The Top Skincare Products of 2026

      We aim to keep your skincare shopping simple, which is why we’ve dedicated months to testing and researching—so you don’t have to. For your best skin ever, our team has curated 27 exceptional formulas to fill any gaps in your skincare routine. From essentials like a refreshing (but gentle) cleanser to indulgent treatments such as a multipurpose mask made from pure, medical-grade manuka honey, we offer the ultimate one-stop shopping experience.

      **Best Serum for Dark Spots: La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z. Gel**

      La Roche-Posay's Effaclar A.Z. Gel is our favorite fast-absorbing hydrating gel, which we refer to as the Swiss Army knife of skincare routines. It features dual-action acne and wrinkle-fighting ingredients like azelaic acid and 1.2% salicylic acid; get ready for your clearest, brightest, and smoothest skin yet.

      Why experts appreciate it: “I recommend this when clients experience breakouts and want to use numerous products. Don't do that. Use this. It’s gentle enough to avoid damaging your skin barrier (which most acne products do, often worsening the situation), yet effective enough to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. The combination of niacinamide and piroctone olamine diminishes both acne and post-inflammatory spots without the harshness of aggressive actives. It’s unexciting, but it works—and that’s what matters.” — Sophie Carbonari, Celebrity Aesthetician

      "I suggest La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z. Gel Cream for patients who struggle with acne-prone and oily skin. The mix of azelaic acid and salicylic acid helps exfoliate, reduces inflammation, combats acne-causing bacteria, and clears pores. It is effective for treating current breakouts and preventing future ones. The 10% azelaic acid is potent enough for mild to moderate acne without being overly drying or irritating." — Sapna Palep, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Co-founder of Journelle Skin

      **Best Light Moisturizer: Sofie Pavitt Face Jelly Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer**

      We didn't think the perfect gel moisturizer was attainable until we tried this new offering from Sofie Pavitt. Its bouncy jelly texture feels light and calming on the skin while providing 48 hours of hydration. It's oil-free, noncomedogenic, and includes essential ingredients like beta-glucan, allantoin, zinc, and copper PCAs.

      Experts' opinions: "An exceptionally well-crafted moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight gel texture delivers hydration and comfort without heaviness or contributing to congestion." — Candace Marino, Founder of The L.A. Facialist

      "I swear by this product, along with anything from Sofie Pavitt. It’s light enough for quick absorption but still leaves the skin glowing for hours. Plus, it won’t cause breakouts!" — Lila Childs, Makeup Artist

      "Only amazing feedback for Sofie Pavitt Face. All her products are genuinely designed with clear, healthy skin in mind. No complaints." — Justine Marjan, Celebrity Hairstylist

      **Best Acne Treatment: Kat Burki Skincare VitaBiome Active Skin Optimizer**

      An innovative product, this spray from Kat Burki is supported by dermatological grading and microbiome sequencing. Ingredients like flavonoid-rich bioferment, ginseng root, snow mushroom, and konjac root collaborate to balance the skin's microbiome while decreasing breakouts and redness.

      Experts' remarks: "I'm interested in products targeting the skin microbiome because we’re realizing that skin health isn't solely about eliminating bacteria; it’s about nurturing the beneficial ones. This combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics with active ingredients that bolster barrier function. For skin that's sensitive or has been over-treated, this helps restore balance rather than just suppress symptoms." — Carbonari

      **Best Multitasking Serum: Plated Skin Science Intense Serum**

      This powerful blend of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and platelet-derived exosomes is adored by everyone, from Hailey Bieber to Alix Earle. Known as bottled liquid gold, this serum addresses everything from wrinkles and fine lines to skin tone and brightness.

      Why experts deem it effective: "Exosomes in skincare are relatively new, and while we don’t have decades of data, the concept is logical; they are particles that facilitate cellular communication to signal repair and regeneration. This formulation is clean, the concentration is substantial, and I am seeing positive results in clients using it regularly. It’s pricey, but it’s one of the few truly novel options in a market flooded with reformulated basics. If you’re already using retinoids, sunscreen, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, this could provide additional benefits." — Carbonari

      "This has quickly become one of the top sellers in my clinic. I've noticed a significant improvement