Science-Backed Skincare That Really, Really Works
May 8 | 4 minute read
Words by Christie Sinclair
It wasn’t that long ago when the world’s best skincare was saved for a very select few - those who were able to get their names on the lists of in-demand dermatologists, surgeons and facialists.
Thankfully, these experts realised that faces everywhere would be better off if everyone could access their gamechanging formulas. So, for the good of skinkind, they took their decades of research, clinical know-how and thousands of glowing results, and bottled it up for our bathroom shelves.
Powered by clinical research, medical expertise and the kind of serious actives you’d usually only find in the clinic, we’re sharing the skincare products that deliver visible, expert-level results at home. In other words, the treatments we’ve tested, trusted - and that will completely transform your skin.
Kerri, Editorial Content Manager
Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Advanced Firming Daily Treatment
"This moisturiser-serum hybrid is nothing short of witchcraft,” declares Kerri, who reveals she’s been hooked since the first time she tried it. Peptides, teprenone, ferulic and microalgae unite to give clear, glassy, almost pore-less skin overnight. “It's so powerful one might assume it'd irritate sensitive complexions, but I've had nothing but success,” she says, adding, “Having tried almost everything on our shelves, I can't stress enough how unmatched the transformative nature of this treatment is, especially for those looking for a one-and-done approach to their skincare routine. I'd gate-keep the stuff, but it's so good I can't keep my mouth shut."
Cat, Head of Brand Experience & Partnerships
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream
“Is there a doctor in the house?” And by that, Cat means professor Augustinus Bader, the German professor who developed the exclusive TFC8® technology that draws on his experience in biomedical science and regenerative medicine. “Because let me tell you, when I don’t use Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, my skin knows it,” she reveals. The cult moisturiser from Bader’s eponymous brand has been a saviour on Cat’s (47-year-old) dry and sometimes sensitive skin. “It’s so effective you don’t even need to use serums beneath. Just cleanse and layer it on and it’s like you’ve had a full facial. And while your bank balance might gasp at the cost for one product, to me, it’s worth the investment.”
Izzy, Copywriter
Fig.1 Retinol System
If you're a retinol beginner, explains Izzy, this Step-Up System from Californian dermatologist Dr. Courtney Rubin is the easiest way to introduce this powerful active to your routine without compromising your skin barrier. “Start with Level 1 for all the skin-brightening, cell-renewing benefits in one gentle dose, then work your way up to No. 2 and No. 3 as your skin adjusts.” You'll notice results from the very beginning, but increased radiance as you move through the different levels. “It's prescriptive, easy to understand and results-driven – the three things I always look for in skincare!”
Scarlett, Social Media Specialist
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel
This iconic at-home peel isn’t only inspired by practicing NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross’ in-clinic treatments, they are in-clinic treatments, only reimagined for everyday use. “These are simply incredible for skin maintenance (thank you glycolic, lactic, malic and citric acids), ensuring my skin is its most smooth, bright and clear version of itself,” explains Scarlett, who uses these 2-3 times per week as part of her PM skincare routine. “However, my favourite way to use these peel pads is before any event. I'll use them the evening before and always find my makeup sits so much better on my skin."
Ruby, Junior Content Editor
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Blemish Face Serum with Live Skin Probiotic
A former Skin Specialist, Ruby has spent many years on the shop floor at MECCA and thus knows exactly what to look for when it comes to stopping the cycle of breakouts. “As a self-identified skin nerd, I love the science and research that goes into each Emma Lewisham product. This one has a live, patented probiotic that helps prevent the bacteria that causes breakouts.” Ruby even recommends this serum if you don't have breakouts – it contains 350 million live probiotic cells to promote overall skin health. “It's the serum equivalent of eating all your vegetables and drinking 2 litres of water every day," she says.
Emily, Graduate
Cosmetics 27, Baume 27 Advanced Formula
For decades, the French have trusted Cosmetics 27 for delivering effortlessly radiant, healthy skin. The legendary pharmacist behind the brand Michèle Evrard was one of the first to formulate with centella asiatica in an effort to slow down skin ageing – her now iconic Baume 27 has become a nourishing staple for those who know. “It is the ultimate rich cream for winter skin,” says Emily, adding, “When my skin is dry, flaky or just needs a little bit of extra love, Baume 27 is what I reach for every time!”
