip liner. Yes, I know I could just go back to MAC’s Spice but variety is the Spice of life. (Bad joke.) Anyway, a few months ago I was sent a Marc Jacobs liner in a shade called Nude(ist), and I fell in love. It goes on creamy and matte, and literally does.not.budge. And so, this liner is now my life partner. Take my money.”

– Souzan Michael, Associate Online Editor

Marc Jacobs Lip Pencil in “Nude(ist)” ($30, sephora.ca)

“While I often complain that I am borderline balding, my very fine hair got a much-needed boost from the Kérastase Volumifique line. The trio of products breathed new life in to my limp locks!”

– Eliza Grossman, Associate Fashion Editor

Kérastase Résistance Gelée Volumifique ($45, kerastase.ca)

“I’ve been a little obsessed with all things Korean as of late (K-pop, K-drama, K-beauty, you name it), so having that natural, glowing face Korean stars are known for has been my ultimate goal. When AmorePacific sent me this cushion compact, my beauty prayers were answered. For someone who doesn’t like the weight of foundation on the face, this cushion compact is a complete game-changer, from its lightweight texture to its skincare benefits. Oh, it also smells heavenly, which is always a plus.”

– Renee Tse, Online Contributor

AmorePacific’s Colour Control Cushion Compact ($72, sephora.ca)

“I am maniacal about sunscreen, but when this one landed on my desk, I realized I had been missing a whole section of real estate on my face and swiped it across my lips. I love the banana flavour, but have since realized that it comes in yummy key lime, coconut and pink grapefruit too.”

– Caitlan Moneta, Fashion Market Editor

Sun Bum Spf 30 Banana Lip Balm ($4, shop.trustthebum.com)

“After my second son was born I attended a media “baby massage” workshop hosted by Weleda. I’ll never forget the struggle to get us out of the house that morning! Of course I was late, but I still buy this dual-purpose product (shampoo and body) for its lovely lather, easy rinse and light scent.”

– Jacquelyn Francis, Executive Editor

Weleda Calendula Shampoo & Body Wash ($18, usa.weleda.com)

“I love Bite Beauty’s Agave Lip Mask enough to shell out for it at Sephora when I saw it came in a tinted version.”

– Lesa Hannah, Beauty Director

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask, ($30, sephora.ca)

“I’ve become the resident witch doctor ever since Saje opened in Toronto. Not only do I take the Pocket Pharmacy everywhere I go, but I’ve taken to prescribing the oils inside for everything. I especially depend on Peppermint Halo for headaches and Eater’s Digest for… stuff.”

– Randi Bergman, Executive Online Editor

Saje Pocket Pharmacy ($60, saje.ca)

“I’m constantly searching for ways to de-clutter my makeup bag, and this multi-purpose product fits the bill. When you warm it on your finger, it becomes so creamy you can blend it into your skin like foundation, and it leaves a soft glow. It’s also great for camouflaging dark circles or blemishes. It lasts a long time for such a tiny jar.”

– Emilie Dingfeld, Health & Copy Editor

Rms Beauty “Un” Cover-Up ($36, rmsbeauty.com)