Beauty editor empties are uncommon, but consistently refilling products is even more unusual—here are 9 skincare items I've completed over three times.
As someone who includes a brand-new skincare product in her routine each week (often more than one, I must confess), I seldom—almost never—finish a product. My bathroom counter is overflowing with enough soon-to-be-released essentials to rival the shelves of Sephora, so when I actually stick to a formula until the last pump, you can bet it’s excellent—truly excellent. And when I repeatedly restock the same product, using it until every drop is gone? It’s not just good; it’s absolutely fantastic. That said, these top-tier items are quite rare—definitely rarer than the occasional beauty editor empty. After nearly a decade in the beauty industry, I only have nine products that I consider essential, ones I cherish so much that I genuinely feel disappointed when I deplete the last bit. Here, check out the current list of cult favorites I've used up not once, not twice, but three times (or more!).
A quick overview. Shop My 9 Most Desired Repeat Skincare Products
U Beauty
The Super Hydrator
Fun fact: I ran out of this intensely hydrating face cream just four days before my wedding and rushed to the Cos Bar in my neighborhood to grab a new bottle. I never want to be without this silky, skin-soothing formula, and I definitely wasn’t taking any risks before such an important (and highly photographed) occasion. I apply it twice daily, as it provides deep moisture to keep my skin dewy all night while maintaining a lightweight texture that doesn't clog my pores. It’s arguably my all-time favorite moisturizer, and I can't stop raving about it!
Shani Darden
Retinol Reform
Another product I rushed to restock before getting married is celebrity aesthetician Shani Darden's slow-release retinol, which is just right. It’s gentle enough to prevent irritation and flaking (the dreaded "retinol uglies") while clinically proven to keep skin smooth and firm. I cycle through too many active ingredients each week to rely solely on Tretinoin (the ultra-potent prescription retinol), but I still want an over-the-counter retinoid that delivers results. Darden's offering is one of the top choices I’ve tried.
Mother Science
Retinol Synergist
If you’re just starting with retinol, I can’t recommend Mother Science's Retinol Synergist highly enough. (My fellow beauty editors agree; it won a coveted spot in our WWW 100 Beauty Awards last year!) I quickly went through several bottles before committing to Darden's serum mentioned above, but I’m tempted to restock it again during the dry winter months. Paired with a powerful antioxidant called malassezin, it enhances the effects of retinol while simultaneously fortifying the skin barrier and preventing irritation—a lifesaver during these harsh winter conditions.
HPPY Skin
Plump + Renew Hyaluronic Acid Serum
I've tried countless hyaluronic acid serums at this point, but I've consistently returned to this HPPY Skin formula in the past year. It’s a relatively new introduction compared to classic HA favorites, but the added berry-derived nutrients make it a standout in my opinion. Essentially, you get two serums in one: a skin-plumping hyaluronic acid and a brightening, antioxidant-rich blend.
Dove
Sensitive Skin Body Wash
It’s a classic for a reason! Over the years, I've experimented with numerous trendy, high-end body washes (some so richly scented they double as perfume), but Dove's fragrance-free, skin-friendly formula will always be a shower essential. It holds nostalgic value for me (it was the only body wash my mom used when I was growing up), but the hypoallergenic, creamy cleanser never fails to leave my skin feeling soft all over.
Dr. Diamond's Metacine
Instafacial Plasma Bioactive Growth Factor Serum
If you know me, you understand how much I love Dr. Diamond's Instafacial Plasma serum. I use it every night without fail, and I’ve gone through three bottles and counting. A good friend recently texted me asking if the skin-repairing serum is worth its $200 price tag (she was considering her options during a holiday sale), and I instantly replied with an emphatic "Absolutely!" I’d even say it’s my secret weapon for achieving glowing, glass-like skin.
Sofie Pavitt Face
Mandelic Clearing Serum
I’m currently on my fourth bottle of celebrity aesthetician Sofie Pavitt's mandelic acid serum. I apply it every morning (using retinol at night!), as the AHA gently exfoliates dead skin and prevents clogged pores without compromising my moisture barrier. Utilizing milder exfoliators more regularly has significantly improved my skin, and I’ll always give credit to Pavitt for the glow!
Sunsolve MD
ZnO+ Mineral Care Calm + Revitalize SPF 50
A daily sunscreen that also
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Beauty editor empties are uncommon, but consistently refilling products is even more unusual—here are 9 skincare items I've completed over three times.
My selected cult favorites.
