One of the things I’m most commonly asked about in beauty? Moisturisers. Here’s the thing: there’s a shit ton out there, and it’s hard to know which claims to trust and where to spend your money. Hydrating the skin with moisturising creams is probably the most important skincare step (although don’t go thinking you can ever skip a cleanse), so finding one that’s worth its weight in gold is a worthy quest. There’s been a massive influx of new moisturisers recently. Just in time for summer, brands are launching refreshing gel creams, light overnight formulas, exfoliating concoctions, matte finishes and all-natural formulas for vegan-friendly beauty buffs. Here’s my no BS guide to some of the best newbies, as well as a look at my all-time favourite classics…
The best new in
La Mer The Moisturising Cool Gel Cream
I’m a huge La Mer girl, and this new formula is super refreshing and light, perfect for summer or anyone with slightly oilier skin. Is it worth the crazy £220 price tag? Who knows – but it’s BOMB.
Patchology Restoring Night CloudMasque
So this is basically like a cute lil hug for ya face. Slather it on before you go to sleep (even in warmer months, it has a gel-like cool formula) and wake up to soft-as-a-baby’s bum skin.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Exfoliating Moisturizer
An exfoliating moisturiser seemed like an oxymoron to me at the start, but I’m fangirling over this big time now. It’s a really easy, simple way to get your AHAs if you find yourself strapped for time. Don’t think I’ve ever tried a product from DDG that’s not totally amazing – one of my all-time fave skincare brands.
Herbivore Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Crème (new to UK market)
There was a time when Herbivore couldn’t seem to keep this in stock (oh, er, that time is still now) and it’s built up a crazy cult following. It has a buttery texture but does leave more of a matte finish, which is great for oily days or priming skin, but I personally prefer more of a luminous glow. You can now buy Herbivore in the UK at Space NK, yay!
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Glow Moisturizer (new to UK market)
Aaaah I love me some Kate Somerville – and now you can get it in the UK on Cult Beauty, hurrah! This is another exfoliating moisturiser which is super satisfying to use, but I find the DDG sliiiightly nicer texture-wise, but results-wise, they’re pretty on par and do the same thing.
It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream
This has been out for a few months, but is technically still pretty new. I think this is a lovely affordable cream which is great for morning use prior to makeup application. It’s particularly effective when you use the amazing new CC cream afterwards (the pink illuminating one).
Origins Original Skin Matte Moisturiser with Willowherb
I think Origins have done a really good job of formulating a ‘matte’ moisturiser that doesn’t feel overly drying or, well matte, on skin. As much as I love La Mer I felt like their Matte Moisturising Cream was far too drying and left skin feeling almost tight, while Origins’ version has nailed it for under £30.
My all-time favourites
Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream
I remember when this first launched a few years back and I absolutely BADGERED the PR to send me one for ages after previewing it as a press event. It’s absolutely divine, particularly due to its water-base: something I find really appealing in a moisturiser. If you suffer from dehydration this is amazing.
Using only 10 ingredients, this lotion allows sensitive skins to get in on a little Chanel luxury. I use this when I want something simple yet lightly nourishing. It’s fragrance free and uses a pump which I am ALWAYS THERE FOR.
The original and still the best (well, maybe after the new gel formula now). This is too rich for everyday use for me at 25, but I keep it for special occasions such as nights out, where I layer it on after a sheet mask for the most amazing glowy makeup base.
Glamglow GLOWSTARTER Mega Illuminating Moisturiser
I’ve spoken about this so many times before and truthfully, I don’t understand why more beauty eds aren’t raving all day long. It comes in 3 shades and is basically the result of a moisturiser and a highlighter having a baby. Magic.
Sisley Moisturiser With Cucumber
I’m sometimes called boring for picking this rather than something more chic from Sisley like the Black Rose cream or the Gentle Buffing Cream. But there’s nothing better than a refreshing, simple moisturiser and this works like a dream on my skin (which is dehydrated but combination with oily t-zone, FYI). Sisley is another of my ride-or-die skincare brands.
Clark’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask
Technically a face mask, I chuck this on as a moisturiser when my skin feels ultra dehydrated. It’s truly amazing – I can’t rate it enough. It smells amazing and drenches thirsty skin with a rich, luxurious blend of ingredients. I just love the story behind Clark’s, too.
Dr Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Deep Cream
From the smell to the amazing gel-like texture, this is such a beautiful moisturiser. It’s packed full with vitamin C, which works for all skin types.
Origins Ginzing Ultra Hydrating Energy-Boosting Cream
I would say this is the above DDG cream at a slightly more affordable price point. It drenches skin with antioxidants and is one of my original favourites in an updated formula.
You’re about to hate me because as many of you probably already know, you can’t yet buy Tatcha in the UK, so this is reserved for across-the-pond hauls as it stands. But if you know anyone popping into Sephora over there while on holiday, get them to pick you one up because it is the most INCREDIBLE light yet deeply hydrating cream.
I love the La Mer one, I always feel guilty mentioning it because of the price tag, but I adore it!
Danielle xx
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