They say mothers know best, so when my mom first told me of her love for Drmtlgy—a medical-grade skincare brand shaped by dermatologists—I immediately took note. Ever since trying the Needle-less Serum six years ago, she's been hooked. She's purchased almost every product the brand has ever made and keeps her countertop as well-stocked as Ulta. After my particularly bad bout of contact dermatitis two years ago from repeatedly testing new skincare formulas in the dead of winter (the woes of a beauty editor with chronically dry skin), my mom lent me her Drmtlgy Barrier Repair Mask. Within days, my angry red splotches and flaky spots were gone. With that, Drmtlgy made a fan out of me too.

While my career exposes my skin to plenty of subpar formulas, Drmtlgy's products have yet to fall out of my favor. So when I heard that the brand was launching its version of a peel pad—a gentle, sensitive skin–friendly alternative to chemical peels—both my mother and I jumped at the chance to try it ourselves. Between my 26-year-old complexion and her 54-year-old skin, we gave the Drmtlgy FacialRX Daily Peel Pads a fair trial, testing them for a week at the height of summer to see how our similarly sensitive barriers fared.

Toner pads are nothing new to the world of skincare, but this new wave of gentle peel pads, from Dr. Dennis Gross's famous Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads to Innbeauty Project's Skin Prep Exfoliating Pads, takes the category a step further. While I've enjoyed using other brands' mini chemical peels in a jar, I ultimately found them best for degunking my skin at the end of the day versus overhauling the entire surface. I can't say these acid-soaked pads will deliver the same results as an office-level chemical peel, but I can promise they offer a comparable glow. In fact, I was caught off guard by my own reflection on the very first day I used these because I'd completely forgotten that I'd started the day with one of these little pads. My skin looked unnaturally ethereal and glowy.

The pads themselves are textured with seersucker-like ridges, offering an element of physical exfoliation along with chemical: a combination of lactic, mandelic, salicylic, and succinic acids. With slow, circular motions, the pads slowly release the acid-soaked formula into the skin, working in real time to sweep away dead skin cells and reveal the glowing layer beneath.

"They actually tingled a bit," my mom texted me after trying them for the first time. "I definitely couldn't use them every day—maybe twice a week max." Her guesstimate would be right, as the brand instructs people with dry and normal skin to use them two to three times maximum each week, and those with oily or combination complexions can use them up to twice daily. If you're sensitive like us, you'll be fine to begin using them once or twice per week—allowing several days in between—before increasing frequency. However, you should consult your dermatologist if you are unsure whether this product will be too strong for your barrier.

While my mom felt a bit of initial discomfort when applying these pads to her mature skin, she feels that the benefits far outweigh the small inconvenience. "My skin did feel very smooth, with a nice texture and glow the next day," she reflects. "I know with continuous use, they would make a difference."

In as little as one use, both my 20-something and her 50-something complexions shone exponentially brighter and possessed a healthy, lit-from-within radiance. I didn't even use foundation the evening after my first try! Within a week, we noticed other changes: Our texture was nearly indistinguishable, our tones looked far more even—a feat under the summer sun—and our skin looked and felt smoother to the touch.

Like most of Drmtlgy's products, these peels are reasonably priced at just $38, which is partially why my mother and her friends continue to turn to this brand over others time and again. If effective, cost-efficient products are up your alley, keep scrolling to discover the other Drmtlgy products my mom and I use to stock our shelves, and don't forget to nab the FacialRX Daily Peel Pads before they inevitably sell out.

Shop More Drmtlgy Products My Mom and I Love

Despite all of the skincare products out there, a good routine doesn't need to be super extensive. This is especially the case for people with mature skin who are trying to find the right balance to address some of their most common concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. At the same time, with changes to our skin come changes to our regimen. So although you may not need dozens of products, you'll still need to hunt for the right formulas.

In fact, I've been keeping a close eye on my mother's trial-and-error process as she finds herself dealing with dryness and new sensitivities, and it's made me super aware of just how delicate skin becomes as we age. So naturally, I've been curious about what exactly it is that mature skin needs to continue thriving.

To find out, I chatted with leading board-certified dermatologists Dendy Engelman, MD, and Anetta Reszko, MD, for a full day and night step-by-step guide for the ultimate anti-aging skincare routine.

Morning Skincare Routine

Step 1: Cleanser

Before any cream or serum, it's best to start with a clean base with the help of a cleanser. "An effective anti-aging morning routine should focus on protecting the skin from environmental damage while supporting hydration and barrier function," says Reszko. "Cleansing removes excess oil, sweat, and debris accumulated overnight without compromising the skin barrier." For your ideal formula, Engelman notes that formulas with ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and soothing botanical extracts are key.

Step 2 (Optional): Face Mist

This step is optional, but if you have a face mist you love, this is the time to use it. "A hydrating mist can help replenish moisture and prepare the skin for subsequent products, particularly during the hotter summer months when increased heat and sun exposure can contribute to dehydration," says Reszko. For a lightweight formula that leaves skin soft and hydrated, she recommends Bioeffect's EGF Essence.

Step 3: Serum

Once you have a clean base, grab your toner or serum for a boost of antioxidants. "Serums are one of the most important morning steps because ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and other antioxidant complexes help protect against oxidative stress generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants while supporting collagen health and overall skin radiance," explains Reszko. She's a big fan of the SKORR Anti-Ox Serum with vitamin C and E.

Step 4: Eye Cream

If you've been skipping on eye cream, this step is a must. A lot of standard face moisturizers aren't meant for the delicate skin around the eyes, so finding specific formulas for it is essential. "The skin around the eyes is thinner and often shows signs of aging first," says Engelman. "Look for formulas with peptides, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to help hydrate, smooth and visibly refresh the eye area."

Step 5: Moisturizer

This step is a given for anyone. And while there are plenty of formulas out there, there are still certain ingredients to look for. "A good moisturizer helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, improve hydration, and support overall skin resilience," says Engelman. "Look for ingredients like ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid and nourishing lipids." For best results, Reszko suggests using Augustinus Bader's The Cream.

Step 6: Sunscreen

No matter your age or skin concerns, sunscreen is a nonnegotiable. Using one daily can prevent signs of premature aging and prevent further damage from occurring. "Daily sunscreen remains the most important anti-aging product in any skincare routine because it helps protect against UV-induced collagen breakdown, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging," says Reszko, who recommends Isdin's Eryfotona Ageless SPF 50." Engelman adds that it's best to look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (as recommended by The American Academy of Dermatology).

Nighttime Routine

Step 1: Cleanser

Some people prefer to cleanse only once a day, but both of our experts agree that cleansing twice is a good opportunity to get rid of any dirt that accumulates on your face throughout the day. "Nighttime cleansing removes sunscreen, makeup, pollution, and daily buildup, creating a clean canvas for your treatment products," says Engelman. "Double cleansing may be beneficial for those who wear makeup or water-resistant sunscreen."

Step 2: Toner

Once again, a toner or treatment serum will be needed as a follow-up step to your cleanser. "Skin naturally enters repair mode overnight, making this the ideal time for targeted treatments," says Engelman. "Look for ingredients such as peptides, growth factors, niacinamide, antioxidants, and hydrating actives that help support firmness, texture, and overall skin quality." She adds that ELM Biosciences' A30 Elemental Serum is a great option for supporting skin health and promoting a stronger, more resilient complexion.

Step 3: Eye cream

An eye cream before bed can reduce fine lines and promote plumpness. "Overnight hydration helps support the delicate eye area and minimize the appearance of fine lines and fatigue," says Engelman. "Look for formulas with peptides, humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients."

Step 4: Moisturizer

Whether you prefer a moisturizer or a mask, deep hydration to repair and protect the skin overnight will set you up for success with consistent use. Engelman says ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, peptides and other barrier-strengthening ingredients will keep skin smooth, supple, and healthy-looking

If you have a stressful job, have had a few too many bad nights of sleep, or even just the right genetics, you likely deal with dark circles under your eyes. In fact, most people experience them—even the poreless celebrities and glowy supermodels you see on your Instagram feed. To combat this, many people (including my fellow beauty editors and me) reach for eye creams, which work hard to hydrate, smooth, and re-energize the under-eyes. When it comes to battling dark circles, a certain kind of formula is required.

“Several factors can contribute to the appearance of under-eye dark circles,” says board-certified dermatologist Debbie Palmer, MD. She cites exhaustion, dehydration, allergies, and aging as some of the most common causes. But she also has good news: a good eye cream with vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, plus hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can turn those shadows around.

After testing dozens of eye creams for dark circles, we found the 11 best for everything from brightening to depuffing and wrinkle-smoothing. Keep scrolling for our list of winners, starting at just $9.

The Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Versed Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
• Best Budget: The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Depuffing Eye Serum
• Best Hydrating: Dieux Skin Auracle Eye Serum
• Best Brightening: Olehenriksen Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Crème
• Best Lifting: Dr. Diamond's Metacine Contour EyeLift

Best Overall: Versed Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm

Best Budget: The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Depuffing Eye Serum

Best Hydrating: Dieux Skin Auracle Eye Serum

Best Brightening: OleHenriksen Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Crème

Best Lifting: Dr. Diamond's Metacine Contour Eyelift

Best Depuffing: Herbivore Super Nova 5% Vitamin C + Caffeine Brightening Eye Cream

Best Luxury: La Prairie White Caviar Light Infusion Eye Serum

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

Best for Wrinkles: Mad Hippie Eye Cream

Best Applicator: Dr. Althea Retinol Flat Iron Eye Roller

Best Cooling: Cocokind Revitalizing Eye Cream

What to Look For in Eye Creams for Dark Circles

• Effective ingredients: “As a dermatologist, I look for specific ingredients in eye creams for dark circles that are effective in targeting pigmentation and under-eye hollows,” says Palmer. “Some of my favorite ingredients for fading hyperpigmentation and building collagen are vitamin C, retinol, and niacinamide. I also recommend hyaluronic acid in this area for hydration and plumping.”
  • Vitamin C: “This is an antioxidant that helps to fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production, which thickens the skin to hide underlying vessels and fill in under-eye hollows,” Palmer explains.
  • Retinol: “Increases skin cell turnover and collagen production.”
  • Niacinamide (vitamin B3): “This ingredient is anti-inflammatory, boosts collagen production, and reduces hyperpigmentation,” she adds.
  • Hyaluronic acid: “Hydrates and plumps the skin to help fill in under-eye hollows.”

What causes dark circles?

“Lack of sleep can make the skin appear paler and allow the under-eye blood vessels to become more apparent. Genetics can contribute, with some people naturally being more predisposed to thinner skin or having more prominent blood vessels under the eyes,” says Palmer. However, we know aging also plays a part, as the skin eventually produces less collagen past the mid-twenties, resulting in thinner skin and pronounced blood vessels. “Allergies also contribute because they can cause dilated blood vessels under the eyes,” she adds. Oh, and drinking enough water never hurts. “Lifestyle adjustments can lead to some improvement,” she concludes.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

In my decade working as a beauty editor, I've been lucky enough to try thousands of new beauty products. But even with a beauty cupboard full of skincare products, expensive serums and moisturisers at my disposal, my actual skincare routine is pretty minimal. I've learned the hard way that introducing too many products only ends badly for my sensitive skin and acne-prone complexion. And every dermatologist and skin expert I've spoken to throughout my career has always sung the praises of a streamlined routine consisting of good skincare products. And guess what? My skin is on board with consistency. It might be boring, but it works!

So if I'm adding something to my routine, it's got to be really good. And one product I've trusted for years is Medik8 Crystal Retinal. This iconic Medik8 skincare product is one I'm always recommending to friends who are looking for a retinol serum. However, this formula actually uses retinaldehyde, a form of retinoid that works up to 11 times faster than retinol and is like a skincare silver bullet for just about any and every concern. Reducing spots, fading acne scarring, plumping fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing uneven skin texture and fading pigmentation: there's really nothing this serum can't do.

The best part is that Medik8 Crystal Retinal (was £45, now £36) is currently on sale at Amazon for a generous discount. But if you want to find out more about this award-winning serum, scroll ahead for my full review.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

The Formula

As I mentioned, what makes this particular serum so special is that it uses retinaldehyde (or retinal for short), which works faster than retinol formulas to plump fine lines and wrinkles, decongest acne-prone complexions, as well as smooth skin texture and fade scarring or pigmentation.

The serum itself is lightweight and non-sticky, absorbing into the skin fast. You apply it after your nightly serums and/or moisturiser. If you're new to retinal (or any retinol or retinoid product), it's advisable to start with strengths 1 or 3 first, building up to applying it once or twice a week in your evening routine. As your skin adjusts, you can increase the frequency to each night, and after you've finished a tube, Medik8 advises you move up to the next strength if you've tolerated the formula well.

What I love most is that Medik8 has incredible clinical trials to back up its products. In an independent trial over 12 weeks, users saw a 20% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation and an 11% inrease in skin firmness. In short, this serum really works, so you can feel confident about investing.

Before and After

My Verdict

I’ve been using Medik8 Crystal Retinal for years (alongside the Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye Cream, which is also a favourite of mine) and nearly every skin expert I speak to recommends it. I have sensitive skin, and it’s one of the few retinoid products I genuinely trust. What makes it stand out is that whether you’re an experienced retinal user or trying the ingredient for the first time, there are different strengths available to suit your skin. As your skin gradually adapts, you can move up to the next level, building on the skincare benefits as you move onto the next strength.

I started with strength 1 (the lowest, which is designed for sensitive skin and retinal beginners) a few years ago, and have now worked my way up to 6. Since using it, I’ve noticed my rough skin texture becoming smoother and my fine lines beginning to soften. It’s also one of the rare retinoid products that hasn’t caused me any irritation or flaking on my sensitive skin, which is a major plus. It also doesn't upset my acne-prone complexion either. In fact, I find it helps a lot in reducing my breakouts.

I'll then progress onto 10 to build on my results and treat the deeper lines I'm starting to see on my skin. In fact, I recently saw a friend of mine also uses it, and her skin looked incredible. All in all, if there's one retinoid serum I can wholeheartedly recommend that anyone add to their skincare routine, it's this one.

Shop Medik8 Crystal Retinal:

When I recently sat down to map out the skincare trends set to define 2026, one ingredient category kept resurfacing—peptides. Whilst they are not a new skincare ingredient (but previously very much a supporting player), peptides are now proving to be a central focus of some of the most talked-about new beauty launches across skincare. From reformulated cult favourites to entirely new peptide technologies, it’s clear the industry is well and truly entering its peptide era.

While they previously took a backseat to actives like vitamin C, retinoids and exfoliating acids, today’s peptide-focussed formulas are smarter, more concentrated, and engineered to work across multiple pathways at once—supporting collagen, strengthening the skin barrier, and softening the appearance of lines, all in a single step.

Skincare conversations are moving away from instant fixes and toward what actually holds up over time—you've probably heard the term 'skin longevity' being thrown around. It's all about products that promote resilience, elasticity and skin that behaves better in the long term, and peptides answer that brief perfectly. They’re generally gentle, suitable for almost every skin type, and easy to use morning or night alongside your other favourite ingredients. As facialist and skincare expert Charlie Perry puts it, peptides are “a great cornerstone ingredient in both clinical and at-home skincare,” and judging by the launches lining up for the year ahead, brands agree.

What Are Peptides?

“Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are essentially the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin,” explains Perry. These proteins are what give skin its firmness, elasticity, and strength, but as we age, their production naturally slows. Peptides work by acting as signalling molecules, communicating with skin cells and encouraging them to function more efficiently.

Rather than forcing change, peptides support the skin’s own repair and renewal processes. “They encourage the skin’s natural processes to work more effectively,” explains Perry, which is why they’re so widely used in both professional treatments and at-home skincare routines. Importantly, not all peptides behave in the same way. Some stimulate collagen and elastin production, others support barrier repair or help calm inflammation, while some are designed to soften expression lines by reducing surface muscle tension—often described as having ‘botox-like’ effects.

What Are the Benefits of Using Peptides?

One of the biggest advantages of peptides is their versatility. Because they work with the skin rather than aggressively pushing it, they’re generally well tolerated and suitable for most skin types, including sensitive or breakout-prone skin. Over time, consistent use can support firmer-feeling skin, improved elasticity, smoother texture and a stronger skin barrier.

According to Perry, peptides align perfectly with the current shift towards longevity-led skincare. “People are moving away from quick fixes and towards barrier health, resilience and prevention,” she says. For clients who want to support firmness without stepping into invasive treatments or who can’t tolerate stronger actives like high-strength retinoids or acids, peptides offer a science-backed, gradual approach. They’re also easy to integrate into both morning and evening routines, making them a minimal-risk, maximum-reward addition.

What to Look for

The latest launches are far more advanced than their earlier counterparts, so formulation matters. Today’s best peptide serums are designed with improved stability and absorption, meaning peptides are more likely to reach the layers of the skin where they can actually have an impact. Many formulas now combine multiple peptide types in one serum, allowing them to address collagen support, inflammation and barrier strength simultaneously.

“This multi-pronged approach is key,” says Perry, particularly as people look to streamline their routines. If you’re choosing a peptide serum, look for products that clearly outline the peptide technology used, rather than relying on vague marketing claims. Supporting ingredients like humectants, antioxidants or barrier-strengthening actives can also enhance results. Above all, peptides reward consistency—they’re not about instant gratification, but visible improvements that build steadily over time.

The Best Peptide Serums

1. Best Overall Peptide Serum: Medik8 Liquid Peptides
2. Best Peptide Serum for Breakout-Prone Skin: NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum
3. Best Beginners Peptide Serum: Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum
4. Best Peptide Serum for All Skin Types: Tatcha The Longevity Serum
5. Best Peptide Serum for Sensitive Skin: Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Booster Serum

1. Medik8 Liquid Peptides

2. NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum

3. Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum

4. Tatcha The Longevity Serum

5. Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Booster

6. Skinceuticals P-Tiox Neuro-Peptide Serum

7. Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

8. Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid Dewy Gel Serum

9. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

10. Trinny London Plump Up Peptide + HA Serum

11. Sachi Skin Peptide Pro-Resilience Serum Concentrate

12. Deviant Skincare Pigmentation Corrector Serum

13. No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Serum

How We Tested

Peptide serums don’t deliver overnight results, so testing them properly means time, consistency and comparison. Many of the serums featured in this edit have been in my ongoing rotation for months—and in some cases years—as new launches have emerged and peptide technology has evolved. Because peptide serums are rarely one-size-fits-all, I also considered how each formula performed across different skin types and concerns. The final selections balance formulation quality, visible results (with continued use), skin tolerance, and value.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Collagen masks are having a moment, and if your social feeds are anything like mine, you’ve likely seen them everywhere. From jelly-textured sheet masks to overnight face mask formulas that peel off and promise glassy skin, they’ve become one of the most viral categories in skincare right now. As both an aesthetician and a beauty editor, it’s also one of the topics I’m asked about most: do collagen masks actually work? And if so, which ones are worth your time?

Here’s the thing. Collagen, as an ingredient, is a large protein molecule—too large to penetrate the skin when applied topically. That means collagen in masks isn’t directly replacing the collagen we naturally lose with age, stress and environmental exposure. Instead, it primarily functions as a humectant, helping to temporarily hydrate, smooth and plump the skin’s surface. The results can be noticeable in the short term, but they’re not quite doing what many viral claims suggest.

That doesn’t mean collagen masks are pointless—far from it. The best ones are cleverly formulated to support the skin in a more meaningful way. Rather than relying on collagen itself, they’re packed with ingredients that encourage your skin to do what it already knows how to do best: stimulate its own collagen production. Think peptides, vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide and barrier-repairing lipids, all working in tandem to support firmness, elasticity and long-term skin health.

A well-formulated mask can also play a powerful supporting role, creating an occlusive environment that helps active ingredients penetrate more effectively whilst delivering that immediate, post-facial glow we all love. In other words, it’s not about the word collagen on the label; it’s about what’s working behind the scenes.

Ahead, I’ve rounded up the best collagen masks that are actually worthy of a place in your routine. These are formulas that balance instant gratification with smarter, skin-first ingredients: viral where deserved, effective where it truly counts.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the skin’s main structural protein. "I like to think of it as the skin’s internal scaffolding, giving it firmness, strength and shape," says facialist and skincare expert Charlie Perry. "I often explain it to clients as the framework that everything else in the skin sits on, helping it stay smooth, resilient and able to bounce back after stress or pressure," she says.

"From our mid-twenties onwards, collagen production naturally slows, and the fibres we already have begin to break down. Factors like sun exposure, chronic stress, inflammation, diet, poor sleep and environmental damage can all speed this up. Over time, you may notice the skin feeling less firm, a little thinner and slower to bounce back," says Perry.

How to Boost Collagen Production

"Collagen is made inside the skin, and supporting it is really a two-pronged approach: we want to both stimulate new production and protect what’s already there," says Perry. "To encourage production, we can utilise ingredients and treatments that signal the skin to repair and regenerate. Vitamin A derivatives [retinoids, like retinol or retinal] speed up cell turnover and trigger collagen synthesis, vitamin C supports the enzymes that build new fibres, and peptides act as messengers telling the skin to strengthen its structure. Gentle exfoliation or professional treatments create a controlled, small 'stress' that prompts the skin to repair itself, gradually building firmer, stronger fibres as a result."

At the same time, we need to protect and maintain the collagen already in place. "UV exposure, stress, inflammation, poor sleep and environmental damage all accelerate the breakdown of collagen," adds Perry. "Focusing on sun protection, managing stress, getting enough restorative sleep and balanced nutrition helps slow that process, which helps keep existing collagen fibres healthy and maintain the skin’s resilience."

What to Look for in a Collagen Mask

Remember that just because a product has "collagen" in its name, it doesn't mean that its primary purpose and main benefit will actually be increasing collagen in the skin. "Topical collagen products aren’t as effective because they can’t reach the layers of skin where collagen is actually made," says Perry. "Collagen molecules are large and just too big to penetrate the skin’s outer barrier (the stratum corneum), so they can’t interact with fibroblasts (the cells responsible for producing collagen). On the surface, these products can temporarily hydrate and plump the skin, but they don’t trigger the repair or regeneration processes needed to actually build new collagen."

If boosting collagen production is your main goal, then the best masks for you may not actually have the word collagen in their name. This is because products that stimulate collagen work very differently from straight-up topical collagen. Instead of delivering collagen directly, they utilise ingredients like retinoids, peptides and vitamin C, which contain smaller, active molecules that penetrate the skin or trigger signalling pathways from the surface, communicating with the cells that produce collagen to increase production.

"Basically, if you want to boost collagen, look for ingredients that signal your skin to produce it, rather than trying to replace it from the outside," adds Perry. "Vitamin A derivatives, like retinoids, encourage cell turnover and stimulate collagen over time. Vitamin C supports the enzymes that build collagen fibres and helps protect against oxidative stress.

"Peptides act as messengers, telling the skin to repair and strengthen itself. And consistent sun protection is non-negotiable. UV exposure is one of the biggest drivers of collagen breakdown, so protecting what you already have is just as important as stimulating new production." So, make sure to wear your SPF daily, even during the winter months and on cloudy days.

What Are the Benefits of Collagen Masks?

Collagen masks can still be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine, but keep in mind that they may be doing more for your moisture levels than your collagen levels. "They’re excellent for giving the skin a quick boost of hydration, plumping and soothing, which is why they feel indulgent," says Perry. "The effect is surface-level and temporary, but used alongside ingredients and treatments that do stimulate collagen, they can leave skin looking fresh, smooth and nourished."

"I tend to view them as a finishing touch rather than a treatment," she adds. "Perfect before an event, after a flight or whenever the skin needs comfort and hydration, like over winter, but not something that will change collagen levels long-term. For real collagen support, the focus should always be on skincare ingredients, treatments and habits that encourage the skin to do the work itself."

The Best Collagen Face Masks

1. Best Overall: Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask, £15
2. Best Peel-Off Mask: Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask, £26
3. Best Overnight Mask: BareMinerals 10% Phyto ProCollagen Firming Sleeping Mask, £46
4. Best Gel Mask: PerriconeMD Gel Plasma Plus Intensive Gel Mask, £35
5. Best Leave-On Treatment: Cosmetic Consult Miracle Skin Transformation, £40
6. Best Cream Mask: Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask, £20
7. Best Affordable Mask: No7 Good Intent Collagen Jelly Hydrogel Mask, £5
8. Best Hydrating Mask: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Mask, £62
9. Best Firming Mask: Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask, £34
10. Best Targeted Treatment: Current Body Forehead Microneedling Patch, £60
11. Best Luxury Mask: 111Skin Contour Firming Mask, £125
12. Best Sheet Mask: Anua Rice 70 Glow Collagen Mask, £16
13. Best Lifting Mask: Natura Bisse Diamond Ice Lift Mask, £155

1. Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask

2. Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

3. Bareminerals Ageless Phyto Procollagen Instant Firming Sleeping Mask 

4. PerriconeMD Cold Plasma Plus+ the Intensive Gel Mask

5. Cosmetic Consult Miracle Skin Transformation

6. Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask

7. No7 Good Intent Collagen Jelly Hydrogel Mask

8. Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Mask

9. Fresh Black Tea Overnight Mask

10. Currentbody Forehead Microneedling Patch

11. 111Skin Contour Firming Mask

12. Anua Rice 70 Glow Collagen Mask

13. Natura Bisse Diamond Lift Mask

How We Tested

Each mask was evaluated through a combination of professional experience, ingredient analysis and real-life use. I assessed formulas for what they actually do—distinguishing surface-level hydration from true collagen-supporting activity. Masks were used as directed on clean skin within a consistent routine, with attention paid to immediate results (hydration, smoothness, firmness) and any cumulative effects. Products were selected based on performance, tolerance and formulation integrity rather than hype or virality.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

They say mothers know best. So when mine, 53, texts me about a beauty product she loves (a rarity), I know it’s time to listen up. She’s always been more of a skincare fan than a makeup girl (quite the opposite of me)—her drawers are neatly stocked with different jars of moisturizers, eye creams, and face masks. But despite her varied collection, the one name you’ll see peppering her entire assortment is Drmtlgy: a dermatologist-engineered skincare brand that offers office-level results at a fraction of the cost.

From friends to grandparents, she’s put all our loved ones onto this brand that she organically fell for. But her latest obsession? The brand-new Needle-Less Growth Factor Serum, which she says made all the difference in her mature skin. “My skin looks good now without makeup,” one raving text in a slew reads.

It’s not uncommon that I take hordes of new skincare to my mother when I visit home, especially when they fall within the anti-aging category. (I, being 25, can’t quite make use of these products yet.) That said, they never usually warrant a text that reads “I'm actually going to order more of that one,” especially when she’s gotten used to freebies. As I was curious to try this miracle potion on my own skin (which was conveniently experiencing an eczema and perioral dermatitis flare-up at the time), I put this new concoction to the test to see if the results stacked up to my mom’s rave reviews.

What Is the Drmtlgy Needle-Less Growth Factor Serum, and What Does It Do?

To understand this new elixir from Drmtlgy, we have to first learn about growth factor serums. Board-certified dermatologist, stem cell scientist, and cosmetic surgeon Nathan Newman, MD, previously told Who What Wear that growth factor serums mimic the proteins naturally created by the human body that promote cell regeneration and repair. While growth factors are often administered at their most potent levels via injectables, peptides are common skincare ingredients that penetrate the skin deeper than most, making this combination a pain-free way to reap the benefits without being poked and prodded. Together, there are five bioengineered growth factor peptides infused into this ceramide-boosted formula that promote smoother, firmer, more hydrated skin.

“Peptides function as signaling molecules at the cellular level to promote collagen synthesis, improve elasticity, reduce inflammatory pathways, and promote wound healing—all to optimize skin health and thereby the reduction of the appearance of wrinkles,” explains board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic and laser surgeon, Nicole Lee, MD. “[The] Growth Factor Serum by Drmtlgy is an innovative formula featuring a blend of clinically recognized peptides designed to stimulate collagen renewal, calm inflammation, and support skin barrier function,” she adds.

And now, after months of clinical research, the brand has the metrics to prove that it can outdo the pricey, more popular picks dominating the market today with 90% effectiveness (ahem, the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, which retails for $295, opposed to Drmtlgy’s $69).

That said, this new serum isn’t to be confused with Drmtlgy’s best-selling Needle-Less Serum: an anti-aging formula that includes a similar ingredients list, including peptides, ceramides, and sodium hyaluronate, just without the extra potency of growth factors. This ultra-thin, watery serum (compared to the new version’s thicker formula) is a lightweight liquid that's infused with a cocktail of wrinkle-reducing and pore-minimizing ingredients like niacinamide and panthenol (provitamin B5) to deliver a less potent iteration of the Growth Factor Serum’s potion.

The Testing Process

Frequency: Daily | Testing period: 1 month (mom), 1 week (me) | Used with: Night cream

I delivered a bottle of the then-unreleased Needle-Less Growth Factor Serum to my mom about a month before its online debut, and she wasted no time before incorporating this product into her routine. Used daily in conjunction with the Drmtlgy Peptide Night Cream Face Moisturizer, my mom watched in awe as her skin transformed in as little as one week—her complexion smoother, more hydrated, and visibly firm, all without the help of extra spa treatments or injectables.

Mom’s Pairing

“That [Drmtlgy] serum that you gave me is amazing,” she writes to me. “I'm actually going to order more of that one. It definitely makes a difference.” By one month, her skin looked and felt as firm as it did when she routinely went in for Botox—a practice she abandoned years ago after wanting to age more naturally. Not to mention her hydration levels, which skyrocketed after combining it with the complementary night cream.

My Pairing

After my mom notified me of her near-immediate success, I began routinely slathering two pumps of this serum onto my skin before using moisturizer (the new Dr. Diamond Hydr/o Bioactive Hydrolipid Barrier Moisturizer, thank you very much). Though I haven’t been using it for a month, I did notice brighter, happier skin after one week. But what surprised me the most was the dramatic increase in hydration that I noticed after one day, despite my dry, eczema-prone skin. (No, really, I forgot to use moisturizer before doing my makeup the next morning because of how hydrated my skin remained hours after my evening application.)

Final Thoughts

It’s fair to say that my mom and I experienced different pros when we tested this serum, but we both arrived at the same conclusion: The stuff really works.

• Lori, 53: My mom's mature skin drank up every bit of this regenerative serum, observing a visible decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just one month of use. Her skin appeared (and felt) far firmer than before, and the radiance of her complexion was noticeably boosted thanks to the serum’s deeply hydrating properties.
• Alyssa, 25: While I didn’t notice a huge difference in the firmness of my skin (blame it on the mid-twenties), the immediate rush of hydration was enough to quell my dry, patchy complexion in the middle of an eczema outbreak. A major win for those with sensitive skin who want to treat their mature complexions or use it as a preventative measure, like me.

Can the Serum Replace Injections?

If you’re wondering if you can get the same results from regularly scheduled injectable treatments, this is what Lee says: “While the Growth Factor Serum does not replace injectable treatments, it serves as an excellent adjunct to a comprehensive anti-aging regimen.” That said, it’s a great option for those who don’t want to spend their hard-earned cash (or expend their pain tolerance) on these in-office treatments. “By optimizing overall skin health by enhanced collagen renewal, barrier repair, and reduced inflammation, it can improve the skin’s resilience and, in turn, support more effective and sustained results from injectables,” she adds.

I have the kind of skin that might be a beauty editor’s worst nightmare and an inquisitive reader’s dream. Perennially dry (yes, even in the summer), red thanks to rosacea, and sensitive to oil, heavy fragrance, and most common irritants. Basically, my skin is out to get me in this product-testing-heavy role, which means that when something passes my skin test, you’ll know it’s likely safe enough to use yourself.

Now, I won’t pretend to be a dermatologist. You should always consult with your doctor before trying a new product that aims to change your skin landscape, especially something that includes retinol (or something like it, in the case of this latest launch from an editor-adored French pharmacy brand). That said, Embryolisse’s Lait-Crème Rétinol-Like is a sensitive skin–safe moisturizer that promises the same skin-smoothing results as your favorite retinol cream, just with a plant-based alternative that spares the harshness this vitamin A derivative often inflicts upon irritable skin.

Though retinol has been a buzzword for several years at this point, I’ve been hesitant to add the resurfacing agent into my skincare routine for a few reasons. My skin is already dry, so I don’t need to endure the peeling phase that ensues after implementing a retinol product. I’m only 25, so I don’t exactly have wrinkles that I want to target (yet). And most importantly, I prefer to keep my skincare routine simple: face cleanser, serum (only if I need it), moisturizer, and sunscreen in the daytime, so I don’t want to bulk up my routine.

I didn’t expect myself to fall for this moisturizer as much as I did, but, man, do I understand now why the French love this pharmacy brand so much.

About the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Retinol-Like

Though I’ve referenced this product as a retinol cream several times, it’s much more than that. In addition to being an anti-aging moisturizer, this thick, smoothing formula moonlights as a makeup primer, hydrating mask, restorative night cream, and nourishing body milk. While I didn’t give it a proper weeklong trial as a body treatment (I’ve been living for a specific luxury and drugstore bodycare duo these days), its thick formula is certainly nourishing enough to work as a restorative post-shower treatment. (Plus, its relatively large tube size makes it easier to justify using on both your face and body.)

While this cream can seemingly do it all—keep your makeup in place during the daytime, restore your skin with renewed radiance overnight—the ingredient we can attribute most of the formula’s success to is a plant-based retinol alternative called French big clover. It's known as Grand Trèfle by the French, and the extract of this plant is rich in thickening agents called Galactomannans, which stimulate the production of collagen (plumping wrinkles in the process), while smoothing and soothing the skin barrier.

The benefits of this plant can be compared to retinol, or more broadly, retinoids, in a few ways. “Retinoids are a powerhouse ingredient from the vitamin A family and are known for transforming the skin,” Mona Gohara, MD, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, previously told Who What Wear. “They work by revving up skin cell turnover by shedding dead skin cells so new, healthy ones can come to the surface.” Much like retinol, French big clover revitalizes the skin by increasing cell turnover and acting as a soothing sealant for the fresh complexion below—aided by other nourishing, protective ingredients such as organic aloe vera, carnauba wax, and shea butter.

The Testing Process

As a 25-year-old with no major skin concerns at the moment, I might not have the same experience with this product as someone with more mature, acne-prone, or sensitive skin. Users with wrinkles may reap more of the benefits than I, as I primarily use this formula for a preventative measure. That said, I did notice a change in my skin after just one week of use.

The instructions indicate that you can use this product morning and night, but erring on the side of caution, I used the cream once daily, usually as the last step in my nighttime skincare routine. Just a few dollops on my skin were enough to make it feel thoroughly moisturized, so much so that my skin felt tacky if I accidentally applied too much. Fortunately, my slightly heavy-handedness graced me with supple, glowing skin in the morning.

I first experienced the common reaction that most have when they start using retinol: peeling, dry skin, as my dermis began to shed itself. This happened mostly around my mouth, coupled with a bit of redness on my cheeks and jawline that you can see in my “before” photo above. That said, this wasn’t for lack of moisture—as the formula felt thick enough to be a mask—so these spots slowly disappeared to reveal healthy, hydrated skin by the end of the week.

While I’m not the intended recipient of this product’s hero benefit, wrinkle reduction, I did a bit of snooping around to see what people with more mature skin than I experienced with this formula. “This product has made my face look years younger in just a few weeks using it as a night cream,” says an Amazon shopper in their five-star review. “I’m [in my] mid-60s with modest creases on my forehead, and somehow this is helping to reduce those creases to almost nothing. I wish I had discovered it years ago.”

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’d recommend this product to anyone who wants to boost their skin’s elasticity, collagen, and hydration levels—especially if they have sensitive skin and react negatively to retinol or other retinoids (think retinyl, retinal, and tretinoin).

It has a thick consistency that feels a bit too heavy under makeup on hot summer days, but I can see it being a great, hydrating primer during the cooler months thanks to its slightly tacky texture. Because it has a thicker feel, I recommend using a thin layer as an overnight mask two to three times a week to get the most benefits any time of year (and for this reason, it makes a great body lotion, too).

What Is a Retinol Alternative?

Retinol alternatives are largely utilized by users with sensitive skin who react negatively to the strong resurfacing agents within most retinol products. Board-certified dermatologist Stacey Tull, MD, previously told Who What Wear that retinol irritation can be exacerbated in even those with “normal” skin types during the winter months, so retinol alternatives are a better, gentler option for healthy skin stimulation in this case. She also explains that because some people have very sensitive skin, retinol alternatives may be “as good as or better than the real thing.”

Common alternatives include bakuchiol, a natural antioxidant that has been found to balance skin texture while diffusing fine lines and wrinkles, alfalfa, which is a more widely recognized name for French big clover, and niacinamide, which Tull says can “boost collagen, target acne, and address skin discoloration.”

Can I Use the Embryolisse Cream Every Day?

Yes, you can use the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Rétinol-Like every day. In fact, it is suitable to use day and night, and Tull once recommended that you use retinol alternatives in this way, if your skin is amenable to it. “While retinols are inactivated by the sun and should only be applied at night, better results are achieved with twice-daily dosing of retinol alternatives," Tull explained.

Shop Other Retinol Alternatives

If a skincare product promises to magically treat every single skincare concern you can think of—wrinkles, texture, hyperpigmentation, and even sagging—I approach it with a very critical (bordering on dubious) eye. That's certainly how I felt when I came across the Lyma Laser, a spendy, handheld gadget that claims to have 100 times the power of standard LED devices. "Okay, but is this legit?" I recently asked celebrity facialist Lord Gavin McLeod-Valentine as he floated the device along the contours of my cheekbones, to which he replied: Yes, yes it is. Pair that expert stamp of approval with a smattering of celebrity endorsements—including Sofia Richie Grainge ("Within a week, this transformed my skin") and Kate Hudson ("Not an ad, just telling you this is one of the best things I’ve ever used on my face”)—and I was finally ready to put the $2700 device to the test. That is, until I found out about the buzzy Lyma Laser Pro.

Marketed as three Lyma Lasers in one, the Pro promises to deliver transformative results at a much faster rate than the original beams. The $6000 question then becomes does it actually live up to the hype? I decided to test it for 49 days to find out. The Lyma Laser Pro is definitely an investment, and I don't take that lightly, so below, I made sure to outline every detail you need to know—including my own before and after photos—before committing to a purchase. Let's dive in, shall we?

What is the Lyma Laser Pro?

Like the original at-home Lyma device, the Lyma Laser Pro uses low-level, near-infrared light to stimulate collagen and cell renewal deep within the skin. Unlike traditional laser technology—which requires "microdamaging" the skin to kick-start its natural healing process and produce collagen—Lyma's cold-laser approach doesn't involve any stress to the skin whatsoever. You don't feel a thing, but the technology actually triggers a genetic switch inside each skin cell that encourages it to create collagen and elastin at a faster rate; and collagen and elastin, as we know, are directly responsible for skin's plump, firm appearance.

Those speedier cells are also able to enhance blood flow, thereby increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This, in turn, helps with other aspects of skin healing (dark spots, inflammation, dullness, rosacea, etc.). Since there's no excessive heat or damage to the skin, there's also no risk of scarring or safety concerns for those with deeper skin tones. Trust, though, that the near-infrared light does penetrate the skin's deepest layers, all the way down to the muscle tissue that sits behind it.

What's the difference between Lyma and Lyma Pro?

The Lyma and Lyma Pro contain the exact same laser technology, so you really can't go wrong with either device. You use both devices the exact same way for the exact same amount of time, but because the Lyma Pro has a bigger treatment lens (30cm² versus 8cm²), it yields results much faster.

"It's not just a simple case of increasing the exposure lens because of the energy dose involved," craniofacial, aesthetic, and plastic surgeon Graeme Glass, MD, PhD, Lyma's aesthetic director, explained during a recent brand panel. "Everything has to be increased if you want the same energy dose but over a larger area. That's why it had to be completely reengineered to be able to make that happen." Essentially, in order to treat larger areas like the neck and décolletage, the Pro contains the power of three Lyma Lasers in one.

Of course, that extra power comes with a cost. The Pro is tagged at $5995, more than double the original Lyma's $2695. For both, buyers have the option to pay in installments: $500 and $225 per month, respectively.

You can technically use the Lyma Pro on targeted areas of your face—I have been, and I've seen some impressive results!—but it's best for transforming the full face, neck, and body. "If you're younger and are using it to prevent or to slow down the aging process, or you're just dealing with a small scar, area of pigmentation, or rosacea that you want to get rid of, [the original Lyma Laser] is best suited for that," Lyma founder Lucy Goff shared on the panel. "The feedback that we were getting was to transform larger areas on the face and body without it taking a super-long time." Thus, the Lyma Pro was born.

How to use the Lyma Laser Pro

All you need to do is switch on the device, hold it directly on the area you'd like to treat for three minutes, then repeat until you've treated your entire face (plus any other areas of concern, like the neck, chest, arms, etc.). The device has an automatic timer that will flash six times every three minutes, signaling you to move on to the next section.

A little insider tip: A red light will illuminate once you turn on the device, but according to Goff, that's really just for aesthetics. "It's just a red LED to tell you the device is switched on because you can't see near-infrared light with human eyes," she shares. "You'd never know whether the device was switched on or not."

You can theoretically glide the device across your skin during that three-minute time period—and if you do, I recommend using the Lyma Oxygen Mist & Glide to minimize tugging and optimize the laser's results—but it's not necessary. Simply hold the device in place and let it work its high-tech magic.

Now, that magic does come with a catch: You have to use the Lyma Pro every single day in order to see results. Depending on how many treatment areas you're prioritizing, that can mean up to 30 minutes daily. If you can commit to that cadence for the first 12 weeks, you can go into maintenance-mode and use it two to three times per week. But those first few months are really critical.

My Experience and Review

I'll be honest: I didn't want to like the Lyma Pro. See, I'm of the belief that taking care of your skin doesn't have to be a wildly expensive venture. Drugstore heroes can perform just as well—if not better—than luxury, sensorial options on the market, so the thought of recommending a $6000 laser felt a little ludicrous. What could it possibly accomplish that my meticulous skincare routine and hoard of LED masks couldn't? The answer, I soon found out, was quite a lot—albeit in a sneaky, gradual fashion.

Looking back, the Lyma Pro couldn't have come into my life at a better time. I was experiencing some gnarly, inflamed breakouts on my chin and forehead, and my skin could not shake its dull, puffy appearance, no matter how many hydrating masks and serums I slathered on. (I can likely chalk it all up to stress since I'm currently planning a wedding.) I also just found out I have early signs of rosacea (fun!), as my skin easily flushes from a mere touch.

I started using the Lyma Pro at night, after I was all buttered up with silky serums and night creams. I typically spent 30-ish minutes treating my problem areas (both sides of my chin, jawline, and forehead) and giving my neck some extra love. It was definitely a huge time commitment, but it helped immensely if I multitasked with a good Netflix binge. (Once the episode was over, so was my Lyma routine. Easy!)

I began my testing at the end of March 2025. By mid-May (49 days later to be exact), my skin was absolutely thriving. I didn't change a thing besides the Lyma Pro addition, and somehow my tone was brighter, my texture felt smooth as butter, and the breakouts were completely healed—not a dark spot in sight. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition, so the laser's ability to reduce inflammation and quickly shuffle nutrients to the cells is what I suspect helped speed up the healing process. Not to jinx my progress, but I also haven't experienced a breakout since.

I don't struggle with wrinkles or crepey skin at this point in my life (dark spots and dehydration are my main gripes at the moment), but the inflammation and dullness were making the fine etchings I do have seem even more prominent. After incorporating the Lyma Pro into my life, I have noticed those fine lines smooth out—namely the faint expression lines in between my brows and the horizontal bands around my neck (aka, "tech neck").

Even before the 12-week mark, my skin had already responded with such positive results. (The brand says you'll start to notice changes after 30 days, and I definitely concur!) I've committed to a daily cadence the whole time, save for a weekend trip when I—sigh—forgot to stash it in my carry-on. When I arrived back home, I reached right for my Lyma Pro, and my post-flight complexion looked immediately calmer and brighter the next day.

From there, I kept up with the routine every single night leading up to my November 2025 wedding (that's eight months of testing, to save you the mental math) and am happy to report that I never looked glowier. To this day, I try to use my Lyma Pro at least three times per week for routine maintenance, and on the days that I don't, I definitely notice a difference.

Is the Lyma Laser Pro really worth it?

Yes, the Lyma Pro is an investment—of both time and money. It's not for everyone's budget and lifestyle (again, that daily commitment!), but if you do have specific areas of concern you'd like to treat—scars, dark spots, fine lines, crepiness—it's a great, effective alternative to pricey in-office lasers. Believe the testimonials because it really does work; it's just a matter of how much you feel comfortable spending on a gentler, at-home tool versus more immediate (though often harsher) aesthetic procedures. You also do have to stay consistent with it in order to reap the benefits, so if the commitment doesn't seem realistic for your schedule, I'd suggest saving your money for an in-office treatment.

I personally love my Lyma Pro and will continue to use it at least three to five times per week, since I've since graduated to the maintenance phrase. However, I'm probably a better candidate for the original Lyma Laser since I'm more focused on preventative skin aging and precise patches of inflammation. The smaller treatment lens might be better suited for my skincare goals, so I could have fared well with the more affordable laser.

That said, I'm certainly not mad about the Pro's more intense power and quicker timeline! I'll also have the device forever, so when I do ultimately experience more aggressive signs of skin aging, I'll be happy I have the device with three times the intensity. All that to say: If you think you might want the benefits of the larger surface area in the near future, then I'd suggest snatching the Pro version. It's more money upfront, but I'd argue it's worth dropping the extra coin now than potentially purchasing a whole new device down the line. Trust me—once you begin to notice the laser's effects, you'll be happy you went Pro.

Shop the Full Lyma Routine

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.

Salma Hayek Pinault's daily skincare routine is refreshingly bare bones. No retinol, no exfoliating peels, and absolutely no injectables. She doesn't even commit to a morning face wash—a tip she learned from her grandmother. "Your skin doesn't get dirty while you're sleeping," the award-winning actress and producer quips over Zoom.

That doesn't mean she's against the occasional in-office procedure: "I have been using radiofrequency for years. That is the only thing I did," she adds. "It was working for me, and then at some point, because I'm 58, I felt like I hit a plateau, especially with my neck—under the jaw, to be very specific. [I] started to feel like a turkey."

It's as if she manifested the call from Merz Aesthetics to discuss a collaboration with Ultherapy Prime. This FDA-cleared noninvasive treatment uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production, thus making skin look extra firm and plump. "I said, 'Okay, I'm gonna give it a try, and if it works, we can continue the conversations,'" she recounts. Considering she has officially been named the first global brand ambassador for Ultherapy Prime, we can safely assume the treatment was a smashing success.

"It made me feel safe—the fact that they could actually be looking at my collagen in real time," she shares. "Normally, between two and three months is when you see the results. I started seeing the results in the second week." Of course, every candidate is different, but most people notice gradual improvements that lead to a more natural-looking effect. In fact, many commonly refer to Ultherapy as the "nonsurgical facelift," given its ability to tighten the skin sans incisions or downtime. "It is the gold standard for lifting, and it targets the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, which is the same layer we would lift in a facelift," board-certified plastic surgeon Jennifer Levine, MD., previously told Who What Wear about the procedure.

There's a major misconception in beauty that people who opt for in-office treatments must have a high-maintenance skincare routine. With Hayek Pinault, that could not be more false. "Chica, I am so, so, so busy. I have hundreds of [at-home] tools that I bought and never use," she tells me. "Have you seen my white hair? I just can't bother to [dye] it every three weeks, sit there for hours… I mean, I'd rather just have the white hair." Yes, noninvasive procedures like Ultherapy tend to be pricey, but in terms of time commitment, the investment is pretty minimal. Ultherapy requires only one session to see results, and they tend to last about a year without touch-ups. "I like really strong, effective—but not frequent—things that make sense," Hayek Pinault adds.

At home, she doesn't subscribe to a structured routine but rather listens to what her skin needs on a given night. For instance, if her skin is feeling dry, she likes to apply a lightweight moisturizer with a thicker layer on top (an editor-loved trick known as "moisturizer sandwiching"). "One of the light ones I like is Sisley's Black Rose [Cream]. It's kind of a jelly, and I really feel like it absorbs. And Charlotte Tilbury just came out with the Water Cream," she shares. "Then you can put on the La Mer, the Augustinus Bader, so that it kind of seals it. When I put on the first layer, I wait like 20 minutes to put on the second one."

Her biggest at-home tip for youthful skin, however, is sleep—and lots of it. "I really wish that when I was younger I had learned good sleeping habits," she says. "I think I always had good skincare discipline [because] my grandmother was so obsessed with it, and it was part of our bonding. She taught me a lot of things… I never go to sleep without taking my makeup off. Never. [But] I have a lot of lifestyle things that I wish I could do better." Magnesium supplements and aromatherapy help her wind down at night, and she notes that her experience with bioidentical hormone therapy has improved her sleep over time.

Moisture, sleep, and a once-a-year noninvasive treatment—not too elaborate of a regimen for an A-lister. "I don't try to look younger than my daughters," Hayek Pinault jokes. "I want them to know right away by the expression on my face when I'm not happy. I also want them to see my expression when I'm proud of them. You've got to decide what works for you. This works for me."

Shop Salma Hayek Pinault's Skincare Favorites

There are loads of buzzy new skincare ingredients out there, but sometimes it's safer to stick to the ones that have stood the test of time. Take vitamin C, for example. Once you've found the best vitamin C serum for your skin type and start to use it consistently, you'll see results for skin tone, laxity, dullness and pigmentation that few other ingredients can deliver.

Of course, not all vitamin C serums are created equally. Since vitamin C is a notoriously unstable ingredient, some forms may not be effective or may even cause irritation to skin. Ask any skincare expert or professional and they will tell you that the best and most reliable form of vitamin C is L-ascorbic acid. Why? Because it's the purest form of vitamin C, with extensive proven skin benefits and plenty of data and research to back its efficacy. If you want to firm, brighten, address signs of skin ageing or simply amp up the glow, L-ascorbic acid is guaranteed to deliver results—and you'll find it in a whole bunch of vitamin C products.

To help you find the best L-ascorbic acid serum for your skin type or concerns, I've compiled a list of the ones I love the most. It took a while, mind you. I took into account everything from how they play with other products to whether they triggered sensitivity and, of course, how efficiently they delivered results.

Here's a quick brush up on the ingredient and its benefits, followed by my shortlist of the best L-ascorbic acid serums on the market.

What Is L-Ascorbic Acid?

L-ascorbic acid is the purest form of vitamin C and one of the most common form of vitamin C found in skincare products. It's a very stable, active and quick-to-absorb type of vitamin C, which makes it the most effective form for topical skin treatments.

What Are the Benefits of L-Ascorbic Acid?

"L-ascorbic acid is used in skincare products for its antioxidant properties," says dermatologist Sonia Khorana. "It can help reduce signs of ageing, brighten the skin and even out skin tone." In particular, mature skin showing common signs of ageing like wrinkles, loose skin and sun damage, and acne-prone skin with scarring and hyperpigmentation will significantly benefit from using L-ascorbic acid.

Most people can benefit from using L-ascorbic acid in their skincare routine thanks to its antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant it protects skin from environmental stressors like pollution and sunlight.

Differences Between Ascorbic Acid and L-Ascorbic Acid

Take a look at the ingredients lists on your vitamin C serums and you'll notice they feature either L-ascorbic acid or ascorbic acid. "The two names are used interchangeably but the main thing is that the 'L' indicates that it's the most natural form of the vitamin C," explains Khorana. "Ascorbic acid is a general term that refers to the vitamin C molecule. However, it can exist in two forms: L-ascorbic acid and D-ascorbic acid. In skincare, it’s almost always L-ascorbic acid because the D form is not biologically active and doesn't provide the same benefits as L-ascorbic acid."

Ascorbic acid is often used to describe all forms of vitamin C, both active and inactive. For this reason, these forms may not be as potent or stable as L-ascorbic acid and may not absorb as quickly or be as effective. This is because inactive forms of vitamin C have to convert to L-ascorbic acid before they can be beneficial to the skin.

What Percentage of L-Ascorbic Acid Is Best?

For best results, it's recommended to use a vitamin C serum with at least 8% L-ascorbic acid. However, a higher percentage of L-ascorbic acid doesn't always mean the product is better—sometimes it can lead to skin sensitivity like stinging, redness and even breakouts.

"It is typically effective at concentrations between 10% to 20%. Higher than that would lead to irritation," says Khorana. "L-ascorbic acid is often formulated with complementary ingredients like ferulic acid and vitamin E to enhance stability and boost its antioxidant power," she adds.

Ideally a vitamin C serum with 10-20% L-ascorbic acid will deliver benefits to the skin, but if you have dry, dehydrated or sensitive skin or are new to using vitamin C, you should definitely opt for gentler serums with less than 15% L-ascorbic acid.

The Best L-Ascorbic Acid Serums

• Best affordable L-ascorbic acid serum: Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum, £22
• Best high-end L-ascorbic acid serum: Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, £160
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for mature skin: Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten + Firm Serum, £93
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for acne scarring: iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+, £95
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for dull skin: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum, £70
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for dry skin: Jan Marini C-Esta Serum, £115
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for oily skin: La Roche-Posay Vitamin C12 Serum, £45
• Best L-ascorbic acid serum for sensitive skin: Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster, £52
• Best all-rounder L-ascorbic acid serum: NIOD Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid 30% Network, £37

1. Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum

2. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

3. Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten + Firm Serum

4. iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+

5. Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum

6. Jan Marini C-Esta Serum

7. La Roche-Posay Vitamin C12 Serum

8. Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster

9. NIOD Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid 30% Network

If you're looking for a less invasive alternative to aesthetic tweakments, there's a good chance that during your research, you'll have come across argireline, a skincare ingredient often touted as 'Botox in a bottle'. Most commonly found in serums, the ingredient may not yet be as popular as the likes of vitamin C and retinoids, but it's certainly becoming a skincare secret for those looking for effective but non-invasive anti-ageing products.

In fact, as an esthetician, one of the topics I discuss most frequently with my clients is how to address key signs of ageing, like fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin, without the need for needles. I find that most people are open to the idea of trying Botox and fillers eventually, but want to see what they can achieve with their at-home skincare routine first. If that sounds like you, then a peptide like argireline can be a great addition to your routine. What's more, if you've previously found that ingredients like vitamin C and retinoids have caused irritation to your skin, peptides are often more easily tolerated by those with skin sensitivity.

Of course there's a lot of hype in the skincare world and not everything lives up to its lofty promises, so it's easy to become cynical when faced with claims like 'miracle cream' and 'Botox in a bottle'. We tapped the expertise of dermatologist Sonia Khorana to find out everything there is to know about argireline. From exactly what it is, to its benefits and side effects, keep reading for everything you need to know about the ingredient.

What is argireline?

"Argireline is a peptide (also known as acetyl hexapeptide-8) that has wrinkle-fighting and anti-aging properties," explains Khorana. "It is important to bear in mind that argireline is a brand name and there’s only one lab in Spain that has the patent on the peptide," she adds. "So various brands can use it and combine it with other anti-aging ingredients."

How does argireline benefit skin?

"Argireline is often used in skincare formulas to help fight wrinkles," says Khorana. "It also helps stimulate collagen production and helps the skin to retain moisture."

Argireline has been compared to Botox in its ability to relax facial muscles, but according to Khorana, it is not the same. "Botox is a neurotoxin (called botulinum toxin type A) injected into muscles to temporarily relax them," she explains. "Botox works by blocking the signals that are sent from the nerves to the muscles, which prevents them from contracting. As a result, the skin appears smoother and more youthful-looking."

While serums containing argireline can help to target the same concerns as Botox, Khorana explains that they cannot offer the same results. "You won't get the same results out of a bottle as you do with injections as [topically applied products] do not inhibit muscle contraction in the same way—a serum cannot penetrate so deep into the muscle. Plus, the results are also not long lasting as they are with Botox."

What are the side effects of using argireline?

According to Khorana, there are no known side effects to using argireline, however, since it's often combined with other ingredients, it's important to remember that how effective it will be will be down to the formulation of the product.

Shop the best argireline skincare products:

1. The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%

2. Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP

3. 111 Skin Eye Lift Gel Nac Y²™

4. Jordan Samuel Skin The Performance Cream

5. Goldfaden MD Needle-Less Line Smoothing Concentrate

6. Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream

7. Estée Lauder Futurist Peptide-Power Serum Primer

9. Niod Copper Amino Isolate Serum 3 1:1

10. Aveda Tulasāra Firm Concentrate

11. Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum

12. Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Wrinkle Resist Serum

When I asked my mom what she wanted for her 56th birthday, she requested only one gift: Yse Beauty's Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads. Before you ask, no, she doesn't normally ask me for beauty samples (and yes, I do frequently offer, like any good beauty editor daughter would!). She doesn't wear perfume, and she keeps her skincare and makeup routines very minimal.

But these peel pads are special. They're gentle yet effective, able to clear dark spots, smooth fine lines, and prevent breakouts in a single swipe. I know because I'm genuinely obsessed with them too—so are a gazillion others, it seems, as they had been sold out for months. (Yes, really. My mom counted the days.)

Now, you can likely guess why she was begging for the birthday gift. She's been rationing her final few discs for weeks, hoping I could work some beauty editor magic and snag a top-secret box. The brand was kind enough to send me its only sample left, and I was officially crowned daughter of the year. (Thank you, Yse!) Fast-forward a few weeks, and the beloved peel pads finally arrived back in stock—as you can surmise, my mom was pretty hyped.

Allow me to reiterate that my mom doesn't get this jazzed about skincare products, like, ever. She's a true product loyalist; once she finds a formula she loves, she rarely ever changes course, and Yse's peel pads are definitely her most prized beauty possession. And I can totally see why. Since adding them to my own routine, they've become nonnegotiables for a clear, healthy glow. I've convinced friends, other family members, and fellow beauty editors to give them a try, and even though I'd selfishly love to gatekeep so they don't sell out again, I simply must share every reason you should give them a whirl.

"Touch my face," Molly Sims (yes, the Molly Sims, who's the founder of Yse Beauty) instructs as we sit on a plush couch at NYC's Nine Orchard Hotel. Let me back up. It's August in the city, which means peak sweat and humidity—and for me means angry zits and uneven skin texture. I brush her cheek, and whoa, it is unbelievably soft. It also appears smooth and even-toned, with not a sunspot in sight. Sims, who admits she has struggled with cystic acne for years, tells me her skin has transformed since using her Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads. This was after telling her about my own sensitive, acne-prone skin. She assures me that I'll fall head over heels for these pads.

I wasn't expecting miracles. Sure, Sims had glowing things to say about the product, but what brand founder wouldn't? Still, I went home with a bag full of Yse goodies and tested the pads that week. Pardon my French, but I immediately had a "holy shit" moment. I had been struggling with chin and forehead breakouts for the whole summer (again, sweat and humidity are not a good combo for me), and nothing had successfully kept those clogged pores—and their subsequent dark spots—at bay. That is until I tried Your Favorite Ex.

Each round is infused with glycolic acid, gluconolactone (a very gentle exfoliator), and PHAs, all of which dissolve dead skin cells and smooth texture while preventing inflammation. Glycolic acid is also known for promoting collagen production and skin brightness, which is why it's a godsend for fine lines and dark spots. My mom specifically loves how it keeps her skin soft, and like me, she discovered that the pads help decrease her hormonal acne.

The formula also comes buffered with ectoin, an ingredient known for soothing and strengthening the skin barrier, so it doesn't give me the same stinging, burning sensation as the other alcohol-soaked solutions I swiped on in middle school. I experience a little tingling around more sensitive areas (like my cheeks), but my skin doesn't flush whatsoever. (Neither does my mom's, FWIW.)

As for the glow, well, it's unmatched. The first time I used the pads, I was greeted with noticeably brighter, tighter-looking skin in the a.m. I truly have never experienced such immediate results from an exfoliating product, and my mom agrees. "I am literally addicted," she recently texted me.

Suffice it to say we both will never part with these pads. I didn't think the unassuming exfoliator would become such a secret weapon for brighter skin and fewer breakouts, but for me, these blow every other skin-clearing product out of the water. So I highly suggest copping a box (or three) for yourself before they inevitably sell out again. Given their best-seller status, I don't expect them to be available for long!

More Yse Beauty Products I'm Obsessed With

Shop Other Exfoliators I Love

A strange thing happened to me this summer. One day, the skin on my face—specifically my forehead—was suddenly insanely dry. This had never happened to me before, and I didn’t understand why. We’re in the middle of summer, not winter, when it’s normal to experience an increase in dryness. What could be going on?

I’m a beauty editor, so I’m always testing new products, but nothing recent enough to blame. In my mind, I ran through the list of possible suspects. My skin, which had always been oily/combination and acne-prone, has been a lot drier since entering perimenopause. Could this be a new branch of that? Rude. Like a good girl, I’d also been extra committed to my sunscreen, reapplying much more than usual. Was this my punishment for my due diligence? Better not be!

I needed an expert opinion on my sad summer skin, so I contacted Melanie Palm, MD, MBA, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in San Diego, California. “Dry skin during perimenopause is incredibly common and is primarily due to the decline in estrogen levels, which play a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity,” explained Palm. “The skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes when estrogen levels drop, leading to dryness and a thinner skin barrier. This makes the skin more sensitive in the summer months as temperatures rise and when sun exposure is more prevalent.”

Perimenopause has made my skin chaotic, so the possibility of it being the cause of my sudden dryness made a lot of sense. But I still wondered about sunscreen. “While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, certain types can potentially exacerbate dryness," Palm said, adding that it’s best to avoid ones with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or benzyl alcohol. (I use a lot of mineral sunscreen, which contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, so that could have contributed, too.) Instead, Palm recommends opting for sunscreens that are formulated for sensitive or combination skin and contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, or peptides. “Products formulated with these ingredients will help protect your skin from UV damage without drying it out,” she continued.

Another thing I wondered about was the impact of air conditioning. Since temperatures have reached 90 degrees and above where I live in L.A., we’ve been running the AC nonstop. Unfortunately, just like heaters during the winter, air conditioners can affect the skin due to the low-humidity environment. Unless there was a way to psychically contact my skin cells and directly ask them what was going on, I just had to figure out what to do next. Thankfully, Palm gave me advice on how to get my skin back on track by using a gentle yet hydrating cleanser, making sure to moisturize, avoiding super-hot showers, and staying hydrated regularly.

I wasn’t about to go on without a fight, so I looked at my skincare stash and gathered the best products for dry skin while keeping Palm’s expert tips in mind.

More Hydrating Skincare Products to Try

As a beauty editor, I spend a lot of time analyzing my skin. Part of it comes with the job. I'm tasked with testing hundreds of products per year, and to do that effectively, I need to monitor my skin for visible changes. The other part is personal. Whether it's a pressure I place on myself or a preoccupation with caring for my skin in the best way possible, I'm constantly cognizant. I try to reapply SPF every two hours at the beach. I try to prevent clogged pores via regular exfoliation. I try to hydrate my skin with a good serum-moisturizer combo.

Despite my diligence, I'm human, and I want to live my life. If that means going on a camping trip with limited access to a sink for face-washing, so be it. If that means leaving my retinol out of my carry-on to make way for other travel essentials, that's okay! I'm passionate, but I'm not precious about it. That's why seeing signs of aging in the mirror doesn't bother me all that much. I'm 29—turning 30 in exactly one year—and signs of aging are to be expected. Actually, they're a privilege.

Still, I'm a beauty editor, and if there are things I can do to slow down signs of aging and make my skin look and feel its healthiest, then I'm going to do them. That's why I recently reconfigured my skincare routine to suit the changing needs of my skin. My goal is to get my routine down pat before turning the big 3-0. It's my way of celebrating where I'm at and looking forward to a new decade.

First, the Changes Taking Place in 30-Year-Old Skin

Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. He filled me in on the changes that take place in the skin when we reach 30. "Collagen and elastin, which are structural proteins in the dermis that provide firmness and rigidity to the skin, are produced less as we enter our 30s. Their degradation is also accelerated by damaging UV rays." That's why 29-year-old me has less plumpness and elasticity in her skin than 21-year-old me. Not to mention sun damage despite years of wearing sunscreen.

Kristin Gunn, celebrity aesthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa, agrees. "Hormones play a key role in anti-aging and skin health," she says. "When estrogen starts to decline we see a more dry, sometimes dull complexion. Estrogen is a key building block in the recipe for collagen, so less of that means noticeably less collagen production. You may feel less plump and less hydrated." Pair that with less cell turnover, and Gunn says you could see drier, duller skin. "You may also see the beginning of fine lines in the skin, as well as sun damage popping up from your carefree days at the beach in your earlier years!"

As if that's not enough, Gunn says our bodies begin to reabsorb bone when there's less estrogen present. This has aesthetic effects on the face and neck. "We see this around the mouth and eyes typically first—sometimes giving a sunken appearance or the beginning of jowls."

Aside from collagen and elastin decline, Camp says people in their 30s can experience increased oil production—even acne. This might be surprising, considering that oil production usually decreases with age, but Camp says it's due to hormonal changes.

Personally, I'm experiencing the former, but not the latter. I can tell my skin is less elastic than it used to be, and I've noticed some slight sagging in my under-eye area and by my jowls. I've also noticed that my combination skin is getting drier. While I've always struggled with dullness and dehydration, it's getting harder to maintain moisture. Luckily, the experts say I don't need a complex routine to rehab my skin. "A simple skincare routine from which to work off includes the use of a cleanser, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and SPF in the morning, and then a cleanser, retinol or retinoid, and moisturizer in the evening," Camp says.

And don't think it's too late to start treating your skin well. "It's never too late to begin," Gunn says. "Some people make the mistake of thinking they can't start a routine now. You can! Prevention is always better than the cure, but we can fix anything! Be committed to the basics such as washing your face every night. Wear your SPF every day. Use a hydrating serum and moisturizer. You must at the very least do this!"

Swap #1: One-Step Cleansing for Double Cleansing

More Oil Cleansers I Love

Swap #2: Hydrating Serums for Retinol Serums 3 Nights Per Week

More Retinol Serums I Love

Swap #3: Clay Face Masks for Exfoliating Face Masks

Swap #4: Gel Moisturizers for Cream Moisturizers

More Moisturizers I Love

Swap #5: No Eye Cream for Eye Cream

Professional Treatments to Consider

Skincare products are essential, but don't think they'll work overnight. Take it from Gunn, who says, "Consistency is key when developing a skin routine. No skincare product or prescription will work overnight; it will need to be used regularly and typically for at least three months before deciding if it is effective or not."

If you're impatient like I am or you're looking for more dramatic results, you can always turn to professional treatments. The experts recommend a variety of them based on specific skin goals and concerns. Here's a list.

• Neurotoxin Injections (Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, Xeomin, etc.): "Neurotoxin treatments help reduce the appearance of dynamic lines, which are wrinkles that form when facial muscles are contracted," Camp says. "Neurotoxin treatments may help prevent etched lines from becoming deeper and more noticeable, a form of treatment some people call 'prejuvenation.'" Gunn says this is often referred to as "baby Botox" by industry experts. "This is a term for 'preventative' Botox. Small amounts of Botox when you are younger can help prevent wrinkles when you’re older!"
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Camp recommends looking into IPL treatments if, like me, you struggle with "changes related to sun exposure," like "broken blood vessels and sun spots." Also called a "photo facial," these treatments are noninvasive and use light to improve skin tone and texture.
• Moxi Laser: "This laser has little to no downtime," Gunn says. "It helps erase sun damage, promotes collagen formation, and helps to perfect texture and tone. This is a laser that is booked out for weeks and very popular!"
• Microneedling: Camp says microneedling treatments "create small injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production to tighten skin and reduce the appearance of uneven skin contours, which may develop as a result of acne scarring." Gunn highly recommends it. "This is one of my favorite treatments for the 30s crowd. It's only a couple of days of downtime, and your skin texture and tone will be beautiful and bright. It helps with uneven texture, acne scarring, and crepiness. You will also build collagen for weeks afterward!"
• DiamondGlow Facials: "This is by far my favorite facial out there," Gunn says. "It exfoliates all of the dead skin and impurities and then infuses your skin with rich serums to repair and hydrate. You leave looking dewy and bright!"

I've only ever gotten the occasional facial. However, about three weeks ago, I decided to get Botox for the first time in my brow crease (well, Dysport, if we're being technical). My brow crease had formed a permanent wrinkle, and my go-to skincare products just weren't cutting it. Even though it's just been a few weeks, I'm extremely happy with the result. My brow crease has virtually disappeared, as has the accompanying wrinkle.

Lately, I've been considering getting IPL and microneedling treatments at some point in the future, but I haven't sprung for them yet. For now, I'll stick to a consistent skincare routine based on the above tenets. Look out, 30! Here I come.

Now that I’m over 40, I’ve noticed many changes in my body, especially my skin. It seemed like only yesterday that I used to be a clear-cut combination-skin, prone-to-breakouts kind of gal. So it’s still shocking that I have only had one or two zits in the past year. As you can guess, the change in my skin and skincare products has taken a while to get used to. Before, I was satisfied with a lightweight moisturizer year-round, but now that I have—gulp—dry skin, finding a face cream with adequate hydration is the top priority. (I never thought in my life that I’d miss having oily skin!)

Finding a suitable face cream for my 40-somethin‘ perimenopausal skin has been somewhat of a Goldilocks situation. Sometimes, a face cream I’ll try will work wonderfully at night, but it is an entirely different story in the morning. I’m already a fan of Shiseido’s skincare, but its newest moisturizer has done some serious magic. The Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream ($140) has left my skin hydrated, plump, and nourished to the gods since I started using it weeks ago—but it did even more.

Many things make this face cream different from any other, namely the ingredients. Safflower has a long history of being used as a colorant in cosmetics and food, but it has some pretty awesome benefits for skin. SafflowerRed, the proprietary ingredient found in Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream, is cultivated in Yamagata, Japan. According to the brand’s research, this variety of safflower “has a structural stabilizing effect” on the blood vessel structure, suggesting it can help treat aging concerns such as dark spots, dullness, wrinkles, and facial sagging. 

I kid you not; since I started using the face cream, the wrinkles on my forehead are not as deep (I haven’t had Botox in two years), and my skin feels and looks firmer than it has in years. It’s almost as if it reversed my age back a few years. Shiseido also did some consumer trials that found 90% saw firmer, lifted, and more even-toned skin, with 95% experiencing brighter skin, 93% having less visible dark spots, and 91% having tighter facial contours. In addition to SafflowerRed, the cream features an entire wonderland of antioxidants plus caffeine and ginseng root to energize and stimulate collagen and jujuba fruit for elasticity and firmness. It is a must, especially if you have over-40 skin or have some aging concerns like deep wrinkles, dryness, and pigmentation. I take it with me everywhere so much it needs its own little purse! 

More of My Over-40 Skincare Favorites

I'm 28 years old and about to turn 29. I've always been well aware that time brings some less-than-ideal skin changes along with it (it's the price we pay for the privilege of aging!), but I was still somehow surprised when I spotted signs of aging on my own skin. One day, I looked in the mirror and noticed an accumulation of sun damage, as well as lines and wrinkles forming. I was struck by the realisation that maybe my skin wasn't "bouncing back" like it used to.

That was especially true for the skin on my neck. While I had never given my neck a second thought when I was younger, I was suddenly focusing on it all the time because of the newly entrenched horizontal lines that appeared somewhere around my 25th birthday. This so-called "tech neck" results from a forward, tilted head position that's usually brought about by constantly looking down at phone and computer screens. For me, this checks out. I have a job that requires a lot of screen time, and I'm not immune to the temptation of TikTok doom-scrolling. Pair that with sun damage, and my neck looks older than it I feel it should. It's the kind of thing that I'd never notice on someone else, but I've become acutely aware, and can't un-see the development.

Listen, I'm not claiming I'm old; I'm still in my twenties for Pete's sake. But that doesn't mean I can't do something about the health of my skin, and hopefully, reverse the clock a bit. That's why I decided to reach out to two dermatologists to ask for the ultimate anti-aging neck skincare routine. I needed to know what at-home products to use, which professional treatments could help, and so on.

Here's a makeup-free and filter-free photo to show what I'm working with. My main concern is the deep line that spans my neck from jawbone to jawbone.

Here's a front-facing view. I have three different neck lines, which I'd rather try to lessen.

Step 1: Use an SPF Moisturiser Every. Single. Morning

This one didn't surprise me, because I know moisture and sunscreen are both critical for soft, plump, and youthful-looking skin. Still, it's a good reminder that it's necessary every single day, rain or shine, even when I'm feeling lazy and spending all day watching Netflix on my couch. Take it from Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. "As we age, our bodies make less collagen and elastin, which are structural proteins in the dermis that provide structure and rigidity. The sun contributes to the aging process by accelerating the degradation of these proteins."

The sun—more specifically, the UV rays that come from it—contribute to all signs of aging, including the ones Camp sees more often in his dermatological practice. The first is that aforementioned tech neck. "'Tech neck' refers to horizontal lines that are accentuated when we tilt our heads down while looking at our phones," he says. The second is skin laxity, also known as sagging. This is "a result of aging and sun damage and is a concern for some patients." And yes, a simple SPF moisturiser can treat and prevent both.

Step 2: Apply a Retinol Serum a Few Nights Per Week

Retinol can turn back time on your neck just like it can on your face. "Retinol serums or moisturizers, when used regularly over time, are known to improve collagen production," Camp says. "Remember to gradually ease into the use of retinol because it can cause side effects like redness, dryness, and itching, especially on the delicate skin of the neck."

According to board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology, Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, the skin on the neck is different than the skin on other areas of the body. "The skin on the neck is more delicate than the skin on the face and should be treated more gently. It is more prone to irritation and takes longer to heal after injury due to a lower number of follicles and stem cell reserves."

Camp agrees, saying, "Neck skin is often not as tolerant of facial skin to topical treatments, like retinol. Part of the reason is because there is a lower density of sebaceous glands on the neck."

Step 3: Use a Targeted Neck Serum With Peptides on the Other Nights

While retinol is great for so many things, including minimising the appearance of lines and wrinkles, peptides play the long game to firm skin over time. Translation? They help prevent sagging or lax skin, which is a huge component of neck aging. "Peptides are skincare ingredients that act as building blocks of proteins, improving levels of collagen and elastin," Camp says.

Step 4: Try Professional Treatments

If topical skincare isn't enough, the good news is that there are a multitude of in-office treatments I can turn to to reverse-age my neck. Camp recommends microneedling and Botox and/or filler. "Microneedling is an in-office treatment that creates small superficial injuries in the skin, which in turn stimulates collagen production," he explains. "This stimulates the production of new collagen to tighten and firm neck skin."

As for Botox and filler, they work in different ways to encourage a more youthful-looking appearance. Hyaluronic acid filler can be injected into the area to soften the appearance of lines specifically. Neurotoxin injections, like Botox "can minimise the appearance of platysmal bands, which often become more pronounced with age," Camp says. "The platysma is a thin, sheet-like muscle on the anterior neck. By limiting the ability of the platysma to contract, the bands become less pronounced."

As for Geddes-Bruce, she recommends a multitude of professional treatments depending on specific cases and goals. "There are so many different in-office treatments to address these concerns. My favorites are Ultherapy, Genius Radiofrequency Microneedling, and Fraxel non-ablative resurfacing, sometimes augmented with biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra or hyperdilute Radiesse."

9 More Neck Treatments I'd Recommend

I'm 28 years old and about to turn 29. I've always been well aware that time brings some less-than-ideal skin changes along with it (it's the price we pay for the privilege of aging!), but I was still somehow surprised when I spotted signs of aging on my own skin. One day, I looked in the mirror and noticed an accumulation of sun damage, as well as lines and wrinkles forming. I was struck by the realization that maybe my skin wasn't "bouncing back" like it used to.

That was especially true for the skin on my neck. While I had never given my neck a second thought when I was younger, I was suddenly focusing on it all the time because of the newly entrenched horizontal lines that appeared somewhere around my 25th birthday. This so-called "tech neck" results from a forward, tilted head position that's usually brought about by constantly looking down at phone and computer screens. For me, this checks out. I have a job that requires a lot of screen time, and I'm not immune to the temptation of TikTok doom-scrolling. Pair that with sun damage, and my neck looks way older than it should.

Listen, I'm not claiming I'm old; I'm still in my twenties for Pete's sake. But that doesn't mean I can't do something about the state of my skin, and hopefully, reverse the clock a bit. That's why I decided to reach out to two dermatologists to ask for the ultimate anti-aging neck skincare routine. I needed to know what at-home products to use, which professional treatments could help, and so on.

Here's a makeup-free and filter-free photo to show what I'm working with. My main concern is the deep line that spans my neck from jawbone to jawbone.

Here's a front-facing view. I have three different neck lines, which is not ideal.

Step 1: Use an SPF Moisturizer Every. Single. Morning

This one didn't surprise me, because I know moisture and sunscreen are both critical for soft, plump, and youthful-looking skin. Still, it's a good reminder that it's necessary every single day, rain or shine, even when I'm feeling lazy and spending all day watching Netflix on my couch. Take it from Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. "As we age, our bodies make less collagen and elastin, which are structural proteins in the dermis that provide structure and rigidity. The sun contributes to the aging process by accelerating the degradation of these proteins."

The sun—more specifically, the UV rays that come from it—contribute to all signs of aging, including the ones Camp sees more often in his dermatological practice. The first is that aforementioned tech neck. "'Tech neck' refers to horizontal lines that are accentuated when we tilt our heads down while looking at our phones," he says. The second is skin laxity, also known as sagging. This is "a result of aging and sun damage and is a concern for some patients." And yes, a simple SPF moisturizer can treat and prevent both.

Step 2: Apply a Retinol Serum a Few Nights Per Week

Retinol can turn back time on your neck just like it can on your face. "Retinol serums or moisturizers, when used regularly over time, are known to improve collagen production," Camp says. "Remember to gradually ease into the use of retinol because it can cause side effects like redness, dryness, and itching, especially on the delicate skin of the neck."

According to board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology, Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, the skin on the neck is different than the skin on other areas of the body. "The skin on the neck is more delicate than the skin on the face and should be treated more gently. It is more prone to irritation and takes longer to heal after injury due to a lower number of follicles and stem cell reserves."

Camp agrees, saying, "Neck skin is often not as tolerant of facial skin to topical treatments, like retinol. Part of the reason is because there is a lower density of sebaceous glands on the neck."

Step 3: Use a Targeted Neck Serum With Peptides on the Other Nights

While retinol is great for so many things, including minimizing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, peptides play the long game to firm skin over time. Translation? They help prevent sagging or lax skin, which is a huge component of neck aging. "Peptides are skincare ingredients that act as building blocks of proteins, improving levels of collagen and elastin," Camp says.

Step 4: Try Professional Treatments

If topical skincare isn't enough, the good news is that there are a multitude of in-office treatments I can turn to to reverse-age my neck. Camp recommends microneedling and Botox and/or filler. "Microneedling is an in-office treatment that creates small superficial injuries in the skin, which in turn stimulates collagen production," he explains. "This stimulates the production of new collagen to tighten and firm neck skin."

As for Botox and filler, they work in different ways to encourage a more youthful-looking appearance. Hyaluronic acid filler can be injected into the area to soften the appearance of lines specifically. Neurotoxin injections, like Botox "can minimize the appearance of platysmal bands, which often become more pronounced with age," Camp says. "The platysma is a thin, sheet-like muscle on the anterior neck. By limiting the ability of the platysma to contract, the bands become less pronounced."

As for Geddes-Bruce, she recommends a multitude of professional treatments depending on specific cases and goals. "There are so many different in-office treatments to address these concerns. My favorites are Ultherapy, Genius Radiofrequency Microneedling, and Fraxel non-ablative resurfacing, sometimes augmented with biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra or hyperdilute Radiesse."

10 Neck Treatments I'm Stocking Up On

As a beauty editor, I have a natural curiosity about anything that will help increase longevity and youthfulness, especially when it comes to my skin. While I've used and loved things like NAD as a whole-body supplement (my favorite is Elysium's energy-boosting formula), I recently discovered a few cutting-edge skincare brands that utilize it in their formulas. Wondering what NAD is? Don't worry! I'm breaking down everything you need to know about this youth-enhancing molecule with an expert, Invity founder Eugene He, ND. Let me tell you—if you haven't tried anything from the brand just yet, you'll definitely want to change that. Its brightening, soothing, and plumping sheet masks are one of my all-time skincare favorites, and I always have them in my arsenal. Keep reading below for everything He had to share about this magical longevity-increasing ingredient.

What is NAD?

First, He explained exactly what NAD is and what it can do for your body as a whole. "Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is one of the essential molecules for our cells," he says. "It is primarily involved in cellular energy production, which is required for many cellular events. Insufficient NAD levels would adversely affect those events, resulting in aging of cells, tissues, and organs, including the skin. Studies have shown that NAD can manage numerous hallmarks of aging such as genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, disabled autophagy, and cellular senescence. By refreshing NAD stocks in the cells, it would lead to optimal functioning of the cells, resulting in skin rejuvenation and proper maintenance of youthful skin."

How can NAD work in skincare?

While NAD supplements are a bit more widely known and discussed in the wellness community, He told me that there is less research when it comes to utilizing it in skincare. "Topical NAD is a relatively new field, and preliminary studies have found great potential in conditioning the skin, supporting the skin barrier, improving skin conditions, and also increasing cellular efficiency," he explains.

"NAD works at a cellular level to address numerous hallmarks of aging by sustaining skin youthfulness through energy, DNA repair, antioxidants, collagen, sirtuins, and gene regulation. NAD fuels cellular energy production, rejuvenating skin by enhancing cell turnover and collagen production. Essential for DNA repair, NAD prevents mutations from UV radiation and oxidative stress, preserving skin health. It [also] fights oxidative stress and free radicals, safeguarding skin from premature aging. It aids collagen production, maintaining skin elasticity and a youthful appearance. NAD also activates sirtuins, proteins associated with longevity and skin resilience.

"At Invity, we are looking beyond just the benefits of NAD but leveraging it synergistically with other ingredients via epigenetic science to create an environment where we can break through the current limits of what skincare can do for the skin. Part of our R&D pipeline at Invity is in finding the most efficient and effective ways to increase NAD and optimizing cellular functions through topical applications of natural compounds, including NAD and NAD precursors. Our products currently contain both NAD and also natural compounds that have shown efficacy in replicating some of the benefits of increased NAD in cells, including sirtuin activation and mitochondrial efficiency. Beyond NAD, we are involved in other fields of longevity science, including cellular senescence to discover more methods that can improve our skin health."

More Youth-Enhancing Products We Love

As a beauty editor, it's my job to stay in the know when it comes to buzzy beauty treatments and injectables. Honestly though, it can be a tad exhausting. Sometimes it feels like new technology and services are hitting the market every day, and it's hard to keep up. But it's also my job to weed out which ones are worth talking about and which ones you can skip. Sofwave made the cut in terms of treatments we need to talk about.

I have a few editor friends who tried this treatment recently and were impressed with the results. What does it do, you ask? Well, for starters, it's a less invasive alternative to Botox that can help smooth fine lines, firm sagging skin, and reduce wrinkle depth. While Botox can only reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Sofwave kick-starts new collagen production, which actually reduces them. I found out everything you need to know about this exciting treatment below. Keep reading for a full rundown.

What is Sofwave?

First, you might be asking, "What exactly is Sofwave?" With so many treatments out there on the market now, it can start to get confusing. RejuvaYou founder John Shieh, MD, breaks it down for us. 

"Sofwave is one of the latest in noninvasive treatments for the skin [that lifts] the lax skin around the eyes and brows as well as the lower face, jawline, under the chin, and the neck," he says. "It uses ultrasonic energy to coagulate the collagen at 1.5mm below the surface, causing collagen remodeling. As a result, not only does it cause lifting of the lax skin; it helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as reducing acne scars. It is the only treatment that is FDA cleared for reducing fine lines and wrinkles; lifting of the brows, submental jawline, neck, and arms; reducing appearance of cellulite; and treating acne scars."

How is Sofwave different from micro-needling or injectables?

As intrigued as I was by this treatment upon first learning about it, it raised a few questions for me. I wondered how it produces different results than treatments like SkinVive, micro-needling, or microchanneling. Shieh was able to clear that up for me too. "Sofwave is in a totally different class of treatments than injectables or micro-needling," he explains. "The biggest difference is that it is noninvasive and doesn't break the skin or cause the degree of downtime that micro-needling and injectables cause.

"The other big difference is that a Sofwave treatment is causing a result that your own body is producing. The lifting and collagen remodeling is caused by what your own skin has been stimulated to do. On the other hand, injectables are just external substances injected into the skin or face to create the illusion or appearance of improvement. But Sofwave results are from your own body and skin producing the remodeled collagen. Finally, the results of Sofwave are significantly better and more natural compared to injectables and micro-needling."

What kind of results can you expect, and how much does it cost?

There you have it! Sofwave is a less invasive alternative to Botox that doesn't just create the appearance of smoother, fine line–free skin—it actually creates it from within! Naturally, a treatment like this doesn't come cheap (ugh), but it's definitely worth it in the long run if you want to keep your skin looking youthful. Shieh shares a bit more about what kind of results you can expect and how much each treatment costs.

"People can expect to see lifting and wrinkle reduction of the areas treated," he says. "For someone that receives a typical full-face treatment, including under the chin, at around the two-week [mark], they enjoy seeing brows that are lifted naturally, improvement in wrinkles and fine lines, and improved lifting of the jawline and under the chin area. This result continues to improve as collagen remodels and can be more noticeable at two months. A single treatment gives noticeable results in the majority of patients. Although, additional treatments may be performed for additional improvements."

As for the price, I'll be honest, it's steep. But it could be well worth it for those long-term results since Botox can't exactly provide that. Shieh says, "Sofwave costs vary depending on the size of the area being treated. A partial face treatment starts around $1500, with full-face treatments running approximately $2500 to $5000. A neck and under-chin-area treatment can run $2000 to $3000."

Products to Help You Maintain Your Results

Collagen-building treatments will be more effective in the long run if you pair it with good skincare. Shieh has a few recommendations in that department. "We always recommend at least combining skin treatments like Sofwave with a high-purity L-ascorbic acid vitamin C [serum] and a zinc and/or titanium mineral sunscreen. An L-ascorbic acid serum has been shown to help the skin produce more collagen. Combining this with Sofwave that causes collagen remodeling is ideal to gain maximum result as well as for maintenance. The mineral sunscreens are important because the chemical-based sunscreens may be able to block UV-caused damage, but the chemicals themselves are actually damaging to the skin. And worse, they are shown to cause hormone imbalances in people that use it regularly," he says.

Shop a few key products to help maintain your results below.

For years, retinol was considered the gold-standard skincare ingredient. Experts recommended it to tackle all kinds of skin concerns—everything from dullness to discoloration, rough texture, wrinkles, and more. To many people, it's still the gold standard. However, there's a new class of ingredients that are giving it a run for its money. Why? It's simple. They claim to offer all the benefits of retinol without any of the negative effects like dryness, redness, and irritation. 

This class of ingredients is referred to simply as "retinol alternatives," and they're trending like never before. In fact, many of our favorite skincare brands are formulating new retinol-alternative products using unique combinations of these ingredients. While there's certainly a lot of hype surrounding these products, we have to wonder… Are they really as effective and well-researched as good old retinol? Ahead, let's find out from a top dermatologist. 

Stacey Tull, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She says, "Retinols are vitamin A derivatives that help promote healthy skin turnover but can often be irritating, especially in the dry winter months. Retinol alternatives also help to stimulate healthy skin production but do so more gently." 

In other words, yes, retinol alternatives are effective, but that doesn't mean you necessarily have to swap your go-to retinol serum out for one. Like all things skincare related, it depends on your unique skin type and goals. If you're dealing with sensitive skin, though, retinol alternatives are generally your best bet. "Everyone's skin is different, so for many people, retinol alternatives may be as good as or better than the real thing," Tull says. "For some, retinol may be fine most of the year, but they may need to use a gentler formulation in the winter. Anyone with dry or sensitive skin will likely prefer a retinol alternative." They're also recommended for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding and, as such, can't use retinol. 

The consistency of use is something else to consider when deciding between retinol and retinol alternatives. "While retinols are inactivated by the sun and should only be applied at night, better results are achieved with twice-daily dosing of retinol alternatives," Tull says. 

Remember, retinol alternatives are a class of ingredients, meaning there are many. Any ingredient that promotes cellular turnover or offers a similar benefit as retinol can technically be crowned with the title "retinol alternative." To help cut through the noise, we asked Tull to provide a crash course in some of the most popular ones. 

Alfalfa: Tull says this is a plant-based ingredient with strong antioxidant properties. 

Azelaic Acid: Tull says that azelaic acid is similar to retinol, in that it first appeared as a prescription-only treatment for acne but is now readily available over the counter. It's her favorite retinol alternative because it's incredibly effective at targeting signs of aging and uneven skin tone. 

Bakuchiol: Perhaps the most popular retinol alternative on the market, this ingredient is plant-based and functions as an antioxidant. Tull says it "has similar efficacy" as retinol. It can stimulate cell turnover without causing excess irritation. 

Niacinamide: Tull says this ingredient is often used in retinol-alternative products because it offers myriad benefits that are similar to those offered by retinol. She says it can boost collagen, target acne, and address skin discoloration. 

Shop Derm-Recommended Azelaic Acid Products

Shop 10 More Retinol Alternatives

Well, it finally happened—I turned 30 years old last month. Even though those around me have insisted that this decade is about a billion times better than the last one, there was still this monumental fear I grasped onto, and a big part of it had to do with the notion that I was starting to lose my youth. Blame it on the world's obsession with beauty or even my career working in it, but there was a societal echo I couldn't ignore.

Ironically, when people enter their 30s, they're often tackling the same skin issues they dealt with in the past, including hormonal acne and oiliness. They might even be presented with new ones, like dullness, wrinkles, and a loss of elasticity. In my case, I don't have to worry about breakouts, but I do worry that I haven't been doing enough in terms of prevention. 

Even though I'm quite happy about where I'm at in life and know aging is unavoidable, I still want to kick my skincare routine up a notch to prevent early signs of aging. That's why I created a new arsenal of skin, hair, and body products for top-tier care. Keep scrolling to see the skincare products I'm incorporating into my routine. 

The Best Skincare and Hair Products for Your 30s

As a beauty editor, I'm well aware that at times the beauty industry can be a little overwhelming. Even as a beauty expert, it can be a struggle to separate the fad from the fabulous when it comes to products, and debunk what will work for you and not just for others. Especially now, with so many cutting-edge products, new innovative ingredients and emerging brands that promise to transform your skin, it can be impossible to wade through what's actually worth the investment for you. 

So when I heard about BEAUTY PIE's Skin Quiz, which asks you a few questions and then suggests the best products for your skin and its concerns, I was immediately interested. In case you're unaware of BEAUTY PIE and its unique business model, let me explain. It's a membership in which you pay a monthly fee in return for discounts on groundbreaking products. Working with leading cosmetic scientists around the world, its award-winning skincare is thoroughly researched and innovative and is only available on the BEAUTY PIE site. Because the brand cuts out third-party costs (from working with other retailers, celebrity endorsements, etc.), it is able to offer premium products at a fraction of the usual cost.

But back to the quiz. Recently introduced by the brand to help educate its customers on the absolute best products for their specific skin concerns and lifestyle, it's super quick to take and the results are so interesting. Whether you're a beauty novice wanting a low-maintenance routine or an expert with a 12-step, twice-daily ritual, the recommendations are insightful and tailored to you, and are delivered to your email for future reference. It's no secret that Who What Wear UK is big into BEAUTY PIE, and this doesn't just apply to our beauty editors, but everyone on the team.

Personally, I love the cool, contemporary packaging and the fact that no product has had a better impact on my acne than its Youthbomb Retinol Serum (you can read me raving about it here). For others, the appeal is of course great products at an incredibly affordable price point. In light of our shared love, I asked two other editors to do the quiz and share their results. We then collectively trialled the recommended products to see how they impacted our skin. 

"I’m now in my late twenties, and as a beauty editor, you could say that my routine is naturally high maintenance. My skin can be oily, so I’m prone to hormonal breakouts that leave behind stubborn hyperpigmentation and I sometimes experience sensitivity and dehydration too. So amongst the active ingredients in my skincare routine, I like hydrating products that are gentle and skin-replenishing to keep my sometimes-sensitive skin balanced.

"My skin’s needs change seasonally, so I was intrigued to see what the quiz results would recommend for me right now. At the moment, I’m contending with some post-breakout hyperpigmentation, so I was recommended both Dr Glycolic Pore-Purifying Glycolic Acid Toner and Superdose Vitamin C C-Suite Rapid Action Brightener for my routine. Dr Glycolic Toner is a powerhouse product that brightens and exfoliates, whilst Superdose C-Suite has become my new favourite for unlocking unparalleled levels of glow for my skin. Since using them both, my skin has never looked more even-toned, radiant breakout-free."

"To take the day off, I’ve been enjoying using Japanfusion Pure Transforming Cleanser, which has a gel-to-oil-to-milk texture and leaves my combination skin feeling gently cleansed and balanced. I’m already a huge fan of Triple Hyaluronic Acid Serum, so I was excited to try both Elastic Lifting Eye Cream and Deep Moisture Miracle Cream in the range to hydrate, soothe and plump the dehydration lines I’m sometimes prone to during winter. My skin is already feeling much more hydrated and plump from using these, and I can feel that my face is benefiting from the additional hydration now it's getting colder.

"Finally, Super Healthy Skin UVA/UVB Featherlight SPF 50 has been a game-changer. Everyone can benefit from wearing an SPF every day, but in particular, those with hyperpigmentation (like myself) should shield their skin to prevent it from creeping back and undoing all of the hard work in the rest of your routine. This one lives up to its name—it truly is a lightweight SPF that you don’t feel on your skin. It doesn’t leave a white cast, and I love that it also primes my skin for makeup, too."

— Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor

"I've always been incredibly fortunate to have good skin with very little effort, but after having a baby four years ago, the clarity, evenness and reliable glow I once used to take for granted have become increasingly difficult to find again. Because of my lack of skincare struggles in my earlier years, I often feel ill-equipped to know which route to take, which ingredients to try and which new products to take a punt on, which is why I was so intrigued to do BEAUTY PIE's Skincare Quiz. As a brand that I know my entire team rates highly and sees as incredibly efficacious and well-priced for the quality, I knew this would lead me to some fantastic new discoveries and an easy-yet-impactful routine.

"I juggle a (pretty full-on!) full-time job with a very full-on child. Combined with the fact I get a lot less sleep than I used to and my that my hormones are probably different these days, there's simply no denying that the past few years have taken their toll on my skin. I have very little time to spend on myself, but I want to start targeting a few areas where I feel my skin could look healthier and more like it used to. I'm pro-ageing and I think it's an absolute privilege to get older, but I'd also like to do it gracefully and in my own time without using anything too powerful or harsh, as I have relatively sensitive skin."

"The selection of products that were recommended for me tick my boxes of not being overly rich, fragranced or gimmicky (anything like that is an instant breakout-maker for me). Youthbomb moisturiser is gentle enough for all ages and skin types and is great to use as a super-hydrating evening hydrator. The gentle Super Retinol eye cream feels like the perfect entry product for someone who is still new to retinoids, whilst Jeju Cleanser is the kind of skin-friendly cleansing milk that I'm absolutely convinced suits everyone—it did a great job of cleansing my skin without stripping it or leaving it feeling dry.

"In addition, BEAUTY PIE's Super Healthy Skin Ultralight SPF comes with the extra bonus of hyaluronic acid, providing that extra hit of hydration my skin desperately needs in the depths of winter, and Super Healthy Skin Moisturiser layers beautifully under it by day to boost radiance. Since introducing it, I can see that my skin looks noticeably plumper, more glowy and a lot more hydrated—something that really helps to blur those fine lines that can crop up due to dehydration." 

 — Hannah Almassi, editor-in-chief

My journey to "good skin" has been a marathon. It’s one I’ve been on for as long as I can remember, and it’s only in recent years that I’ve found myself at a place where I’m content with the skin I have. But it’s certainly not perfect to me. My main issue has always been mild acne, and whilst my face may occasionally be free of cystic spots, there will always be scarring and dark spots from years of hormonal breakouts. My skin is also on the dry side, which is always worse at this time of year due to the change in temperature.

"I knew when taking the BEAUTY PIE Skincare Quiz that my results would suggest a retinoid, as it’s such a hard-working, results-driven ingredient with a multitude of success stories from fellow acne sufferers. What’s brilliant about retinol—if you don’t already know of its wondrous capabilities—is that it helps not only acne, but also signs of ageing. Which is great, because at 31 it goes without saying that I’m starting to see some fine lines around my eyes and forehead. I’ve always been one to embrace age and have never been that interested injectables, but that doesn’t mean I’m not delighted to hear when a product has the capability to boost radiance and reduce lines."

"The quiz results suggested Super Healthy Skin Gentle Foamy Face Wash, which I introduced every evening as a second cleanse and occasionally in the morning as a simple yet effective wash when I felt I needed more than just water. To tackle my acne and acne scarring, I began to implement Superdrops Brightening Niacinamide as well as Super Retinol Night Cream into my evening routine. Because Super Retinol also contains vitamin C (which shouldn't be applied at the same time as niacinamide), I was sure to use these on alternating nights. It's also worth mentioning that because I've been using retinol for over a year, my skin was able to handle Super Retinol's formula two to three times per week, but if you're new to it, it's best to slowly introduce to your regime (just once a week to begin with, and then slowly build up to three times per week if there's no reaction). Even within a week, I noticed my scarring had faded slightly, and my skin tone was more balanced. 

"As my skin always feels tight with dehydration, especially when using retinol, I love the added injection of moisture from using a combination of Triple Hyaluronic Acid and Super Healthy Skin Daily Moisturiser. I've been using them together both morning and evening, along with Super Healthy Skin Featherlight SPF in the mornings (an SPF is vital every day, but especially the morning after you've used retinol). I love this product not only for the protection it gives me against the sun all year round but also because it's a gorgeous primer, allowing my foundation to glide onto my face. As it turns out, another product that also makes a great primer is Plantastic Genius Ginseng Eye Cream. I wouldn't necessarily have thought to use a product like this if it wasn't for my quiz results, but it's been great at targeting my tired and puffy morning eyes and has helped give some added moisture to my eye area ahead of makeup application."

 — Rebecca Rhys-Evans, branded content editor

Want to try the BEAUTY PIE Skincare Quiz for yourself? Check it out here. 

Despite the modern-day movement to embrace aging, there are still a lot of us who want to look and feel young. It’s an ongoing battle, and while innovations in the beauty industry have definitely helped us to slow down visible signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines, I’m still on a never-ending quest to find the fountain of youth. Could stem cells finally be that missing key?

You have likely heard of or tried a beauty product that contains stem cells. If you’ve wondered what the real deal is with stem cells in beauty, you’ve come to the right place. Ahead, you’ll learn the different ways stem cells are used in beauty—be it skincare products or fancy in-office treatments—and find out whether the whole thing is really worth the hype. Keep scrolling!

But first, what are stem cells exactly?

In short, stem cells are the building blocks of the human body. They’re the only cells that can develop into any type of cell. According to the Cleveland Clinic, stem cells are unique because of their ability to "continuously renew and divide to make exact replicas of themselves.” They’re also the only cells that can "replenish or repair specific cell types.” This is what makes them particularly interesting to the medical community as well as the beauty industry.

Cardiologist Ernst von Schwarz, MD, author of The Secrets of Immortality and a pioneer in the field of stem cell research, believes that stem cells are poised to be the next major leap in medicine and beauty. He sees stem cells as having the capability of the "regeneration of collagen and regeneration of superficial skin cell layers that rejuvenate facial skin.”

There are three different categories of stem cells. Embryonic stem cells exist at the early stage of embryo development and can become any other kind of cell in the human body. Adult stem cells have already matured and can only make new stem cells for the part of the body in which they exist, like blood, bone marrow, lung, etc. Then there are induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), which are lab-made and reprogrammed to resemble embryonic stem cells. According to the National Stem Cell Foundation, iPS are used in widespread research, drug development, and disease modeling.

How are stem cells used in aesthetic treatments?

Using stem cell therapies in aesthetic medicine is nothing new, according to Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills. The concept has been around for decades, she says, but there are certain benefits, particularly in regenerative medicine, that have proven to be very important and effective since the cells are undifferentiated. "These cells can develop into specific characteristics of an organ or type of tissue to compensate or replace certain areas of damage within the body,” she says. "Ultimately, when programmed, the stem cells will turn into the cell type that is needed to replace the damaged or affected cells in that area. They are basically our repair kit where and when needed.” 

You may know about PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or the vampire facial, but you might not have heard of PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin. The treatments are similar, in that they place the patient’s blood in a centrifuge to separate its layers, but PRP is spun at a high speed, causing the stem cells to go to the bottom. PRF is spun at a slower speed, allowing the stem cells, white blood cells, and fibrin to remain in the platelet. It is then injected into the skin, almost like filler, and helps with wrinkles and lines. Research has shown PRF to be more effective in improving skin texture and skin laxity than PRP. 

Another way that stem cells are being used in aesthetic treatments is through "stem cell facelifts.” The process, which includes fat transfer from another part of your body, like the stomach, was known as the original filler, according to Shamban. "The issues are the super-sterile environment and the fact they need to be treated like an infant, as they are super fragile due to the architecture of these cells,” she says. When the fat was transferred, she says, the face would blow up or shrink. It was also unstable if the patient gained weight and was not easy to control due to the contouring effects and irregularities.

What about stem cells in beauty products?

Stem cells found in skincare products are pretty common nowadays, but it is questionable, according to both von Schwarz and Shamban. "There are lots of products already on the market that supposedly enhance the body’s own stem cells to rejuvenate skin and other tissues,” says von Schwarz, pointing to a lack of scientific data. "Stem cell therapy will change the beauty industry once controlled, randomized clinical trials are conducted by reputable scientists to demonstrate its clinical benefits in larger numbers of patients.”

Shamban points out that stem cells are simply too big. "The molecules have no chance of penetration unless wounding the skin channels with fractionated lasers, microneedling, microcoring, etc., to create a portal for the stem cell to enter,” she says. There are some experts who still believe stem cell–infused skincare products can be effective, as clinical studies show that growth factors (the proteins in stem cells) stimulate collagen and play a role in wound healing.

What does the future look like?

One thing Shamban is excited about in regards to stem cells in beauty is mRNA technology, a single-stranded genetic molecule that "carries the instructions for protein synthesis within cells.” Shamban says new studies indicate impressive, longer-term benefits and efficacy in collagen replacement as well as more significant wrinkle reduction. "A new delivery system using extracellular vesicles has been the first to demonstrate that it can initiate and sustain collagen production for several months in the cells of photodamaged skin,” she explains. "This is in its infancy stages with much more research and development to come, but this will be the future for anti-aging treatments and procedures as well as topical skincare in the future.”

The best stem cell beauty products to shop:

Finding the right CC cream can be challenging, especially when you're not sure which ones are right for your skin type. While it's easy to gravitate to whichever CC creams are trending when you're on the lookout for one (I'm guilty of doing this when short on time or energy), familiarising yourself with the best ingredients and products that will make a difference in your skin's appearance as it matures is important. Remember when you were encouraged to incorporate a good eye cream into your skincare routine after entering your twenties? Here's your sign to do the same for CC cream. 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about CC cream from a makeup artist experienced with working on mature skin. Then discover which products 100% deserve your attention.

What Is CC Cream?

Think of CC cream as a multitasking makeup product formulated to combat redness, dullness, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and other skin discolouration concerns. The name stands for "colour control" or "complexion correction," referencing its unique ability to target problem areas. CC cream can be especially helpful when creating makeup looks on mature skin. "CC Creams typically have more skincare benefits than a traditional foundation, and as we age, ensuring our makeup includes skincare benefits is essential," says veteran makeup artist Laura Geller.

"CC creams are often moisturising, and some include SPF, both of which help address common concerns of sun protection and hydration as our skin tends to dry as we age." Geller's namesake brand, founded in 1997, is celebrated for its approach to inclusive products and marketing (in fact, it exclusively uses women over 40 in advertising). CC Creams such as Geller's Quench-n-Tint Hydrating Foundation are only the tip of the iceberg.

How To Use CC Cream

When deciding which CC creams to use for mature skin, Geller gravitates toward ones that utilise hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate to repair and protect the skin barrier. "Less is more as we age, so this is a great substitute for foundation on those 'no makeup' makeup days," she adds. "The moisturising ingredients in your CC cream will ensure it won't crease, crack, or settle into fine lines or wrinkles." According to Geller, CC cream should provide your skin with more benefits than a traditional foundation, a testament to the importance of incorporating ingredients that support healthy and beautiful mature skin.

For the best outcome, Geller recommends applying the product with the fingers and then blending it outward and upward for an even complexion. "Ideally, it's going to give me light coverage and colour-correct any discolouration while also serving as a moisturiser," Geller explains. "There's nothing worse than a cream that will dry you out, especially for mature skin."

Best CC Creams for Mature Skin

Best Overall: Laura Geller Quench-n-Tint

Next up, The 13 Best Tinted Moisturisers for Mature Skin, Ranked by a Beauty Editor

When I say that I’ve never had a positive skincare journey quite like the one I’ve had ever since I turned 40, I’m not exaggerating. During my teenage years, and even in my 20s, I had some pretty tough moments dealing with acne. (I’ll never forget the giant cystic zit on my nose come picture day during 9th grade.) But after decades of only being half-serious about my skincare, I finally put in the work to ensure my complexion is its best. Now, I am absolutely privileged, as I’d never be able to test the products I do if I weren’t a beauty editor. I am extremely lucky and will never forget it! 

Another privilege is having access to skin experts, including dermatologists and estheticians, who can give me tips on what to do for my skin. It's even better when it's an expert like Joanna Vargas, the celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salons and Skin Care. Vargas also authored Glow From Within, a book on how to get glowing skin. Even though I've been pretty happy with my current skincare routine, I wanted her expert advice for caring for your skin at age 40 and older. Vargas, who counts Greta Gerwig, Sofia Coppola, and Mindy Kaling among her clients, says that women in their 40s really need to understand that it takes work for skin to look how they want it to. Below, she's sharing all of her best tips. Keep scrolling!

Tip #1: Exfoliate Every Other Day

Vargas tells her 40-year-old or older clients to exfoliate without fail every other day to keep some cell turnover going and to do fruit acid peels monthly. "At this time, we tend to see all of our sun damage emerging, and exfoliation and resurfacing the skin are the best ways to address it," says Vargas. She recommends her Exfoliating Mask ($75), which you can also sleep in.

"The formula will stimulate collagen production, remove dead skin cells, brighten the skin, and products will penetrate better into the skin," she says. "It contains clay to help physically cleanse the skin. It also contains galactoarabinan [that is] naturally derived from the larch tree. It causes amazing cell turnover and serves as an anti-inflammatory."

Tip #2: The Hype for Retinol is Real—Use It

Another tip Vargas tells her clients is to incorporate a retinol, like her Super Nova Hydrating Retinol Serum ($295), which can be used once or twice a week depending on your skin type and sensitivity.

"It’s important to follow the days after with a moisturizing and reparative routine, especially at night. My new Twilight Night Serum ($195) and Night Cream ($145) are great for this as they can be used in conjunction with retinol, but also on the days you are taking a break. Formulated with Epidermal Growth Factor, this duo replenishes and nourishes the skin barrier so you can wake up with glowing and moisturized skin.”

Tip #3: Consider Getting Regular Facials (with Microcurrent!)

I was lucky enough to get a facial from Vargas, and it was everything I dreamed of and more. I have never seen results quite like the ones I got with her Triple Crown Royale Facial, which uses microcurrent to lift and tone the skin. After Vargas was done using microcurrent on one side of my face, she gently pinched my cheek, showing me the difference between the sides in the mirror. Even without the pinching, you could see how my cheek and mouth were higher and more lifted on one side. I couldn't believe it. "I use electricity to drain out excess water, tighten the muscle and tighten the skin to make the jaw and cheeks look tight, lifted, and youthful," she says. "Although it's a non-invasive treatment, microcurrent is like going to the gym for the face." Most of her clients like to get the treatment every three to four weeks to get the maximum benefits. "Long term, just like the gym, you get a real lift and can ultimately replace a facelift," she says.

Tip #4: Don't Sleep on LED Light Therapy

After my facial, Vargas had me do a 20-minute Power Nap session in her patented full-body Revitalight LED bed, which is one of her favorite weapons for fighting aging signs. "It is a proven technology that literally works on everyone. LED Light is proven to not only delay wrinkles, but it can improve the depth of wrinkles with repeated sessions," she says. "Collagen production starts to slow down, and LED light has been shown to build collagen in quantifiable percentages, which translates into better elasticity." (I may have fallen asleep during my session in the LED bed and was woken up by my own snoring.)

Tip #5: Washing Your Face Is Even More Important Than You Think

I wanted to get the low-down when it came to common skin mistakes because I'm not 100 percent perfect when it comes to my skincare (though I'm much better than I was a few years ago). I want to know if anybody else messes up, too.

"I think a lot of people don't realize the importance of washing your face before you go to sleep at night. A lot of women skip washing their face because they think they don't have time or they're tired," says Vargas. "It's the most important thing you can do. Nighttime is the time for the skin to repair itself from the pollution and sun we put it through all day. Leaving grime, dirt, and makeup on the skin will cause the skin to become inflamed and break out more easily. It will be susceptible to wrinkles because it won't be healthy."

Vargas likes products that multitask, like her Vitamin C Face Wash. "I have an exfoliating ingredient in it, as well as an anti-inflammatory to get the makeup off and increase cell turnover, so it's great to use daily," she says. When I tried digging for more celebrity skin secrets, she gave the best one: "The skin is a window into what's happening on the inside. Taking walks to de-stress, healthy choices at dinner, getting enough rest, and focusing on making yourself feel happy are all just as important for your skin as the type of serum you use." Now, that is some advice I seriously need to take!

My Facial Before and Afters

As a beauty editor, I enjoy nothing more than snooping through someone's makeup bag or checking out the product lineup on their bathroom shelf. I could talk cleansers, lipsticks, eye creams, and face masks for days—and I love hearing the personal reasons behind why people use certain brands or why they incorporate specific products into their beauty routines. While one of the perks of my job is having access to a vast amount of products and new beauty launches, like most people when it comes to beauty, I am most easily influenced by those around me. Seeing first hand the products that my friends and family members use often inspires me to try something new or to switch up my routine.

This influence can come in many forms, one of which being a mother or motherly figures in our lives, whose own beauty choices have gone on to shape our own. Ahead of Mother's Day, I reached out to a group of self-confessed beauty obsessives and asked them to share the beauty routines of the special women they have in their lives and introduce us to the products they each love to use. So, if you're looking for inspiration for your own regime, keep scrolling for the ageless beauty products these women reach for every day.

1. Grace Day, Freelance Beauty Editor & Who What Wear UK Contributing Beauty Editor

Grace's mum.

"My mum has never been big into beauty, which is strange in context of the fact that I’ve build my entire livelihood around it. I often wonder if it was the mystery and unknown of beauty that got me into it, because makeup and skincare wasn’t something I was really exposed to until I was a teenager. With that said, in recent years (and as the recipient of a lot of my hand-me-down products), she has become more interested, and even recently, asked me to build her a skincare routine.

Her favourite product category however is hand creams—she is a primary school teacher and spends a lot of time washing them, so has very dry, chapped hands, which makes her the perfect guinea pig when I need to test hand products for a story. "My favourite one is Nursem Caring Hand Cream,” she tells me. "I love how light it is—I don’t need to spend ages rubbing it in or waiting for it to dry. Plus, I love that it comes in both a pump bottle and a tube, so I can have one at home and one for on the go.”

The only other staple products you’ll find in my mum’s routine? Eve Lom's Daily Protection SPF50—my mission to convert her to daily sunscreen use finally paid off, and NIOD’s Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate—after witnessing such noticeable and impressive results the first time she used it, she’ll never be without it.

"She's also a huge fan of fragrance—when I was growing up, Chanel No 5 was her daily go-to, but now she has a growing curation of perfumes on her dressing table which she picks and chooses from. And adds to—she loves nothing more than wandering around Liberty's beauty hall on our trips to London. Penhaligon's Orange Blossom, Byredo Blanche, and Diptyque Eau Duelle are some of her recent acquisitions."

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2. Estée Lalonde, Content Creator & Creative Director of Mirror Water

"I really love the simplicity of my mom’s skincare routine but I try to inspire her to use new products and add a couple of steps in there when she feels like it. With my job, I get to try lots of amazing products but sometimes that means my skincare routine can get pretty complex.

I think it’s great that my mom has found brands that she really trusts and listens to. She likes using systems of skincare because she knows that the products she buys are are designed to work together. She hates overthinking and likes to know exactly which products to use each morning and night. Her ethos when it comes to skincare is sticking with what she knows works for her, creating routines from the advice of the brands she trusts. She has really inspired me to delve deeper into the brands I love and see what they recommended to use together for some of my absolute holy grail products.

I’ve been using my skincare as a form of self-care for years now. Taking that extra five minutes for myself at the start and end of each day. My mom said that she’d never really looked at it that way before and I’ve inspired her to start taking care of herself each morning too which I love. Skincare is self-care!"

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3. Hannah Almassi, Who What Wear UK Editor in Chief

Hannah with her mum and dad.

"My mum and I share the same 'less is more' ethos when it comes to skincare and beauty—although, I think there are times when we wish we had both looked after our skin a little better! We both like to make an effort but prefer a natural look, even if that means showing our age (my grey hairs are peeking through proudly, for example!) So, we have reached a kind of low-maintenance middle ground and share a philosophy, even if we don't share the exact same products. Neither of us can handle rich, fragranced or heavy products—simpler is always better.

After 70-something years, my mum has finally found a few key buys that really work for her: Estelle & Thild's Age Control Serum is a little indulgence that she just loves and wouldn't swap out. She removes her makeup with Boots' Micellar Cleansing Water and uses a cheap Boots eye makeup remover too—actually dispensing with certain more faffy stages and products suits both of our skin-types better. My mother's mother had fantastic skin and only ever used soap and water. Yes, you can inherit good skin (and I'm lucky that both my mum and dad have aged very well, so here's hoping) but perhaps there's something in the less fussy routines of the past…

"When it comes to makeup, for little blemishes she'll reach for Boots' Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Concealer; she rates Clinique's Chubby Sticks (Super Strawberry is her fave) and we both share a love of Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk; after years of trying different mascaras she believes that Maybelline's Great Lash is the one—I'm sure many other women would agree. 

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4. Franny Monzemba, Fashion Content Creator

"My skincare habits come especially from my mother. Ever since I was a little girl, she used to slather me and my sisters with cream and shea butter. We couldn't leave the house until she had checked that we had carefully applied the cream - most black families will recognise this themselves! These habits have been passed on to me.

As an adult, one of my first jobs was as a cosmetic sales consultant—I learned a lot in the process, and naturally my sisters started to take an interest. We had a ritual on Sundays where we monopolised the bathroom (which could annoy our mother!). It was a time for me to teach them a few things that I had learned at work myself. My little sister has kept these rituals, adding in some essentials that she didn't necessarily do at the time, like using sunscreen every day and some soothing creams.

I love being able to say that I have had an impact on her in terms of how she takes care of herself, and I think that this has helped to increase her self-esteem. Today she is a beautiful woman who can't be beaten on skincare—now she is the one giving me advice and I love that!"

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5. Lena Farl, Fashion Content Creator

Lena with her mum as a baby.

"In terms of skincare routine, I learned everything from my mother. When I was a child, I used to watch her getting ready and I really enjoyed this special moment spent with her as it was just the two of us. She has a very simple and effortless skincare routine based on hydration and nourishment. Her go-to brand is Filorga Paris, a line of French science-based skincare products she uses everyday. She is a big fan of the Hydra-Hyal Hydrating Cream and Age Purify Cleanser."

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6. Maxine Eggenberger, Who What Wear UK Deputy Editor

"For as long as I can remember, I've loved playing around with makeup. My mum had me when she was 21 and I remember her being quite experimental with her make-up during the early '90s; thin brows and lined lips included. Nowadays her beauty aesthetic is much more natural and mirrors my own immensely. We swap new makeup finds, review recently-tried skincare, and debate which products we think are superior. Though our routines have changed over the years, my paternal grandmother's has remained unchanged for the best part of 20 years. 

"One thing my grandma does which I always tell myself I need to take her lead on is taking care of her feet. Every night, she massages her feet with cream, gently teasing out any knots or sore spots and ensuring her skin feels suitably hydrated. Not only do her feet look as if they go to a spa every day, but I think it contributes to her overall health, too. A couple of years ago, I gifted her a few Margaret Dabbs London products and now they're the foot formulas she swears by. What can I say? I had to get my sense of good taste from somewhere! 

"Makeup-wise, my grandma has always preferred cream formulas, which puts her ahead of the times and the trends. Before cream eyeshadows and blushes were as prevalent as they are now, she was snapping up what limited products there were on the market as she thought they give a more 'natural look'. As far as brands go, Clinique has long been her go-to, as has Bobbi Brown. However, I know she's also taken with Chanel's Les Beiges collection, too, which I introduced her to last year." 

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7. Poppy Nash, Who What Wear UK Managing Editor

Poppy's mum.

"For as long as I can remember, my grandma (who is 84 this year!) has worn red lipstick. I actually don't think I've ever seen her without it, and even on holiday she applies a wash of lippie before coming downstairs in her nightie for breakfast! Her favourite is Chanel's Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour in Gabrielle. She's not a fan of a pink or peachy tone, so this true poppy-red hue is her go-to, and I actually think she has stocked up on a couple of tubes just in case it gets discontinued.

While I don't really wear lipstick myself, whenever I do reach for a bright red it always reminds me of her, which I love. I also have really fond memories of playing with all her lotions and potions as a little girl (she's also a big fan of YSL's Touche Eclat) while she brushed my hair, so maybe that's where I got my love of beauty from!

In contrast to my grandma, my mum has very few makeup products in her roster. She's all about skincare, and her biggest pet-peeve is when I forget to moisturise or pop SPF on in the winter (guilty as charged). A recent discovery of hers is Charlotte Tilbury's Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil, which she says has now become a firm favourite in her bag of skincare tricks. As a woman in her 50s, she says she loves how this boosts glow and plumps up her skin, without it being left feeling sticky. My mum uses this before popping on her LED mask, too, which she claims is a perfect combo. Her skin is actually pretty amazing, so I should probably take her recommendations more seriously. Sorry, mum!"

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8. Elle McNamara, Beauty Content Creator

"My mum has gone from being relatively uninterested in skincare to "Feel my skin - feel how dewy it is!” real quick. Not only because we get so much to test (we live together so she loves to spy around my "to test” crates) but because of how much her skin has changed - quite dramatically actually! She’s a tough crowd so when something gets her approval I’m very happy to recommend it on to my followers - at the moment she’s loving Venn’s Age Reversing Concentrate, and one of her OG favourites is the Clinique Moisture Surge. Her skin really is proof it’s never too late to see results from skincare!"

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9. Remy Farrell, Who What Wear UK Shopping Editor

"My relationship with beauty comes entirely from my mum's influence. I never feel quite "ready" without a couple of finishing touches after growing up watching her cultivate her signature look—Bobbi Brown makeup, red nails, and always a spritz of Chanel No.5. Over the last 25 years or so she's experimented with Dolce and Gabbana, Narcisco Rodriguez, and Viktor and Rolf, but nothing transports me back to childhood quite like the iconic bottle that seems to be a mainstay on many mother's vanities for decades. It might even become a tradition that I end up passing onto my daughter one day."

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Next Up: French Girls Swear By These 13 Brands for Amazing Skin

When you work in the beauty industry, you’re sent a lot of products to try out. (I know, I know—it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it.) Of course, there are a lot of creams, serums, sprays and supplements to wade through in order to find the real gems, so it’s rewarding when you discover a product that actually works or a brand that lives up to the hype.

As a beauty lover, I’ve long been a BEAUTY PIE fanatic. I can’t get enough of the cool, minimalist packaging, the award-winning products (obviously) and the whole subscription concept—it’s right up my street. For those unfamiliar, here’s how it works: Members pay a monthly fee in return for huge discounts on BEAUTY PIE products, which can only be found on the brand’s website. By using this direct-to-consumer model (i.e. not relying on retailers or celebrity endorsements to sell its beauty products), BEAUTY PIE is able to offer innovative formulas and premium-quality products at much more affordable prices. I know what you’re thinking: What’s the catch? Well, let me tell you: There isn’t one.

So when the brand asked me to test its latest Youthbomb Double-Retinol Action Skin Overhaul Serum (member price: £44), it was a no-brainer. Retinol was last year’s biggest beauty trend with 9.2 million Google searches and 1.2 billion views on TikTok. Whilst it’s best known for its anti-ageing properties (it’s proven to stimulate cell turnover, produce collagen and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles), it can also work wonders for acne.

This retinol serum is for those looking to take their entry-level retinol routine up a notch (if you're looking for one with lower strength, I'd recommend the Super Retinol + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturiser). The Double-Retinol serum is strong, so it’s effective for anyone looking for a faster and harder-working anti-ageing product. The yellow formula (retinol’s natural colour) is packed with two retinoids for a double dose of resurfacing power and niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to counteract the side effects of retinol use, such as irritation. But it’s best used as part of the Ultimate Youthbomb Trio (member price: £119), which includes the Youthbomb Biologic Collagen Peptide Cream (member price: £44), an ideal night cream, and the Youthbomb 360° Radiance Concentrate (member price: £44), along with the retinol serum.

I call this trio the Holy Trinity of Beauty because the three products work together to give your skin a healthy, youthful glow: The retinol serum smooths skin, the rich collagen cream plumps and hydrates, and the concentrate brightens, firms and gives you a natural glow. To be clear, I’ve never been one to chase my youth. I’ve never had botox, and I don’t mind my fine lines. I just want clear, healthy-looking, glowy skin, and that's exactly what this trio does.

Before I go into how I used the Youthbomb Trio and its effects, it’s important to tell you about my skin: It’s slightly dry, sensitive and acne-prone. Since adolescence, I’ve almost always had a zit or two at any given time, and I have some scarring where the temptation to squeeze whiteheads got the better of me. (We’ve all been there, right?) I’ve tried a lot of treatments over the years and have been using retinol for about a year. This is important to note because the Youthbomb retinol serum is too strong to introduce into your skincare routine if you’ve never used a retinol before. When speaking to the Who What Wear UK beauty editor, Eleanor Vousden, she explained that "From around our mid-twenties, we start to lose about 1% of our collagen every year. From this point onwards, using a retinoid (the umbrella term for retinols and retinals) can help your skin kickstart that collagen production and address the first signs of fine lines and wrinkles we often see in our late twenties.

When I speak with dermatologists and skin therapists, they often urge first-time users of retinols to go low and slow. Start with the lowest percentage and use once or twice a week at first, before building up the frequency as your skin tolerates it. Once your skin has acclimatised, you can look at going to a higher strength. All skin types can benefit from a retinol, it's all about finding the best formulation for your skin's needs."

For this review, I decided to stop using my other products almost entirely in order to trial the Youthbomb retinol serum properly and fairly. This being said, I love a double-cleanse and still needed to remove my makeup every night, so I used BEAUTY PIE’s Hot Oil Double Cleansing Balm (member price: £16) and the Japanfusion Pure Transforming Cleanser (member price: £9) to prep my skin. Once it was was completely cleansed, I added a few drops of the Radiance Concentrate on my palms and then directly onto my face and neck. (You can also add this to your morning routine.) After it soaked in, I used two pumps of the Double-Retinol Action Skin Overhaul Serum all over my face (I used it every other night for two weeks before I started using it nightly), paying close attention to the bottom of my cheeks and near my mouth where I get most of my breakouts. After I’d given the retinol a few minutes to sink in, I lathered my face with the Biologic Collagen Peptide Cream. (Pro tip: It’s so thick and creamy, so a little goes a long way.)

But let’s get to the results. Honestly, I cannot recommend this stuff enough. I mean, look at the photos! My skin looks dewy, bright and plump, and my acne scars have seriously reduced. But I was most impressed and surprised by the fact that my skin didn’t have a single bad reaction to the retinol serum. I expected that I would have to stop using it for a few days as my skin is sensitive, but there was no redness or dryness at all—my skin just got increasingly clearer each day. I have actually since swapped out my foundation for a tinted moisturiser, which I would usually only use on holiday when I’m sun-kissed and glowing. The Youthbomb Double-Retinol Action Skin Overhaul Serum has definitely made my skin appear youthful, but most importantly, it’s given me the confidence to wear less makeup, and for me, that’s the ultimate win.

Discover More BEAUTY PIE Products

And is if that wasn't tempting enough, BEAUTY PIE are offering £10 off any new membership with code LOVE10. To discover more product and sign up, head this way.

As a beauty editor, treatments and ingredients that are considered weird and out-there tend to intrigue me more than scare me. But there are certain skincare products that I haven’t regularly incorporated in my routine, no matter how popular or ubiquitous they are—one being face oils. Because my skin type is historically oily-to-combination and breakout-prone, I’ve been way too afraid to use them consistently, thinking they'd make the whole acne-and-oil situation worse, not better.

However, times are a-changin‘. I’ve officially entered perimenopause, and the obvious physical changes I’ve witnessed (aside from my menstrual cycle) have to do with my skin. It’s drier! Never once would I think I’d see the day that I wished for my face to look greasy by 5 p.m. To supplement, I’ve been doing what I never thought I’d do: using facial oils more frequently. I’ve found myself especially loving the ones that have a range of botanicals—not to mention cult followings—such as the Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum ($195), which is packed with numerous powerful plants including calendula, turmeric, carrot seed, sea buckthorn, and tons more that nourish, protect, balance, and rejuvenate the skin.

Saint Jane Beauty, which made my favorite primer of last year, is known for its botanically packed formulas. I’ve been enjoying its newest launch, the Superflower Detox Serum ($88), which is all about purifying pores and protecting the skin from outside stressors. It’s supposed to be like a "green juice” for your skin. (It also smells heavenly.)

Another face oil I’ve been using regularly is The Outset Ultralight Moisture-Boosting Botanical Oil ($44). Alongside the brand’s proprietary Hyaluroset Complex, the oil contains Abyssinian, which is rich in omega fatty acids, and avocado, which reduces free radical harm. (This oil was easy to add to my usual routine since the entire line became a serious go-to for me last year.)

Last but certainly not least, of course, is Pili Ani. As a huge fan of the Philippine-owned brand, I’ve used this oil the most to help heal my skin, especially after certain treatments like lasers left my skin extremely dry. The product contains pili oil, which is filled with antioxidant-rich botanicals that nourish and protect the skin while also minimizing redness and breakouts.

Myth Busted: Why You Shouldn't Avoid Face Oils If You're Acne-Prone

I’m still adjusting to having drier skin, but incorporating face oils has helped tremendously. The thing is I really didn’t need to wait this long, even when I was afraid using them would contribute to breakouts. "Oils have had their fair share of PR problems for those with acne-prone skin,” says Ava Shamban, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills. "There actually was a comedogenic scale established in the ’70s by a renowned dermatologist, Albert Kligman, MD: The higher the number, [the higher] the potential for comedogenicity.”

Shamban says that while the scale is far from perfect and not without its controversy, it is a guide. "These comedogenic ratings measure the raw ingredient alone, not its final form, so even those ‘good oils’—if mixed with other highly comedogenic ingredients—are all but guaranteed to clog,” she explains. "The myth remains that acne-prone needs to be oil-free—but this is a misnomer. While not all oils are user-friendly for all skin types, we need to move past the notion that acne-prone patients cannot use any face oils.”

What to Look for in an Acne-Safe Oil

Shamban says that molecular size and weight, attributes, and benefits for some oils will help to balance skin and that some oils are actually good clarifiers. Others can strengthen the skin barrier, seal in moisture, and fight bacteria that can cause acne, she says. "There are plenty that can work for acne-prone skin, and others are the gentle, ideal carrier oils to the skin,” explains Shamban. "Rosemary, marula, hempseed, ylang-ylang, grape seed, camellia, sage, lavender, manuka, jojoba, sandalwood, tea tree, rose hip, sea buckthorn, evening primrose, tamanu, and squalane are all usually good choices.” The ones that should be avoided, she says, are mineral oil, coconut oil or a derivative, cocoa butter, and lanolins. 

Another tip? She recommends prioritizing formulas with very few ingredients, but may blend in with and include retinol, salicylic, hyaluronic acid, or glycerine, as these can keep skin hydrated, balance and stop excess oil production, as well as prevent the skin cell buildup that causes clogging. Overall, Shamban says it’s best to go low and slow, which is what I’ve been doing.

I’ve started with mixing the oil with my moisturizer and spot treating—another suggestion from Shamban—by avoiding my nose and targeting the drier parts of my face, like my cheeks and forehead. While I’m still bummed that my skin is drier overall, I am happy that I finally got over my face-oil phobia. And even better? I haven’t broken out since.

Shop More Face Oils I'd Recommend

Up next, I Have Access to the Most Expensive Skincare Products in the World—14 I Love Under $40

Carving out a skincare routine is essential, and we love to ask our friends, What are you using? (Especially if they've got healthy skin and a solid routine.) But there's another source we look to—our favourite celebrities. And rightfully so. They have access to the best of the best when it comes to caring for the skin. However, it can be tricky to discern what they're actually using and loving in the age of social media, brand deals, and celeb skincare lines. In some cases, people can be hush-hush about it, but with a little investigative digging, or paying close attention to celebs on social, you can often find out what's on their vanities

So I've taken the guesswork out and researched not just what celebs are using what but what 40-something celebrities are applying to their skin. (Because as a mid-30-something who's just four years shy of 40, I'm curious, too!) Keep reading to know the 14 of the best serums a few of our favourite celebs use.

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. 

Up next, The 5 "Anti-Ageing" Skincare Truths That Everyone Needs to Hear

Over the past few years, injectable fillers have been gaining popularity. Many celebrities and influencers have admitted to getting lip filler and filler in other areas of their faces to plump and define. Last summer, I myself even dabbled in the world of hyaluronic acid filler and had some injected in my chin and cheeks to sculpt and enhance my features. 

Just when I thought I knew everything there is to know about fillers, a new term started flooding my inbox. Enter biostimulatory filler, which is just as high-tech as it sounds. To learn more about the latest and greatest in filler technology, I reached out to top dermatologists. Keep reading to learn what exactly biostimulatory fillers are, how they work, and the potential benefits and drawbacks. 

What is biostimulatory filler, and how is it different from other fillers?

First things first: Biostimulatory fillers aren’t actually fillers, at least in the traditional sense, according to Julie Russak of Russak Dermatology Clinic in New York City. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, these injectables aren’t made to plump up skin or mask volume loss—instead, they target deeper signs of aging like declining bone mass, skin sagging, and less elasticity. 

As the name suggests, these fillers work to encourage cell regeneration. "When they’re injected close to the bone, they actually stimulate regeneration in those tissues, and when they’re injected close to fibroblasts, the cells in our body that produce collagen and elastin, they stimulate regeneration there,” says Russak. The two types in the U.S. right now are Sculptra, which increases energy production in cells, and Radiesse, which is essentially calcium that improves bone structure.

Who are biostimulatory fillers best for?

Since these fillers stimulate regeneration of tissues, they’re a great option for most people who are interested in trying an injectable. Anyone can use and benefit from biostimulatory filler. "We are not just masking the signs of aging anymore; we’re really moving on to the next step of regeneration,” says Russak. 

If you’re looking for immediate, plumped-up results, you’d be better off opting for a hyaluronic acid filler. "[Biostimulatory filler] is more of a long-haul type of treatment that is a little bit more subtle,” says Sheila Farhang, cosmetic and Mohs skin cancer surgeon.

Are there any drawbacks to biostimulatory filler?

Don’t expect to see results right away. "There is no instant gratification with these fillers. It takes time for your body to produce molecules, to produce collagen, to produce elastin, so it takes time for results,” says Russak. "But on the positive side, the results are longer lasting, and they are natural because they are based on the regeneration of your own cells.”

It’s also worth keeping in mind that unlike their hyaluronic acid–based counterparts, these fillers aren’t dissolvable. If hyaluronic acid filler is injected badly or gets injected into a blood vessel, you’re able to get it dissolved. "If Sculptra or Radiesse is injected into a vessel, that technically cannot be dissolved away,” says Farhang. She notes that there’s less likelihood of this happening with a biostimulatory filler, particularly if your doctor uses a cannula instead of a needle. To be safe, you should always get biostimulatory fillers at the hands of a trained dermatologist. 

How long do biostimulatory fillers last?

This varies from person to person, as everyone’s ability to regenerate is different. "Patients with a high metabolic potential will definitely respond better to biostimulatory molecules,” says Russak. "Patients whose metabolic rate is not at the optimal level will not regenerate as well. It also depends on how fast you’re breaking down your own tissue. How much resorption and breakdown happens in your body determines how well you will preserve and maintain the molecules that have been regenerated.”

As a general rule, the younger you are, the less often you’ll need biostimulatory fillers. "It’s now being recommended that people[in] their 30s start [using biostimulatory filler] as a maintenance [treatment] once or twice a year with very little bit,” says Farhang. As you start to mature, you’ll likely need more syringes, and you’ll need to go more often. You may need to go every six months until you get your desired results, and once you’re happy with the results, you’ll go yearly for maintenance.

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Over the past few years, the skincare and technology industries have collided, resulting in an abundance of facial tools and skincare devices that promise to do everything from lifting and sculpting to decongesting and brightening skin. Now, as a trained esthetician, I’ve tried my fair share of skincare gadgets, from LED masks to microcurrent devices, but what makes this new cohort of beauty tech different is that these devices are designed to be easily used by skincare novices from the comfort of their own homes. Safe, easy to use, and affordable, these tools replicate the effects of professional treatments and will seriously upgrade your daily skincare routine.

One of the brands that has really led the way when it comes to skincare tech is Foreo. The Swedish brand first launched in 2013, debuting the world’s first silicone facial cleansing brush, and has since expanded its product range to include innovations such as a 5-in-1 facial massager, an LED breakout wand and a silicone toothbrush.

My first introduction to the brand was via Foreo’s facial cleansing brush (known as the Luna), and I have to admit, I was sceptical as to just how good an at-home device could be. Needless to say, four years have passed, and it’s been a staple in my daily skincare routine ever since. As someone who is acne-prone and experiences concerns like enlarged pores and deep-rooted congestion, cleansing efficiently has always been a main focus of my skincare routine. However, cleansers themselves can only do so much, so incorporating the Foreo Luna into my cleansing routine was a major upgrade. In fact, Foreo’s more recent version of the Luna is clinically proven to remove 99% of dirt, oil and makeup residue, which is a lot more than hands alone can achieve.

The Best Foreo Products

• Best Foreo tool for effective cleansing: Foreo Luna 4 (£132, now £111)
• Best Foreo tool for lifting and sculpting: Foreo Bear 2 (£379, now £207)
• Best Foreo tool for hydrating: Foreo UFO 2 Supercharged Facial Mask Device (£104)
• Best Foreo tool for the eye area: Iris 2 Rejuvenating Eye Massager (£169, now £118)
• Best Foreo tool for fine lines and wrinkles: Foreo FAQ 101 Clinical Anti-Ageing Treatment (£369, now £268)

Made from super-soft silicone and powered by sonic pulsations, this is quite unlike any other facial cleansing brush I’ve ever tried—it’s also a lot more hygienic than brushes with nylon bristles. With three modes (gentle, regular and deep), it’s suitable for all (including sensitive) skin types, and simultaneously massages, cleanses, and exfoliates skin. The soothing massage function helps to improve lymphatic drainage and skin elasticity, resulting in a firmer, sculpted appearance, while the gentle exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and prep skin for effective product penetration.

I tend to use the device during my evening cleanse, usually alongside a gel or foam cleanser (as I find this texture works best). Once turned on, it runs for two minutes—the perfect amount of time to cover my face and neck, with extra focus on my congested areas (along my jawline) and around my nose where my pores are most obvious.

Within a few weeks of first using it, I noticed a reduction in the bumpy, uneven texture of my skin, and with daily use, my skin is now smooth and totally bump-free. I’ve also noticed an overall reduction in the amount of breakouts I experience, which I credit to the fact that not only does the Luna give my skin a really deep cleanse, but it also forces me to spend two whole minutes focussing on your cleansing routine—I’ve noticed on days when I don’t use the Foreo, I rarely spend more than 20 seconds on this step.

I’ll admit that what usually puts me off using a device in the long term is how easy it is to maintain, but the Luna is practically effortless. It’s rechargeable (and only needs charging 2-3 times a year), doesn’t need to be replaced, and is super easy to clean—silicone is bacteria-resistant, so you just rinse it under water after each use. If you are after a device to help with concerns like congestion, breakouts, and excess oil, then I can’t recommend the Foreo Luna enough.

Oh, and I’ve since tried out a number of other devices from the range, so if you’re interested, scroll down for my verdict on the best Foreo products worth investing in.

1. Foreo Luna 4