11 skincare products worth the hype our beauty team swears by

From dry skin to oily complexions to anti-ageing remedies, these are the skincare products our beauty team love

When it comes to skincare, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach with choosing the best products to achieve glowing, smooth skin. With a variety of different skin types from combination to dry to oily to sensitive in play, we’re often on the hunt for a holy grail product (or products) that’ll leave us with a youthful complexion and luminous finish without the need for expensive salon treatments or procedures.

However, this often comes with a lot of trial and error and money down the drain. So, when we find the perfect skincare regime for us, the stars seem to align and the difference it makes to our skin – and makeup application – is undeniably noticeable. And not only in terms of look.

Finding a routine that improves the appearance of skin can be the key to boosting confidence and adding pep to our step. Our beauty team is in the lucky position of being able to test out a whole host of beauty launches, including skincare.

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This makes us pretty clued up on what will deliver some pretty impressive results. And while that means we’re privy to some impressive formulas, many of us find ourselves returning to certain products time and again.

With that in mind, below we’ve curated a list of just some of our favourite skincare products that have left us with the best skin of our lives, from Charlotte Tilbury to Medik8 to the viral Medicube and more.

Bethan’s pick

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 – £45

Medik8 Crystal Retinal is one of the few science-backed skincare products to achieve cult status in the industry, beloved by experts and everyday skincare fans alike. The award-winning overnight Vitamin A serum is powered by retinaldehyde (aka retinal), which is said to work 11 times faster than traditional retinol to target fine lines, uneven texture and pigmentation.

The formula comes in six strengths, ranging from sensitive (1) to expert (24). As someone with quite reactive skin, I’ve been using the lowest potency formula, and it’s certainly one of the gentlest ways to introduce Vitamin A into a skincare routine, with no redness, flaking or irritation that is sometimes associated with retinoids.

According to Medik8, shoppers can experience clinically proven wrinkle reduction with just one tube; however, this was an independent study on Crystal Retinal 6. Personally, I didn’t notice a change in the fine lines on my forehead with the low strength I have been using, but I did experience an overall glow, smoother texture and slightly firmer feel to my skin.

It’s also formulated with hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help to offset the dryness and irritation that vitamin A products can sometimes cause. In hindsight, I likely could have started at a slightly higher strength, as the formula is clearly designed to be both effective and tolerable. That said, it feels like a solid, low-risk entry point, particularly if you’re new to vitamin A or wary of sensitivity, with the option to build up to stronger concentrations over time for more visible age-defying results.

Priced from £45 to £109, it’s definitely a more premium product, so for those shopping on a shoestring, The INKEY List Advanced Retinal Serum 15ml is a great budget option, priced at £15, which is formulated with 0.2% encapsulated retinaldehyde. Meanwhile, Facetheory’s Retinal Supreme MultiCream 0.2% formula is priced at £55.

Eve’s picks:

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream – £54

This cream truly deserves the hype that surrounds it. As a moisturiser and primer in one, this face cream markets itself as a ‘facelift in a jar’ – especially with its new supercharged formula – and I must say it really does the trick of reviving dull and tired-looking skin.

The Magic Cream’s new formula is packed with a ‘world-first Recoverstem™ Peptide’, which contains a blend of over 100 multi-action Peptides ‘extracted from the Stem Cells of the Eternal Jasmine Youth Plant™, known for their remarkable ability to continuously renew’.

I tend to apply this in the morning after cleansing and applying a serum, and it gives me a real boost as my skin instantly looks plump, hydrated, and any redness soothed – giving me confidence to leave the house bare-faced. It’s got no SPF in, though, so can be used at night – but don’t forget to apply sunscreen if putting on in the morning.

As a primer, it’s a great base for makeup as it makes my foundation look so smooth – no pilling, with my pores easily blended. The downside is that it’s quite pricey as a 30ml tub costs £54. That being said, a little goes a long way, as my last jar lasted about a year, so it is a good investment.

Superfacialist’s Vitamin C+ Skin Renew Cleansing Oil Vitamin C | Brighten Gentle Daily Micro Polish Wash – £10 and £14

I’ve always been a bit of a cleansing balm lover – the Elemis Cleansing Balm, £52, is one of my faves alongside Lush’s Oat Cleansing Balm, £16, but I recently discovered Superfacialist’s ‘Superglow’ Vitamin C formulations, and I’m a convert. A more affordable option, the Superfacialist Vitamin C+ Skin Renew Cleansing Oil is currently on sale at Boots for £9.33 from £14 and is packed with nourishing oils like olive, grapeseed, cucumber and rosehip as well as Vitamin C to dissolve makeup as well as dirt and impurities.

The highly soluble oil is a two-in-one as, once in contact with water, it turns into a cleansing milk to leave a glowy, soft and evened out complexion. My only gripe is that the oil is quite watery, so it sometimes slips through my fingers when applying, wasting the product.

While I’ve not been using it long enough to notice any anti-ageing properties (its formula also includes a high-performance pro-collagen Vitamin C active), my skin is the best it’s ever looked; it’s brighter, has a more even texture, and my pores look less prominent.

This is also helped by the Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Brighten Gentle Daily Micro Polish Wash, now £6.67 from £10 at Boots. The second step in my double cleanse, it leaves my skin smooth and hydrated and feeling taute. It smells divine with a citrus scent that lingers, while Vitamin C adds a radiance boost.

Medik8 Press and Glow Tonic – £34

I’ve tried a good few toners in my time, from the Pixi Glow Toner, £12, to Coats Gentle Hydrating Toning Milk, £10, but since adding this Press and Glow Toner into my skincare routine morning and night, I’ve noticed a significant difference in the texture of my skin. It’s smoother, there are fewer dry patches, and I’ve noticed my pores aren’t quite as large.

While I’ve not seen any major changes to fine lines on my forehead – something some people have reported – or around my eyes (as it’s not recommended for use under the eyes due to their delicate nature), my skin looks and feels invigorated and looks brighter after sweeping a cotton pad with the formula on. And that’s good enough for me. I also enjoy how the bottle has a convenient press-pump applicator that lets the user control how much comes out with a single press of the top – no need to tip it upside down and risk using too much.

While I’ve not experienced many negative effects, some shoppers have been left disappointed with the stinging sensation it leaves on those with more sensitive skin. One user remarked: “I can only use this when I have no blemishes, as it stings otherwise. A shame because this came highly recommended, and is supposed to be suitable for sensitive skin.”

Wonderbalm – £15

I cannot stress how much this Wonder Balm has changed my skin care. A multi-tasking balm, this Korean Beauty wonder has a fast absorbing, yet insanely hydrating formula, which can be used as a moisturiser, hair mask, lip balm, hand cream, makeup primer, makeup remover and eye cream.

It is packed with a whole host of vitamins and antioxidants that are anti-inflammatory, moisturising and promote skin renewal with its ingredients like Olive Oil, Shea Butter, Candelilla Wax, Orange Peel Oil, and Vegetable Oil in the mix.

While I typically use it to treat dry lips, hands and as a face moisturiser, I have applied it to eczema flare-ups, skincare reactions, dermatitis, cuts and scrapes as well as post-shaving. It’s been transformative, calming any issues in just a few hours.

One thing I’d change, personally, is its scent. While it is marketed as being un-fragranced, I feel it has a slight citrus/nutty smell that I’m not too keen on. Although that doesn’t stop me from using it every day.

Jess’s pick

medicube Zero Pore Pads – £20.10

I’m the first to admit I can be a bit of a sceptic when it comes to viral skincare. One of my main skincare concerns as someone with an oily complexion has always been enlarged-looking pores around my nose.

I first heard about the medicube Zero Pore Pads after finding out Molly-Mae Hague was a fan of the mild version, and I immediately ordered the standard formula from Amazon. What sets this product apart for me is the pad design, which doesn’t require any additional tools to massage it in.

I noticed my skin appearing smoother in as little as a week, and I don’t feel my make-up settling into pores as much as it previously did, either. I like that these get to work fast, as I’m pretty impatient when waiting for results, as is often the case with new skincare.

I can’t lie, whilst the included tweezer-style pick-up tool isn’t necessarily needed, it does make me feel like somewhat of a beauty pro during my routine. I also notice when I use the pads after cleansing that they often still manage to get traces of fake tan and makeup off my face, which is pretty impressive given that I usually double cleanse.

One downside is that the product left behind by the pad isn’t the fastest to absorb in my opinion, however, I simply massage it in to get the most out of the ingredients. Shoppable at Amazon, they can also be purchased from the likes of LookFantastic and ASOS, but I’d suggest those with more sensitive skin may wish to start with the mild formula.

They’ve fast become my favourite new addition to my beauty routine, and one I’ll immediately repurchase when I next run out.

Narin’s pick

Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse – £25

I’ve reached the age where, while I want my skin to feel thoroughly cleaned, lots of face washes and cleansers leave my face feeling tight, dry and stripped of nutrients rather than nourished when I use them. The Medik8 cleanser is my secret weapon.

It has a gentle yet effective AHA/BHA complex that exfoliates without any abrasive grit. The brand says it also helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles and tackles the ageing effects of free radicals. I can’t attest to that (yet!) but I definitely think my skin looks brighter, less blotchy and more even when I use it.

It costs £25 for a 150ml tube, which initially felt a lot, but when I realised how little of a pea-sized amount was enough to fully clean my face, it feels like a cost-effective treat. Medik8 says the tube will last for 140 washes, which at less than 18p a use feels reasonable, but I think it could be even more than that based on my experience – once you get used to not having to squirt loads into your hands to wash your face. because it goes so far

It comes out of the tube as a gel and goes on like a silky, foamy cream. It has a lovely, natural citrus scent that reminds me of lemon pie, and it’s my little evening luxury ritual to wash away the harshness and any impurities picked up during the day.

Jada’s pick

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask (4 Pack) – £14.90

I am someone who prioritises skin care at every turn, and I’ve always found a sheet mask to be the ultimate way to wrap up a night of self-care. I used to swear by Garnier’s sheet masks, to the point I’d get a subscription for them on Amazon, but they went out the window as soon as I tried the collagen sheet masks on the market.

I’ve tried a fair few of them, with Rehab, £16 for three, Medicube, £26 for four and Dr Jart’s, £8.50 for one, all standing out to me. There’s one that I keep buying on repeat, though, and that has to be Biodance’s Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask. For those of us who have seen the viral videos, we know they can be worn overnight, but I tend to use them for about four hours, at which point they’ve gone see-through, and I can peel them off to reveal glowing skin.

My skin is bouncy and moisturised after using these, and they’ve become one of my only skincare must-haves. £14.90 can sound expensive for face masks, but since it’s a four-pack, it works out at about £3.72 per mask. When my skin barrier is inflamed, often due to travel or indulging in foods I shouldn’t, I prefer the blue Hydro Cera-nol mask.

That said, I do want to try the full range especially with the new Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask which has K-beauty’s cult classic PDRN in. These masks are great for a pamper night and I think a great way to bulk out any gift bags.

Lauren’s picks

LANEIGE Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask – £28

Laneige is a household name within the beauty world thanks to its iconic Lip Sleeping Masks and hydrating Water Bank collection. But it was the brand’s Bouncy & Firm range, launched last year to plump and revitalise tired skin, that truly changed my routine.

A full year later, I’m still loyal to the entire four-piece line, but the Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask, £28, at Boots is the undisputed hero. My under-eyes are notoriously finicky, usually reacting to products with stings or redness, but this formula is different; it’s actually the first eye treatment I’ve ever bothered to repurchase.

Its cooling, gel-like texture glides on smoothly, instantly de-puffs and soothes, and it’s never caused any irritation, even after nightly use. The Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask, £32, at SpaceNK, is worth considering, too; it feels rich yet breathable on my skin, locking moisture without feeling heavy or greasy.

Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleansing Pads – £49

Vitamin C is a permanent fixture in my skincare arsenal, especially on days when my complexion feels lacklustre or drained. These Vitamin C Brightening Cleansing Pads were recommended to me by a fellow beauty writer around six months ago, and it didn’t take me long to become obsessed.

A single swipe is all it takes to sweep away impurities, boost luminosity, and gently refine the skin’s texture. Incorporating them into my morning ritual has been transformative: my face feels instantly awakened, impeccably clean, and visibly more radiant. Plus, the subtle citrus aroma provides a sophisticated, spa-like sensory experience.

While Rodial recommends applying twice daily, I prefer to reserve these premium pads for my AM routine to maximise that morning glow. For my evening dose of antioxidants, I lean on Medik8’s C-Tetra Serum (£45) to ensure I wake up with a bright, revived complexion.

Lucy’s pick

Charlotte Tilbury’s Immediate Eye Revival Patches – £46.40

When I haven’t had enough sleep, or I just want to give my under-eyes a lift, I find Charlotte Tilbury’s Immediate Eye Revival Patches the ideal quick-fix. In the mornings, I use the included spatula to scoop up the patches, pop them under my eyes, and ten minutes later, my bags look less puffy, and I feel refreshed.

The £58 pot contains 60 eye patches, which initially I did think was quite steep; however, like all Charlotte Tilbury products I’ve tried, the high quality and results are, in my opinion, worth it. At the moment, the eye patches are on sale for £46.40, bringing a pair down to £1.50 each.

I use them sparingly because of this, but every time I do, I’m reminded why they are a cut above other brands I’ve tried for several reasons. They get to work rapidly, so I don’t have to spend ages in the morning waiting before I can put my makeup on.

Another key factor is that they are 100% non-slip and non-drip, meaning I can walk around the house with them on without worrying they are going to end up on my chin. They also feel very luxurious, with a thick hydrogel cushion that makes me feel pampered.

Unlike other eye patches I’ve tried, these do not leave any residue behind, and I can apply concealer seamlessly without pilling or flaking. There are cheaper alternatives for anyone who wants to use eye patches daily, such as the Pixi Depuffing Eye Patches (£22) and the Beauty of Joseon Revive Ginseng Eye Patches £17.