With the seemingly never ending craze of a K-Beauty-inspired 12 step skincare routine making our single day cream regime suddenly way more complicated, it can be overwhelming trying to decipher what your skin actually needs and what order you should apply your products in so they can be the most effective for your skin.
Less has become more, with experts recommending we don’t bombard our skin with too many active ingredients and a cupboard full of lotions and potions. At the same time, our skin needs more protection than ever against the damaging effects of modern day life, such as pollution and blue light.
The solution? It’s all about balance and getting to know what works for your skin, but it’s also about how you get the most out of those products by applying them in the most effective way.
It’s not just where you apply your products that's important, it’s the order you apply them in as well. You don’t want to splash the cash on a fancy eye cream to find out you’ve been using it completely the wrong way and it hasn’t actually been helping to get rid of those dark circles, because what’s the point in that?
'Good skincare is essential,' says Tanya Zahoor, co-founder of Aesthetics Lab. 'But no less crucial is the way you apply your products. You may have all the right creams and serums, but if you are applying them in the wrong order, you might not be reaping all of the benefits.'
What are the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to their skincare routines?
We’ve all been guilty of skipping a few steps or using the wrong combination of products but we live and we learn what works best for our skin.
1.Wrong Skincare For Your Skin Type
‘Ordering the wrong skincare for their skin type. For example, people with oily skin using oily products or people with young skin using products for mature skin. Younger skin tends to be oilier and mature skin tends to be drier so the formulations of products are designed to suit those types’, believes Advanced Cosmetic Doctor at the Adonia Medical Clinic, Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme.
To use a facial oil, or to not use a facial oil? This skincare product is constantly under debate from an array of skincare experts but if it works for you, go full steam ahead. ‘Oil is a bit of a contentious issue within the skincare space. Every expert has their own "skin thesis" on things,' explains Dr Ewoma, Cosmetic Doctor and Founder of SKNDOCTOR.
'Personally, I only advocate oil use for those with normal to dry skin. Oily skin doesn't lack oil if anything it has an excess of it. Adding more oil to such a skin type can cause/exacerbate acne.'
2. Too Many Acids And Active Ingredients
Being too eager with the acids can also cause a few issues. ‘The first is having too many steps in their routine and a large number of actives being layered in both the morning and evening', explains Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin55 and author of The Skincare Bible .
'Not only can this increase the risk of sensitivity and rashes such as irritant contact dermatitis or eczema, but often it is also not a good use of money. Not everyone needs every single active ingredient available yet there is a temptation to buy many products and use them all.'
The Order You Should Be Applying Your Skincare In
We asked the experts about the definitive order we should be applying our skincare products in so you can get the most out of your skin.
1. Make-Up Remover
This should only be part of your night-time routine, unless you’ve left make-up on from the night before (no judgement here, it happens), which is where our beloved micellar waters comes into play.
Dr Mahto explains: ‘The first part of your nighttime skincare routine should be to remove make-up and sunscreen and I find the easiest way to do this is with a micellar water although other options such as cleansing balms exist.'
This will hopefully get rid of the majority of foundation or SPF that’s still clinging to your face by the end of the day but just to be totally sure, it’s best to follow up with a cleanser afterwards.
12 Of The Best Make-Up Removers For When That Waterproof Mascara Won't Budge
There's nothing quite like the luxurious feel of a cleansing balm, so when you find one that doesn't break the bank and has the make-up melting properties to rid you of even your most clingy mascara, you pay attention. With a light, fresh scent, this rich balm left our skin feeling thoroughly soft and cleansed.
We can't be sure, but we think there's a good chance that the Glossier Milky Oil was the inspiration behind the phrase 'small but mighty.' The dual phase formula (consisting of micellar water and oil) is gentle enough for dry skin types while still doing the dirty work and getting rid of stubborn makeup.
Squeeze a dollop of this onto your hand and massage into skin to watch it dislodge everything from waterproof mascara to lipstick. A generous dose of grape, sunflower and meadowfoam oil makes this the perfect make-up remover for those who are prone to parched patches.
Institut Esthederm High Tolerance Make-Up Remover for Eyes and Lips 125ml
Waterproof mascara, lip stains and even cream eyeshadow won't stand a chance against this impressive remover. It dissolves make-up in a single swipe, leaving skin feeling super-silky. Simply shake, tap on to a cotton pad and go.
Formulated with sensitive and breakout-prone skin in mind, this gentle gel-textured cleanser will sweep away make-up without the need for rubbing. Simply press and hold a product-soaked cotton pad over the eyes, before swiping gently downwards to remove mascara.
Caudalie Vinoclean Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
For something a little more spa-like (yet no less effective), look to Caudalie's sweetly scented cleansing oil. The 100% natural blend of grape seed, sunflower and sweet almond is safe for use around the eyes, and leaves skin feeling soft, not stripped.
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm
This pretty-much legendary balm is still one of the best for melting a full face of make-up in seconds. Slather it on, massage it in, then remove with a warm, damp flannel.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Make-Up Removing Solution
This cult cleanser is a make-up artist favourite – and for good reason. It cuts through cakey powder and mops up face oil, leaving skin feeling squeaky clean and perfectly balanced. Those prone to spots will love how it helps banish both impurities and excess sebum.
An oil-based cleanser will melt long-wear make-up and waterproof mascara quicker than a water-based remover, but you will need to commit to a thorough second cleanse afterwards. DHC's is brilliantly priced (there's really no need to spend a fortune on a make-up remover) and makes light work of layers of product.
This make-up-melting water is enriched with Avène's signature spring water. It's a great choice for all skin types (even the most sensitive).
A quick swipe of this soothing arginine-based make-up remover will melt away mascara without drying out your lashes, which can lead to breakage.
Created in collaboration with Caroline Hirons, this two-in-one cleansing kit is (unsurprisingly) note-perfect. The vitamin E-rich oil balm will melt make-up and sunscreen, before the cream treats and balances the skin.
2. Cleanser
This is what has been termed as a double cleanse but is only necessary as part of your nighttime routine.
‘I don't recommend double cleansing twice a day. I think it's painfully unnecessary and it can actually irritate the skin long term,' believes Dr Ewoma.
'Of course, if you wear make-up or water-resistant SPF, I can appreciate the reasoning behind double-cleansing. If you've properly double cleansed in the evening, why would you need double cleanse again in the morning? I find that all these overcomplicated steps could be avoided if people cleanse their face properly the first time around.'
For a double cleanse it’s best to use either a balm or lotion cleanser to melt away any lingering make-up. When it comes to choosing the best cleanser for your skin type, Dr Mahto believes ‘Oily skins may prefer a foaming cleanser where dry skin types may want to opt for a cream cleanser instead. The second cleanse will remove any dirt, sweat, bacteria or grime the skin has come into contact with during the day as well as residual skincare products.'
Dr. Ejikeme's top tip for those with oily skin is having a cleansing duo: 'For oily skin, I would recommend owning two cleansers - one with an active ingredient (2% salicylic) and a gentle cleanser and rotate them throughout the week.'
10 Of The Best Cleansers For Oily Skin
CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser
Is your oily skin casually accompanied by unprovoked breakouts and pesky congestion? If so, it's good to keep some salicylic acid on side. This targeted cleanser also harnesses the power of hectorite clay, three essential ceramides and niacinamide too, banishing shine and keeping your skin calm and clarified without that stripped, squeaky feeling.
SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age Defense Corrective Gel
The idea that you grow out of oily or blemish-prone skin when you exceed your teens just isn't always true. You can wake up to a slick and congested complexion no matter your age, so having an oily skin cleanser that's formulated for adult skin is essential. This refreshing gel does just that, sloughing away excess sebum, dirt and impurities without ever leaving your skin feeling stripped.
Farmacy Beauty Whipped Greens Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser
If you're looking to upgrade your everyday cleanser to a modern oil-free formula, let us introduce you to this gentle and pH-balanced lather. With a lightweight foaming texture, this nourishing blend of moringa and papaya replenishes hydration without ever stripping your complexion.
Pai Skincare Phaze Rebalancing PHA Cleanser
You're guaranteed to find at least one of Pai's cult classic products in the ELLE beauty team's bathroom cupboard and this new skin-smoothing cleanse is the latest to make the cut. Gently exfoliating, this gel face wash combines sugar complex and plant-derived PHAs to buff away surface blackheads and texture.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel
If your oily skin is reactive and irritation prone, this clarifying cleanser should be top of your shopping list. Infused with La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water, it comforts and refreshes agitated skin without compromising on a deep and thorough clean.
Oskia Violet Water Clearing Cleanser
With a hat trick of clarifying, purifying and calming promises, this blemish fighting cleanser is ideal for congested oily skin. Think prickly pear, salicylic acid, pro-vitamin B5, violet willow extract, colloidal silver and prebiotics, all in one deep cleansing formula.
Ole Henriksen Find Your Balance™ Oil Control Cleanser
Blending neem seed oil and exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids, this cleanser works to gently lift any dead skin cells and eradicate excess oil. It leaves skin feeling refreshed and smoother, and helps control excess sebum so well, it stops T-zones getting slick by lunch time. This in turn results in less blemishes — a win-win.
Vichy Normaderm Deep Cleansing Purifying Gel
This sloughs away everything from dirt to dust and pollutant particles, leaving you blemish-free. It helps to rebalance oiliness without leaving behind tightness and doesn't irritate sensitive skin. It also helps smooth out any irregular texture, banishing pesky bumps and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash
If blackheads are the bane of your life, this lightweight cleanser foams to unclog pores, mattify oiliness and prevent future spots from forming. On top of seeing less spots, you might also notice a reduction in redness, leaving skin looking smoother and brighter.
With that being said, it's a potent formula, so build up frequency to ensure you don’t strip away your skin’s much-needed natural oils.
Sensitive skin means avoiding anything abrasive, which is why this cleanser — infused with organic grape water and salicylic acid — tops our list. The texture is on the thicker side, and creates a rich lather when mixed with water to provide a deep clean.
3. Toner (optional)
In the theme of keeping things simple, a toner is an optional step in a skincare routine. This can either be a clarifying, hydrating or chemical exfoliating toner, depending on which works best for your skin.
Using a chemical exfoliator, such as an AHA-based product, can gently remove any dead skin cells without the abrasive damaging qualities of a scrub. It may be a more effective option but it’s also best to make sure you’re not overdoing it.
‘Everyone has a different tolerance level for products which contain chemical or physical exfoliators,' advises Dr Mahto. 'The key thing is firstly not to use too many products and keep it simple. Most people are unlikely to need an exfoliating face wash and a toner and a face-mask in their routine.
'Secondly, a bit of common sense is required. If your skin feels dry, tight, scaly or flaky after a product then ease off using it for a few days; on the other hand if your skin tolerates it without any issues, then you are probably fine to continue using it.'
ELLE Edit: Salicylic Acid Toners For Oily Skin
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Medik8 Press & Clear
4. Face Mask (optional)
A face mask can be either a luxury or used to target a specific skin care concern, such as a breakout, but it is by no means essential.
From an instant hit of hydration to exfoliating and leaving you with silky smooth skin, there’s a face mask for every skincare concern.
ELLE Edit: 16 Of The Best Face Masks For Skin That's Practically Perfect
Aman Nourishing Gold Algae Face Mask
From elevating the consequences of cooler weather to boosting your festive glow, elevating your skin’s hydration and radiance is essential in winter time. Calming from the second it hits your complexion, this collaborative mask from 111Skin and Aman Essentials is infused with omega rich marine extracts, 111’s signature NAC Y² amino acid complex and hyaluronic acid, in a unique skin-hugging hydrogel essence mask that transcends spa-worthy luxury.
Iconic Japanese beauty brand Tatcha has finally landed in the UK. Although we're all about the Water Cream and Rice Polish, it's the Clarifying Clay Mask that we're stashing. The genius formula changes colour and temperature to create a spa-esque skin treatment that works in just three minutes. Okinawa kucha clay absorbs dirt, oil and excess sebum from pores whilst exfoliating Japanese konjac helps to smooth and refine skin texture.
Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Sleepair Intensive Mask
If you didn't fall into a TikTok hole watching reviews of Dr.Jart+'s Cicapair colour correct treatment, then, firstly, we applaud you. Secondly, you won't want to miss the range's overnight face mask. Using the skin-soothing properties of tiger grass (aka centella asiatica or cica), simply apply the mask on clean skin before you go to sleep and let the formula work to soothe and reduce redness and irritation while you dream. Rosacea sufferers, this is one for you.
Kiehl's Avocado Nourishing Hydrating Mask
If whipping up a DIY face mask from the contents of your fridge isn't your idea of a chill night in, then let Kiehl's avocado mask for the work for you. Packed with omega rich avocado extract and oil, this ultra hydrating mask is way more than just a dollop of guac for your skin.
When Summer Fridays first launched their now legendary Jet Lag Mask, Instagram basically died, went to heaven, returned to life and painted this face mask on. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, allantoin and panthenol, this vegan formula is all about soothing and nourishing parched, airplane-tired complexions.
The queen of derm-worthy skincare, if Dr. Barbara Sturm says a face mask will give our skin a total overhaul, we believe her. Hell, if she said painting our face with mucus would do the job, we'd say 'Pass us the mucus'. Luckily for us, this face mask is formulated with super plant purslane, aloe vera and chamomile to calm, nourish and protect against free radical damage, no mucus in sight.
Ok, this isn't technically a face mask, but your lips need some loving as well. Which is where LANEIGE's iconic Lip Sleeping Mask comes in. Beloved by celebrities everywhere, this Korean formula uses a Berry Mix Complex and Moisture Wrap technology to slowly sloughs away dead skin cells and hydrate new ones, to reveal your softest, plushiest pout ever.
Make mascne a thing of the past by getting this salicylic acid mask into your routine, pronto. This jelly-like formula contains the aforementioned blemish busting BHA and charcoal for a super deep and satisfying cleanse. Slather on once or twice a week (particularly good for those days you've had to trek into the office via a sweaty commute) and say adios to congestion and surprise blemishes.
A game changer when it comes to moisturising dry skin, this emollient leave-on mask transforms from a balm to an oil when it comes into contact with your skins natural heat. A combination of Linoleic acid and Vitamin E strengthens your skin barrier and locks in that much-needed moisture.
The most Insta-worthy face mask possibly ever, leave this 'bouncy' watermelon-infused gel mask on overnight to wake up with baby soft skin.
You know when you can feel things brewing under your skin but they just won't come to the surface? Slather a good dollop of the Omorovicza deep cleansing mask on and you'll be drawing those impurities out no time. Enriched with Hungarian healing water and Moor mud, no blemish is getting away from the decongesting properties of this mask.
Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Mask
Dry skin sufferers rejoice! Slather on Tata Harper's seriously hydrating mask and leave on for 15 mins (we like to apply ours whilst in the bath to let the steam do its work) and you'll have plump, plushy skin in no time.
this works Evening Detox Clay Mask
A face mask with a built in brush is the kind of practical beauty innovation we like. Sweep the anti-pollution clay onto clean skin to purify and protect against environmental aggressors (that's city smog to you and me).
Grown Alchemist Age-Repair Gel Masque
A lightweight gel face mask enriched with hyaluronic acid pomegranate to hydrate and fight pesky free radical damage.
This warming treatment transforms from a syrup into a cream when massaged into your skin. Full of anti-bacterial honey and free radical-fighting echinacea, it revitalises stressed-out skin and stimulated blood flow.
Removing impurities and sloughing away dead skin cells, Aesop's clay-based mask is the ultimate cleanse.
5. Eye Cream
We’ll admit that this is probably the skincare step we all tend to skip, which isn’t a huge problem if you don’t have any under eye concerns, but if you struggle with dryness or dark circles an eye cream really does work some magic.
Kirsti Shuba, co-founder of Katherine Daniels Cosmetics believes in: 'Always apply eye cream to perfectly cleansed and toned skin before my moisturiser. To boost the efficiency of my cream, I sometimes tap a lightweight serum or concentrate around my eyes before applying the cream to my eye contour and lids.'
ELLE Edit: Best Eye Creams
L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Eye Balm - £59
6. Serums
This is arguably the most important step in your skincare routine as serums usually contain the ingredients that make the biggest difference to skin.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, Dr Ejikeme advises looking out for serums containing ‘humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides to repair the barrier function first. Once the barrier function of the skin improves and sensitivity goes down, we can start treating different elements in the skin with more active ingredients.'
If you have oily skin and are worried about making skin even slicker, Dr Ewoma advises using a serum and skipping the moisturiser step: ‘I recommend people with oily skin to use a hyaluronic acid serum (instead of a moisturiser), particularly in warmer months’.
From brightening, to hydrating, to managing fine lines, there’s an array of serums on the market that do wonders for skin.
ELLE Edit: 13 Of The Best Face Serums For Super Glowy Skin
REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Redness Relief Serum
Best for... sensitive skin
If your skin is temperamental, you’ll need a reliable serum to soothe quickly, before resuming normal service. Milk proteins calm, while arnica repairs in this rosacea-friendly formula.
SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF Antioxidant Vitamin-C Serum for Oily/Blemish Prone Skin
Best for … tackling blemishes and signs of ageing, at once
The latest product to join the range from our beloved SkinCeuticals, Silymarin CF is a powerful vitamin C triple antioxidant serum formulated specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin. The result of six years of research and development, this lightweight formula helps reduce oil oxidation, control excess sebum and improve the appearance of blemishes while targeting signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.
Best for... exact dosage
If, like us, you're never sure how much of your serum is actually a 'pea size' then Clarins' genius Double Serum is here to ease your mind. The swanky pump design delivers an exact made to measure dosage, and the serum inside is pretty great too. With 21 active plant extracts including hero ingredient turmeric, this targets traditional signs of ageing to leave your skin looking firmer and more radiant.
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum - £60 for 30ml
Best... all-rounder
This serum works to strengthen your natural microbiome, (the protective good bacteria which sits on skin), supporting its defence and recovery. The result is overall happier (firmer, smoother, more radiant) skin.
Dr Barbara Sturm Clarifying Serum - £175 for 30ml
Best for... purifying
Blemish-ridden, oily skin needs purifying and rebalancing, and this does just that, tackling spots and sebum without any drying side effects.
Herbivore Bakuchiol Serum - £49
Best for... smoothing
If retinol’s aggressive nature puts the fear into you, but you’re still lusting after its regenerating powers, try this natural alternative. It’s gentle, but testers still remark on its line-smoothing effects.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum for Normal/Dry Skin
Best... high potency antioxidant
This potent day time Vitamin C serum has a cult following amongst beauty editors for its high-strength formula and visible results. This powerful triple antioxidant provides 8x environmental protection, helps prevent free radical damage and improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness, while brightening the skin.
Decree Treat Tincture - £130
Best for... overnight
This juicy serum – formulated by famed skin doctor Dr AJ Sturnham – blends stem cells, retinoids and hyaluronic acid. Together, they've been proven to speed up cell regeneration.
Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus - £47 for 30ml
Best for... resurfacing
Laser facials do wonders to iron out bumpy or scarred skin, but cost a pretty penny. Unlike this laser-mimicking serum, an excellent second-best approach, formulated with glucosamine to speed up skin healing.
Best for… free radical protection
This topical triple antioxidant serum provides advanced protection against environmental damage, neutralises free radicals and helps to prevent collagen breakdown. Featuring a patented combination of 2% Phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C, and 0.5% Ferulic Acid, it helps to diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improves skin tone, for protected skin and a brighter, more even complexion.
Caudalie Vinoperfect Complexion Correcting Radiance Serum 30ml
Best for... brightening
Pigmentation can sneak up on us, particularly if we’re guilty of sun-worshipping. This is a winning formulation for erasing dark spots and brightening the canvas in just a few weeks.
Chantecaille Bio Lifting Serum+ - £242
Best for... lifting
Science meets nature in this face-firming serum, which combats the effects of gravity (sagging skin and lost volume) by using peptides and botanicals to perk and tighten.
Vichy Mineral 89 - £25
Best for... hydrating
A comfortable-on-skin blend of hyaluronic acid (a naturally occurring molecule that holds onto water) that noticeably transforms parched faces fast. Your skin will feel as plumped as a posh hotel pillow.
7. Hydrating/Moisturising Products
There are the thick textures that instantly quench dry skin, or the gels that cool and hydrate, either way slathering on a bit of moisturiser is a great way to end the day.
They are a god-send for dry skin sufferers but may not be necessary if you’re on the oilier side, so don’t panic if you want to skip this step. If you’re using active ingredients such as a retinoid product, they’re a great way to seal all the goodness in.
‘Fifteen to twenty minutes after applying the vitamin A product, using a simple fragrance-free moisturiser to the skin can be of benefit. Vitamin A can irritate the skin leading to dryness, sensitivity and flaking. Using a moisturiser afterwards can help reduce these symptoms and improve tolerability,' explains Dr Mahto.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
Waking up to uncomfortable, congested skin? An extra blanket of thick, greasy shine is the last thing you need. That's why we favour lightweight, water-gel textures that hydrate without ever feeling heavy. Cue Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide Cream. This cloud-like moisturiser absorbs into your skin without leaving a trace and is packed with peptides to help strengthen and nourish your face when it's at it's most compromised.
Ren Clean Skincare ClearCalm Replenishing Gel Cream
The name of this cream speaks for itself: clear and calm. Taking a three-pronged approach to acne, this multitasking moisturiser targets excess dead skin cells, over-production of sebum and bacteria. Made up of Japanese liquorice extract, lingonberry seed oil and a soothing complex of chamomile, lavender and sage, this high-performance gel cream lightens acne scars, controls oil and most importantly keeps acne-causing congestion at bay.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M
When it comes to blemishes, La Roche-Posay is famous for being able to tackle any spot that you throw at it. Containing salicylic acid, this daily moisturiser works to unblock pores and control sebum levels. Use it regularly and you’re not only less likely to get future breakouts but, with the addition of zinc, it helps to get rid of any current spots, too.
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Gel Cream
It's no secret that Dr. Jart+ is a powerhouse when it comes to redness. In fact, you might already be familiar with its viral colour-correcting treatment which has been crowned a modern skincare hero by TikTok. This ultra-light cream is another favourite of ours. It uses a clever complex of tiger grass and cicabond (a skin renewing blend of proteins and minerals) to calm and restore irritated, red, stressed skin when spots and rosacea make an unwanted return.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream
If you find you get the odd spot now and again but still want your skin to appear glowy, this luxe hero from Dr. Sturm provides the best of both worlds. Enriched with zinc, it manages to soothe any irritation and counteract redness whilst still leaving skin with a plumped and dewy finish – no oiliness in sight.
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser
K-beauty brand Laneige is loved globally for its lip sleeping mask, but this gel moisturiser is an underrated hero. Perfect for oily and dehydrated skin (yes, you can be both) it's a refreshing, lightweight texture that's fast-absorbing and never greasy – which is thanks to a mix of both hyaluronic acid and deep sea algae.
Tatcha The Water Cream
When it comes to luxury skincare, Tatcha is hard to beat. This chic pot comes complete with a gold spatula to pick up the perfect amount of product with every application. The formula is pretty impressive too; a rich blend of rice, algae, green tea and Japanese rose. It smoothes texture, tightens pores and balances excess oil production, leaving you with a demi-matte finish. Add it to your skincare routine ASAP.
Acne-prone, oily and sensitive? If you've hit the trifecta, you can't go far wrong with a bit of Avène in your daily routine. Not only does it mattify, reduce excess sebum and hydrate all at once, but it's also formulated with the brand's iconic Thermal Spring Water which soothes areas of irritation. We'll take two.
Augustinus Bader The Light Cream
We guarantee you'll find Augustinus Bader's line-up of luxury, hardworking products on almost every beauty editor's bathroom shelf. Designed for oily skin types and humid climates, this lighter version of the cult original cream has a matte finish specifically designed to control unwanted shine. A brilliant bookend to any skincare routine, it's a worthwhile investment if you ask us.
Vichy Normaderm Double-Correction Daily Care
Salicylic acid is the gold standard when it comes to blemish-busting ingredients, and one to look out for when you're shopping for skincare. This creamy moisturiser also contains hyaluronic acid to ensure your skin feels supple, plump and hydrated throughout the day too. Consider it a one-stop shop to a blemish-free complexion.
Curél Oil Control Weightless Gel Moisturiser
If your skin is ultra-sensitive and prone to a shiny T-zone then this weightless moisturiser from Curél ticks every box. It's fragrance-free, won't clog your pores and is ideal for sensitive skin types. A couple of pumps is enough for your whole face, so this bottle will last for a while. It'll balancing oil production and because it's also rich in skin-barrier-soothing ceramides, it'll soften, smooth and hydrate without leaving any greasiness behind.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream
Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream is one of the most well-known moisturisers and make-up primers in the industry, widely loved by editors, influencer and artists alike. However, it's not the best for oily skin: which is why the brand dropped this water-based alternative. Consider it a lightweight little sister to the original – it isn't as rich or heavy, but it is just as hydrating, making it a skin saviour for oilier complexions.
SOS Night Cream
While this might not look like the most appealing of moisturisers, it's proof that what's inside that counts. If you have oily skin and have looked on with envy as dry skin types around you get to slather on rich, luxurious creams without breaking out, we hear you. This hydrating option is less than £20 but believe us when we say it outperforms many pricier brands, and has everything you need if you're prone to redness and oversized pores.
Aesop B Triple C Facial Balancing Gel
Acne-prone skin commonly goes hand-in-hand with excess oil production, which is exactly what this gel hydrator aims to quell. While it may feel sticky at first, it sinks into skin in seconds to leave you with a grease-free face.
Beauty Pie Beauty Pie
Beauty Pie is home to some of our favourite beauty products of all time, including this gel moisturiser. Taking all the best parts of K-beauty to treat acne-prone skin, it's a cocktail of Jeju volcanic sand, flower stem cell extract and ficucell vita, which transform dullness to a dewy glow and reduces shine in oilier areas.
Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
Put simply, this is one of the plushest moisturiser textures we've come across. Soft to the touch with a glass-skin dew, this shortcut to glazed skin uses potent levels of niacinamide to balance and hydrate. Because why should you have to give up glow in the name of a few blemishes? What's more, this vegan and cruelty-free cream is free from fragrance, gluten or parabens, making it a great all-rounder for just about any skin type.
Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturiser
Skincare expert Kate Somerville has been treating and perfecting faces for 30 years, so it's safe to say that she knows her stuff. That's why this cult moisturiser contains oil-absorbing microspheres that work to ensure skin stays matte all day long.
8. SPF (day only)
We know by now that SPF is the only way to end your morning skincare routine and if you haven’t gotten into the habit by now, it’s time to start.
13 Face Moisturisers With SPF To Use Every Day
This coveted moisturiser-meets-sunscreen is a favourite of the ELLE UK beauty team. Lightweight, ultra-absorbent and bursting with hyaluronic acid, it sinks into your skin effortlessly without that typically heavy sunscreen feel. Hydrating and luminous with a completely traceless feel? Sign us up.
Byoma SPF 30 Gel Moisturiser
If you're looking for a moisturiser to soothe skin barrier damage post-sunshine, this reparative moisturiser is our skin-loving go-to. Whether your oily, dehydrated or super dry, this lightweight formula hydrates, nourishes and shields your base for additional sun damage.
CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
Like all of CeraVe's affordable range, this SPF lotion is packed with ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier, prevent water loss and soothe irritation. It's an especially good choice for dry skin, and will leave you looking dewy – never greasy.
Avène Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30 Moisturiser
Dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin is a trifecta nobody wants, but as winter climes arrive, it becomes all too common. Sound familiar? This creamy moisturiser with added SPF30 is a godsend. Rich and hydrating, it will soothe inflammation, protect against environmental aggressors and leave you looking luminous.
This is really a do-it-all winner that any skin type will get along with. It feels like a rich, nourishing cream, but sinks into skin seamlessly to leave no white cast or chalky residue. We've tried it under a host of liquid foundations and can confirm it plays well (no pilling in store here), and even the most sensitive will be able to wear it all day long without fear or redness or clogged pores.
For those that typically avoid sunscreen for fear of its comedogenic properties, you've no longer got an excuse. This lightweight gel SPF is a stand-out option for those who dislike the feel of typical rich sunscreens and want their sun protection to feel, well, like it's not there.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30
Elemis' legendary Marine Cream is loved worldwide for good reason: the complex of algae inside works to grab moisture and hold it within the skin, keeping dehydration at bay while plumping out fine, feathery lines. Now, it comes boosted with SPF30: a one-and-done hero for every single morning.
Clinique Moisture Surge SPF25 Sheer Hydrator Face Cream
Clinique's Moisture Surge cream has been a staple in beauty cupboards everywhere for years – and now, there's an iteration with in-built sun protection. Loaded with cooling aloe vera and humectant hyaluronic acid, this gel-textured formula feels lightweight but leaves skin feeling supple all day long.
e.l.f. Suntouchable! WHOA Glow Moisturiser SPF30
For those who like the glass skin effect, e.l.f's super-affordable SPF moisturiser is a must-try. It lights skin up to beautiful effect, imparting a dewy finish that lasts all day, and layers seamlessly under make-up. If your skin is lacking radiance, this needs to be in your shopping basket ASAP.
Bioderma Sensibio Anti-Redness Tinted Moisturiser With SPF30
If you struggle to keep rosacea flare-ups under control, or are prone to redness, Bioderma's SPF moisturiser has been made specifically with you in mind. It's lightly tinted, so will even out ruddy cheeks, allowing you to lighten up on the foundation.
Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Day Cream SPF 30
Shiseido's SPF moisturiser is the opposite of mundane and practical: in fact, it's luxury skincare in a swirling gold pot. Formulated to help lift and tighten your skin whilst protecting from UV rays and sun damage, this day cream just made applying your SPF a truly indulgent experience.
We could all do with an energy boost – even in our moisturiser. This multi-tasker provides just that, with an added dose of radiance and SPF protection for good measure.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery
This emollient-rich moisturiser is a great choice for skin that tends to feel dehydrated as the day goes on. It's richly hydrating, but doesn't sit on top of your skin, leaving behind an annoying greasy film. Fragrance free and loaded with antioxidants and peptides, it's a smart choice for those who want to brighten and unify their complexion.
It’s essential to protect your skin from UV damage, especially when you’re using chemical exfoliators in your skincare routine as these make you more likely to burn.
They’ve also come a long way in recent years, ditching the chalky-finish and have evolved to becoming undetectable under make-up, so there’s really no excuse to skip this vital step.
