8 iconic beauty products that are still relevant today

Elnett hairspray

Though L’Oréal Paris’s Elnett hairspray first came to Canada in 2009, it has been flying off shelves in Europe since 1960. The name comes from the French words “elle” (meaning “she”) and “nette” (meaning “neat”), and the product is known for its ability to hold the hair in place without producing a helmet-like effect. The classic spray has continued to evolve for the past fifty years, but the “original” Elnett is still used by hairstylists around the world. L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray, Ultra-Strong Hold, $15/400mL, at drugstores and mass market retailers.

Revlon Red nail polish

Revlon was founded in 1932 by brothers Charles and Joseph Revson, and their first product was a nail enamel that came in colours other than red. Funnily enough, their most iconic shade 80 years later is Revlon Red, a classic red polish for the fingers and toes. Revlon Nail Enamel in Revlon Red, $5, at drugstores and mass market retailers.

Nivea Creme

Formulated for dry skin types, the original Nivea Creme soothes the skin while softening rough areas such as the knees, feet, elbows and hands. It was first put on the market in 1911, and remains a nostalgic item for many, with its metal tin and clean, powdery smell. Nivea Creme, $9/200mL, at drugstores and mass market retailers.

Great Lash mascara

The original green-and-pink Maybelline Great Lash formula has been on the market for over 40 years—since 1971! Having won numerous beauty awards, the mascara is known for its ability to coat and separate each lash for a great everyday look. Most women, at some point in their lives, have used and loved Great Lash. Maybelline New York Great Lash Mascara, $5, at drugstores and mass market retailers.

Mason Pearson hairbrush

Designed in 1885, the pricey Mason Pearson hairbrush has been elevated to cult status for its high-quality build and amazing wearability (it will last a lifetime!). The bristles are spaced perfectly to distribute oils and detangle even the most unruly hair. The boar-hair version is best suited to women with normal to fine hair, while boar with nylon suits normal to thick hair. Those with super thick hair should stick to all nylon bristles.

Ruby Woo lipstick

M.A.C's bestselling lipstick in the entire world, and a top seller in almost every country, is Ruby Woo. It was first launched in 1999 as part of a matte lipstick collection, and has since developed cult status for its extreme wearability and matte yet creamy formula. Ask any celebrity that loves red lipstick and she's sure to list Ruby Woo as one of her faves.

Chanel No5

First released in the 1920s, Chanel No5 has become a legendary perfume synonymous with class, elegance and good taste. Marilyn Monroe cemented its status when she claimed to wear nothing but the fragrance to bed at night. The complex scent is made with eighty different ingredients such as Ylang Ylang, Grasse Jasmine, May Rose and Aldehydes, and is a staple in any fragrance wardrobe. Chanel No5 Eau de Parfum, $168/100mL, at Chanel beauty counters.

Clé de Peau concealer

According to the Clé de Peau website, their concealer is "perhaps the most perfect product in the world." Very few would argue with this statement. The product has long been a must-have for makeup artists and beauty editors because it hides under-eye circles, pimples and dark spots and stays put all day long.