These 29 Celeb-Endorsed Products Are Our 2025 InStyle Red Carpet Beauty Awards Winners (2025)

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We’re thrilled to present the second edition of InStyle’s Red Carpet Beauty Awards, celebrating the beauty products that played a key role in creating this awards season’s most unforgettable moments.

From the Emmys to the Oscars, we’ve carefully curated our favorite red carpet looks and spoken with hundreds of visionary artists to highlight the 29 standout products in skin care, makeup, hair, and nails. This year’s honorees range from iconic, all-time favorites (there are a few repeat-winners on this list!) to fresh, innovative launches that are already making their way into countless pro kits.

The list begins with skin-care essentials that set the stage, like the supercharged serum behind Pamela Anderson’s stunning bare glow. “I want to bring people closer to me,” the Last Showgirl star tells InStyle about going makeup-free this awards season.

We also celebrate the foundation that perfected Mikey Madison’s porcelain skin, the mascara that gave Olivia Rodrigo fluttery lashes, and the fine-tip eyeliner that executed Miley Cyrus’s cat eye in record time. “Doing red carpet and live events, something unexpected always arises, so products have to deliver—work cleanly and fast, with precision!” says her makeup artist James Kaliardos.

Of course, attention must be paid to the multi-tasking hair oil that made Nicole Kidman’s bombshell bouffant gleam, and the sculpting gel that helped shape Doechii’s mesmerizing dual-textured finger waves. “Every look we create together is with Black history and Black futures in mind,” says the rapper's hairstylist Malcolm Marquez.

Rounding out the list is the gel polish that helped create Cardi B’s graphic stiletto nails and Victoria Monet’s minty fresh manicure on music’s biggest night.

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—InStyle’s Red Carpet Beauty Award goes to…

SKIN CARE

Best Skin Tool: CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2

“The LED therapy boosts collagen, soothes redness, and leaves skin with a radiant, healthy glow,” says Melissa Hernandez, who used the next-generation CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask to prep Anora’s Mikey Madison for the Oscars and Golden Globes. The device also provides A-list fans, like Zoe Saldaña, with a much-needed moment of relaxation before their big night. “Along with giving Zoe some downtime to decompress, the 10-minute treatment instantly enhances her skin’s glow and plumpness, making the makeup I create look even more flawless,” says Saldaña’s makeup artist, Vera Steimberg.

Best Mask: SK-II Facial Treatment Mask

This cult-favorite mask promises a “red carpet glow” in just 15 minutes—and there’s no better proof than Selena Gomez’s radiant complexion at the Golden Globes. The Only Murders in the Building star’s makeup artist, Hung Vanngo, used this treatment—infused with a bottle’s worth of SK-II’s Pitera essence, packed with vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids—to leave her skin looking refreshed and luminous.

Best Serum: Sonsie Super Serum

“A bare face is an intimate, friendly gesture—like you’re amongst friends,” says Pamela Anderson, who went completely makeup-free this awards season. “I do love makeup, but this is my time to shine for who I am and not anything else.” While prepping her skin ahead of the red carpet, Anderson reached for the Super Serum from her skin-care brand, Sonsie. Formulated with 4% niacinamide and 2% mountain pepper extract, it soothes the skin, minimizes redness, and enhances the skin’s natural barrier for a more vibrant, even-toned appearance.

Best Primer: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

If Cynthia Erivo’s dewy, dimensional skin has left you spellbound, you’re far from alone. Beyond the Wicked star’s blessed genetics, her makeup artist Joanna Simkin had a secret weapon—this grippy primer. The $10 viral sensation gives skin a dewy finish (thanks to glycerin and niacinamide) while providing a sticky base that locks your look in place.

MAKEUP

Best Lipstick: Valentino Beauty Spike Valentino Buttery Matte Lip Color

A lipstick with rich color payoff, comfortable wear, and the staying power to go all night–that’s brat. Charli XCX proved just that at the Grammys, wearing Valentino Beauty’s Spike Valentino Buttery Matte lipstick in dusty rose Spike A Pose. “It delivers bold pigment while feeling soft and nourishing on the lips, which is essential for long televised events,” says makeup artist Nina Park. “The formula stays in place without drying out, making it a reliable choice for a polished, long-lasting finish.”

Best Lip Liner: MAC Lip Liner

Needless to say, it was a momentous evening for singer-songwriter Chappell Roan at this year’s Grammys. The Record of the Year winner’s makeup artist, Andrew Dahling, created a full-tilt fantasy look with MAC’s ever-iconic lip liner in plummy Vino to shade the inner corners and espresso pink Soar to trace around the mouth. “The lip combo for the red carpet was key to bringing the Victorian-esque visage to life,” says Dahling. “I’ve been using MAC lip liners for ages to create bold beautiful shapes and clean lines!”

Best Mascara: Lancôme Lash Idôle Flutter Extension Lengthening Mascara

At the Grammys, Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘90s-inspired glam called for lashes that were natural, yet striking. Enter: Lancôme Lash Idôle Flutter Extension mascara. “It adds incredible length and definition without feeling heavy, effortlessly building and separating each lash for a soft, fluttery effect that looks beautiful both in-person and on-camera,” says her makeup artist Melissa Hernandez. “It added just the right touch to complement her signature winged liner.”

Best Eyeliner: Maybelline Eyestudio Master Precise All Day Liquid Eyeliner

According to makeup artist James Kaliardos, adding a cat eye with swoops of Maybelline’s Eyestudio Master Precise eyeliner took Miley Cyrus’s soft gold-and-bronzed lids at the Grammys “from pretty to ‘POW!’” The ultra-fine 0.4mm tip makes his job easy. “I love this liner because it is precise! It really is. No matter what look I do, I usually use it to finish the look, to hyper define it and add emphasis at the lash line, or to create a striking graphic effect all on its own.”

Best Eyeshadow: Dior Beauty Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eye Palette

The Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette has been the ace up makeup artist Rokael Lizama’s sleeve in crafting many of Demi Moore’s smokey-eyed looks this awards season. “It has a beautiful balance of shimmers and satin shades that complement her looks and enhance her eyes without overpowering the makeup.” From the Golden Globes to the Critics’ Choice Awards, soft glimmer ruled. “The eyes really had a standout moment under the lights on stage as Demi accepted her award for Best Actress for her role in The Substance,” says Lizama of the latter event.

Best Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Foundation

In the 25 years since its launch, Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk foundation has become a pro kit classic. “It checks every box I need for a foundation to make skin amazing,” says makeup artist Hinako, who gave St. Vincent’s complexion a smooth, velvety finish for the Grammys. “It is weightless, buildable, has medium coverage, and has a natural finish. It works very well for awards ceremonies because it not only lasts, but looks incredible throughout the long hours of the events where photos and video are taken from beginning to end.” Melissa Hernandez also used it to execute Mikey Madison’s natural, yet polished glow at the Oscars and SAG Awards. “No matter the lighting, it always delivers that effortless, second-skin finish that I love,” she says.

Best Blush: L'Oréal Paris Lumi Le Liquid Blush

From Elle Fanning to Jane Fonda, a soft pink flush has been the icing on top of many a star’s complexion this awards season thanks to this new liquid blush from L'Oréal. Fanning’s makeup artist, Erin Ayanian Monroe, loves the buildable, melts-right-in formula for a wash of dewy color in vibrant shades such as Glow Gold Pink, which was worn by Fanning at the SAG Awards to ethereal effect. “It gives the perfect flush of color,” says Monroe.

Best Bronzer: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream

From Margaret Qualley at the Critics Choice Awards to Quinta Brunson and Kristen Bell at the Golden Globes, Chanel’s Les Beiges Healthy Glow bronzing cream has given stars a natural touch of sun. “It has this beautiful velvet-matte finish that warms up the skin while delivering a healthy glow—something I love to see on the red carpet,” says makeup artist Kasha Lassien, who applied it around the perimeter of Brunson’s face to strategically enhance her glow.

Best Concealer: Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Concealer

Michelle Yeoh and Nicole Kidman’s skin looked extra fresh on the Golden Globes red carpet, thanks in no small part to the superpowers of Westman Atelier’s Vital Skincare Concealer. While camouflaging redness and imperfections, the creamy formula supplies hyaluronic acid and peptides to hydrate and support natural collagen, brightening dark circles and evening out hyperpigmentation. “It gives medium to full coverage, leaving the undereye brightened and blurred,” says their makeup artist, Gucci Westman. “This product builds like a dream, and a little goes a long way!”

Best Powder: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish

Whether it was Demi Moore for the BAFTAs or Kacey Musgraves for the Grammys, it was easy to lose count of how many stars looked to Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish to give their skin a dreamy, blurred finish. “It helps create a soft-focus effect, blurring the appearance of pores, and setting makeup in key areas like under the eyes and around the nose,” says makeup artist Sofia Tilbury, who gave Moore a light dusting of the feather-weight powder before she hit the red carpet. “You can also easily re-apply it throughout the day to reduce shine and smooth the look of fine lines, making it perfect for red carpet days!”

Best Skin Luminizer: Alleven Colour Shield Glow

“During awards season, flawless skin isn’t just for the face—it’s a full-body moment,” says makeup artist Emily Cheng. “On the red carpet, stars are showing more skin than ever, and they want every inch to look radiant, smooth, and camera-ready.” Her hands-down favorite? This luminous, transfer-resistant formula she used on Gracie Abrams at the Grammys in the shade Opal. “It seamlessly conceals imperfections, evens out skin tone, and delivers a luminous, healthy glow. It’s a red carpet essential, and I’m absolutely obsessed!”

Best Lash Extensions: KISS Falscara Wisps

The right false lashes enhance volume and length, offering a fuller, more defined eye look with a soft finish. The KISS Falscara Wisps did just so, topping off Cynthia Erivo’s makeup at the Grammys. Instead of opting for classic black, makeup artist Joanna Simkin chose an earthy espresso color. “I’m always into tonal makeup, and the warm browns enhance Cynthia’s natural features,” says Simkin.

HAIR

Best Styling Cream: RŌZ Evergreen Style Cream

Emma Stone debuted a tousled pixie at the Golden Globes, while Zoe Saldaña rocked a sleek, polished bun. Despite their differences, both looks share a shiny, flawless finish, with no stray hairs in sight—all thanks to this versatile styling cream. “So many people commented that they thought I used a hairspray because they didn’t see a single flyaway, but no—it’s because this product is an overachiever,” says hairstylist and brand founder Mara Roszak, who also used it to mold Stone’s finger waves at the Oscars. This is the brand’s first finishing styler, created to address a problem Roszak couldn’t find a solution for: “I wanted a taming and smoothing styling cream with hold.” Check and check!

Best Heat Protectant: Sisley-Paris Hair Rituel The Cream 230

Both Kristen Bell and Felicity Jones wore low buns to the Golden Globes—Kristen’s sleek and taut, while Felicity’s was more textured and tousled. Heat styling played a key role in both looks, making this heat-protective cream essential. “My number-one priority when I’m styling my client’s hair is to always protect their hair, because it makes a huge difference in the final results,” says Jenny Cho, who styled Bell. In addition to protecting the strands, the formula also nourishes, adds Bridget Badger, who worked with Jones. “Crème 230 provides the perfect amount of slip when blowing the hair smooth with a round brush, making blowouts fast and frizz-free,” says Badger.

Best Hairspray: Nexxus Epic Shine Spray

At both the Grammys and the Golden Globes, Miley Cyrus sported fresh, trend-setting hairstyles—a spiky bun with front bangs for the latter and a Japanese hime cut for the former. To achieve that red carpet shine, hairstylist Bob Recine used this Nexxus spray, a heat-activated leave-in that smooths frizz and delivers a glass-like finish. “When creating looks for the red carpet, prep is so important to making hair look nourished, shiny, and gorgeous,” says Recine. “The Nexxus Epic Shine Anti-Humidity Spray was essential in making it look as stunning as it did.”

Best Gel: TGIN Miracle Styling Water Activated Curl Elongating Gel

Intentional hairstyling tells a story—and stylist Malcolm Marquez took full advantage of this when styling Doechii for the Grammys. Her look featured dramatic face-framing finger waves that gave way to intricate braids at the back of her head. This gel was integral to creating the sculptural curls. “Doechii and I both understand the power and cultural impact that a hairstyle can have,” says Marquez. “Every look we create together is with Black history and Black futures in mind.”

Best Extensions: Bellami Silk Seam Clip-Ins

Extensions are essential for adding length and volume to high-impact red carpet looks. These clip-ins clinched an award last year—and they remain a favorite for good reason. “Bellami’s clip-ins are made with a thinner seam, which makes them look more natural. They are lightweight, so they are also more comfortable to wear,” says hairstylist Dom Forletta. One of his favorite looks from this season was Chappell Roan at the Grammys. “We used a lot of extra hair for this look,” he says. “Having all the extra hair and length is just so breathtaking and ethereal.”

Best Hair Oil: Virtue Healing Oil

The moment Nicole Kidman stepped onto the Golden Globes red carpet, her colossal ponytail bouffant stole the show. Expertly styled, her hair maintained a sleek, reflective finish, all thanks to this oil, which won a Red Carpet Beauty Award last year. “Healing Oil delivered the high-polish shine I wanted for this look,” says hairstylist Adir Abergel. “I applied it throughout her hair once I set the style in place to achieve that signature red carpet-worthy shine.” Abergel, who is also Virtue’s creative director, says this oil is essential for any style he creates. “It’s my forever favorite because it’s supercharged and lightweight with Virtue’s patented Alpha Keratin 60ku protein, and it makes everything shine brighter,” he adds.

Best Hair Serum: Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum

No matter how skilled a stylist is, the most stunning hairstyles are built on healthy hair. Infusing nourishing, protective ingredients during styling ensures the best results. That’s why the No. 9 hair serum was essential for Halle Berry’s glossy slicked bob and Lupita Nyong’o’s pearl-embellished updo at the Oscars, as well as Anya Taylor-Joy’s pearly blonde bun at the Golden Globes. “The Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum has been an absolute game-changer this awards season, particularly for locs,” says Vernon François, who styled Lupita. “I’ve styled everything from sleek, refined loc updos to more undone, organic locs, and in each case, No.9 worked seamlessly to keep the hair smooth, hydrated, and protected without weighing it down.”

Best Hair Dryer: L'Oréal Professionnel AirLight Pro Dryer

Cristin Milioti’s slick-backed bun at the Golden Globes, Demi Moore’s pin-straight lengths at the Critics’ Choice Awards, and Sabrina Carpenter’s voluminous French twist at the Grammys were all created with this hair dryer. Evanie Frausto, who styled Carpenter, praises its cutting-edge features: “What I love most about this dryer is its precision airflow and ionic technology, which allowed me to create volume without frizz.” The best part? It works wonders in record time. “Awards season can be chaotic, and I often style multiple clients in one day, so every minute counts,” says Clayton Hawkins, who styled Milioti. “This dryer has saved me so many times.”

Best Mousse: Camille Rose Spiked Honey Mousse

Sweet kiss curls, à la Josephine Baker, have become a signature look for Quinta Brunson on the red carpet. According to hairstylist Alexander Armand, a good mousse is key to achieving this style. For the Golden Globes, he reached for this one from Camille Rose. “Quinta wanted something elegant yet fresh, and with her short hair, I knew we could make a bold statement,” says Armand. “Camille Rose Spiked Honey Mousse gave me the right amount of hold and texture, adding volume and shine without making the hair heavy or stiff. Her cut has such great structure, and the product helped give it a sleek, polished finish while keeping it soft and natural.”

Best Styling Tool: ghd Curve Classic Curl Iron

Nothing says classic Hollywood beauty like retro pin curls. This season, the Curve Classic iron from ghd helped craft gorgeous looks on both Zendaya and Selena Gomez. “It was a game-changer for red carpet looks this awards season because of its versatility and long-lasting hold,” says Coree Moreno, who styled Zendaya for the Golden Globes. “Whether I was sculpting sleek, high-gloss styles or soft, touchable waves, it gave me the control I needed without stiffness."

NAILS

Best Gel Polish: OPI GelColor Intelli-Gel

Showstopping nail art requires smooth, pigmented polishes, and the Intelli-Gel line from OPI delivers with its full-coverage, auto-smoothing gel polish. It was vital for the intricate nail designs seen on Cynthia Erivo, Cardi B, and Victoria Monet this red carpet season. “This polish has been a game-changer because of its long-lasting wear, ultra-glossy finish, and extensive shade range,” says Mycah Dior, one of the artists behind Erivo’s stunning looks. Coca Michelle, who used the polishes on Cardi B and Monet, adds, “The self-leveling formula was easy to work with given the time frame I had to execute both looks.”

Best Gel Extensions: Aprés Nail Aprés Gel-X Tips

As showcased by Quinta Brunson’s sheer chocolate cat-eye nails at the Golden Globes, the longer the nails, the bigger the canvas for jaw-dropping manicures. That’s why so many artists turn to Gel-X Tips from Aprés—they add length in far less time than other types of nail extensions. “Gel-X Tips have become the new standard in the nail industry,” says nail artist Stephanie Stone, who crafted Charli XCX’s sheer pinky-nude almond nails for the Grammys. “Clients request them over most other extensions, and they’re a staple in my kit. They’re also great for prepping art in advance and as press-ons, thanks to their thin, non-bulky design.”

Best Nail Tools: Tweezerman Tweezerman x Tom Bachik Ultimate Nail Care Set

A manicure starts with a clean, well-prepped base. That’s why celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik teamed up with Tweezerman to create this 7-piece kit including a nail file, clippers, and cuticle nippers. “My manicure tools are one of the most important items in my kit,” says Bachik. “The manicure is the foundation for everything else in the look.” This season, the kit (which won an RBCA last year) helped him create stunning looks for Selena Gomez at the SAG Awards and BAFTAs, and Jennifer Lopez at the Grammys. “The ultimate nail care set includes everything I need to perfect both manicures and pedicures for my clients,” he adds.