Group of pipettes with serum and oil on luxury silver background
Cover Our minimalist skincare heroes (Photo: Getty Images)

The variety available can be overwhelming, so we’ve rounded up our favourites from the likes of Shiseido, Tatcha and Augustinus Bader to help you simplify your daily regimen

Shopping for skincare can feel challenging because of the many questions that may arise when selecting products. The mental narrative may look a little something like this: What’s the difference between a purifying and clarifying cleanser? Do I really need to use toner? How many serums should I be using? What products do I require for a “good” routine? 

To answer those questions: clarifying cleansers will brighten and smooth skin while purifying ones will deep cleanse; toner is not essential but feels nice; none if you don’t have major skin concerns; and you can boil down a routine to five simple steps—cleansing, moisturising, applying sunscreen, exfoliating and masking. The last two steps are optional, but highly encouraged, as they can help boost the effectiveness of your current skincare products.

See more: All The Beauty and Grooming Products Tatler Editors Loved in September 2021

Here are the best, no-frills luxury products to incorporate into your routine if you’re looking items that do exactly what they say on the tin.

Cleansing

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 4 Omorovicza cleansing foam (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 2 of 4 Eve Lom cleanser (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 3 of 4 Shani Darden cleansing serum (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 4 of 4 Malin+Goetz Grapefruit face gel cleanser (Photo: Lane Crawford)

Cleanse your skin thoroughly at least once a day to remove any excess make-up, sebum and bacteria, and to prepare a clean base for moisturiser and other products. Regular cleansing also prevents the accumulation of dead skin cells, which may cause blemishes.
 
If you have normal to dry skin types, you can opt for cleansing balms and foams which help the skin to retain moisture, while combination to oily skin types can use gels and serums for a deeper cleanse.

Moisturising

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 4 Erno Laszlo Hydra-Therapy gel cream (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 2 of 4 Joanna Vargas Daily Hydrating cream (Photo: Harvey Nichols)
Photo 3 of 4 Augustinus Bader The Face Oil (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 4 of 4 Kiehl's Ultra Facial cream (Photo: Harvey Nichols)

Replenishing moisture after cleansing is essential to prevent dryness, fine lines and even the over-production of sebum. A simple moisturiser is all you need for both morning and evening, and it means you’ll be able to layer it over other products.
 
If you struggle with oilier skin, choose a gel-cream formula for lighter hydration; if dehydrated skin is a problem, go for a product that incorporates oils. All skin types can use a face oil at night for extra moisture and glowing skin.

Sunscreen

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 Shiseido Expert Sun Protector face cream SPF50+ (Photo: Harvey Nichols)
Photo 2 of 3 Dermalogica Protection Sport SPF50 (Photo: Harvery Nichols)
Photo 3 of 3 Skinceuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF50 (Photo: Lane Crawford)

This is the most important step, as sunscreen will prevent premature ageing and sun damage. Don’t skip the sun protection on a gloomy day—UV rays can still penetrate clouds. A waterproof or sports sunscreen has the longest staying power, but sheer formulas feel lighter on the skin and layer best under makeup. 

Exfoliating

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 Tatcha The Rice Polish – Classic (Photo: Lane Crawford)
Photo 2 of 3 Pestle & Mortar Exfoliate glycolic acid toner (Photo: Harvey Nichols)
Photo 3 of 3 Emma Hardie Professional cleansing cloths (Photo: Harvey Nichols)

Physical and chemical exfoliants are an excellent way to supplement the cleansing step, as they remove dead skin cells, leading to smoother, fresher skin. If you can’t be bothered with an additional step and product, remove your cleanser with a face cloth for a daily exfoliation.

Masking

'gallery right' 'gallery right'
'gallery right' 'gallery right'
Photo 1 of 3 Dr Barbara Sturm face mask (Photo: Lane Crawford)
Photo 2 of 3 Dr Sebagh Skin Perfecting mask (Photo: Net-a-Porter)
Photo 3 of 3 Aesop Parsley Seed cleansing masque (Photo: Net-a-Porter)

Applying a face mask once or twice a week will target any skin issues you may be experiencing, whether that’s dehydration, blemishes or just generally a need for an overall boost of radiance.

NOW READ:

New In Beauty: Make-up And Skincare Products For October

9 Beauty Brand Spas in Hong Kong—and the Treatments to Try

Count Down to Christmas 2021 With These Beauty Advent Calendars