For one of our latest launches, we’ve collaborated with Stella magazine to bring you the Stella Smart Beauty: The Archive edit, featuring 12 products worth over £177. We caught up with Stella Beauty Director Sonia Haria to discuss each product in the box and why the brands inside have garnered recognition for their smart beauty status. So, what is smart beauty?

In Sonia’s words, “smart Beauty is a concept that helps us to form both the topics we write about, and the products we include. It’s about making thoughtful, clever beauty content on topics that really resonate with our readers, and products that are tried, tested and actually work.

Let’s take a closer look and give you a run down on what makes each product smart…

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Perricone MD No Makeup Lipstick – Pink 

Sonia says: “Looks like a lipstick, feels like a lip balm, this is the ultimate easy-peasy, no-mirror-needed product.”

Jem says: “The formula of this product is incredibly smart; it not only delivers a subtle wash of colour but it leaves lips hydrated.”

REN Clean Skincare Clean Screen Mineral SPF 

Sonia says: “It’s not easy to find a good chemical-free, mineral SPF, but REN have nailed it with this one.”

Jem says: “This mineral SPF defies the usual ‘white cast’ formula and blends easily into the skin while also delivering a smart formula that isn’t harmful to coral reefs.”

Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner in Blacquer 

Sonia says: “Don’t even think about attempting a smoky eye without this sooty black liner. And once it’s on, it won’t budge.”

Jem says: “A kohl eyeliner is a must for defining my small, hooded eyes. I love this for tight-lining as it doesn’t budge or smudge.”

STELLA-LAUNCH-FEAT-CULT-CLASSICSElizabeth Arden Advanced Ceramide Capsules 

Sonia says: “Perfectly pre-dosaged amounts of serum make these capsules a winning choice if you’re after firmer, plumper skin.”

Jem says: “One of the first brands to encapsulate a serum, these are a great addition to your routine if your skin is looking a little lacklustre.”

Moroccanoil Treatment Oil 

Sonia says: “This nourishing blend is an absolute must-have for hair that needs a bit of TLC. It smells incredible, too.”

Jem says: “This cult classic has been used by the professionals for years, so you know you’re giving your hair a great dose of nourishment and shine when you incorporate it into your routine.”

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm 

Sonia says: “This cleansing balm takes off every scrap of make-up whilst still leaving your skin soft and bouncy. A little goes a long way, too.”

Jem says: “A firm favourite by many of us at LiB, this cult cleanser is my go-to for taking off the day and the perfect first step in a double cleanse.”

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Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask

Sonia says: “Sisley do some of the best face masks on the market, and this is my favourite. It perks your skin up in under five minutes.”

Jem says: “As much as I love a sheet mask, a cream mask sometimes feels much more luxurious. This one is renowned for a reason.”

Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Cream 

Sonia says: “A beautiful texture, this cream is reliable and works.”

Jem says: “A luxurious day cream which not only does wonders for the skin, it preps perfectly for makeup application.”

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum 

Sonia says: “Try this and you’ll see why it’s one of the most cult skin serums around. Your complexion will look well-rested and plumper, too.”

Jem says: “ The ideal overnight facial, skin looks 100x better come morning.”

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111SKIN Rose Gold Illuminating Eye Mask

Sonia says: “If your eyes are looking a little puffy from a bad night’s sleep, try this. It instantly disguises dark circles.”

Jem says: “For extra de-puffing action, I like to pop these soothing eye gels in the fridge prior to use; they’re a dream to use and unlike some, don’t slip off.”

Hair by Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist 

Sonia says: “If you’re not into styling products, this will change things for you. Spritz into the hair for a little hold and volume, without looking too ‘done’.”

Jem says: “If you’re after the perfect amount of texture to finish off your style, look no further than a formula from celeb hair guru Sam McKnight.”

Filorga Oxygen Peel 

Sonia says: “This clever blend helps to exfoliate the skin without drying it, and added hyaluronic acid gives a boost of hydration.”

Jem says: “A super smart formula, the combination of acids and oxygen makes it the perfect exfoliator for beginners.”

Not yet treated yourself to our smartest ever edit? Now’s the time!