Best skincare products: our guide to the 30 must haves

Maybe you're the cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen type. Maybe you're the 10-step face beauty routine type. Or perhaps you are somewhere in between. In any case, it's not just about the number of facial skincare products, but also about their quality. But given that nowadays you can spend from 10 to 500 euros on a moisturizer, how do you determine what is really worth putting on your skin? Here is this handy cheat sheets, a collection of first-choice products, which ranges from basic products that you can also find in pharmacies to new indie products, up to luxury cult products, as well as the essentials that we all should have in beauty.

Here, then, are the best skincare products from our point of view. Enjoy the reading!

The Top 4: the best skincare products (Our Selection)

You can read the 30 best skincare products below. But if you don't have time to read the whole article, here's the recap of the first four must-have products on this list for your beauty routine.

SkinCeuticals serum C and Ferulic

The brand: for over twenty years SkinCeuticals is a reference brand, recommended by dermatologists. It is a scientifically researched skincare line that offers a wide range of products that prevent, protect and correct the signs of aging.

The top product: Dermatologists love it. Beauty editors are obsessed with it. In short, CE Ferulic serum is highly coveted. It's expensive, but it's worth every penny, thanks to the scientifically proven combination of antioxidants – vitamins C, E and ferulic acid – which protect skin from free radical damage caused by exposure to factors such as the sun and pollution. In truth, the smell is a bit like hot dog water, but you get used to it quickly, especially when you see with your own eyes how much this serum changes your skin.

Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Babyfacial

The Brand: The name is cute and the packaging adorable, but make no mistake: Drunk Elephant has really good skincare products. A hugely popular brand, creating all kinds of serums, masks and more that are adored by beauty editors and consumers alike.

The top product: despite containing a concentration of 25% of alpha-hydroxy acids and a concentration of 2% of beta-hydroxy acids, it magically does not irritate the skin, even sensitive skin. Merit of the fact that it is particularly balanced in terms of pH. The result is a luminous, clear and uniform complexion, with no visible redness.

Gyada Green Tea Purifying Clay Stick Mask

The top product: There are only four ingredients in the Clean Greens Superfood face mask, which essentially works like a green juice for the skin. Helps purify, brighten and hydrate, in a fresh powder-to-gel formula that activates when mixed with water. Around 10 euros and an innovative stick application make it a must have for all beauty cases, especially ideal for oily skincare.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Here is your new summer moisturizer. Rich in hyaluronic acid Lightweight, Hydro Boost Water Gel hydrates without ever feeling greasy or heavy. On the contrary, it's cool and refreshing (even more so if you keep it in the fridge), a must for hot, humid days or for those with perpetually dull skin.

Kiehl's ULTRA FACIAL CLEANSER

A foolproof universal cleaner, this formula is especially ideal for sensitive skin. The non-foaming gel draws away dirt and impurities, while simultaneously hydrating the complexion rather than stripping it. Thanks to calming green tea and white tea, combined with hydration super heroes such as aloe and jojoba oil.

CeraVe

A top product par excellence, this cleanser has the ability to effectively remove makeup and deeply cleanse the skin. Gently exfoliates, with an ideal formula even for the most sensitive skins that leaves the face nourished and soft. Bonus points for savings format.

The Ordinary Retinol 2% in Squalene

Retinol is a real powerhouse, capable of stimulating collagen production and eliminating ailments, but it is notoriously irritating. That's why we appreciate that The Ordinary offer it in different strengths to help your skin adjust gradually, all paired with hydrating squalane. Retinol 0.2% in squalane is the lowest, best choice for retinol newbies. Bonus points? Obviously, for oily skin The Ordinary skincare.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich

Also referred to as the treasure of moisturizers, or 'spa face', this moisturizer has an intensely rejuvenating effect thanks to the use of numerous herbs. Among the most coveted skin care products ever by operators in the sector.

CLAIRECEUTICALS Glycolic Acid Serum 10%

For anyone with hyperpigmentation issues, regardless of skin color, this Glycolic Acid Brightening Toner is a real problem solver. Whether dark spots are the result of sun damage or acne scars, the formula goes deep, exfoliating and evening skin tone, with the help of brightening licorice extract and protective antioxidants. A soothing niacinamide is also present to minimize the likelihood of irritation.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%

Face mask based on alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids, the combination gives a characteristic red color and a formulation in serum, but above all a combo between exfoliation and purification which, in addition to smoothing the skin, works on acne and irritations related to bacteria. In addition, it purifies the pores and leaves the complexion luminous and compact.

Eclat Skincare Mineral Sunscreen

If you had to choose one sunscreen for life, many would choose this one. Ideal for an oily skin skincare routine thanks to zinc oxide, it contains only 6 ingredients. Definitely the most loved by organic enthusiasts.

Paula's Choice Antiaging Face Serum

Retinol is the undisputed king of the anti-aging world, and all reviews rave about its skin-transforming effects (and how quickly they show up), thanks to the combination of high-quality actives. And if your skin cringes at the very word "retinol," don't worry, this serum uses a milder type of retinoid, but still produces impressive results.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil is a reference brand, known for creating gentle and safe formulas for sensitive skin, appreciated by dermatologists. Curiosity: it is available in over 70 countries around the world.

The top product: first launched on the market in 1947, it still has the same formula. It's considered a universally foolproof cleanser, an incredibly gentle choice that dermatologists recommend to everyone time and time again. Not to mention, it's super convenient and doesn't even have to be rinsed off.

Skin Medica TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream

The Brand: Created by a dermatologist over 20 years ago, SkinMedica is focused on constantly finding ways to help skin heal and regenerate.

The top product: Dermatologists are crazy about the TNS Essential Serum; it is one of the anti-aging products that they also use themselves. We're talking an improvement in tone, texture and a reduction in fine lines in just a few months. For your information, this is another product that smells, shall we say, peculiar, although, given the effectiveness, it is worth it.

Florence Vitamin C

Florence Bio Cosmetics it has always been known for its excellent value for money, and this serum enriched with ingredients known for their anti-wrinkle and anti-spot action is one of its bestsellers. It absorbs immediately for an immediate SUPER hydrating and plumping action. The mix of vitamins C, E, low and medium molecular weight hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil and aloe vera stimulates collagen production by improving skin texture from within. It has over 70,000 positive reviews on Amazon! Incredible!

La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense serum

The brand: this line occupies a unique space in the market, offering high-end active formulas in pharmacies. It is a cult brand of French pharmacy and carries the vibe of the old European pharmacy that we all appreciate. It is a brand particularly suitable for those struggling with conditions such as rosacea, eczema, acne or sensitive skin in general, as it offers unique lines for each of them.

The hero product: Whether it's true rosacea or annoying redness from other sources, Rosaliac AR Intense serum is the solution. A botanical component, ambophenol, quickly reduces hot flashes and is also highly hydrating.

Biologique Recherche spf 50

The Brand: This French-based brand has been around since the 1970s; was born as a research and development laboratory, focused on active ingredients for skin care. Biologist and founder Yvan Allouche started making products for his wife and the rest is history.

The hero product: Our skincare enthusiast Gould sings the praises of this cult tonic over and over again. It is an iconic product of the beauty industry, known for both its pore-tightening and skin-balancing effects as well as its notorious smell. In addition to the standard ingredients such as lactic, salicylic and citric acids, P50 Original also contains horseradish, sulfur and vinegar. The plus? From today also in the spf version!

Aveda – Gel Skincare Botanical Kinetics Purifying Cleanser

Do you fight pimples? Consider washing with the brand's purifying cleanser. The gel-oil formula boasts 17 different natural actives (purple clay, papaya enzymes and more) to deeply cleanse and purify the complexion, without leaving it dry or stripped. 

Tatcha Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

The Brand: K-beauty may get all the attention, but there's a plethora of skincare inspiration to be drawn from Japanese beauty, too. It is the benchmark of this brand, which is steeped in Japanese tradition, both in terms of the ingredients used and in the creation of products that make the skin care ritual relaxing and luxurious.

The Product: Anyone who enjoys double cleansing, is looking for a gentle make-up remover and/or loves oils and skincare products for oily skin will appreciate the Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil. As for the oil, it boasts trademark rice and camellia seed oils (both won't clog pores) for quick and effective makeup removal. In addition, it contains an antioxidant complex based on the Japanese geisha diet: seaweed, green tea and rice, to soothe and calm the skin.

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

The Brand: While this brand isn't brand new, nor does it have the social media hype of others, it's a staple for skincare aficionados everywhere. Founded by dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross, it was one of the first lines to offer clinically inspired formulas and products. For example, his cult-like daily peeling pads are inspired by the in-studio peels for which he is famous.

The Product: While the peels are great, it's one of his latest releases that has truly transformed our skin. A lifesaver for breakouts, the DRx Blemish Solutions Acne Eliminating Gel quickly clears blemishes; the brand says within three days, but some have noticed results after just one day. Like many other treatments, it contains salicylic acid, but what is most noteworthy is the use of monk pepper to control oil production.

Olay Micro-Sculpting Cream

The Brand: Previously known as Oil of Olay, it has been an undeniable cornerstone of the pharmacy since 1952; we're willing to bet you have memories of your mom or even grandma using the iconic pink lotion. Today, the company still has its favorite products, but it also continues to innovate in every skincare category.

The hero product: Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream claims to hydrate skin and minimize fine lines and wrinkles in just 28 days. The merit is of a complex of peptides, as well as fundamental elements for skin care such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Plus, it's pleasant: it's also available in a fragrance-free variant.

Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

The Brand: Do you have sensitive skin? This is for you then. The French brand focuses on products that help calm and soothe (as well as deliver results), without ever causing irritation. The basis of many products is mineral-rich spring water, which comes directly from France.

The hero product: chosen when the complexion is already stressed and/or when you want to give an extra layer of protection (think of the winter season), Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is hydrating and soothing. Restores the skin barrier and also contains copper and zinc to maintain a healthy skin environment. It also reduces itching and is so gentle that it can even be used on children and babies.

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment

The Brand: While Sunday Riley has been around for over a decade, it has always been a little-known brand. That was until recent years, when it quickly became an industry cult favorite, thanks to its curated collection of products that boast a high-tech formula and fast, effective results. 

The Product: Good Genes is a lactic acid serum that exfoliates, brightens, smoothes, and plumps. And no, even if you have sensitive skin it's highly unlikely to cause irritation, given the gentle nature of lactic acid and the addition of calming and soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera.

Augustinus Bader The Cream

This bestselling cream really lives up to the hype. The high-tech formula is so good that Dr. Bader says it can replace every other product in your routine (except your cleanser) and promises results in 27 days. In our experience, the texture is flawless and the formula highly effective.

RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Eye Cream Treatment

Since signs of aging can show up around the eyes first, retinol is a key ingredient to look for in an eye cream, and Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Eye Cream Treatment gets it right. Despite its effectiveness (that is, the ability to reduce annoying crow's feet), it is still delicate and hypoallergenic and also addresses other problems around the eyes, such as dark circles and bags.

Davines Baby Cheeks All In One Hydrating Milk

It manages to combine the best features of a cleansing milk, a make-up remover and a moisturizing toner, all in one bottle. Definitely use it in place of a face wash, or apply after for extra hydration and an all-over fresh feeling. Perfect to use after training, when it is not possible to do a complete cleansing of the face.

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright Eye Cream

Banana Bright Eye Cream is inspired by color-correcting banana powder, a yellow powder makeup artists often rely on to counter dark circles. Because of this, it has a subtle yellow hue that has just that effect, plus vitamin C and collagen for an anti-aging effect. Plus, it layers beautifully under makeup, a must-have for any morning eye cream.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex

Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex is a must-have product that addresses any eye problem. Its formula is designed to hydrate for up to 24 hours, brighten dark circles in three weeks and reduce bags and wrinkles. Plus, it has a light texture that absorbs quickly. What you didn't expect? It's also suitable for oily skin men's skincare!