People generally fall into two camps when it comes to skincare routines: overflowing bathroom cabinets and a vocabulary to match or frozen by choice and overwhelmed with what step comes next.
In an ever-growing market, it can be easy to get caught up in flashy packaging and promises of clear, glowing skin. But the key to shopping skincare smartly is knowing exactly what you need. Some people thrive on 14-step K-Beauty routines – skincare as a ritual and act of self-care. Others simply want the bare necessities to go about their day. Chatting to a professional is a good starting point for understanding your skin type and how to tackle various concerns. And since skin continues to evolve and change with age, environmental factors and other lifestyle choices, it’s natural that your routine will need to keep up too.
We’ve broken down our favourite brands to shop, including the products they’re most-loved for.
Broadsheet’s top picks
• Best for sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay, Cerave
• Best for active ingredients: Skinceuticals, Paula’s Choice
• Best for natural ingredients: Ere Perez, Conserving Beauty
The best skincare brands in Australia
Zoë Foster Blake’s peachy skincare label turned 10 earlier this year. The range, which is now made up of 24 products, works to tackle a whole host of skin concerns. The iconic Face Hero remains a go-to (wink) in beauty buff stashes. And in recent years, Foster Blake has added Bro-To and Gro-To, for men and babies respectively.
Our pick
Transformazing Sheet Mask
from $11
Not all sheet masks are created equal. This serum-drenched product is the perfect pre-event skin pick-me-up. It promises glowing, hydrated skin thanks to ingredients like Kakadu plum, finger lime and Tasmanian pepper leaf, as well as niacinamide and hyadisine.Size: 16ml | Product type: hydration | Key ingredient: niacinamide and hyadisine
Rationale is an Australian skincare fan favourite. The brand has developed a cult following for its simple routines that are designed to target a number of concerns. Sitting on the investment end of the price spectrum, each formula is loaded with skin-boosting ingredients – whether you choose to overhaul your entire bathroom cabinet or pick and choose your favourite serums and creams.
Our pick
#1 The Serum
from $114
Radiance and hydration are the two key promises from Rationale’s best-selling serum. Part of the Resilience collection, this formula is designed to help support skin barrier function, while also targeting blemishes and congestion. The brand believes it’s a morning routine must-have. Size: 15ml | Product type: skin barrier support | Key ingredient: B-group vitamins
Ere Perez uses Australian botanical ingredients in its collection of simple beauty products. The Sydney brand’s skincare covers all aspects of routines for a variety of skin types. There’s a strong focus on sustainability that drives the brand, including offering cruelty-free and vegan formulas.
Our pick
Moringa all-beauty crème
$57
Described as a multipurpose moisturiser, this day cream is suitable for dry and sensitive skin. It works well as a base before make-up, offering a plump smooth finish for layering on top of. Size: 50g | Product type: hydration | Key ingredient: moringa seed extract
British brand Medik8 was one of the first to introduce vitamin A to mainstream beauty consumers. Its signature silver-tone packaging houses powerful retinal formulas in a variety of strengths that are designed to cater to different skin types and users. Medik8’s hydrating serums and moisturisers complement the efficacious retinal products.
Our pick
Crystal Retinal 6
$135
This product is a mid-level formula for people who are already used to retinal. The brand also offers lower and higher strengths depending on where you are in your vitamin A journey. Size: 30ml | Product type: retinal | Key ingredient: vitamin A
Active ingredients are at the heart of the Paula’s Choice range. With a focus on research, the brand promises to deliver skincare that helps to correct skin concerns and promote a balanced complexion. Education is important – the brand knows that misinformation and confusing lingo can overwhelm customers – and Paula’s Choice helps to unpack different ingredients, skin types and needs for tackling specific issues.
Our pick
Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant
$50
Paula’s Choice’s dark grey liquid exfoliator bottle, which houses a two per cent BHA formula, often tops the list of beauty favourites for breakout-prone skin. But this milder AHA solution is just as coveted by people with more sensitive skin types. Size: 88ml | Product type: exfoliator | Key ingredient: mandelic acid
Bioderma is synonymous with French girl beauty – and visits to French pharmacies. The brand is loved for its gentle approach to skincare. It offers a number of ranges to target varying skin types: sensitive, normal to dry, combination and acne-prone, dehydrated and weakened. From micellar water and oil cleansers to intensive serums, chances are one or more of these coloured cap products fits in your routine.
Our pick
Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Water Cleanser
$32.99
Micellar water is a great first step for removing SPF, make-up and daily dirt and this pink-capped bottle offers a three-in-one formula: make-up remover, toner and cleanser. It’s fragrance-free and ideal for sensitive skin, too. Size: 500ml | Product type: cleanser | Key ingredient: water
Glossier (pronounced “gloss-ee-aye”) has finally graced Aussie shores: shipping directly from its website and landing on the shelves at Mecca. The US brand might be best-known for its easy-wearing makeup and signature perfume but its skincare offering is also loved. From an ultra-gentle cleanser to soothing balms and active serums, the goal is plump, dewy skin.
Our pick
Milky Jelly Cleanser
$37
This gel-cream cleanser boasts a pH-balanced formula that promises to nourish skin while washing away daily dirt and grime. Massage around your face to remove make-up before adding water to wash everything off. Size: 177ml | Product type: cleanser | Key ingredient: rose water
Conserving Beauty is often called Australia’s first waterless beauty brand. Its Instamelt Day Dissolver Wipes are a favourite of those in the know – the brand also offers dissolving sheet masks and pimple patches in its effort to leave less of a footprint on your skincare routine. And then there’s the weightless oil and gel moisturiser: two formulas made for sensitive skin, especially anyone who suffers from acne, dermatitis and eczema.
Our pick
Dissolving Zit Strips
$28
An innovative alternative to classic pimple patches, these extra-large zit strips are formulated with salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. They can be cut to fit any area of the face (or body) and activate with a splash of water. Size: 6 XL strips | Product type: Exfoliator | Key ingredient: salicylic acid
Founded by Australia’s “skin whisperer” James Vivian, Vivology is a cosmeceutical collection that spans cleansers, exfoliants, serums and moisturisers that target various skin types and concerns. Championing active ingredients, Vivian has been praised for products that offer “everything you need and nothing you don’t, in addition to being as confusion-free as possible”.
Our pick
Mask Duo Set
$99
This exfoliating enzyme mask and hydrating sleep mask complement each other in glow-boosting skincare routines. Use one-to-two times per week to help skin feel smooth dewy. Size: 2 x 77ml | Product type: exfoliator; hydrator | Key ingredient: fruit enzymes; ceramides
This Gold Coast-born brand is a favourite for its suite of products that draw on the power of glycolic acid (a chemical exfoliator that’s derived from sugar cane) – you’ve likely heard of its hero formula, Liquid Gold. With a focus on active ingredients that claim to target concerns like dullness, pigmentation and uneven skin tone and texture, the brand also offers a range of hydrating serums, skin-protecting moisturisers and targeted eye and lip treatments.
Our pick
Liquid Gold with Five Per Cent Glycolic Acid
$76.95
A one-step exfoliator, it’s best to start slow and steady with this product – the brand recommends working up to using it three times per week on alternate evenings. Apply it to clean skin, sweeping the product across your face with a cotton pad or patting it in with your palms. Follow up with a face oil if your skin needs a little bit of extra nourishment. Size: 100ml | Product type: exfoliator | Key ingredient: glycolic acid
The Inkey List’s pared-back black and white packaging houses ingredient-led products that are designed to fill gaps in your skincare routine. You can shop the range by skin type and create a complete day-and-night regimen or sub in best-selling cleansers, serums and moisturisers as you need. The British brand tries to strip back beauty jargon but keeping product names and messaging simple – founder Colette Newberry has also shared her desire to keep prices accessible and focus on the formulas rather than packaging and marketing campaigns.
Our pick
Hyaluronic Acid serum
$43
No skincare routine is complete with a moisture-boosting serum – this supersized iteration of The Inkey Lists’s hyaluronic acid delivers 100ml of the lightweight but nourishing formula. Pro tip: apply hyaluronic acid to a slightly damp face to supercharge its ability to keep the skin hydrated. Size: 100ml | Product type: hydrator | Key ingredient: hyaluronic acid
Ceramides are the star ingredient of Cerave’s range. A natural lipid that occurs within the skin, ceramides have become a favourite in formulas that claim to protect the skin’s barrier, helping to maintain and balance the skin. The brand relies on deeply hydrating ingredients across its range – it also offers blemish control and treatments for acne-prone skin types in its suite of cleansers, serums and creams.
Our pick
Hydrating Cleanser
$23.99
A gentle cleanser that doesn’t leave skin feeling stripped – this hydrating formula has a creamy finish. It’s free from artificial fragrance, making it a good choice for sensitive skin types. You can use this cleanser morning and night, depending on your skin’s needs. Size: 473ml | Product type: cleanser | Key ingredient: ceramides
French brand Clarins is celebrating 70 years of skincare and make-up innovation. A constant in many beauty-lovers’ routines, the brand caters to a range of skin types and concerns. It’s known for its plant-based and botanical-inspired formulas that stimulate the skin’s natural functions to help repair and protect your complexion.
Our pick
Double Serum
$130
Turmeric extract and sea buckthorn are the heroes of this much-loved serum. It has a lightweight formula that layers well with moisturisers and make-up. You can also mix it with other serums from the range to create bespoke rituals that claim to brighten and protect your skin. Size: 30ml | Product type: hydrator | Key ingredient: turmeric extract
Results are the starting point for the product offering by Skinceuticals. The American brand’s high potency formulas were born from years of skin cancer research that led to breakthroughs in understanding antioxidant serums and their impact on skin. Serums are the pinnacle of the range – from the best-selling brown-bottled C E Ferulic Vitamin C to ultra-hydrating formulas and oil-free products.
Our pick
C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum
$242
Vitamin C is the hero ingredient of this best-selling serum. It is a potent antioxidant option for anyone who is used to active ingredients and wants to help protect their skin from environmental damage, including free radical damage from UV rays, infrared radiation (IRA) and ozone pollution (O3). Size: 30ml | Product type: antioxidant | Key ingredient: vitamin C
New Zealand-based skincare brand Emma Lewisham and its eye-catching purple products (which have appeared in nearly every beauty editor’s Instagram story and even had a cameo in the most recent season of Heartbreak High) hit the market in 2016. It has quickly risen to cult status thanks to its efficacious formulas that draw on natural ingredients and pioneering refillable packaging. Serums are a key selling point for the brand – the original Skin Reset Serum is packed with antioxidants, the innovative Supernatural Blemish Face Serum contains a live skin probiotic and the “no botox” Supernatural Vitale Face Elixir contains a specialised peptide complex.
Our pick
Supernatural Blemish Face Serum
$135
This serum – which targets breakouts and blemishes – comes in a dual pump dispenser that you need to assemble before getting started. The probiotic pod arrives in a foil pouch to help to keep the live formulation stable until use. Micrococcus luteus BLIS Q24 is the technical name for the patented live probiotic strain, which targets acne concerns, including the ability to clarify and elevate the skin’s microbiome health. Size: 60ml | Product type: anti-blemish | Key ingredient: probiotics
Now based in New York, La Roche-Posay was founded in France in 1975 (its products are still manufactured in the namesake town). With formulas designed to address specific skin concerns, including sensitive skin, dryness, acne and rosacea, it has become a mainstay in many people’s bathroom cabinets. From the often sold-out Cicaplast Baume B5+ Balm to potent serums and a lightweight SPF50+ fluid, the range covers all aspects of face and body skincare routines.
Our pick
Retinol B3 Anti-Ageing Serum
$74.95
This potent retinol formula has a lightweight serum texture that layers well with moisturisers and face oils to help protect the skin barrier. It also contains niacinamide, which claims to soothe skin and improve its ability to retain moisture. Size: 30ml | Product type: retinol | Key ingredient: retinol
The Ordinary’s no-nonsense approach to skincare has won many fans. The Canadian brand’s signature white packaging and store fit outs give off a clinical vibe – this is echoed by a focus on specific ingredients that can be used to build out well-rounded skincare routines. From hydrating cleansers to hero serums and powerful chemical exfoliants, educating yourself (via the brands tools) about what your skin needs is key to making the most of these products.
Our pick
Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
$29.90
A serum that “does a little bit of everything” is how this formula is sold by the brand. It harnesses peptide technologies alongside amino acids and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes, which claim to improve skin elasticity and enhance firmness. Size: 30ml | Product type: Exfoliator | Key ingredient: peptides
Augustinus Bader’s signature blue bottles are modern skincare icons. Founded by professor and medical doctor Augustinus Bader, the German brand is known for its formulas that contain a patented complex called TFC8. Products are packaged in airless bottles that increase lifespan without added preservatives. A less-is-more approach defines the brand – while the range has grown, the original hero, The Rich Cream, is technically the only product you need to invest in.
Our pick
The Rich Cream
from $149
Originally conceived as a treatment for burn victims, the star ingredient in this cream is a patented complex of natural amino acids, high-grade vitamins and synthesised molecules naturally found in the skin, known as TFC8. The price tag is steep, but the rationale is that you really only need this one product (plus SPF) to restore and support the skin barrier function. Size: 15ml | Product type: hydrator | Key ingredient: amino acids
Summer Fridays’ iconic lip butter balm took over this winter. But the LA-born brand has a loyal following for its growing skincare offering – particularly the Jet Lag range, which now includes the iconic mask, as well as a recently launched serum, eye product and facial mist. Hydration is at the heart of the collection, but the brand works with key actives to supercharge formulas for your routine, too.
Our pick
Jet Lag mask
$43
Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are the key players in this mask (which can also be used as a moisturiser). The hype around this product is valid – a little goes a long way and skin is left feeling soft and plump, whether you’re at 10,000 metres or not. Size: 28g | Product type: mask | Key ingredient: glycerin
Laneige
Founded in South Korea, Laneige is named for the French phrase “the snow”. With an emphasis on skin hydration, the brand’s core offering is based on what it calls “Advanced Water Science technology”. Hyaluronic acid features across gel and cream moisturisers, as well as toners, serums and the cult overnight lip mask. A number of products are refillable, as part of the brand’s efforts in sustainability.
Our pick
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
$31
This K-beauty favourite has earned its stellar reputation for a reason. The gentle exfoliating formula melts onto lips and provides a nourishing, high-shine finish. Coconut oil, shea butter and vitamin C smooth away unwanted dryness. Use in the day for lasting hydration or pop a generous layer on overnight as a more intense treatment.Size: 20g | Product type: lip balm | Key ingredient: coconut oil
What to look for in a new skincare brand
Ingredients
The first step in amping up your skincare literacy is to understand what different ingredients are and how they impact the skin. Some brands thrive on offering formulas that spotlight individual ingredients that can be mixed and matched to create a cohesive routine. Others have spent years perfecting products with the perfect balance, streamlining your collection to just a few bottles. Prices often reflect the ingredient makeup – not just in strength and quality but in overall
Efficacy
It’s important to remember that what works for one person might not necessarily work for you. And while peer or customer reviews about products can be helpful, it’s best to look for dermatologist-recommended and science-backed claims, especially when it comes to active ingredients. Consulting a professional is a good step in setting up your skincare regimen to be the most efficacious for your skin.
Ethics
When it comes to skincare, some brands are leading the way in terms of sustainability, as well as cruelty-free and vegan formulations. Doing your research and picking a brand that aligns with your ethical preferences is another part of choosing the right skincare brands and products for you.
What are the most popular skincare brands of 2024 so far?
Beauty trends continue to saturate social media feeds – a focus on skin barrier protection and using tools to help boost the efficacy of routines are two notable skincare trends. Brands pay attention to what consumers want and react with their marketing, as well as new product formulations. Some of the most-popular skincare brands in Australia for 2024 are Go-To Skincare, Rationale, Summer Fridays and La Roche-Posay.
We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
