A solid skincare routine is the bedrock of gorgeous, glowing skin. That's why we're here to celebrate the very best skin essentials, innovative formulations and problem-solvers that truly deliver.
Skin is the largest organ in the body, and a great barometer of our overall well-being. So whether you're looking for the best cleanser to suit your skin type, a reliable facial sunscreen, or a super serum, you can cherry-pick from this list knowing that every single product has the woman&home stamp of approval.
With the help of a panel of industry experts, we've put hundreds of washes, creams, tools and treatments to the test, to pick 80 award-worthy winners.
The 2026 woman&home skin awards winners!
Cleansers and exfoliators
RRP: £32
A light but thorough formula that melts away the trials of the day, with a caring oil blend to nourish skin.
“The cleansing balm of my dreams. It has the perfect gel-balm texture for a luxurious massaging cleanse and effortless but thorough makeup removal. It actually makes cleansing an enjoyable process.” Grace Day, esthetician and beauty editor
RRP: £15
This nourishing, buttery balm gives a luxurious cleanse on a budget. It's a classic for a reason.
“I am yet to find someone who doesn't love this cleanser. A great all-rounder that is gentle, hydrating and softening.” Annie Milroy, beauty writer
RRP: £70
Those of you with sensitive and dry complexions will love this cushioning cream that puts the skin barrier first.
“This milk cleanser has a silky texture that feels elegant and comforting on the skin. I'd say it would be particularly effective for mature or dry skin types thanks to its nourishing, barrier-supportive feel.” Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor
Best cream cleanser - savvy shopper Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
RRP: £17
Endorsed by dermatologists, this gentle formula leaves skin soft and sated.
“This is great for a morning refresh or second cleanse. It leaves skin lovely and soft, and not at all stripped. I wasn't desperate to put my moisturiser on afterwards, which I can be with some cleansers." Jess Beech, beauty editor
Best foam cleanser Byoma Foaming Rice Deep Cleanser
RRP: £13.99
Provides a deep, refreshing cleanse without drying. Complexions are left super-smooth and glowing.
“The creamy foam deeply cleanses without leaving residue, rinses away beautifully, and removes SPF and daily buildup effortlessly. Skin feels soft, radiant, and clean, making it perfect for everyday use.” Fiona Brackenbury, skincare expert and facialist
Best exfoliating treatment Dermalogica Phyto Nature E² Regenerating Daily Exosome Leave-on Treatment
RRP: £148
A regenerating treatment that transforms fine lines, dullness and uneven tone.
“This gives the skin an immediate healthy glow. Over time, skin appears smoother, fresher and better hydrated.” Kate Kerr, clinical facialist and director of Kate Kerr London
Best oil cleanser ESPA Optimal Skin Pro Cleanser
RRP: £34
A cleanser, exfoliator and mask in one, formulated with jojoba and enzymes to brighten.
“I loved this cleanser. A luxurious cleansing balm oil hybrid with nourishing botanical oils and a spa-like sensory experience. It removed makeup effectively without stripping the skin and left my skin feeling soft, comfortable, and well-balanced.” Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor
Best exfoliating toner Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
RRP: £35
Designed for all skin types, this bestseller increases cell turnover, fights breakouts and visibly minimises the appearance of large pores.
“This is a cult product for a reason, providing gentle but effective exfoliation. It really brightens, smooths and refines the skin without being harsh.” Sarah Cooper-White, beauty director
Best toner pads Glow Recipe LHA + AHA Exfoliating Toner Pads
RRP: £27
Pre-soaked with five acids that help to resurface and refresh. Use as a mask or sweep over skin for gentle exfoliation.
“I loved how this made my skin feel. It gently sloughed away dead skin cells and grime without burning or stinging. The pads are large enough to also be used on the neck and other parts of the body like the elbows and knees.” Dr Brendan Khong, aesthetic doctor
Masks
RRP: £6
The ultimate pick-me-up for parched skin. Pop the seal and soak the mask with a deliciously refreshing serum. In 15 minutes, your complexion will look and feel invigorated.
“A wonderful soothing, healing and plumping mask.” Nathalie Eleni, makeup artist and skin expert
Best sheet mask - luxury Rodial Salmon DNA Hydrogel Face Mask
RRP: £75 for four
This mask harnesses the rejuvenating abilities of polynucleotides for firmer, smoother skin.
“Gorgeous mask with great ingredients. I loved the fit of the mask; it stayed put on the face and didn't slip off.” Michaella Bolder, celebrity facialist and skincare expert
Best hydrating mask Cellcosmet Hydra-Soothing Mask
RRP: £145
A hardworking treatment that overhauls thirsty complexions in 10 minutes. It's a luxe formula with a matching price tag.
“This was such a lovely formula and texture. I had instant results after using it just once.” Michaella Bolder, celebrity facialist and skincare expert
Best overnight mask ESPA Overnight Hydration Therapy
RRP: £41
A deliciously rich, intensive treatment that works its magic overnight. You’ll wake up glowing with refreshed, radiant skin.
“This smells amazing. You can visibly see it hydrating and smoothing skin so that when you wake, your face looks rejuvenated.” Sarah Cooper-White, beauty director
RRP: £89
As close as you can get to a salon facial without leaving the house. The formula tightens skin as it sets, leaving your face firmer.
“Really nice product – it felt like a clinic facial. I found it a real treat and loved the result.” Michaella Bolder, celebrity facialist and skincare expert
Serums
Best antioxidant serum - luxury Sisley Paris Black Rose Concentrate Radiant Youth Serum
RRP: £198
This helps to protect against environmental stressors, while improving skin plumpness and luminosity.
“This feels luxurious to use. It smells divine, and gives skin a light glow, too.” Alice Hart-Davis, journalist and founder of The Tweakments Guide
Best antioxidant serum - savvy shopper Cetaphil Advanced Defence Serum AM
RRP: £16.50
Strengthen your daily defences with this pollution-fighting serum, designed with sensitive types in mind.
“I'm so impressed – it’s brilliant and fairly priced. I could really see a difference after using it – my skin looked brighter and glowier. It's great to see an antioxidant serum that doesn't rely on vitamin C, which can irritate.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
Best serum innovation RoC Hydra+ Hyaluronic Serum Stick
RRP: £34.99
Our judges loved the convenience of this swipe-on, smoothing and plumping serum that keeps skin feeling hydrated for hours.
“This was so innovative. It made skin feel instantly soothed, and still felt super hydrated hours later. It would be perfect to use after a long day to freshen make-up before heading out.” Dr Justine Hextall, consultant dermatologist
Best hydrating serum Elizabeth Arden Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides Ceramide Capsules Hydra-Plumping Serum
RRP: £53
Micro hyaluronic acid delivers instant plumpness, visible firmness and lasting hydration in a perfectly portioned capsule.
“This ticked all the boxes. It applies flawlessly, my make-up just glided over it, and my pores looked instantly smaller.” Dr Justine Hextall, consultant dermatologist
Best peptide serum - luxury SkinCeuticals P-Tiox
RRP: £135
This high-tech serum noticeably improves the appearance of expression lines and skin texture after just one use.
“This serum definitely improved deeper forehead wrinkles and radiance in the skin. It's easy to use, has a super lightweight texture, and absorbs very well.” Diane Ackers, skincare expert
Best peptide serum - savvy shopper Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
RRP: £16.90
Well-formulated and affordable, this targets uneven skin tone and dullness for a newfound glow and enhanced elasticity.
“Great lightweight texture, really good absorption, no fragrance, and definitely increased skin barrier strength. A great ‘glow’ formulation, the results were very, very good.” Diane Ackers, skincare expert
Best retinoid serum - luxury Skin Rocks Retinoid 1/2/3
RRP: From £70
Three strengths to suit your skin type and tolerance – all with fast-absorbing ingredients that target tone, texture and fine lines.
“A very thoughtfully designed vitamin A system. I love the laddered approach with the movement through three strengths. This is exactly how retinoids should be used: structured, dosed correctly, and progressed when ready.” Kate Kerr, clinical facialist and director of Kate Kerr London
Best retinoid serum - savvy shopper The Inkey List Advanced Retinal Serum
RRP: £15
An impressive and affordable formula that perfectly treads the line between efficacy and tolerability.
“A lightweight and effective serum that easily absorbs and contains encapsulated retinaldehyde. I feel that it supports and nourishes my skin barrier whilst delivering active ingredients at an excellent price point.” Dr Derrick Phillips, consultant dermatologist
Best serum for lines and wrinkles - luxury Bioeffect EGF Power Serum
RRP: £169
This targets dryness, pigmentation, wrinkles, sagging and thinning skin with a 12-ingredient formula. It's an investment, but you'll really notice a difference in your skin.
“I love this high-performance serum combining skincare science with trusted ingredients. The silky lightweight texture leaves skin feeling hydrated, smooth, soft, and glowing.” Fiona Brackenbury, skincare expert and facialist
Best serum for lines and wrinkles - savvy shopper Boost Lab Anti-Ageing Serum
RRP: £24.95
The multi-peptide blend helps to soften lines and wrinkles for smoother, fresher-looking skin and long-term hydration.
“This peptide serum is a great all-rounder at a brilliant price point. It goes on nicely, layers well under make-up, and has already made my skin feel softer and smoother.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
Best essence Gatineau Collagene Expert Hydra Essence
RRP: £46
Provides instant suppleness and lasting hydration, plus it helps enhance the absorption of subsequent products for better benefits.
“This is a nicely-textured, hydrating essence that delivers softness and a fresher appearance to the skin.” Dr David Jack, aesthetic doctor and brand founder
Moisturisers
RRP: £59.95
Retinal smooths wrinkles and lifts facial contours, delivered in a nourishing cream that leaves skin soft to the touch.
“Using 0.1% retinaldehyde, this cream packs a decent punch. It was pleasant to use, with a lovely consistency and easy pump action. My skin felt much smoother.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
Best barrier protector Bubble Skincare Soft Swerve Barrier Repair Balm
RRP: £18
A rich balm that calms red, rough, reactive skin. We especially loved the clever twisting tub, too.
“The delivery mechanism is unique - it slices small amounts to reduce over-use and risk of contamination. I like the ingredients, perfect for barrier repair.” Dr Justine Hextall, consultant dermatologist
Best brightening moisturiser Dr. Althea Melaclear Cream
RRP: £26
This is a powerhouse cocktail of actives, including tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin, to help lighten hyperpigmentation.
“The perfect blend of proven actives for hyperpigmentation in a hydrating formula. Use morning and evening to help brighten dark spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone.” Grace Day, esthetician and beauty editor
Best daytime moisturiser Nivea Soft Moisturizer
RRP: £1.99
Our judges could not believe how soft and smooth this budget moisturiser left their skin.
“A perfect moisturiser at a wildly affordable price – I can't think of a better way to spend £2! It feels super quenching and nourishing, sinks in well, and skin feels perked up straight away.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
Best hydrating moisturiser - luxury Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
RRP: £69
The beautiful rich texture is designed with hydration in mind and boasts antioxidant-packed Japanese purple rice for dewy skin in moments.
“A lovely product that absorbs into skin well, leaving it feeling well-hydrated. The application spoon was another well-thought-out element to avoid contaminating the tub.” Dr Priya Verma, aesthetic doctor
Best hydrating moisturiser - savvy shopper Anua 100+ PDRN+ HyaluronMoisturising Cream
RRP: £24
A luscious, light moisturiser created to leave skin supple, plump and hydrated.
“I loved using this moisturiser. Its texture was super light and layerable - refreshing, even - and it made my skin feel supple, plump and hydrated.” Fiona McKim, beauty channel editor
Best collagen moisturiser - luxury Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen + Peptide Cream
RRP: £79
A great all-rounder formulated to combat dry, mature complexions and help stimulate collagen production.
“A very well-formulated moisturiser. The texture sat beautifully on the skin, delivering good hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.” Shane Cooper, aesthetic practitioner
Best collagen moisturiser - savvy shopper Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream
RRP: £18.90
When you need a hit of hydration, this gorgeously refreshing melt-in jelly moisturiser is the perfect solution.
“This felt like a modern, easy-to-use moisturiser that delivers good hydration and radiance with a lightweight finish.” Shane Cooper, aesthetic practitioner
RRP: £110
A lifesaver for dry, depleted skin, this luxe oil smells like a spa in a bottle.
“I really liked how lightweight this felt, and it left my skin with a healthy glow. My skin felt more comfortable and hydrated after a few uses, particularly around areas prone to dryness.” Shane Cooper, aesthetic practitioner
Best night cream RéVive Renewal Moisturizing Night Cream
RRP: £150
Rich and luxurious without feeling heavy, our judges woke up to better skin after the first use.
“A sophisticated night cream that combines exfoliation and anti-ageing ingredients, counterbalanced with multiple barrier-supporting ingredients. My skin feels smoother, more hydrated and less dull.” Dr Derrick Phillips, consultant dermatologist
Best peptide moisturiser Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
RRP: £62
Collagen-boosting peptides, growth factors and amino acids are all wrapped up in a lightweight moisturiser.
“I've been a fan of this for many years – it has an impeccable texture, not too rich but not too light, and packs in so many peptides. The little airless pump tub is fun, keeps everything stable and ensures you use the perfect amount, too.” Fiona McKim, channel beauty editor
Skin tools and supplements
Best LED mask Shark Beauty CryoGlow Under-Eye Cooling & LED Anti-Ageing & Blemish Repair Mask
RRP: £299.99
If you’re looking to invest in an LED mask, this would be our top recommendation. It’s so easy to use, has functions for blue and red light therapies and also cools.
“I’m a huge LED fan, and this is one of my most consistent recommendations. The interactive remote makes it so easy to use, and I love that you can pick different treatment plans. The cooling setting feels like a real treat to use, too.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
Best LED innovation Stylpro Wavelength Pro 5-in-1 LED Mask
RRP: £249
Not only does this perform exceptionally well as a mask, but we were also impressed by its ability to shapeshift to treat other areas around the body.
“This mask has a high number of LEDs, is comfortable to wear, and is cleverly designed to be used on both the face and across the body.” Grace Day, esthetician and beauty editor
RRP: £90
This is an easy way to boost lymphatic drainage at home, to improve digestion, aid healing, and reduce swelling. Tutorials are easy to follow and the brushes are gentle but effective.
“A well-designed and innovative product that brings lymphatic drainage into an easy at-home routine. It’s a great addition for anyone interested in wellness and body care, and it offers a practical way to incorporate self-care into everyday life.” Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist
RRP: £33.53 for 14 sachets
An excellently formulated collagen supplement with robust clinical trials. It’s made with 10,000mg marine collagen and is tastier than others we've tried.
“The liquid sachets are convenient, taste great, and make staying consistent effortless. Formulated with marine collagen peptides plus vitamins B and C (essential for collagen production), it helps support healthy-looking skin, hair, and nails whilst leaving everything feeling a little more hydrated and refreshed over time.” Fiona Brackenbury, skin expert and facialist
Eyes and lips
Best eye mask Pixi AntioxifEYE Eye Mask Goggles
RRP: £6 for three
Unlike traditional patches, these treat the whole eye area. They stay put, too, with no slipping or sliding.
“I like the fact it functions more like a goggle-style mask, allowing broader coverage around the eye area and giving it a more immersive treatment.” Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, consultant oculoplastic surgeon and aesthetic doctor
Best eye cream Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Eye Cream
RRP: £75
This cream provides real results – noticeably firming, smoothing and brightening in just one week.
“Really great texture that feels nourishing around the delicate eye area. It gives an immediate smoothing and hydrating effect.” Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, consultant oculoplastic surgeon and aesthetic doctor
RRP: £9.95
The cooling rose quartz rollerball immediately refreshes tired eyes, while the formula helps with bags, dark circles and puffiness.
“This was such a treat to use in the mornings. I noticed a difference in the size and depth of under-eye bags and dark circles after a few uses.” Annie Milroy, beauty writer
Best for eye bags L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Eye Bag Instant Eraser
RRP: £29.99
Visibly banishes eye bags, puffiness and smooths wrinkles in minutes. It may be a temporary fix, but it’s a brilliant one.
“If you’ve had a rubbish night's sleep, this bag-buster will help you look human again. It left my skin feeling taut and smooth, and the little crinkles under my eye were softer.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
Best lip care Bubble Skincare Talk Back Lip Treatment
RRP: £11
Chapped lips don’t stand a chance against this deeply hydrating, long-lasting formula. The smoothness lasts for days, not hours, and glides on easily for a glossy finish.
“This has completely transformed my dry, chapped lips. Unlike other lip products that only coat the skin, this works at a deeper level to deliver lasting hydration and visibly plump and soften.” Grace Day, esthetician and beauty editor
Problem solvers
Best for blemishes Purifide Skin Restore Patches
RRP: £9.99 for 23
Stop spots in their tracks and help them heal with these salicylic acid and zinc-infused hydrocolloid patches.
“They are discreet, adhere well overnight, and are particularly effective on surface whiteheads. The added actives give them a more 'treatment' feel compared to basic hydrocolloid patches.” Kate Kerr, clinical facialist and director of Kate Kerr London
RRP: £14.95
Recommended by countless dermatologists, this calms down inflammation and speeds up skin recovery.
“I have used Clinisoothe in my clinic for 10 years - I have recommended this product to tens of thousands of people. It is brilliant at calming skin. Genius, genius product.” Pamela Marshall, clinical aesthetician
Best for pigmentation Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum
RRP: £48
A targeted treatment that reduces the appearance of dark spots while helping to prevent future pigmentation.
“A lightweight product that easily absorbs, with a little product going a long way. The ingredients were simple, yet targeted, providing pigment reduction while protecting the barrier.” Dr Priya Verma, aesthetic doctor
Best for sensitive skin E45 Intensive Barrier Repair
RRP: £10.99
This cream settles soreness and sensitivity, helping troubled skin feel comfortable quickly.
“An absolute workhorse. I've been using this on my hands, chapped lips, dry elbows, my toddler son's irritation-prone cheeks - truly everywhere. It's buttery, calming, hydrating and seems to help almost instantly. I wouldn't be without it.” Fiona McKim, beauty channel editor
RRP: £34.99 per month
Prescription-strength ingredients prescribed by dermatologists, delivered in a personalised formula straight to your door.
“My skin looked great – clear, plump, and fresh with no irritation at all. It definitely outperforms other serums at three times the price, and it’s made especially for you.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
Professional treatments
RRP: £600
A powerful laser that travels deep into the skin, helping to improve collagen production. It’s not pain-free and requires a few days’ downtime, but the results are worth it.
“I've been nervous to try laser treatments in the past, but this was almost painless with noticeable and fast results. I liked the short downtime and minimal disruption to my normal routine. I would definitely use this treatment again.” Jess Meyer, lifestyle contributor
RRP: £1,500
Improves skin texture and helps with the appearance of pigmentation and wrinkles.
“Three weeks on, my pores look a lot less noticeable, and a couple of bad patches of pigmentation have improved. I’m intrigued to see the influence of the collagen stimulation over the next few months.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
RRP: £500 per session
Helps to kick-start the skin’s natural collagen production for impressively plump skin.
“This is the OG biostimulator. It has an excellent safety record. If you want a tweakment with no downtime and long-lasting, subtle results, this is a great place to start.” Hannah Fernando, editor-in-chief
RRP: From £150
All complexions, no matter what your skin woes, will benefit from a Hydrafacial, which can be souped up with extra boosters to target your specific needs.
“It's such an amazing facial that gives you instant and lasting results. It's an affordable way to treat and care for your skin health. My skin was left detoxed, hydrated and supple.” Annie Milroy, beauty writer
SPF
Best SPF oil Caudalie High Protection Glow Oil SPF50
RRP: £22
An oil that truly protects with high-factor, broad-spectrum protection. Skin is left looking glowing and smelling delicious.
“This is a very well-executed sunscreen that combines high broad-spectrum protection with a genuinely elegant texture. The lightweight oil format leaves a beautiful satin finish.” Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist
Best SPF for body Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture SPF50+
RRP: £8.65
This classic can’t be topped. The spray makes it quick and easy to apply, and the fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula is ideal for the whole family.
“A reliable and well-formulated sunscreen that offers high broad-spectrum protection in a moisturising, easy-to-use format.” Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist
Best SPF for face - luxury Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen SPF50
RRP: £49
We all love this formula – it makes suncare enticing. It’s featherlight and leaves your complexion with a dewy glow.
“I absolutely loved this. The consistency is beautiful, and the formulation is great. It’s such an impressive product.” Dr Ash Soni, plastic surgeon and founder of the Soni Clinic
Best SPF for face - savvy shopper Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+
RRP: £15.50
It ticks all the boxes you want from your daily suncare – it’s silky, never sticky, and doesn't pill under your foundation.
“I've never tried a facial sunscreen that is as lightweight as this. After application, it leaves my complexion with the most radiant, healthy-looking glow.” Sennen Prickett, digital beauty writer
Best SPF for long-lasting protection Riemann P20 Original SPF50
RRP: £29.99
When you’re out and about or being active, this formula promises protection for a reassuring 10 hours.
“A very well-formulated sunscreen with strong broad-spectrum protection and excellent water resistance. I particularly appreciate the high UVA coverage and lightweight, transparent texture, which makes it practical for everyday use.” Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist
Best SPF for on the go Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Face Refreshing Water Fluid SPF50
RRP: £15
The lightweight formula makes topping up easy, and the smaller bottle is perfect for your handbag or beach bag.
“Serum-light, melt-in texture, and plays nicely with makeup. I trust Ambre Solaire for my whole family – the textures are appealing to even the fussiest and most begrudging of sunscreen wearers.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
Best tinted SPF Altruist Anti-Redness & Pigmentation Light SPF50
RRP: £11.75
Shields your skin while the green shade colour-corrects redness – a smart multitasker.
“I really liked this product. It's great at blurring redness, and it almost acts like a foundation. I know my rosacea clients would love it, so I will be recommending it highly.” Pamela Marshall, clinical aesthetician
Bodycare
Best for the bath Sanctuary Spa Aqua Serenity Bath Float
RRP: £13
Helps those bubbles reach impressive heights, and now with a new, fresh aroma.
“I'm a big fan of Sanctuary – it's cheap and cheerful, and the bubbles really do pile high with their bath floats. This new scent is zingy and uplifting, and ideal for summer.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
RRP: £12
The perfect way to elevate your daily shower – the scent left the judges feeling relaxed, rapidly.
“It smells like a spa in a bottle. It's silky without being so runny you lose half of it down the plughole. My skin felt so quenched, and it made my daily shower feel so relaxing and tranquil.” Stephanie Maylor, beauty editor
RRP: £89.90
A clever, easy-to-install solution for those who live in hard-water areas and want to filter away harmful pollutants such as chlorine and metals.
“It was a doddle to install – it only took two minutes. It's a cheaper alternative to a water softener system, which many people resort to when they have sensitive or dry skin conditions. It left my skin feeling soft and my hair so shiny.” Jess Beech, beauty editor
Best body butter Fenty Skin Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream
RRP: £32
The whipped texture means this body butter is lusciously light, leaving skin silky smooth.
“Wow! This feels incredible. You feel it hydrating & nourishing your skin immediately. The texture is silky and not sticky, leaving a velvet glow. I am excited to keep using it!” Chelsée Lewis, facialist
Best firming body lotion Dove Pro-Retinol + Firming Body Serum
RRP: £12.99
Harness the effectiveness of retinoids for your whole body. Skin feels firmer and looks smoother.
“My once-dull skin immediately appeared plumper, deeply hydrated and with a gloriously healthy, natural-looking shine.” Sennen Prickett, digital beauty writer
Best for legs This Works Skin Deep Dry Leg Oil
RRP: £48
An intensely nourishing formula that actually makes us excited for shorts weather, rather than dread it.
“Gorgeous stuff. This rescued my (slightly scaly!) early spring shins. It smells so herbal and lovely, I couldn't stick to my legs alone and used it all over – a true sensorial treat.” Fiona McKim, beauty channel editor
Best body cream - luxury Laura Mercier Ambre Vanille Serum Body Cream
RRP: £58
A treat for anyone in need of pampering, and the scent elevates this luscious cream.
“I loved this! It’s an exceptionally indulgent cream with a beautiful fragrance and rich serum-cream texture. Leaves skin soft, smooth, and subtly scented, creating a wonderful body care experience.” Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor
Best body cream - savvy shopper Mixa Urea Cica Repair+ Renewing Cream
RRP: £9.99
Providing instant smoothness to the driest skin, we all adore this fast-acting formula.
“This is excellent for very dry or compromised skin thanks to the combination of urea and barrier-repair ingredients. It provided impressive results – skin was hydrated and much smoother.” Dr Sophie Shotter, aesthetic doctor
RRP: £12.99
The judges loved how quickly this absorbed, while still leaving skin with a flattering, dewy sheen.
“Historically, I've never liked body oil, but this has completely changed my opinion! I loved that you can apply this to damp skin and how quickly it sinks in. It left my skin feeling soft and smooth, and I loved the scent.” Annie Milroy, beauty writer
Best body scrub Sanctuary Spa Signature Natural Oils Salt Scrub
RRP: £18
Everything you want from a body scrub – a gritty texture that provides a satisfying slough, blended with oils that leave limbs feeling as smooth as silk.
“It’s hands down the best scrub I've ever used! The gorgeous scent really elevates the experience. Used on wet or dry skin, it's like a reset button for dry and dull skin. In a crowded market for body scrubs, this one is a clear winner for me. ” Nicola Russell, facialist
Best for neck & décolletage Trinny London The Elevator Neck/Décolletté Concentrate
RRP: £69
A hard-working concentrate that makes a noticeable difference to pigmentation, wrinkles and slackness below the chin.
“I love this, and I’ve been using it consistently since it launched. I love the smell, the texture, and it does make your neck look better. Whenever anyone asks me to recommend a neck cream, this is always the one I pick.” Sarah Cooper-White, beauty director
Special recognition
Best innovation - luxury Paula’s Choice CellularYouth Longevity Serum
RRP: £65
Longevity is the buzzword for 2026 and this serum proves why. It revs up cells’ energy levels to promote resilience to ageing, while repairing existing damage.
“Rather than simply aiming at wrinkle-busting, this sets out to improve the skin at a cellular level - which is hugely ambitious - by giving the skin cells more energy to do what they need to do. Fascinating!” Alice Hart-Davis, journalist and founder of The Tweakments Guide
Best innovation - savvy shopper No7 Prime Forever Skin Preservation Serum
RRP: £37.95
No7 is always at the cutting edge of skincare, and their newest range, which helps reduce skin ageing and preserve skin quality, is seriously impressive.
“A very nice-to-use lightweight serum from the reliable No7 stable. I’m impressed with this new 'super-peptide' and a powerful antioxidant (patent pending, no less!).” Alice Hart-Davis, journalist and founder of The Tweakments Guide
Best skincare and make-up hybrid Clarins Double Serum Foundation
RRP: £49
A brilliant idea that our team loves. Combines a hydrating serum and foundation in one to create the perfect skin-smoothing base.
“One of my favourite launches this year! I love it and recommend this to everyone - it’s great for mature skin that needs a little more coverage. It has a brilliant range of shades and a lovely lightweight texture that still covers up pigmentation and redness.” Sarah Cooper-White, beauty director
K-beauty is booming, and Anua was a standout brand across many categories. We love the innovative, inviting formulas as much as the affordable price tags.
“I’ve been so impressed with everything I’ve tried from this range. It’s gentle while still providing real results. While I was testing anything from Anua, my skin was always quenched, content and glowing.” Rhiannon Derbyshire, senior beauty editor
Best new launch Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Lift + Sculpt
RRP: £65
An exciting addition to the Advanced Night Repair range, this is essentially eight hours’ sleep in a bottle.
“The original ANR is such an icon, and this makes a clever addition to the range. The milky texture feels gorgeous on the eyes, and I like that you can use it on the lid too. Peptides are an excellent ingredient for this area, being both hardworking and non-irritating.” Fiona McKim, beauty channel editor
RRP: From £60
This small, perfectly formed range wowed our judges, who particularly loved the simplicity and the efficiency of the cleanser and serums.
“It’s very results-driven; it’s clear that Debbie Thomas’ expertise as a skin professional is at the roots of every one of these formulations. Used in combination, they will deliver results for healthier, more resilient skin.” Grace Day, esthetician and beauty editor
Best reformulation Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Cream
RRP: £79
A risk to reformulate, but it really paid off. The new version is lighter, more refreshing and harnesses a potent peptide blend.
“This is the perfect moisturiser. It's really nourishing without any greasy residue and smooths and hydrates to create such a gorgeous base for makeup. I find I don't wear as much base when I use this, as I don't feel like I need to really cover my skin.” Jess Beech, beauty editor
Best sustainable product Weleda Skin Food
RRP: £15.95
This cult classic has always been ahead of its time. The rich cream is made using ethically sourced natural ingredients of organic origin.
“A classic and highly effective moisturiser for very dry or compromised skin. I often recommend richer formulations like this for areas that need intensive nourishment and barrier support – it delivers excellent hydration and lasting comfort.” Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist
