A friend asked me for a skincare product recommendation the other day, and it got me thinking. As a beauty journalist of more than 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of trying a lot of new products – especially skincare. Some are instant hits, others quietly disappear into the abyss of my bathroom cabinet. But over the years, amid the endless cycles of new launches and trend-driven must-haves, there are a couple of products I always come back to. The ones I buy again and again without thinking, and often panic over when they’re about to run out.
These are the ones I reach for (and recommend) because I just know they’ll deliver. They’re not always flashy or trendy, but they work. And in a world obsessed with the next big beauty thing, that says a lot.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (€13 for 236ml from Boots) works for all skin types. Everyone in my household uses this, pre-teen son included, because it’s gentle, simple, and packed with ceramides that support the skin barrier. It’s a reliable all-rounder, even in times of skin sensitivity or stress. It’s also a great one to use after aesthetic treatments.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum
One of the few high-end skincare products I regularly choose to invest in. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Serum (€193 from Meaghers Pharmacy) is still, 20 years after it launched, one of the best on the market. When I stop using it, I notice the difference in my skin. It’s potent, powerful, and brightens, protects and evens the skin like nothing else. When I splurge on this, I justify its hefty price tag by saving on moisturisers and cleansers – it’s all about balance.
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Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Toner
One of the easiest, gentlest, most effective exfoliants out there. Medik8 Press & Glow Toner (€40 from Millies) contains polyhydroxy acid, or PHA. If you’ve heard of glycolic or lactic acid, think of PHA as their distant, gentler cousin. It gives you smoother, brighter, glowing skin without the irritation often caused by stronger exfoliants. I love the pump bottle too.
Rhode Glazing Milk
I’ve mentioned this many times before, but for good reason. Rhode Glazing Milk (€42 from Rhode) is genuinely one of the best skincare products out there. If you’re dry, dehydrated, have sensitive skin – even if you’re struggling with perioral dermatitis – this is for you. I recommended it to a friend recently who was deep in the throes of a perioral dermatitis flare-up, and it made a visible difference. It soothes, calms and boosts moisture levels in a jiffy. Use it after cleansing and before serums, and don’t be afraid to apply two or three layers at a time to really ramp up hydration levels.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Soothing Cream
I started using La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Soothing Cream (€25 from Boots) several years ago during a bout of sensitivity, and it’s been by my side ever since. It’s one of those rare moisturisers that’s thin, light, and relatively weightless on the skin, but still packs a serious punch when it comes to calming, soothing, and boosting moisture levels. It’s also reasonably affordable (depending on where you shop) and suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive.
Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF50
My love for Supergoop! has been strong since I first started using its sunscreens in 2019. I quickly became obsessed with Play Everyday Lotion SPF50 (€26 for 71ml from Cult Beauty). I’ve recommended it to everyone I know (and their mums). It’s non-irritating, works beautifully under make-up, has no white cast, and leaves a dewy, lightweight finish. Whenever I run out of sunscreen and need to restock in a hurry, this is the one I reach for.
This week I’m using ... Patchology Skin Remedy Calm & Protect Micro Mist
Patchology stole my heart with its excellent range of under-eye patches, which tackle everything from puffiness and dullness to fine lines and dehydration. Its new Skin Remedy Calm & Protect Micro Mist (€12 from Millies) is formulated for sensitive skin, containing ectoin and probiotics that soothe, protect, and hydrate even the most irritated, reactive complexions. It’s a beautifully packaged, ultra-fine mist that feels like a calming breath for your skin, and it’s incredibly affordable at just €12.
