When it comes to skin care, NewBeauty readers are discerning, ingredient-savvy and loyal to the brands that work. To find out which skin-care lines truly make the cut, we surveyed more than 1,300 readers* to learn what they’re currently using—and more importantly, what they’re loving.
From sunscreens that seamlessly blend into the skin to serums that fade dark spots and smooth fine lines, these five brands rose to the top based on real, firsthand experience. They’re the trusted staples readers return to again and again, and many have the glowing skin to prove it.
Here are the most-used skin-care brands among NewBeauty readers right now—and what they had to say about their favorites.
EltaMD
Topping the list, 37.9 percent of readers say they currently use EltaMD—and it’s easy to see why. Known for its gentle, dermatologist-recommended sunscreens, the brand’s formulas are a staple for many.
A 63-year-old reader calls the UV Clear Tinted SPF “the best sunscreen I have ever used,” while a 43-year-old shares, “I’ve used this product for years! It is so light and the sun protection is fabulous. This is my go-to product year-round.” Another reader, 42, adds, “The sunscreen is perfect for oily and aging skin like mine. It absorbs really fast, is non-greasy, and has no scent or residue. I feel like I’m using something truly good for my skin.”
Obagi
Coming in second, 32.2 percent of readers say Obagi is a part of their current skin-care routine. Known for clinical-grade actives and results-driven products, it’s especially popular for retinol and vitamin C serums.
One 54-year-old reader says Obagi’s retinol is “highly effective but gentle—it doesn’t cause redness like others I’ve tried.” A 62-year-old saw visible results from the ELASTIderm Neck & Decollete Concentrate, saying it helped “decrease neck creepiness right away.” And a 30-year-old fan of the Professional-C Serum raves, “Truly the best vitamin C serum I’ve ever used. It lightens dark spots, sun spots, freckles, and post-acne marks really quickly.”
SkinCeuticals
Trusted by 23.8 percent of our readers, SkinCeuticals blends science with serious skin results. Whether it’s antioxidant protection or barrier repair, the brand has earned its place on vanities across generations.
The iconic C E Ferulic remains a top pick: A 30-year-old noticed fading dark spots after just two weeks, and a 56-year-old called it “worth the investment,” noting major improvements in skin tone and texture. A 60-year-old using P-Tiox Anti-Wrinkle Serum says she’s seen a visible difference in deeper lines around her mouth and eyes, and a 42-year-old declared the Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 the “best moisturizer ever.”
Dermalogica
With 19.4 percent of readers regularly reaching for Dermalogica, the brand’s pro-level products continue to deliver results that stand the test of time.
The cult-favorite Daily Microfoliant got major praise: “It’s a lifesaver,” says a 50-year-old reader. “My skin looks so much better.” Another called it a staple: “Great exfoliation and leaves my skin refreshed. Removes texture and is a great product overall.” Readers also love the PreCleanse oil and the MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque, which one 45-year-old says “revitalizes your skin and brings life back into it.”
Alastin Skincare
Rounding out the top five, 17.2 percent of NewBeauty readers say they use Alastin, and love it for its gentle yet effective anti-aging products.
A 60-year-old reader calls the brand’s retinol “transformative,” while a 57-year-old says the C-Radical Defense Serum is “lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t feel sticky.” A 53-year-old fan of the Immerse Serum says, “It makes my skin feel so silky and hydrated!”
