Cleanser · Cream cleanser
Hydrating Cleanser
CeraVe
A non-foaming cleanser format with glycerin, ceramides and sodium hyaluronate, shortlisted when a low-fuss cleansing step is the priority.
Why it was shortlisted ↗The product edit
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Essence · Gel essence
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
COSRX
A lightweight essence centred on snail secretion filtrate, with betaine, sodium hyaluronate, allantoin and panthenol.
Why it was shortlisted ↗
Balm · Rich balm
Cicaplast Baume B5+
La Roche-Posay
A richer balm format with panthenol, glycerin, shea butter and a Centella-derived component, selected for dry-feeling areas.
Why it was shortlisted ↗
Serum · Water-based serum
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary
A concentrated water-based niacinamide serum format. It is shortlisted for people who specifically want a standalone niacinamide step.
Why it was shortlisted ↗
Exfoliant · Leave-on liquid
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Paula's Choice
A leave-on salicylic acid exfoliant shortlisted for oily-looking or congested-looking areas when one measured exfoliating step is wanted.
Why it was shortlisted ↗
Retinoid · Anhydrous oil-like serum
Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
The Ordinary
An anhydrous retinol formula shortlisted as a lower-numbered option for a carefully introduced texture-focused routine.
Why it was shortlisted ↗