Skincare is tricky to get right, which is why, when a brand hits the mark, it should be known that so much took place behind the scenes before the product landed on your lap. We all have our favourite skincare products, and what works for me may not work for you. However, some brands have products that are loved right across the board. They’ve gained cult status and for good reason, and many times, it’s landed the brand’s name into the unofficial skincare hall of fame.
Here at BEAUTYDIRECTORY, we decided to do some digging and find out exactly how our favourite products are formulated by going to the source itself.
Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel
“Special Cleansing Gel is a concentrated soap-free, foaming gel, designed to thoroughly remove impurities without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance," said the brand.
"This iconic cleanser contains naturally foaming Quillaja Saponaria that gently removes impurities and excess oils to leave skin feeling smooth and clean. It also features Melissa Officinalis (Balm Mint), which is a skin soothing extract to cool and calm, and Lavandula Angustifolia (lavender), a natural antiseptic extract that helps to smooth and purify the skin.”
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream
“The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream formula is special because it offers a unique combination of multi-purpose use, key ingredients, long-lasting hydration, and versatility. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream can be used on different parts of the body, including the lips, hands, face, and body. It's an all-in-one product that helps to soothe, protect, and hydrate the skin. The formula contains key ingredients such as petrolatum, vitamin E, and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), which work together to moisturise the skin and improve its texture,” Elizabeth Arden’s Education Manager, Nica Marcello told BEAUTYDIRECTORY.
SkinCeuticals vitamin C serums
“At SkinCeuticals we have vitamin C serums for all skin types and concerns. Our hero product, C E Ferulic is best for people with normal to dry skin. SkinCeuticals Silymarin C F has been specifically designed to provide advanced environmental protection for oily and blemish-prone skin. In addition to this environmental protection, Silymarin C F is clinically demonstrated to reduce oiliness, refine skin texture, and visibly improve skin clarity and fine lines. Phloretin CF vitamin C serum targets first signs of ageing with powerful antioxidants, with effective ingredients for a brighter, younger-looking complexion,” said Dr Tania from SkinCeuticals.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6
“Crystal Retinal is our prescription strength vitamin A alternative, without the prescription,” said Daniel Isaacs, Director of Research at Medik8.
“Retinaldehyde is a relatively new vitamin A ingredient but still has significant published studies proving its efficacy: in particular, it is proven to be 11 times faster acting than traditional retinol.* Read: faster results. However, it is notoriously difficult to stabilise. That’s why you won’t find it via many other brands. But, at Medik8, we have managed it through a delicate crystal-shaped encapsulation system that breaks down upon contact with the skin to slowly release power over time.
“This is astounding since retinaldehyde is the closest thing to prescription-strength retinoic acid - the biologically active form on the skin. But now you don’t need a prescription to get your hands on it,” he continued.
“The clever encapsulation system avoids any of the well-documented vitamin A side effects that can come with stronger formulations - flaking, redness, etc. It also gives the product its name. Customers who try this vitamin A seem to universally adore it; as well as scores of influencers worldwide. It’s one of our bestsellers for a reason.”
Image credit / Instagram @aniamilczarczyk
