Valentine’s Beauty Picks Inspired by Past Award Winners

Romantic, thoughtful and indulgent beauty favourites perfect for February

Valentine’s season always brings a renewed interest in self care, indulgent beauty rituals and thoughtful gifting. Looking back at some of our standout winners from the Global Makeup Awards and Universal Beauty Awards, it is clear that many of the products recognised in recent years make perfect February favourites.

Here are a few past winners that lend themselves beautifully to a Valentine’s theme, whether you are treating yourself or choosing something special for someone else.

For a glowing complexionSkincare is one of the most meaningful ways to elevate a daily routine, and several previous award winners remain ideal choices for mid-winter radiance. Products such as Emma Hardie Brilliance Facial Oil and Nasei Pomegranate, Rose and Orange Blossom Moisturising Serum have both impressed judges for texture, nourishment and the visible glow they deliver.

For a touch of luxurySome winners stand out because they turn an everyday moment into something more indulgent. Vintage Beauty’s award winning formulations, including their Wind and Winter Cream and Volumen 40+ Face and Body Massage Oil, offer a luxurious sensory experience that fits perfectly with the mood of February.

For fragrance loversFragrance continues to be one of the most personal and meaningful Valentine’s gifts. Past winners such as Ghost Orb of Night Eau de Parfum and Amaura London’s brass candle in Oud and Geranium both create atmosphere, depth and a sense of occasion. These products performed strongly in testing and still make excellent gifting choices.

For colour and creativityMakeup has always played an important role in our awards and continues to inspire seasonal looks. Products such as Lisa & Co Fake It Til You Make It Mascara, MUA Hydra Juice Shimmer Peptide Lip Balms which cost just £2, and Andreia Professional Kissproof Liquid Lipstick gained recognition for performance, wear and standout pigmentation. These items remain popular choices for both subtle and bold Valentine’s looks.

For a self care momentNot all Valentine’s gifts need to be outward facing. Our judges often look for products that create a sense of calm or encourage positive rituals. Feather and Down’s Magnesium and Passionflower Dream Mist and Mii Cosmetics Bright Eyed Firm and Smooth Hydrogel Mask were both recognised for helping to elevate simple moments of rest and relaxation.

Valentine’s Day is ultimately about connection, comfort and enjoyment, and the best products always support that feeling. Looking back at the brands and formulations recognised across our awards, it is clear that so many of them continue to offer thoughtful, high quality options that suit this time of year perfectly.

If you are exploring new launches or planning upcoming campaigns, these past winners are a reminder of the strong innovation happening across the industry and the value of celebrating excellence through independent awards.