As both a beauty editor and a working facialist, one of the questions I'm asked more than almost any other is, "What skincare routine should I be using for mature skin?" And whilst there are thousands of products promising to erase wrinkles overnight, the reality is far less complicated than the beauty industry often makes it seem.

After spending years testing products professionally, treating skin in the clinic and helping clients build routines that actually fit their lifestyle, I've found that the biggest mistake people make isn't choosing the wrong products—it's trying to do too much. Mature skin doesn't need a 15-step routine filled with every trending ingredient. In fact, overloading the skin often leads to irritation, dehydration and a compromised skin barrier, making many signs of ageing appear even more pronounced.

Instead, I encourage my clients to think about skincare as supporting the skin's natural functions rather than fighting against ageing itself. As we get older, skin naturally becomes slower at repairing itself, produces less oil, loses collagen and elastin, and struggles to retain moisture as efficiently as it once did. The goal of a routine for mature skin is to compensate for those changes with ingredients that protect, strengthen and replenish.

The good news? You don't need an entirely new skincare wardrobe every decade. A few well-chosen products used consistently will almost always outperform an overflowing bathroom cabinet. Below, I've broken down exactly how I recommend building a skincare routine for mature skin, from the essential morning steps that defend against environmental damage to the evening products that support repair whilst you sleep.

What to Look For

The most common changes I see in my mature clients are increased dryness, dullness, loss of firmness, fine lines, slower healing and a reduction in overall radiance. Many people also notice that products they used for years suddenly don't seem to perform in quite the same way, simply because the skin's needs have evolved. Cell turnover naturally slows, collagen production declines, and the skin barrier becomes more vulnerable to dehydration and environmental stressors.

Rather than trying to correct every visible sign of ageing, I recommend prioritising skin health first. Well-hydrated, resilient skin almost always looks smoother, brighter and healthier regardless of age. When choosing products, look for formulas that support the skin barrier, deliver long-lasting hydration, provide antioxidant protection and encourage collagen production without causing unnecessary irritation. Consistency will always have a bigger impact than using the strongest active ingredients available.

How to Build a Skincare Routine for Mature Skin

Whenever I'm building a skincare routine for clients, I follow one simple principle: every product should have a clear purpose. Rather than layering multiple products that all claim to do the same thing, I focus on creating a balanced routine that protects the skin during the day and supports repair overnight.

In the morning, the priority is prevention. This means cleansing away overnight oil and sweat before applying antioxidants to help defend against free radical damage, moisturising ingredients to strengthen the skin barrier and, most importantly, a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect collagen from UV damage. No anti-ageing product will outperform daily SPF.

Evening skincare is where I encourage clients to invest a little more time. Whilst we sleep, the skin naturally shifts into repair mode, making it the ideal time to introduce ingredients like retinoids that encourage collagen production and improve skin texture over time. Because mature skin is often drier, I also like to pair stronger actives with hydrating serums and nourishing moisturisers to minimise irritation and keep the skin barrier healthy.

Above all, don't feel pressured to overhaul your routine overnight. Introduce one active ingredient at a time, allow your skin several weeks to adjust and prioritise consistency over perfection. In my experience as a facialist, the routines that deliver the best long-term results are rarely the most complicated; they're the ones people actually enjoy using every single day.

Morning Skincare Routine

1. Cleanser

A morning cleanse helps remove sweat, excess oil and any skincare residue left behind overnight without stripping the skin. For mature skin, I always recommend a gentle, hydrating cleanser rather than anything that leaves the skin feeling tight or squeaky clean. Cream, milk and low-foaming gel formulas are all excellent options, particularly if your skin leans dry or sensitive. If your skin feels comfortable after cleansing, you've chosen the right formula; the goal is simply to refresh the complexion whilst preserving the skin barrier.

Shop Cleansers for Mature Skin:

2. Toner

Forget the alcohol-heavy toners of the past. Today's formulas are designed to replenish hydration, calm inflammation, and prepare the skin for the products that follow. I like to think of toner as your first layer of hydration, especially for mature skin that tends to lose moisture more easily. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or soothing botanical extracts, and avoid anything that leaves the skin feeling dry or tight.

Shop Toners for Mature Skin:

3. Antioxidant Serum

If there's one serum I recommend almost universally for mature skin, it's an antioxidant. Ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid help neutralise free radicals created by UV exposure and pollution, both of which contribute to collagen breakdown and premature skin ageing. Alongside helping protect the skin, antioxidant serums can also improve brightness and support a more even-looking complexion over time. Apply before moisturiser each morning for maximum protection.

Shop Antioxidant Serums for Mature Skin:

4. Moisturiser

As oil production naturally declines with age, a moisturiser becomes increasingly important for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Rather than simply adding water to the skin, a good moisturiser helps prevent moisture loss throughout the day whilst softening the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration. I recommend looking for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, peptides and fatty acids, which help replenish the skin and support long-term resilience.

Shop Moisturisers for Mature Skin:

5. Sunscreen

If you only commit to one anti-ageing product, make it sunscreen. Daily UV exposure is the single biggest contributor to collagen loss, pigmentation, and premature wrinkles, making SPF the foundation of every mature skincare routine. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously every morning, even on cloudy days. Consistent sunscreen use protects the results of every other skincare product you're investing in whilst helping to prevent future damage.

Shop Sunscreens for Mature Skin:

Evening Skincare Routine

1. Cream Cleanser

Evening cleansing is arguably the most important cleanse of the day, removing sunscreen, makeup, pollution and excess oil that accumulate on the skin. For mature skin, I almost always recommend a nourishing cream cleanser to dissolve impurities without disrupting the skin barrier. If you wear heavier makeup or water-resistant sunscreen, double cleansing can be beneficial to ensure thorough removal.

Shop Cream Cleansers for Mature Skin:

2. Retinoid Serum

Retinoids remain one of the most thoroughly researched ingredients for improving visible signs of ageing. Used consistently, they encourage collagen production, support faster cell turnover, and help soften the appearance of fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and rough texture. If you're new to retinoids, introduce them gradually—starting once or twice a week—and build up slowly as your skin adjusts. Pairing them with hydrating products can help minimise dryness and irritation during the adjustment period.

Shop Retinoid Serums for Mature Skin:

3. Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is naturally thinner and often shows signs of ageing earlier than the rest of the face. Whilst an eye cream isn't essential for everyone, I find they're worthwhile if you have concerns like dryness, fine lines, or puffiness. Look for ingredients such as peptides, caffeine, ceramides or hyaluronic acid depending on your primary concern, and apply gently using your ring finger to avoid unnecessary tugging.

Shop Eye Creams for Mature Skin:

4. Hydrating Serum

Hydration becomes increasingly important as skin matures, particularly if you're using active ingredients like retinoids. Applying a hydrating serum in the evening helps replenish moisture levels whilst supporting a healthy skin barrier overnight. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, polyglutamic acid and panthenol all help attract and retain water within the skin, leaving it looking plumper and more comfortable by morning.

Shop Hydrating Serums for Mature Skin:

5. Night Cream

Your final evening step should help lock in hydration and support the skin's overnight repair processes. Mature skin often benefits from richer moisturisers containing ceramides, peptides and nourishing plant oils that reinforce the skin barrier whilst reducing overnight moisture loss. Rather than feeling heavy, a well-formulated night cream should leave skin feeling comfortable and supple by morning, helping maintain a healthy, resilient complexion over time.

Shop Night Creams for Mature Skin:

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.

Between following trending 20-step skincare routines and lazy days when I just want to apply the bare minimum to my face to get by, a moisturiser has remained part of my daily regimen for as long as I can remember. As someone with eczema and extremely dry skin, I can’t exactly avoid using face creams, but I also genuinely enjoy applying this hydrating product to my face. I’m also very lucky that, as someone who works in beauty, I get to test a wide range of skincare products on a weekly basis before deciding which ones I’d genuinely invest in. And I’ll let you in on a secret: the best face creams I’ve tried all come from one place—the French Pharmacy.

Loved by editors, dermatologists and beauty enthusiasts alike, French pharmacies offer an extensive range of affordable but effective beauty essentials that you’d be hard-pressed to find in your average British chemist. So whenever I visit Paris, I make sure to stock up on a number of products to try before I decide on which ones to purchase. So, trust me when I say that the high-quality French formulas I’ve tried are well worth the investment. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up the best of the best below.

From ultra-rich creams perfect for dry, dehydrated skin to water-based gels that remove excess oil and won't clog pores, keep scrolling to discover the nine best French pharmacy creams, according to a beauty writer.

The Best French Pharmacy Face Creams

• Best Overall: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Moisturiser, £22
• Best for Dry Skin: Nuxe Creme Fraiche De Beaute Rich Cream, £28
• Best for Oily Skin: Avène Cleanance Mattifying Aqua-Gel, £23
• Best for Mature Skin: Caudalie Premier Cru the Rich Cream, £85
• Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Repairing Balm, £20

1. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser

Loved by editors, makeup artists and TikTok alike, Embryolisse’s Lait-Crème Concentré has long been regarded as a French pharmacy favourite. With the ability to be used as a classic moisturiser, a makeup primer or a gentle cleanser, this 3-in-1 product uses shea butter, aloe vera, hydrolysed soy protein, and mineral oil to deeply nourish and smooth the skin. Although this formula is the perfect boost of hydration for those with dry skin, if you have combination or oilier skin, you can still very much benefit from using the product on targeted areas.

2. NuxeCreme Fraiche de Beaute Moisturising Rich Cream

If you have extremely dry and dehydrated skin like me, I cannot recommend Nuxe’s Crème Fraîche de Beaute rich cream enough. With a nourishing blend of sweet almond plant milk, red seaweed extract, shea butter, and moringa butter, this thick formula will leave your face looking plumped and glowy all day. Not to mention, it’s a lifesaver in winter to keep my makeup from drying out and looking patchy. In fact, I love it so much that I end up applying it to most of my body on those days when my skin really needs a hydration boost.

3. Avène Cleanance Mattifying Aqua-Gel

If you have oily skin, I’d recommend giving Avène’s Cleanance Mattifying Aqua-Gel a try. With a cooling gel formula that aims to reduce shine by up to 50%, this moisturiser is perfect for those with acne and blemish-prone skin. The water gel texture absorbs into the skin instantly without heaviness, allowing those with oily skin to get the benefits of hydration without the risk of clogging pores. As someone with dry skin, I can only really see myself reaching for this on those really hot days when I want something that feels weightless and breathable; however, I can guarantee that someone with oily or combination skin will fall in love with this formula.

4. Caudalie Premier Cru the Rich Cream

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm always on the hunt for mature-skin product suggestions due to how nourishing they are on my dry skin. Caudalie’s Premier Cru rich cream is an anti-ageing formula infused with TET8™, a patented technology that aims to blur fine lines and wrinkles, restore firmness and reduce dark spots. I personally love how thick this nourishing cream is; however, if you have normal to oily skin, there’s also a non-rich cream iteration available that will give you all of the skincare benefits without the risk of clogging pores.

5. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 Multi-Purpose Repairing Balm

La Roche-Posay is loved by dermatologists and beauty editors alike, and the brand’s Cicaplast Baume B5 is a lightweight, hydrating cream that soothes dryness and repairs the skin barrier to prevent water loss. A fragrance-free, alcohol-free and hypoallergenic formula, this moisturiser is ideal for those with sensitive and dehydrated skin. Because I have dry skin and eczema, I absolutely love how thick the formula is; however, if you have oily skin or find rich creams too heavy in summer, I’d recommend using this at night or only on the areas of your face that need it.

6. Caudalie Vinoperfect Dark Spot Niacinamide Moisturiser

If you’re well-versed in the skincare world, it should come as no surprise that Caudalie is in this round-up twice. In fact, I’d been using the brand’s Vinoperfect range years before I decided to try the Premier Cru cream. Using viniferine, a plant derivative that’s over 60 times more effective than vitamin C, this lightweight gel formula effectively reduces dark spots without causing the irritation that vitamin C is known for amongst those with sensitive skin. I typically shy away from anything that claims to reduce hyperpigmentation, due to the fear of causing a breakout; however, rest assured, this formula remains gentle on eczema-prone skin despite the active ingredients included.

7. Bioderma Pigmentbio Brightening Face Cream Anti-Dark Spot SPF50+ 

A face cream that also doubles as sun protection is a great way to streamline your skincare routine, and Bioderma’s Pigmentbio SPF50+ face cream is a brightening formula that will leave your skin looking glowy and healthy. With LumiReveal™ technology that regulates melanin, this SPF is an effective dark spot remover for those of us with hyperpigmentation. The only downside is that it can leave a slightly whitish cast, which is fine for days when I’m putting a full face of makeup over it, but not ideal for my no-makeup days.

8. Vichy Minéral 89 72hr Moisture Boosting Cream

Glowy and hydrating but without any heaviness, Vichy’s Minéral 89 72hr Moisture Boosting Cream is perfect for everyday use. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, squalane, niacinamide and vitamin E, this cream provides the face with a hydration boost and locks in moisture for up to 72 hours while also repairing the skin barrier. Not to mention that its lightweight formula sinks into the skin fast, enabling you to layer your SPF and makeup over it without risk of pilling or flaking.

9. Mimétique Skin Restore Crème Visage

When it comes to looking for a face cream suitable for nighttime, it's important to choose products that will improve and restore your skin barrier whilst your sleeping. Mimétique’s Skin Restore Crème Visage is packed with 25% active ingredients that improve your face’s ability to regenerate as well as hydrate, plump, and firm the skin. Its rich texture is ideal for preventing water loss and boosting absorption overnight. But if you have dry skin like me, it’s perfect for daytime use as well.

How Should I Choose the Best Face Cream for My Skin?

When choosing the best face cream for your skin type there are a few things to look out for:

For Dry Skin

Opt for: Rich creams, emollients and balm formulas.

Key Ingredients to look for: Ceramides, glycerin, squalane and hyaluronic acid

Key Ingredients to avoid: Fragrance, alcohols, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide

For Oily Skin

Opt for: Water-based creams, gels and oil-free formulas

Key Ingredients to look for: Niacinamide, salicylic acid, zinc, ceramides and hyaluronic acid

Key Ingredients to avoid: Essential oils, glycerin, shea and cocoa butter

For Mature Skin

Opt for: Rich creams, emollients and balm formulas.

Key Ingredients to look for: Ceramides, retinoids, peptides, squalane and hyaluronic acid

Key Ingredients to avoid: Fragrance, drying alcohols, sulfates, parabens

How I Tested

I tested a wide range of French-pharmacy face creams over the last few months, evaluating each moisturiser's ability to hydrate my skin without irritating it or feeling too heavy, alongside how they performed with and without makeup layered on top.

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 some 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.

As a team of editors, our beauty cupboard is brimming with post featuring the best new beauty products and skincare brands. But, as any beauty editor will tell you, there are certain products that just cannot be beaten. And when it comes to moisturisers, there is a certain one our beauty team considers the greatest of all time, especially for makeup prep. Of course, I'm talking about Tatcha's The Dewy Skin Cream.

Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream

The Formula

Where do I begin? This moisturiser has the most luxurious texture I've ever come across in my decade of working as a beauty journalist. Its creamy texture is like liquid silk to the touch, and it melts into the skin with the most sensorial application I've experienced. It sinks in quickly, but instantly plumps and quenches the skin with moisture, and leaves a dewy glow that looks like you stepped out of a facial. The Japanese botanical ingredients, too, help to plump and moisturise the skin, leaving your skin looking and feeling baby-soft.

It's a phenomenal moisturiser on its own, but it particularly excels for makeup prep. After this sinks into the skin, my skin tint applies like butter. In fact, all of my makeup sits so beautifully on top and helps it last longer, too. I've spotted this moisturiser in many kit bags of top makeup artists, and I'm not surprised. If you want a hydrated, dewy glow, this moisturiser deserves a spot in your skincare routine too. Oh, and it also comes with a tiny spatula, which makes applying this to your skin feel even more luxurious.

I'd say that The Dewy Skin Cream is better suited to dry or dehydrated skin types that want long-lasting hydration and a dewy glow. For very oily skin, this formula may be too rich. However, The Dewy Milk Moisturizer or The Water Cream are great alternatives for the summertime, or if you want more oil control throughout the day. Tatcha totally excels at creating luxurious moisturisers, and there's one for every skin type or skin concern. Scroll below for the others our team cannot get enough of.

Shop Tatcha Moisturisers:

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 some 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.

Even if you have only a passing interest in skincare, chances are you’ve heard of collagen. A naturally occurring protein, it acts as the skin’s scaffolding, but levels begin to decline from our mid-twenties, which is why it remains one of the most talked-about skincare ingredients for mature skin in beauty today.

Enter collagen creams: a go-to moisturiser for those looking to boost hydration and achieve plumper, smoother-looking skin. And yet, according to Dr Sophie Shotter, founder of Illuminate Skin Clinic, the most effective formulas don’t always contain collagen itself, at least not if your goal is to meaningfully support your skin’s own collagen production.

With so many options on the market, the question remains, which collagen cream, and more importantly, which ingredients are actually worth your attention? Let's break it down.

What Is Collagen?

"Collagen is the main structural protein in the skin, making up around 70 to 80% of the dermis. It acts like a scaffold, giving skin its strength, firmness and resilience, while also supporting hydration and elasticity," explains Dr Shotter.

Think of it as the framework that holds your skin together. Without it, skin loses shape, plumpness and becomes more prone to sagging. The bad news is collagen isn’t permanent. "From our mid-20s onwards, collagen production naturally declines by about 1-1.5% per year, and existing collagen becomes more fragmented. This is what leads to fine lines, laxity and thinning skin over time," adds Dr Shotter.

Understanding this slow-burning process is key to appreciating why a preventive and supportive skincare routine matters.

What Do Collagen Creams Do?

It’s tempting to think that slathering collagen on the skin somehow rebuilds what’s lost, but the truth is that topically applied collagen molecules are too large to penetrate deeply.

"Collagen creams primarily function as hydrating and barrier-supporting products, rather than directly replacing lost collagen," says Dr Shotter. "They can make the skin look better, but they don’t rebuild the underlying collagen structure," she adds.

While collagen creams don’t literally replace lost collagen like for like, their formulations can still make a real difference in how your skin looks day to day. Many collagen creams pair collagen with hydrating agents, emollients and those all-important supporting actives to boost overall skin health and stimulate collagen production.

The Best Collagen Creams

• Best Overall Collagen Cream: Elemis Pro Collagen Marine Cream, £98
• Best Collagen Cream for Oily Skin: Dermalogica Pro Collagen Banking Water Cream, £69
• Best Collagen Cream for Plumping: Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturizer, £49
• Best Collagen Cream for Mature Skin: Oskia Nutri-Active Day Cream, £70
• Best Luxury Collagen Cream: Sisley Night Cream With Collagen, £174
• Best Collagen for Dry Skin: FaceGym Active Collagen Wonder Moisturizer, £75
• Best Affordable Collagen Cream: Cerave Peptide Cream, £30
• Best Collagen Cream for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream, £79
• Best Targeted Collagen Cream: Renew+Me Nightly Active Treatment, £30

1. Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30

2. Dermalogica Pro-Collagen Banking Water Cream

3. Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturiser

4. Oskia Nutri-Active Day Cream

5. Sisley Night Cream With Collagen

6. Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream

7. CeraVe Skin Renewing Peptide Cream

8 Facegym Active Collagen Wonder Moisturiser

9. Renew + Me Nightly Active Treatment

10. Eve Lom Time Retreat Daily Rejuvenating Cream

How Do Collagen Creams Work?

Collagen creams work in two main ways. Firstly, they provide surface hydration and a film-forming effect. Collagen acts as a humectant and film-former, drawing moisture into the outer skin layer and creating a light barrier. "This can make fine lines appear less visible. Many collagen creams have supporting ingredients to do the real 'active' work," reveals Dr Shotter.

"A well-formulated collagen cream may also include ingredients like: retinoids to stimulate collagen production, vitamin C to support collagen synthesis and to protect against breakdown, peptides to signal the skin to produce more collagen and SPF (in daytime products) to prevent collagen degradation," she adds.

It's these supporting actives that can drive long-term skin improvement.

Collagen Creams vs. Collagen Supplements

If you're wondering which is better, collagen creams or collagen supplements, then you're not alone. "This is a common source of confusion because they work in completely different ways," says Dr Shotter.

"Collagen creams work on the surface to improve hydration, smoothness and overall texture. They give short-term cosmetic benefits but don’t directly increase dermal collagen levels," she explains. "Collagen supplements, on the other hand, are taken orally, usually in the form of hydrolysed collagen peptides. These peptides are broken down in the gut and can act as building blocks and signals to stimulate the body’s own collagen production," adds Dr Shotter.

Clinical studies suggest that consistent use of certain high-quality collagen supplements over 8–12 weeks can improve skin elasticity, hydration and wrinkle depth. But not all supplements are created equal. There’s wide variability in formulation, quality and clinical evidence, so choosing a brand backed by rigorous studies is essential. "Absolute Collagen has been tested in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with over 30,000 data points demonstrating efficacy," says Dr Shotter, of a supplement that she recommends.

Essentially, creams and supplements aren’t competing; they actually play nicely together. A good collagen cream gives your skin that instant boost of hydration and smoothness, while a collagen supplement can help support the deeper structural stuff over time. Pairing the two, along with a solid skincare routine and a little SPF love, really gives your skin the best shot at staying plump, bouncy and generally looking like it’s thriving.

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.

I have to be honest. It's been a long time since I've been enamoured by a moisturiser. Having oily skin means most traditional cream formulas are just too heavy on my complexion. Especially if I'm planning on wearing a foundation or skin tint on top.

You see, most formulas break my skin out, or I look like an oil slick come 12 P.M., and if you, too, have oily skin, you'll know all too well just how annoying it is. Like all oily skin, it still needs hydration, but finding a lightweight moisturiser can prove tricky. You'd think that, being in my line of work as a beauty journalist, I'd be spoiled for choice for options in our beauty cupboard, but it's rare to find a moisturiser that suits my finicky skin. I want something that sinks in immediately, blurs over my pores and keeps my complexion looking dewy as opposed to shiny.

So when I was invited to Paris for a secret briefing of Garnier's new launches, I didn't know I was about to discover a new moisturiser favourite. I've had to keep it a secret for a couple of months, but now I'm pleased to be able to share that the Garnier Vitamin C Fresh & Bright Hydrating Sorbet Cream (£7.50) has become a firm favourite in my skincare routine.

Garnier Vitamin C Fresh & Bright Hydrating Sorbet Cream

The Texture

The texture is what makes this standout moisturiser so spectacular. In fact, it rivals even some of the more expensive counterparts I've tried. It has a sorbet-like, gel consistency, which melts on contact with the warmth of your skin. It's unlike anything else I've tried, and it is instantly cooling, melting to a waterlike texture that absorbs immediately.

There's no greasy finish, either. Instead, your skin feels deeply hydrated whilst giving a slightly mattifying finish; something my oily skin very much appreciates. And because it blurs my pores, it's become my go-to moisturiser to use underneath makeup to achieve a more uniform finish.

I'm planning on keeping this in my fridge come summer to boost the cooling effects even more during warm weather. I know I'll be leaning on this moisturiser all through the hotter months when my oily skin often goes into overdrive.

The Formula

I've sung the praises of the sorbet texture, but it would be remiss of me not mention formula, as the skincare ingredients in this are brilliant, too. It uses a vitamin C derivative from corn and wheat (a more sustainable source compared to other vitamin C types) to brighten the skin, alongside niacinamide, which is great for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of pores. Again, great for oily or combination skin.

It also has the most incredible citrus scent. It smells just like lemon sorbet, which is actually a very welcome sensorial moment on these dark winter mornings to awaken the senses.

The Verdict

For the price, I'm seriously impressed with this moisturiser. The texture is not only fun, but genuinely effective at mattifying, helping my skin stay hydrated but never shiny.

It's so lightweight, so if you're not one for heavier moisturisers, you'll no doubt love the water-like texture that sinks in mere seconds. I can apply my SPF and base makeup straight away without any piling. As you can see in my photo above, my makeup has applied well over the top, and it helps to keep me shine-free throughout the day. Knowing it has brightening and skin-smoothing ingredients makes it a welcome addition to my skincare routine right now.

Shop Now:

Ever since the launch of Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Glazing Milk, we’ve seen a boom in milky beauty products hitting our shelves, including milky toners, milky cleansers and even milky face mists. And, now that the weather has turned colder and we’re looking for more intense ways to hydrate and soothe our weather-worn skin, there’s a new wave of milky products making themselves known: milky moisturisers.

“I think the rise in ‘milky’ skincare reflects the wide range of benefits these formulas offer,” explains dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillips. “They’re typically lightweight, combining oil and water-based ingredients to deliver hydration without feeling heavy or clogging pores, which makes them particularly appealing for dry and sensitive skin.”

It’s this deep hydration in a lightweight texture that makes milky moisturisers particularly beneficial at this time of year. Designed to deliver the same hydrating benefits we’ve come to expect from other milky beauty products, they're packed with skin-loving ingredients including ceramides, glycerin and panthenol, yet with a little more weight than the milky toners and essences we may have relied on in the summer months.

“Their popularity also ties into the shift towards more streamlined skincare routines,” Dr Phillips continues. “Milky products are simple, effective and often multitask, making them well-suited to a minimalist approach to skincare.” As someone who has found themselves snoozing their alarm one too many times in recent weeks and looking for an easy-to-apply, quick hit of hydration for my dull winter skin, trust me, milky moisturisers are practically fool-proof, leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated in one simple step.

As a result, over the past few months, I’ve worked my way through many milky moisturisers and discovered which formulas are best for soothing dry winter skin. These six are my undisputed favourites…

The Best Milky Moisturisers

• Best Overall Milky Moisturiser: Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturiser (£61)
• Best Affordable Milky Moisturiser: Byoma Hydrating Milky Moisturiser (£15)
• Best Matte Milky Moisturiser: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Milky Lotion (£33)
• Best Lightweight Milky Moisturiser: ILIA Beauty The Base Face Milk (£28)
• Best Multi-Use Milky Moisturiser: Pixi Hydrating Milky Lotion (£24)

1. Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturiser

2. Byoma Hydrating Milky Moisturiser

3. Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Milky Lotion

4. ILIA Beauty The Base Face Milk

5. Pixi Hydrating Milky Lotion

6. Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cream

What Is a Milky Moisturiser?

“A ‘milky moisturiser’ is a moisturiser with a creamy but lightweight texture that resembles milk in appearance,” says Dr Phillips. “These products do not actually contain milk or dairy, the term simply reflects how they look and feel on the skin. The milky quality comes from emulsifying oil and water-based ingredients to create a fluid, lotion-like consistency. They absorb easily and deliver hydration and comfort without the heaviness of a traditional cream.”

What Are the Benefits of Using a Milky Moisturiser?

"A milky moisturiser provides lightweight hydration,” Dr Phillips explains, “and is also soothing and calming, making it good for most skin types, including sensitive skin. They’re also usually noncomedogenic, which means that they absorb easily into the skin without clogging pores.”

In terms of formulation, “Milky moisturisers typically contain ingredients like ceramides and lipids that help to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss, protecting against seasonal environmental factors such as central heating and cold, dry weather. They also often contain fatty acids and proteins that help to hydrate and nourish the skin, something which is particularly pertinent during the winter season to keep the skin soft and supple."

How Does a Milky Moisturiser Differ From a Milky Toner?

"‘A milky moisturiser is usually thicker and creamier than a milky toner, and is designed to provide hydration and lock in moisture. As a result, milky moisturisers are usually richer in formulation and contain more emollients and occlusives to support the skin’s moisture barrier,” says Dr Phillips.

Yet while the formulas are different, “you don’t need to choose between them as they can be used together. A milky toner can be a great hydrating step after cleansing, while a milky moisturiser seals everything in. It simply comes down to how much hydration your skin needs and your preferred texture."

In the beauty space, skincare can often be the most confusing for many. Even as a beauty editor, it's hard for me to sift through the conflicting advice you can see flying around. Couple it with skincare trends and new beauty products cropping up every single day, and it can be all too easy to be derailed into a skincare routine that A) doesn't work for you, and B) can compromise your skin barrier. And no one wants that.

If there's one takeaway I always get from speaking to skincare experts and dermatologists as part of my job, it's that having a consistent skincare routine order is key. I know, it sounds a bit boring. But when it comes to our skin, it likes routine. And consistently using the same products, from your cleanser down to your SPF, can do wonders for your complexion. But, it's also important that we have our skincare routine order nailed, too. After all, there's no point in having a bathroom shelf full of serums and toners if we're not using them all correctly.

To clear things up, I asked Eleanor Hartley, founder and medical director of Hart Medical, to talk us through everything we should know about our skincare routine order, including your morning and evening skincare routine. Whether you're new to creating a skincare routine or a skincare devotee looking for a reset, here's how to perfect your skincare routine order.

Why Is A Skincare Routine Important?

"One of the things I always iterate to patients and clients is the importance of consistency. The routine itself I care less about. Whether it’s two or twenty steps, just that you are consistent," says Hartley. "If you chop and change products too much, you’ll never end up seeing the benefits of each ingredient, and your skin is perpetually trying to adjust to different things," she says.

"A consistent skincare routine supports the skin’s barrier function, which is its primary defense against environmental stressors, pathogens and transepidermal water loss," she adds. "When the barrier is intact, inflammation, dehydration and premature ageing are reduced. A structured regimen also allows for targeted treatment, maintains skin homeostasis, optimises cell turnover and preserves long-term skin health," she says.

So, if you're wondering how to structure your skincare routine order, scroll ahead for everything you need to know.

Skincare Routine Order

Morning Skincare Routine

1. Cleanser

Cleansing with a face wash is the first step of your routine. "If you don’t have sebaceous or oily skin, I usually recommend skipping a morning cleanse as it can unnecessarily strip the skin. If you are more oily, then a gentle cleanse with an unfragranced cleanser with minimal acids is appropriate for the morning," says Hartley. "I recommend a spritz with a hypochlorous spray (like Clinisoothe Skin Purifier, £15), which is antibacterial and will reset your skin's pH for optimal penetration of skincare," she says.

2. Toner

This step isn't essential, but a toner can be helpful after cleansing and before using your serums. "I find that most people don’t actually know why they are toning," says Hartley. "Toners help to reestablish the skin's pH (4.5-5.5) after washing with water (7.5-8.5). This helps to prep the skin for actives and optimise penetration," she says.

For congested and acne-prone skin types, a toner with salicylic acid can help to unclog pores and can be applied by sweeping it over your skin with a cotton round. Dry skin types may prefer a milky toner, which helps to add more moisture while balancing the skin pH.

3. Serums and Actives

Next in your routine are serums, which are the powerhouse of your skincare routine and are the key step to treating your specific skincare concerns.

"Here, you can apply serums containing antioxidants, humectants or exfoliating acids," says Hartley. "A simple rule is to apply products from the thinnest to to thickest consistency, allowing each layer to penetrate effectively without obstruction," she says. "This sometimes means waiting for a product to penetrate before applying the next layer."

A vitamin C serum is a great ingredient to apply to your skin in your morning routine. "The morning non-negotiable is your antioxidant serum. This will protect the skin from environmental damage," says Hartley. Another good all-rounder is a hyaluronic acid serum, which will help to hydrate and plump the skin.

4. Eye Cream

Whether you use an eye cream really comes down to personal preference. For example, you may prefer to take your hyaluronic acid serum up to your eye area and forgo eye cream altogether. Or, you may prefer some additional hydration and benefits that an eye cream can bring to the eye area, particularly for dark circles or puffiness. If you want to use an eye cream, make sure to apply it before your moisturiser, helping the ingredients to absorb effectively.

5. Mosturiser

Next up is your moisturiser. "To hydrate and protect the skin, you can seal in moisture with a suitable emollient or occlusive," says Hartley.

Dry skin types can benefit from a moisturiser for dry skin, which is generally more creamy and heavier in texture, while those with combination and oily skin may prefer a gel moisturiser that is lighter and more mattifying. That being said, if you feel like your skin doesn't need moisturiser, you can skip moisturiser and use your SPF instead if you find it hydrating enough.

6. SPF

The last step of your morning routine should be your SPF. And this step is a non-negotiable. "SPF is the most critical step for preventing photo-ageing and oxidative stress," says Hartley. Ideally, you want to look for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of at least 30 or 50.

As mentioned, you can always skip your moisturiser and go straight in with an SPF after your serums if you find moisturiser and SPF too heavy together. It's all about finding a formula that you like and will enjoy wearing daily. We've found all the best ones, from SPFs for sensitive skin to SPFs for dark skin. We've listed some of our all-time favourites below.

Evening Skincare Routine

1. Makeup Remover

If you've been wearing makeup throughout the day, then this step is really important to thoroughly remove it and prevent breakouts. Cleansing balms and cleansing oils are ideal for removing heavier makeup like foundation. However, a classic micellar water will also do the job.

"The evening cleanse is important, removing makeup, impurities and the sebum buildup for the day," says Hartley. "Double cleansing or pre-cleansing with an oil isn’t necessary, but if it helps to remove makeup, that’s fine," she says. "I prefer an unperfumed micellar water for removing stubborn makeup, followed by a cleanse with gentle acids depending on your skin type to exfoliate the outer layer and break down oil in the pores."

2. Cleanser

If you're wearing light makeup (such as a skin tint or tinted SPF), you may find this step is enough to remove it. And you've forgone makeup altogether, you can go straight in with your cleanser to remove any impurities. The formulation should come down to your preferences and skincare concerns, but a gently foaming cleanser or milky cleanser is ideal to remove any excess buildup.

3. Toner

Like in your morning routine, this step isn't essential. But it can be helpful to use this as an opportunity to exfoliate with acids, or to add a layer of hydration prior to your evening serums. You can also use a hypochlorous spray at this stage if you prefer.

4. Serum and Actives

Next, you can apply your serums. While your morning serum should ideally be an antioxidant, for the evening, a retinol serum or peptide serum is a good choice to address fine lines and pigmentation.

"Apply your actives directly on cleansed (or toned) skin for optimal penetration," says Hartley. "All clinical testing of active ingredients is directly on skin ,meaning you won’t get the intended results if you layer other products first. So if you have multiple actives or serums, start in order or your key priority," she says.

5. Eye Cream

Much like your morning skincare routine, an eye cream isn't an essential, but can be helpful if you want to directly target eye concerns like wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness. Be sure to apply it before your moisturiser—not after—to ensure the ingredients absorb properly, rather than sitting on top of your night cream or moisturiser.

6. Moisturiser

"To finish your nighttime skincare routine, you can lock in your products with a light moisturiser," says Hartley. You don't have to buy a separate night cream (your usual daytime moisturiser is usually just fine); however, it can be helpful to have a more nourishing formula alongside a lightweight moisturiser to see your skin through changes in the environment and the seasons.

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.

In a world of new skincare launches arriving every single day, it can be hard to know how to build a skincare routine and what skincare products you actually need. Even as a beauty editor, I get pretty overwhelmed by the sheer amount of skincare brands on offer, and I've been burned before when overdoing skincare actives such as retinol and chemical exfoliators, or simply chopping and changing products and trying too many things in my routine. Having sensitive skin, I like to favour barrier-restoring products in my routine, and that's where Korean skincare comes in.

While Korean skincare has been buzzy for a long time, I've been seeing more and more Korean skincare brands all over my social feeds lately. So, I Whatsapped my friend Steven, who has the most amazing glass-like skin—so much so that it's actually kind of distracting when I'm talking to him—and has a special interest in Korean skincare. I asked for his recommendations and immediately got my hands on some to try myself. And after chatting to the Who What Wear UK team who swear by Korean skincare brands, I made it may mission to test a Korean skincare routine for a full month. Below are the best Korean skincare products and brands that are now firm favourites.

10 Best Korean Skincare Brands

1. Innisfree

2. Laniege

3. Dr Jart+

4. Glow Recipe

5. Erborian

6. Cosrx

7. Skin1004

8. Beauty Of Joseon

9. Hero

10. Torriden

Discover More Korean-Inspired Favourites

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

If I had to highlight only one term that has the power to make a beauty editor shudder unlike any other, it would have to be "anti-ageing”. Because the truth is (and brace yourselves for this one), no beauty product truly has the power to totally reverse the signs of ageing. No serum, moisturisers, oil or mask that money can buy can actually eradicate wrinkles.

With that being said, there are a very small number of ingredients that can definitely help minimise signs of ageing (and even more so when they're used alongside youth-preserving massage techniques). But when I say very small, I mean it. In fact, there is only a handful of skincare ingredients that have been scientifically-proven to reduce the appearance of age-related skin issues. From wrinkle-reducing retinol to skin brightening vitamin C, it’s hard to comprehend why beauty companies expect us to pay premium prices for ingredients that actually work, right?

If you ask me, great skincare shouldn’t have to come with an eye-watering price tag. Unfortunately, when it comes to anti-ageing products, more affordable brands often get written off as ineffective because of their overuse of the phrase "anti-ageing” in their ads. And sure, while so many affordable products that claim to rewind the clock do little more than give your skin a hefty hit of moisture, there are many that do actually contain the rare ingredients older skin might genuinely benefit from.

So to save you from having to try out every single budget anti-ageing product out there, keep scrolling for the affordable options that contain powerhouse ingredients. Oh, and they’re all under £50. You’re welcome.

The Best Affordable Anti-Ageing Products:

1. Retinol

The chances are you’ve heard all about retinol before. It’s shouted about from the rooftops by experts for all beauty buffs to hear, and for good reason. Catherine Borysiewicz, consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic explains, "Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that is widely researched and is a proven skincare ingredient.”

But what does it actually do? Well, essentially, it speeds up the rate at which our skin cells turnover, helping to improve firmness. "Through promoting cell turnover, it improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone,” adds Borysiewicz.

And because retinol is such a hot commodity right now, you’d better believe beauty brands set their prices high. Don’t get me wrong—in certain cases, expensive products are fully justified through the strength of their formulas and ingredients, however, when it comes to retinol, stronger isn’t always better. Oftentimes, powerful retinol can leave skin red, irritated and cause peeling. As a result of this, the strength of retinol that we are actually allowed to buy is very limited, meaning that one of the only things that set expensive retinol products apart from the rest is the nourishing ingredients the retinoid sits beside (of which affordable formulas also have many, FYI).

Shop Affordable Retinol Products:

2. Hyaluronic Acid

Okay, so hyaluronic acid might not be widely considered an anti-ageing ingredient, but if you ask me (and many experts), it’s one of the most important ingredients for a mature skincare routine. Naturally occurring in our skin, hyaluronic acid retains moisture and helps keep our skin plump and bouncy. Unfortunately, as we get older, our skin's hyaluronic acid production starts plummeting and skin because drier, crepey, and lacklustre.

Unlike other naturally-occurring plumping ingredients such as collagen, our skin does actually have the ability to absorb hyaluronic acid through a cream or serum, albeit only at surface level. "Moisturise with a hyaluronic acid cream or serum where the skin feels dry,” advises Borysiewicz. "This will plump and hydrate the skin throughout the day.”

So although hyaluronic acid won’t guarantee long-term results like a retinol might, the skin will look instantly plumped and more youthful. A twice-daily application should be enough to keep up results.

Shop Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Products:

3. Vitamin C

You might be familiar with vitamin C as a brightening and glow-boosting ingredient, but first and foremost, it should be recognised as an incredibly powerful antioxidant. And it’s cool, I get it. No one actually knows what antioxidant means, right? When it comes to age-defying skincare, though, it’s actually really beneficial to be in the know.

Things like pollution and UV rays trigger our skin to produce harmful particles dubbed "free radicals” which cause long-term DNA damage and speed up the ageing process. What antioxidants do is help counteract and reduce that free radical production, thereby protecting our skin from further premature ageing. "Antioxidants [like vitamin C] support cells, boost collagen and brighten existing skin pigmentation. It is a key anti-ageing ingredient,” says Borysiewicz.

So why the standard hefty price tag? Unlike cheaper, less efficacious ingredients, vitamin C is highly unstable and volatile. This means the minute it is exposed to light, heat and even oxygen, its effectiveness rapidly starts to decline. Formulating an effective vitamin C product can be very costly for a brand, so it is common for great vitamin C products to cost an arm and a leg (see SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for reference). However, things like dark bottles, airless pumps, booster formulas and single-use designs can help bring the price of effective vitamin C down, so always look for such things when shopping.

Shop Affordable Vitamin C Products:

4. Face Creams

Anti-ageing as a term, especially when it comes to moisturisers, is complex, because ultimately, nothing can permanently reverse the signs of fine lines, pigmentation and dryness. However, whilst I truly believe that ageing is a privilege we should fully embrace, with the added help of some of the best anti ageing creams (that genuinely work without breaking the bank) it can feel even easier to build good skincare habits that support those hard working active serums.

Shop Affordable Face Cream Products:

Shop Other Affordable Anti-Ageing Products:

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