The 20 Best Skincare Brands in 2024

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Whether you are a skincare aficionado or are just learning the ropes, you deserve to use high-quality, effective formulas from top-tier brands. Of course, there are a ton of different products out there, and sorting through the endless options available on the market isn’t an easy task. That’s why we decided to do the research for you and find the best of the best when it comes to skincare companies. In this guide, we’re covering 20 of the best skincare brands of the year, and highlighting some of their most effective products.

How We Picked the Best Skincare Brands

Before we dive into our picks, let’s talk about our selection process. Here’s what we considered when making our ultimate list of the best skincare brands in 2024:

• High-Quality Formulas: Of course, the most important factor was prioritizing companies that make premium, effective formulas powered by science-backed ingredients. Many consumers are seeking clean skincare products that are good for their health and the environment, so we made sure to include plenty of brands that stay away from toxic ingredients.
• Price Points: Not everyone can splurge on high-priced skincare products, so we made sure to include brands at different price points. We’ve included luxury brands, affordable companies you can find at the drugstore and everything in between.

The 20 Best Skincare Brands in 2024

Now, let’s dive into our list of the 20 top skincare brands of the year.

1. Blu Atlas

Premium grooming company Blu Atlas is one of our all-time favorite skincare brands. It’s known for crafting top-tier vegan, cruelty-free and clean formulas – you won’t find any parabens, phthalates, sulfates or synthetic fragrances here. The brand’s reasonably priced products are powered by science-backed natural ingredients that will help you achieve a clear, youthful and healthy complexion.

Blu Atlas offers everything you need to create a well-rounded skincare routine. It’s hard for us to pick favorites, but we’re big fans of the company’s Face Moisturizer, a super-hydrating product that uses the power of vitamin C, seaweed extract and mango seed butter to deeply nourish the skin while fighting signs of aging.

Another standout is the company’s Vitamin C Serum. It pairs ascorbic acid (a stable and effective form of vitamin C) with other potent antioxidants (including vitamin E and ferulic acid) and radiance-boosting ingredients that lessen signs of aging and improve the look of discoloration for a more even skin tone.

2. Dr. Barbara Sturm

Dr. Barbara Sturm is a German aesthetics expert and doctor who is a leader in the world of inflammatory condition treatments. She used her expertise to create her eponymous luxury skincare brand, which focuses on combating inflammation to heal the skin and promote a more comfortable complexion. All of the brand’s products are cruelty-free and made without fragrances, parabens or silicones.

If you’re looking to achieve younger-looking skin, try the company’s Super Anti-Aging Serum. The formula is packed with hydrating ingredients that plump and soften the skin, as well as anti-agers that nourish the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. One of their most popular products is the Hyaluronic Serum, which instantly hydrates the skin while reducing signs of irritation.

Another product worth highlighting is the Super Anti-Aging Face Cream. Like the serum, it works to soften the look of lines. It also firms the skin to counteract sagging, and helps promote a calm and soft complexion.

3. Biossance

Clean and sustainable skincare brand Biossance is dedicated to crafting high-quality formulas (including serums, moisturizers, eye creams and more) powered by sugarcane-derived squalane, a skin-identical molecule that deeply hydrates the skin. The brand’s products are all vegan and cruelty-free, and the formulas are free of sulfates, parabens and phthalates.

One of the company’s best-selling products is the Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream, a deeply hydrating product that firms and lifts as it smooths the skin around the eyes. Another popular product – especially for those with sensitive skin – is the Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer. This formula, which has earned the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, restores moisture levels as it calms irritation and reduces redness.

For those who truly want to bolster the power of squalane, the company also offers the 100% Squalane Oil. This simple product can be used from head to toe, and helps hydrate and lock in moisture for soft, supple skin.

4. SkinCeuticals

SkinCeuticals is a dermatologist-recommended skincare brand famous for its advanced, scientifically proven products. The luxury brand offers a wide range of products that target virtually all skin concerns, including signs of aging, discoloration, dehydration, dullness and more.

If you’re familiar with the brand, you probably already know about the cult-favorite, clinically proven C E Ferulic Serum. This serum features a 15% concentration of l-ascorbic acid (a form of vitamin C), as well as vitamin E and ferulic acid. It’s designed to protect the skin against free-radical damage as it targets dullness, fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of firmness.

While this serum might be the company’s star product, SkinCeuticals offers plenty of other formulas worth noting. We’re big fans of the company’s Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, an anti-aging cream that nourishes the skin as it replenishes it with ceramides, fatty acids and other lipids. Another excellent product is the A.G.E. Eye Complex, which targets wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles for youthful, radiant eyes.

5. The Ordinary

The Ordinary is one of our favorite budget-friendly skincare brands. The brand is known for crafting simple, no-frills formulas that feature some of the most effective ingredients for tackling a range of skincare concerns.

One of the most popular products from the cruelty-free brand is the Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum. This lightweight, water-based serum is made specifically for blemish-prone skin, and helps brighten the complexion and improve the look of uneven skin tone as it smooths and supports skin barrier health.

Another fan-favorite product is the Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. The liquid exfoliant clears away dead skin cells and debris to target discoloration and textural issues for a clearer and brighter complexion. For those looking for a gentle daily face wash, we recommend the Squalane Cleanser, which thoroughly refreshes as it moisturizes the skin.

6. Alpyn Beauty

Another clean beauty brand that has earned a spot on our list is Alpyn Beauty. The company is devoted to creating plant-powered, clinical-grade formulas using wildcrafted ingredients that are sustainably sourced in Wyoming, where the brand is based. All products are vegan and cruelty-free, and the company uses no artificial fragrances, synthetic dyes, parabens, sulfates or phthalates.

One of the products that put Alpyn Beauty on the map is the PlantGenius Melt Moisturizer. The deeply hydrating cream-based moisturizer uses the power of ceramides, hyaluronic acid and squalane to transform dry and dehydrated skin. It is formulated with bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative that helps smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

Another of our favorite products from the company is the Creamy Bubbling Cleanser. It is formulated with fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate to smooth texture and refine the pores. It also contains hydrators that ensure the skin is left feeling supple and soft after cleansing.

7. Paula’s Choice

You can never go wrong with Paula’s Choice. The brand offers a huge range of high-performance products, with options for all skin types and concerns. All products are cruelty-free and made without fragrances, and the brand also has many vegan-friendly options.

A product that has gained a cult-favorite status among those with combination, oily and acne-prone skin is the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. It uses the power of salicylic acid to decongest the skin and refine the pores while it smooths out lines and texture for a clear, youthful complexion.

One of the best-loved products from this company is the Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment. The high-strength formula combines retinol with ingredients like vitamin C and licorice extract, and works to diminish fine lines and wrinkles as it brightens and soothes the skin. We’re also big fans of the company’s 10% Niacinamide Booster, a lightweight serum that refines pores and improves barrier health as it promotes a more even tone and texture.

8. Avène

For those with sensitive skin – or anyone looking for gentle skincare products – we highly recommend Avène. This brand excels at creating simple yet effective formulas that won’t aggravate the skin. It offers a wide range of products – cleansers, facial mists, serums, treatments and more – that will help you achieve comfortable, healthy skin.

One of the company’s best-selling products is the Thermal Spring Water Spray. This gentle, mineral-rich facial mist is bottled directly at the source, and has been clinically proven to soften, calm and soothe the skin.

Another product we love is the Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream. The rich moisturizing cream works to restore the skin as it protects it against external aggressors that can irritate the skin and cause damage. We also highly recommend the RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream. It’s formulated with retinaldehyde, which effectively reduces the look of wrinkles, but has a lower risk of irritation compared to traditional retinol.

9. Tata Harper

Tata Harper is a leader in the clean and natural beauty world. The luxury company’s formulas are infused with 100% natural ingredients that target a range of concerns for radiant, clear skin. All formulas are free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and other toxic additives.

The Regenerating Cleanser is one of Tata Harper’s most popular products. The formula is specifically made for skin that is prone to congestion, dullness or uneven tone. It features 16 botanical ingredients that work together to exfoliate and polish the skin to refine the pores and clear away blemishes. It also plumps the skin with hydration, leaving the face looking and feeling soft and supple.

Another best-selling product worth highlighting is the Resurfacing Serum. Using the power of ingredients naturally rich in vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids, this serum clears away dead skin cells and impurities while brightening the skin to promote a glowing, smooth complexion.

10. Drunk Elephant

Ever since its launch in 2013, Drunk Elephant has been a darling of the clean skincare world – and it continues to be one of the top brands in 2024. The brand has top-quality serums, masks, cleansers and other products that address specific issues to help you achieve your skincare goals. The cruelty-free company crafts its formulas without parabens, dyes, fragrances, drying alcohols or other toxic ingredients.

A product that has gained a significant following is the T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum. The exfoliating serum is formulated with a blend of alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids that work in tandem to clarify the skin and improve texture and tone. Raspberry extract, horse chestnut, cactus extract and other ingredients also work to soothe and hydrate to reduce irritation and dryness.

We particularly like the brand’s super-moisturizing Protini Polypeptide Cream. It is loaded with growth factors, amino acids, peptides and supporting extracts that plump and firm the skin while improving texture and tone to promote a youthful, radiant appearance.

11. Augustinus Bader

This luxury skincare brand was created by Dr. Augustinus Bader himself. The German doctor has crafted advanced, science-backed formulas that dramatically transform the skin. His formulas are powered by the patented TFC-8 complex, which supports the skin’s natural healing and regeneration process.

Perhaps the best-known product from the cruelty-free brand is The Rich Cream. The splurge-worthy moisturizer combines the company’s TFC-8 complex with hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed rice protein and other powerful ingredients. It has been clinically proven to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation for more even skin.

In addition to The Rich Cream, we love The Face Oil, another clinically proven formula. Using the power of moisturizing and nutrient-dense ingredients – including argan oil, pomegranate seed extract, babassu oil and hazelnut oil – the formula hydrates and enhances barrier health as it improves texture and elasticity.

12. Tatcha

The philosophy of “hinou dokon” – which has to do with the mind-skin connection – guides Japanese skincare brand Tatcha. The clean company crafts formulas that not only benefit the complexion, but also the mind. It offers practically every type of product you’d need in your routine, including serums, moisturizers and cleansers.

Tatcha has many well-loved products, and one of the finest is the award-winning The Dewy Skin Cream. The moisturizer is crafted with a unique combination of highly effective ingredients, including antioxidant-rich Japanese purple rice and a Okinawa algae blend. It’s designed to replenish the skin’s moisture levels and enhance radiance for a plump and glowing complexion.

Another star product is The Rice Polish, a cleansing enzyme powder that is activated by water. It gently buffs and refreshes the skin, leaving it looking and feeling soft and purified. We’re also big fans of the company’s Violet-C Brightening Serum, an exfoliating formula powered by vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids that promotes smoother and younger-looking skin.

13. La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay is regularly recommended by dermatologists, thanks to the company’s advanced, well-researched products. At the heart of the company’s formulas is thermal spring water sourced from La Roche-Posay, France. It is rich in minerals and antioxidants that soothe and protect the skin.

A La Roche-Posay product that has been trending in recent months is the Cicaplast Balm B5. This rich, multipurpose balm works to reduce irritation and heal chapped, rough and cracked skin from head to toe. The soothing formula has earned the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.

One of La Roche-Posay’s best-sellers is the Anthelios Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen, which has SPF 50. The tinted sunscreen is 100% mineral-based, which makes it an ideal choice for sensitive skin. It has a lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic formula that absorbs quickly into the skin, where it leaves a matte, non-greasy finish.

14. Versed

If you’re looking for clean and effective skincare products at affordable prices, you’re going to love Versed. The vegan and cruelty-free company’s product line – which can be found at drugstores – includes everything you need to create the perfect routine. From moisturizers to serums to cleansers, their well-curated range of products has quickly become a fan favorite.

One of the Versed products we’re most impressed with is the Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum. The anti-aging formula is the perfect option for anyone interested in trying retinol for the first time, as well as for those with sensitive skin that doesn’t tolerate stronger retinol formulations. It is made with microencapsulated retinol, which offers the benefits of this ingredient without aggravating the skin. The formula features antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients that soothe and protect the complexion.

We’re also big fans of the Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream, which is a particularly great choice for those with normal, combination or oily skin. The lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer gives the skin the hydration and moisturization it needs without leaving a greasy residue.

15. Dr. Jart+

Korean skincare brand Dr. Jart+ is known for crafting innovative products that deliver results. From sheet masks to serums and everything in between, the company offers some of the most effective skincare solutions on the market.

Customers love the brand’s Cicapair line, which includes the Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream. The sensitive-skin-friendly moisturizer is powered by Centella asiatica (tiger grass), which is joined by niacinamide and potent moisturizing ingredients. It’s made to improve the skin’s resilience and soothe irritation and redness for a comfortable and calm complexion.

Dr. Jart+ also creates some of the best sheet masks on the market. For those with dry skin that needs some extra support, we love the Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask, which is designed to replenish the skin’s moisture levels and enhance barrier health. Another mask worth highlighting is the Cryo Rubber Mask, a collagen-infused formula that plumps the skin with moisture and cools the face while reducing the look of lines.

16. Glow Recipe

If radiant skin is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with Glow Recipe. The clean skincare brand is dedicated to crafting nourishing, fruit-forward formulas made with potent actives that deliver visible results. All of the company’s products are vegan and cruelty-free, and are made without parabens, sulfates or phthalates.

One of our favorite products is the Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum. The unique product is designed to be a makeup and skincare hybrid, and is powered by watermelon, niacinamide, moringa seed oil and hyaluronic acid. It works to instantly boost the skin’s glow and brighten the complexion while reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

We recommend checking out the company’s Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask. The decadent eye cream combines retinol with avocado oil, niacinamide, caffeine, squalane and other effective ingredients that work together to firm and soften lines around the eyes while deeply moisturizing, reducing puffiness and brightening dark circles.

17. Hero Cosmetics

Hero Cosmetics is one of our favorite skincare brands for those with acne-prone skin. This is the brand behind the cult-favorite Mighty Patch, a pimple patch that pulls debris out of active blemishes to flatten pimples and speed up the healing process. The company has launched different versions of this popular pimple patch, including an invisible patch and a patch designed specifically for early-stage blemishes.

Hero Cosmetics offers plenty of other products that will keep blemish-prone complexions clear and healthy. We particularly like the Rescue Balm, which is designed to be put on pimples after they’ve flattened. It tackles redness, dryness, texture and flakes to bring the skin back to its pre-pimple state.

Additionally, we’re big fans of the company’s Lightening Wand. The brightening serum works on post-acne marks to quickly fade discoloration for a more even skin tone.

18. CeraVe

CeraVe has long been a leader in the world of drugstore skincare brands, and it continues to be one of our go-tos in 2024. The company develops its products under the guidance of dermatologists, and offers a comprehensive line of cleansers, treatments, moisturizers and more.

One of the company’s best sellers is the Hydrating Facial Cleanser, which is made for normal to dry skin. The non-comedogenic and fragrance-free cleanser is crafted with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that restore the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture to ensure the skin is left feeling soft and supple after cleansing, rather than tight and dry.

We love the brand’s PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, which is ideal for normal to oily skin. This lightweight night cream is non-comedogenic and oil-free. It’s formulated with niacinamide, ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which work together to replenish the skin’s moisture levels while soothing the complexion.

19. EltaMD

When it comes to sunscreens, EltaMD is the best in the business. The company has perfected the art of crafting formulas that don’t feel heavy on the skin. The EltaMD range features a variety of sunscreen products that work for different skin types and conditions.

EltaMD’s best-selling products include the UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, which is made specifically for skin prone to acne and rosacea. The oil-free formula protects the skin without clogging the pores. It also contains niacinamide, lactic acid and hyaluronic acid, all of which improve the overall look and feel of the skin.

Another top product is the UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44, which is a suitable option for all skin types. This is a 100% mineral sunscreen, which means it is less likely to irritate the skin compared to chemical sunscreen formulas. It’s also made with hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the skin.

20. Farmacy

Last but certainly not least is one of our favorite clean, nature-powered skincare brands. Farmacy focuses on creating formulas made with farm-sourced ingredients that nourish and support overall skin health. All products are cruelty-free, and are made without parabens, sulfates and phthalates.

The brand has plenty of popular products, including the Green Clean Cleanser and Makeup Removing Balm. Using the power of ingredients like papaya extract and sunflower and ginger root oils, this balm effectively washes away makeup, sunscreen and debris as it gently exfoliates and softens the skin.

Another well-loved product is the Honey Halo Ceramide Face Moisturizer. It is formulated with antioxidant-packed buckwheat honey, which deeply hydrates and protects the skin to promote a healthy radiance. The formula also features ingredients that plump and support barrier health, including shea butter, ceramides, vitamin E and fig fruit extract.