There are some failsafe beauty heroes that we return to time and again; those iconic products that just can't seem to be bettered. Whether it's a timeless fragrance that still smells as good today as it did when our mums wore it, or the multi-purpose cream that has 101 uses - some things just can't be replaced. But what is it that makes some products retain their place in the hearts and handbags of consumers, when others disappear from the shelves quicker than you can say 'repeat purchase'?
We asked three beauty industry experts for their views...
Chase Aston, International Make-Up Artist and spokesperson for The Body Shop
What are the iconic beauty products you can't live without?
The Body Shop Shimmer Cubes: iconic because they were the first, and because they are so simple to use, yet so powerful and effective, with the bonus of being multi-use. NARS The Multiple Stick: the first cream format multi use shimmer stick that can be used on the eyes, cheeks and lips. I cannot live without this wonder stick in my kit. Clarins Double Serum: an amazing serum that has evolved over the years and just keeps on getting better and better.
What makes a beauty product iconic?
An innovative, simple and easy-to-use product that does exactly what the label says and more; a product that delivers, surpassing all expectations, and offers 100% satisfaction, always!Which recent launches do you think have the potential to become iconic?
Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream SPF30, with its amazing texture for a natural , flawless complexion; Chanel CC Cream Complete Correction SPF30, which creates premium, polished, perfected complexions; NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, which has an amazing shade range, and is smooth and non-drying, for perfect matte lip looks; and The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof Eye & Lip Make Up Remover, which is so soft and gentle, yet powerful and effective, ensuring future iconic status.
Tracey McAlpine, founder of fightingfifty.co.uk
What are the iconic beauty products you can't live without?
Chanel No5, Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, Guerlain Midnight Secret, Radox Bath Salts, Fenjal, Smith's Rosebud Salve, Pommade Divine and Revlon Nail Enamel.What makes a beauty product iconic?
A product that I have grown up with, one that my grandmother used, and now so does my daughter; if it's been working for four generations it must be a doing something right! Products such as the ones above haven't dated, they are still as effective now as when they were launched.What recent launches do you think have the potential to become iconic?
Emma Hardie Moringa Balm will be here to stay as it's so effective and versatile; anyone who uses it is hooked from the start. Benefit's they're real! mascara is being used by three generations in our family, and I've lost count of how many I've purchased. And although it's already ten years old, Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream has a huge following and works wonders on mature skin - I'm sure it will be here long into the future.Anna-Marie Solowij, co founder of BeautyMART and former beauty director of Vogue
What is the iconic beauty product you can't live without?
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. I've always got a tube in my bag and I use it as a lip balm, eyebrow groomer, hand balm, hair smoother and on any other itch or wrinkle that needs soothing or smoothing. Yes, there are other balms, but for me, Eight Hour is the original and best. I love that peach colour and its classic scent.What makes a beauty product iconic?
Being the first of its kind; doing it better than anyone else; looking amazing; and working brilliantly.What recent launches do you think have the potential to become iconic?
Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover, the dip and twist polish remover in a little pink pot. The pink pot, the cute graphics and the name make it a real candidate for iconic status. And Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream. It had iconic status among her clients before it even launched!