Skip the complicated skincare routine—these uncomplicated products have truly transformed my glow.
Can I be totally frank for a moment? Whenever I hear about a new skincare brand launching, I often think: "Do we really need another one?" Navigating the ideal skincare routine is already confusing enough without adding even more products to the mix. As a beauty editor who tests products professionally, I tend to stick with my go-to cleansers, moisturisers, and serums that I know are effective for me. However, one recent launch has caught my eye. Yes, I'm referring to Prequel. As one of the fastest-growing skincare brands in the US, Prequel encapsulates nearly everything I appreciate about my current skincare staples, so I knew I had to try it out. Established by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Samantha Ellis, the brand has just debuted at Space NK, featuring 8 of its most popular products, each priced at £30 or below.
While the price is definitely appealing, the initial aspect that drew me in was the brand's effective ingredients and straightforward take on an everyday skincare routine. Each product is formulated with your skin barrier in consideration, prioritizing gentle, fragrance-free formulas that strengthen even the most sensitive skin. Additionally, each item has a specific purpose, whether it’s to remove makeup, hydrate the skin or alleviate redness and irritation. I've been busy testing the brand, and after just a few days of use, I realized I would be writing a comprehensive review on Prequel. That occurrence is rare for me, but honestly, it's clear why this brand is already generating buzz...
**The Best Prequel Products, Tried & Tested**
- **Best Cleanser**: Prequel Gleanser, £20
- **Best Serum**: Prequel Redness Reform Soothing Serum, £22
- **Best Moisturiser**: Prequel AM/PM Modern Moisturizer, £20
- **Best Facial Mist**: Prequel Universal Skin Solution Dermal Spray, £19
**1. Prequel Pre-Gleanse Cleansing Oil**
*Best Cleansing Oil*
Key ingredients: Cica oil, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, rice bran oil
I enjoy using a cleansing oil for makeup removal, but my skin can clog easily, so I must be cautious when trying new formulas. Prequel's cleansing oil effectively removes makeup and excess oil without blocking my pores, thanks to its non-comedogenic, oil-to-rinse formula. It's one of the rare cleansing oils I've encountered that doesn't leave a greasy film on the skin, and it’s safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin. After using this as my first cleanse, my skin feels soft, supported, and retains its moisture.
**Pros**
- Easily removes makeup
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Leaves skin feeling soft, not greasy
**Cons**
- Cleansing oils can be cumbersome to travel with
**2. Prequel Gleanser**
*Best Cleanser*
Key ingredients: Glycerin, oat extract, aloe vera
This cleanser first came to my attention after esthetician and Who What Wear UK beauty contributor Grace Day included it in her best sensitive skin products roundup. Suitable for both face and body, it is abundant in glycerin, which acts as a humectant, pulling water into the skin to maintain hydration. With soothing ingredients like oat extract and aloe vera, it’s a perfect choice for dry or irritated skin (even safe for those with rosacea). Pair this with the oil mentioned above for a gentle daily cleansing routine.
**Pros**
- Ideal for everyday use
- Leaves skin exceptionally hydrated
- Soothing ingredients
**3. Prequel Redness Reform Soothing Serum**
*Best Serum*
Key ingredients: Oat, arnica, vitamin F
Currently, the brand offers two serums at Space NK: the aforementioned one and the Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum (£30). While I love a hydrating serum, my skin has been particularly red and irritated lately, so I opted for the Redness Reform Soothing Serum, and I’m grateful I did. The lightweight formula feels cool and calming, and it immediately reduces redness while soothing skin beneath the surface with a blend of oat, arnica, and vitamin F. It may not be a serum I use nightly, but when I incorporate actives into my routine, I can definitely see myself using this one to maintain balance.
**Pros**
- Lightweight texture
- Instantly soothes the skin
**Cons**
- Some might prefer a more active formula
**4. Prequel Half & Half Fluid Moisturizer**
*Best Lightweight Moisturiser*
Key ingredients: Peptides, ceramides
This is, without a doubt, my favorite product from the brand (so far). As the name suggests, it lies between a milky toner and a lightweight moisturiser—perfect for my combination skin. I personally use it as
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