Skincare Newbie? These Are the Top Skincare Products You Should Instantly Add to Cart
Sadaf Razi is Adore Beauty's Senior Beauty Editor.
She's a former fashion editor (who worked at various glossy mags) and stylist-turned digital beauty and lifestyle writer. She has been in the lifestyle/media industry for over 10 years and her work has also been featured on international covers like Elle France and Vanity Fair Mexico.
Some of her fave Adore Beauty products include Cicaplast B5, CeraVe Cleansing Oil and Lancôme Renergie Triple Serum.
Navigating the world of skincare can be a hard task even for seasoned pros who can confidently rattle off their favourite serums by ingredient list and know their retinol from their hyaluronic acid, let alone for those who would consider themselves ‘skincare newbies’.
If you’re new to the skincare game, I completely get it—things can feel overwhelming.
For example, I still have a bunch of friends and family who aren’t necessarily “skincare enthusiasts” but want to start taking better care of their skin and using the “good” or “popular” skincare products but have no idea where to start.
They’re always asking me things like, “Oh I've heard Skinstitut is a great brand, what should I get from their range?" or “Is SkinCeuticals worth it?” (unfortunately for our bank accounts, it is).
So I’ve gone ahead and enlisted the help of the Adore Beauty skincare team to share an edit of the top products from some of our leading skincare brands.
If you’re one of these people or know someone who is showing a keen interest in high-performing skincare or cosmeceuticals, think of this list as a helpful “top skincare products in Australia” edit.
Consider this your cheat sheet if you will, on how to build an elite skincare routine that is guaranteed to deliver results without having to do any of the research (we've done all the legwork for you!).
Now, go forth and graduate from skincare novice to that friend in the group chat that can sling top skincare recommendations with one swipe.
Skinstitut.
A lightweight, moisturiser that hydrates, smooths and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines.
It also:
- Increases moisture in the skin without clogging.
- Protects skin cells against pollution and aggressors.
- Provides antioxidant protection.
- Contains key ingredient kakadu plum is a native Australian plant that contains the world’s most potent source of naturally occurring Vitamin C making it a powerful antioxidant to protect skin from free radical damage and environmental aggressors. Also contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid.
Skinstitut Moisture Defence reviews:
"This moisturiser in particular is a long time favourite. The consistency leaves my face feeling super hydrated, and there is no irritation to my sensitive skin. The price is great for a stellar product, hard to beat for a day time moisturiser." - Libby.
"I love this moisturiser, it leaves my skin feeling so soft and smooth. I use this twice daily with other Skinstitut products and my skin has never been better." - RosJ.
An icon, a legend. IYKYK.
This best selling scrub can be found in many homes for its exfoliating powers and has over 250 reviews on our website alone.
It also:
- Refines skin texture for soft skin as well as promotes healthy cell renewal.
- Glycolic acid offers effective chemical exfoliation and is combined with biodegradable Jehovah beads to unclog pores and subsequently not clog your shower drain.
- Can also be used on ingrown hairs and can be used on acne prone and congested skin.
Skinstitut Glycolic Scrub 14% reviews:
"For me this glycolic acid combined with a gentle scrub is the perfect combination for my 40 year old skin. I use it twice a week and not only is my skin super smooth after use, my skin is glowing and bright. A little goes a long way, so this tube lasts ages which is also great for my budget! Definitely an essential product in my weekly routine."- Bec F.
"I think I'm on my 3rd order of this and I'm obsessed! Have never used a better scrub than this. Has helped with my face AND my body. Suffering with HS it has helped flare ups majorly and the severe acne I was dealing with! Highly recommend!" - Jo.
A gentle cleanser made with sensitive skins in mind.
What else makes this a top Skinstitut product?
It also:
- Nourishes and replenishes dry, flaky skin.
- Is non-stripping, leaving skin supple.
- Has over 160 five- star reviews.
- Key ingredients include: Vitamin B5 (helps calm redness in the skin) other powerful antioxidants in the formula include goji berry, vitamin E, green tea as well as aloe vera for soothing skin.
Skinstitut Gentle Cleanser reviews:
"Love this product ! I have been using this cleanser for as long as I can remember. I have extremely sensitive skin and had tried to many cleansers in the past and my skin always reacted. This has been so gentle on my skin and leaves me feeling smooth and clean. No redness or irritation." - Britt.
"This cleanser is the best one I've ever used, is gentle on my skin but still removes all dirt and makeup including eye makeup with no residue. Been using it for years and nothing else compares. 10/10!" - Keely.
SkinCeuticals.
A must have skinvestment for anyone with dry skins or can even be a nice addition to an age management routine especially for that extra plump in the face.
It also:
- Is one of the most high performing hyaluronic acids, thanks to its high concentration of pure hyaluronic acid to help skin retain moisture.
- Key ingredients include proxylane™ and botanical extracts of licorice root and purple rice deliver surface hydration, working to reduce fine lines, improve skin texture and boost plumpness.
- In a 12-week clinical study*, H.A. Intensifier significantly improved the appearance of key ageing indicators:
- 23% improvement in plumpness.
- 9% decrease in sagginess.
- 11% improvement in firmness.
- 13% improvement in elasticity.
- 18% improvement in texture.
SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier reviews:
"Switched to Skinceuticals about a year ago. I'm 38, don't do anything other than skincare, and my skin looks good, and noticeably so since I switched to this brand as my main skincare. Love this product in particular. Very moisturising. I alternate it with B5, after C E Ferulic in the morning." - Ally.
"My skin has never been so plump and hydrated after using this product for 2 weeks , balances out my skin pH levels perfect. This would have to be one of my favourite hyaluronic acid serums." - Teagz.
The moisturiser to instantly add to cart if you're looking for a preventative cream to address accelerated signs of ageing.
It also:
- Is formulated with a maximised concentration of reparative lipids: 2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids.
- These ingredients hellp firm and plump the skin.
- Those with an impaired barrier who also suffer from lipid depletion will find this a useful product.
Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 AB customer reviews:
"This moisturiser legitimately made me look ten years younger. Gave me the youthful bouncy and glowy skin. I use this twice a day with their Ferulic." - Anna.
"Many compliments from my husband about a week after I started using this before bed. The texture is light and easy to apply - good coverage for a small amount of product = good value for money. This was recommended to me by a derm who said it restores lipids which you produce less of as you age. My skin is smooth and hydrated."
At this point if you've been a long time Adore Beauty customer or skincare lover you know that we talk about this potent vitamin C NON STOP. It's one of our best selling products because people have genuinely seen a huge difference in their skin, whether that be pigmentation or more radiance.
Arguably one of the best vitamin C serums money can buy (invest in). She's worth it.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum reviews (there's over 400):
"I've been using religiously for over 7 weeks now, on my face, neck and chest, and still have well over half a bottle left. Sunspots have completely cleared on my chest, and lightened significantly on my face." - Cara.
"I have been using this amazing product for the last 3 years and my skin has never looked so much better since. Quite expensive but worth it as a bottle last me around 10 months. Have been recommending it to all my friends and family." - Zara.
Alpha-H.
Whenever a new team member starts at the Adore Beauty office, the first product they are recommended is this iconic chemical exfoliant.
Here's why:
- Known for drastically improving skin tone and texture.
- Is powered by 5% glycolic acid, licorice extract natural amino acid and lip lipid oils as well as glycerin.
- This powerful bottle brightens and rejuvenates ageing skin and helps smooth out the appearance of fine lines.
- Once you try liquid gold, it’s quite hard to ever go back. We don't make the rules!
Alpha-H Liquid gold reviews:
"Smooths textured skin and helps it to glow! You need to build up your tolerance to the product, but it gives wonderful results even if you use it every other day. It's a staple in my bathroom!" - Sylvia.
"This is real life liquid gold! I have sensitive combination skin and find that regular use of Alpha H liquid gold, completely evens out my skin tone, leaving my skin fresh and dewy. If you can only purchase one product to transform your skin, make it this one!" -Chloe.
A luxurious cleansing balm that effortlessly melts away makeup, SPF, dirt and impurities without stripping or drying the skin.
It's also:
- Enriched with native wild orange leaf extract (helps remove dirt and grime without stripping or drying), grapeseed oil (reduces excess sebum) and Bisabolol (extracted from chamomile and calms the skin plus reduces inflammation).
- Supports skin's natural pH balance.
- Is Australian-made and cruelty-free.
- Is suitable for all skin types.
- Supports skin's natural pH balance.
Alpha-H Melting Moment Cleansing Balm reviews:
"This cleansing balm is my holy grail for getting spf, makeup and general pollutants off my skin at the end of the day! It leaves my skin so soft and so clean at the same time, I couldn't recommend it more." - Kenny.
"Love this product. Melts into your face. Gentle way to remove makeup and sunscreens etc. a little goes a long way. Love the small size for travelling." - Jacquie.
Sensitive skin? Watch the YouTube video below for top skincare products this sensitive skin-haver loves to use:
Medik8.
Boost collagen and leave skin soft and smooth while addressing fine lines and wrinkles with this powerhouse retinal.
It also:
- Improves skin tone and increases collagen production.
- Hydrates skin to help visibly plump and smooth skin.
- Reduces breakouts by taregting bacteria in the skin.
- Is formulated with an innovative crystal encapsulation system that slowly releases retinaldehyde into the skin for minimal irritation.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 reviews:
"I have recently moved up to the retinal 6 after using the retinal 3 for a while as I just wanted that extra bit of help. I have never had so many compliments on my skin as I have since I started using Medik8 products. It's not cheap, but it's definitely worth it."
"Such a brilliant product. Does what it's meant to while nourishing and supporting your skin. My skin feels plump the next morning and over a few weeks of using I definitely notice a difference in fine lines." - Harri.
Eye products are seeing a surge in popularity and we are certainly here for it.
Then one that is a retinal specifically designed for your eye contour area? Even better.
Who better to craft a retinal for your under eyes then the masters of retinal systems - Medik8.
Here's what what else you need to know:
- This eye product is the world’s 1st clinical strength retinal for under eyes.
- It visibly brightens the under-eye area and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and puffiness.
- Has a hydrating, plumping, smoothing, brightening formula.
- Helps to reduce the appearance of crows feet, wrinkles, fine lines, crepiness and puffiness.
- Comes in airless packaging which prevents UV light and oxygen from degrading the formula.
- Suitable for those looking to improve the visible signs of ageing around the eyes
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 6 review:
"I have sensitive skin but no issues using this around my eyes. I've noticed the skin looking smoother and nicer since I've been using it." - AB Customer Lily.
Dermalogica.
This soap-free cleaning gel makes our best selling skincare list every year, so this shows how universally loved it is.
It also:
- Infused with a botanical blend of quillaja saponaria and calming lavender that foams away impurities without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry.
- Contains balm mint which helps calm sensitivity.
- Is ideal for normal and combination skin types.
Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel reviews:
"I first tried this in the Meet Dermalogica Kit and fell in love with it. It leaves your skin feeling soft and clean but not stripped and tight. I use twice daily and it had=s helped keep any breakouts under control." - Michelle.
"This has been my go to for over ten years ! Great for combination sensitive skin , cleans without stripping . Skin care gold." - Sophie C.
A rice spiced enzyme powder which micro folates debris and leaves skin visibly brighter.
My mum can personally vouch for this. She sold me on this when I gifted it to her and saw how noticeably smooth her skin felt and it had never looked so bright.
It's also:
- Gentle enough for daily use.
- Has over five hundred five star reviews!!
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant reviews:
"I've used this product for more than 10 years, it is my favourite skincare product of all time. It really helps to keep skin brighter and clearer, i enjoy the texture and the bubbly lather, and love that it is gentle enough to use every day." Dino.
"I'd heard a lot of good things about this exfoliator and decided to give it a go. It was better than my favourite that I had been sticking to for years, and probably now one of my favourite skin care products. Definitely will buy again." - Deanna.
Estée Lauder.
This beloved, iconic serum recently had a glow up! Its formula renovation now provides even more hydration, brightening and antioxidant protection to the skin.
Some of my AB colleagues and I road-tested it for two weeks and personally, my skin was left incredibly supple and radiant.
However, what was even more impressive was seeing how it transformed my mum's complexion.
I was genuinely impressed by how smooth, soft and radiant her skin has been looking and 100% credit it to this superstar serum.
If you want to dip into the skincare world of Estée Lauder, this is where you start.
The iconic serum also happens to come in a rich, silky eye cream version for those tackling ageing or dryness in the eye contour area.
It also:
- Designed to help the delicate under-eye area resist and neutralise damaging free radicals.
- Plumps and hydrates the eye area for up to 100 hours.
- Supports skin’s natural repair processes.
- Helps protect against pollution and blue light.
"Really good for dry under eyes, stays well under makeup too. A bit pricey but a little product goes a long way." - Dhanoa.
"This product is a game changer and makes such a difference to my under eye area - highly recommend." - Jaz.
Aspect.
If you're going to dish out on a fancy moisturiser that actually walks the walk when it comes to nourishing dry skin - the popular Aspect Phytostat 9 is where you want to spend your money wisely.
A treatment moisturiser ideal for those with dry skin or those looking to add a powerful hydrating cream to their age management routine.
It also:
- Boasts a cocktail of hydrating ingredients such as shea butter sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil and macadamia oil.
- Is rich in other antioxidant ingredients and lipids to also soothe and protect the skin.
Aspect Phytostat 9 review (one of 500):
"I reckon this is my 4th or 5th bottle now It lasts at least 6 months if used everyday. I recently went to a $300 moisturizer thinking it would be better. It didn't deliver so I've gone back to this again. Did the exact same and was less than half the price. Smooths, adds moisture and youth to skin. You can really see it once applied." - Steffy.
Another Adore Beauty office favourite, this fruit enzyme mask helps lift dead skin cells and impurities leaving you with smooth bright skin.
It also:
- Gently exfoliates the complexion using natural fruit and plant extracts.
- Helps with congested skin and removes blackheads.
- Also helps reduce the look of redness and is suitable for all skin types even those were sensitive skin.
- brightening ingredients such as catty plum, coffee berry and açai berry in the formula deliver high antioxidant protection.
- Also rich in vitamin C.
Aspect Fruit Enzyme Mask reviews:
"I've been using this for product for years! I use once weekly and it leaves my face feeling smooth and looking bright and glowy. Have gifted this to friends who also love." - Emily C.
"I thought this was a bit of a splurge but it lasts so much longer than expected and helps to clear my skin." - C.
It Cosmetics.
What initially started as one of the best creams for dry skin soon became a makeup artist favourite for applying under makeup.
The wildly popular Confidence In a Cream is also a treat because:
- Contains ultra-hydrating, skin-loving, brightness-boosting ingredients.
- Star ingredients include high concentrations of: niacinamide, squalane and peptides.
- Also infused with hyalurnic acid and cermaides. So yes, it has an elite formula.
- Has a silky, cream texture.
- Its newly supercharged formula is now vegan and is free of any drying alcohols.
- Suited to all skin types.
IT Cosmetics Confidence In a Cream reviews:
"Awesome cream. I use this daily because it does a good job with brightening and making the skin even." - Steffania.
"I received a very generous sample with my recent adore beauty purchase. A lovely anti ageing moisturiser, after a week, my skin did feel smoother and more hydrated, and it has a lovely texture and feel." - Ariane.
Peptides in an eye cream goes together like vitamin C and ferulic acid - better together.
It also:
- Comes with the same skin-loving goodness of the original moisturiser above.
- Made with ingredients designed to specifically target the under-eye area.
- Contains 2% super peptide concentrate for fresher, smoother and more hydrated under-eyes.
- Targets different signs of fatigue like crow’s feet, loss of firmness and dryness.
- Is now also vegan and artificial fragrance-free.
IT Cosmetics Confidence Eye Cream review:
"I've been using this product each morning and I feel that it helps reduce signs of tiredness and ageing. It's a thick cream and you just need a little dab each time." - Nat.
Discover more hero products from these leading brands in the BIQs below:
