2020 in particular was a banner year for the skincare industry. Innovation was rife, routines were extensive and sale were at an all-time high. But half way through 2021, the upwards trajectory hasn’t slowed. We might be using slightly less (RIP working from home), but we’re still hungry for new, interesting products that actually work. Brands obviously get this, so the first half of 2021 has seen a slew of excellent launches hit shelves. Estee Lauder have expanded their iconic ANR franchise to include an eye serum, Dermalogica have released an ‘intuitive’ treatment, while Mecca’s in-house line released a $44 face oil that rivals most of its costly competitors.
So here we’ve compiled a list of seven industry-leading launches; the ones worthy of permanent residence in our bathroom.
Keep scrolling to shop.
Model He Cong is seen backstage at the Boss fashion show on February 23, 2020 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images)
ESTÉE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix (launching in august). SHOP existing range NOW
The Advanced Night Repair serum is one of the best-selling skincare products globally, so we had high hopes for the brand new Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix. Formulated with Lauder’s exclusive Chronolux™ Power Signal Technology, the silky fluid works to soften fine lines, brighten the area and de-puff, thanks to the unique cooling applicator ball. While it’s new and we’re still gauging long term results, it works brilliantly to overall puffy eyes after a big week of deadlines. It’s a perfect base for concealer, too.
CHANEL HYDRA BEAUTY CAMELLIA GLOW CONCENTRATE, SHOP NOW
Chanel take a very considered approach to their skincare launches, and it shows. This gentle exfoliating lotion is full of AHAs, camellia and blue ginger to refine the skin’s texture, brighten overall tone and even out texture. Use it once a week as a targeted treatment.
LA ROCHE-POSAY Effaclar Serum, SHOP NOW
Acne can be a seriously debilitating skin condition (both physically and mentally). That was part of the motivation for French skincare brand La Roche-Posay to extend their Effaclar product line to include a targeted serum. Made using a bunch of complexion heavy-weights like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, LHA and niacinamide, it will decongest pores, calm irritation, reduce oil flow and even out the skin’s appearance. It’s an all-in-one treatment too, so you can simmply pair it with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and SPF.
Dermalogica Smart Response Serum, shop now
Dermalogica’s new Smart Response Serum is unique in that it utilises what they call “smart actives” to care for the skin when and where it’s most needed. For example, there’s antioxidants (Japanese cherry) to fight free radicals, hydrators to increase water content and brighteners (arabinoxylo- oligosaccharides) to correct pigmentation.
Mecca Cosmetica Everyday Face Oil, SHOP NOW
If your skin is dry, incorporating a face oil into your routine is an easy way to provide comfort and amp up glow. Mecca Cosmetica’s new Everyday Face Oil is a simple but nourishing blend of grape seed, jojoba, argan, sea buckthorn and prickly pear to nourish, improve barrier strength and soothe. Try pressing a few drops in on top of your moisturiser, or mixing with an oil-based foundation for serious glow.
Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist, shop now
Mists aren’t exactly necessary, but this new formula from Skinceuticals is too good to pass up on. The idea is that it’s a touchless (i.e. no germy fingers, rubbing, tugging or pulling) way to infuse the skin with botanicals, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, meaning a calmer, clearer more hydrated complexion.
Sisley TRIPLE-OIL BALM MAKE-UP REMOVER AND CLEANSER, SHOP NOW
$155 is steep for a cleansing balm, but there is literally nothing to fault about the Sisley Triple-Oil formula. It’s rich and buttery, so you can properly work it into the skin and dissolve stubborn mascara, lipstick and the like without it washing away. It doesn’t leave a greasy film, smells divine and should last a while, given you only use a small amount.
