My back-to-school vibes were running strong this past month, which gave me the push I needed to test, test, test all the big and small launches that came across my desk for September. Power and efficacy were the clear themes. Lots of strong

lipsticks

, high-impact concealer, and over-the-counter skin care inspired by prescription formulas, as well as an adjustable hairspray with a high-tech nozzle, and a re-invention of the famous Clarisonic—the skin-care power tool that became a household name. As a beauty student, there was a lot to learn this month and a lot to love—here are my favorites.

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