Defining Satin Skin: Characteristics

• Smooth texture, soft to the touch
• Natural glow, highlights features
• Balance: not oily, not matte

Science Behind the Glow

• Hydration: plump skin, flattering light reflection
• Oil Balance: prevents shine without dryness
• Light Reflection: amplifies natural beauty

Essential Skincare Routine Flow

1

Gentle Cleansing

2

Regular Exfoliation

3

Consistent Moisturizing

Flawless from head to toe! Manucurist founder Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz wants you to treat your nails like your skin, and celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Hailey Bieber, Margot Robbie, and Gwyneth Paltrow have already gotten the memo. 

Not only do the lacquers come in 90+ shades to complement every look, but the vegan, plant-based formulas also take a skincare first approach to nailcare with products that plump, brighten, smooth, and protect.

“Your nails are just as sensitive as your skin,” the CEO tells ET. “Like our skin, nails are exposed to environmental stress, lifestyle habits, and daily wear. You wouldn’t apply a glowing foundation to damaged skin, and the same logic applies here.”

When it comes to nailing the perfect mani, Personnaz says prep is key.

“Always file in one direction, soften cuticles with a drop of emollient, gently buff the surface, and clean the nail plate with a mild remover. Then, apply a thin base layer, two coats of color, and a topcoat.” 

From there, use the Active treatment range for polishes that double as serums.

“You can wear them solo, but the real fun is in the layering. Apply one, two, or even three together to create different finishes, just like you would with your makeup routine. It’s nail care that plays like beauty.”

For extra shine, Personnaz reaches for the Green Flash collection for salon-level results or a trend-forward twist.

“I’m inspired by the worlds of fashion, design, art, and even travel. A nail color should spark emotion, just as a beautiful garment or a work of art would,” she shares.

Right now, it’s all about the reimagined French manicure with “micro, upside-down, multicolored and textured pearl, glazed, or glossy tips.”

Because for Personnaz, nails aren’t just an accessory, they’re a statement.

“A manicure is that little detail that changes everything. Like a great pair of shoes or a beautiful bag, it completes your look. Well-groomed nails show that you care about yourself and it gives your confidence,” she notes.

To maintain her mani, the businesswoman always keeps hydrating staples and handy tools close.

“I finish my face routine by applying the extra product to my hands and use the rose nouvelle balm to hydrate my cuticles, hands, and lips. I carry our gentle glass nail file, and whenever I travel, I bring the Complete Nail Serum with me. Before bed, I massage in some cuticle oil for soft hands by morning.”

RELATED CONTENT:

 

If your skin feels tight after cleansing (or your cleanser never seems to remove all your makeup), it may be time to skip the water. Enter dry cleansing, a gentle, oil-based method that melts away makeup and impurities without stripping your skin.

Here’s everything you need to know about this cleansing method and why it may be time to rethink the first step of your skincare routine.

What is dry cleansing?

Dry cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: applying a cleansing balm or oil directly onto dry skin as the first step of your morning and/or evening routine. Instead of activating the cleanser with water, simply massage the product straight onto your face to help break down impurities, makeup, and SPF.

This method uses “like dissolves like” chemistry—oil-based cleansers melt away oil-based impurities that traditional foaming cleansers can miss. Once you’ve massaged it in, add a bit of warm water to emulsify, then rinse (or follow with a second cleanse if you’re double cleansing).

The benefits of dry cleansing

Dry cleansing gently deep-cleans without stripping the skin’s natural barrier. Unlike harsh soaps or foaming washes that may leave that tight, squeaky feeling, balm and oil cleansers leave skin soft, nourished, and balanced.

Who it’s best for

• Dry and Sensitive Skin: Perfect for nourishing and maintaining moisture without stripping the skin.

• Normal to Combination Skin: Helps balance sebum levels while leaving skin clean and comfortable.

• Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Oil cleansers can help dissolve pore-clogging sebum and makeup residue without over-drying.

How to dry cleanse

1. Start with dry hands and skin.

2. Scoop or pump a small amount of cleansing balm or oil into your palm.

3. Gently massage it onto your face using circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.

4. Add a splash of warm water to emulsify (with many products, you’ll notice the texture turn milky).

5. Rinse thoroughly, or follow with your favorite water-based cleanser for a double-cleanse.

Dry cleansing for your skin type

Not sure where to start? Explore some of our favorite dry cleansers, organized by skin type and concern to help find your perfect match.

For dry/dehydrated skin

Dry skin needs formulas that go beyond cleansing, so opt for buttery textures and barrier-loving oils that melt makeup while locking in moisture.

For sensitive/easily irritated skin

When your skin feels reactive, soothing ingredients and minimalist formulas can make all the difference.

• Indie Lee Cleansing Balm – A skin-smoothing balm rich in plant-based oils and fatty acids that melt away makeup while calming signs of redness.

• NUDESTIX Cica Cleansing Jelly Milk – This gentle, milky cleanser combines centella asiatica (cica) and plant milks to soothe and restore balance. (Also ideal as a second cleanse.)

• MIXIK Cleansing Oil – A simple blend of blue agave and rosewater extracts that hydrates, soothes, and rinses clean without irritation or residue.

For normal/combination skin

If your skin needs balance (think hydrated but not greasy), these multitasking cleansers deliver.

For oily/acne-prone skin

Even breakout-prone skin benefits from dry cleansing, so reach for lightweight, balancing formulas that remove oil and buildup without clogging pores.

Sunday Riley Blue Moon Clean-Rinse Cleansing Balm – This balm-to-milk cleanser is formulated with blue tansy, cocoa butter, and essential oils to gently clarify congested skin.

The Korean approach to treating anything, from acne to fine lines, always focuses on hydrating, calming ingredients, and respecting the skin barrier. For that reason, you can often find active ingredients like niacinamide, green tea, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) in Korean beauty products, Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York City’s Union Square Dermatology, previously told Allure.

If this all sounds appealing to you, you’re not alone. Korean skin-care brands have long upped the standards for the global beauty industry—and if we’re being honest, our standards as well. Double-cleansing has forever changed our skin (and the state of our pores), and Korean sunscreen formulas are second to none. Get comfortable because we gathered the most innovative, price-efficient, and all-around best Korean skin-care products to incorporate into your routine. Ready for glass-like skin? Dive right in.

Best Cleansing Oil: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil

Why it’s worth it: The Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil is a must-try for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleanse with naturally derived ingredients. Made with 14 nourishing plant oils (including soybean, jojoba, argan, and sunflower), it delivers a boost of hydration while effortlessly dissolving stubborn waterproof makeup. The lightweight formula emulsifies beautifully, gliding across your skin and gently removing makeup, even around delicate areas like the eyes.

Best Cleansing Balm: Dr.Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

Why it’s worth it: Why dip your fingers into a pot of product when you can buy Dr.Althea’s Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm, which features one of our favorite dispensers, possibly ever? It twists up, “shaving” the balm into petal-like sheets, so you can easily keep track of how much you’re actually using. Design aside, our editors love that this sensitive-skin-friendly formula is soothing, thanks to madecassoside and Centella asiatica extract (cica).

Best Foaming Cleanser: Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: Once you’ve used an oil-based cleanser to break down oil-based products, follow with a water-based formula, such as Etude House’s ultra-gentle SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser. The entire Soon Jung line is formulated to have a pH of 6.5, a touch more basic than our skin’s natural pH of 5.5. This prevents skin from feeling tight, stripped, or otherwise uncomfortable. Bonus: This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic foam also contains madecassoside (derived from cica) to repair skin damage and panthenol for deep hydration.

Best Gel Cleanser: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: For a cleanser that suits the needs of combination, oily, and acne-prone skin, you can’t go wrong with Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser. Tea tree oil and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) dive into pores, sweeping away pollutants, dirt, and oil for a deeper cleanse—ultimately, your skin will feel softer and smoother. Primrose oil balances exfoliation with hydration, so your skin is prepped for your subsequent products. And fear not about stripping your skin because this cleanser’s pH hovers around 5.3 to 6.3.

Best Powder Cleanser: Tirtir Hydro Boost Enzyme Powder Wash

Why it’s worth it: Enzymes exfoliate your skin by dissolving dead skin cells—but only on the surface level, so there’s less potential for irritation. Tirtir’s travel-friendly Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder, infused with enzymes, probiotics, and mild PHA, is a dry powder that activates when you wet it. Formulated as a true cleanser (not a face scrub), it foams into a milky cleanser with just a few drops of water. Rice extract and probiotics help keep your skin moisturized, and while it’s designed to clear buildup and refine pores, it does so with especially gentle ingredients that work for a wide range of skin types.

Best Hydrating Toner: I’m From Rice Toner

Why we love it: Sourced from the brown outer layer of rice, the star ingredient in I’m From Rice Toner (rice extract) provides long-lasting hydration and softens skin to pillowy-soft levels. Antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid protect against environmental damage and stabilize other ingredients, while adenosine supports skin repair and barrier health, and niacinamide perks up your complexion. All skin types can benefit from this ultra-lightweight toner, day and night.

Best Exfoliating Toner: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

Why it’s worth it: Toner pads are ubiquitous in Korean skin care. They’re easy to use, pack a concentrated amount of actives, and can double as a sheet mask—what’s not to love? Innisfree’s Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads star, as you can guess, retinol and salicylic acid, to sweep away pore-clogging debris and even out texture. The key, however, is the green tea soothing complex, cica, and allantoin, which minimize irritation and strengthen your barrier. To put it simply, these swipe-and-go pads strike the ideal balance between exfoliation and hydration.

Best Essence: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Why it’s worth it: A Korean beauty best-seller that’s all over your FYP and actually worth the hype it’s garnered? That’s Cosrx’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. This mega-hydrator is chock-full of, you guessed it, snail mucin to soothe blemishes, brighten acne scars, and even out hyperpigmentation. While the gooey stuff accounts for 96% of the formula, you’ll also find hyaluronic acid and allantoin to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, making it a great option if you’re after the glass-skin look.

Best Vitamin C Serum: Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum

Why it’s worth it: Vitamin C has long been considered one of the gold-standard ingredients for brightening, as it decreases melanin formation, and subsequently, dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Dr. Althea is a rising star in the K-beauty world, and no product encompasses that as well as the Vitamin C Boosting Serum. (Okay, fine, the 365 Relief Cream is super popular, too.) This silky serum harnesses the power of Hippophae rhamnoides water (63%), otherwise known as sea buckthorn, which is rich in vitamin C—and extra gentle, to boot. But, if you’re extremely weary of the active, Dr. Althea offers a Gentle Vitamin C Serum with 20% Hippophae rhamnoides water. Also in the mix is 2% tranexamic acid, which is another rockstar ingredient for fading dark spots. TL;DR: Brighter, more even-toned skin ahead.

Best Hydrating Serum: Torriden Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Why it’s worth it: Nothing makes a splash quite like Torriden’s popular Dive In Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is as refreshing and hydrating as its name implies. It goes all-out with not one, not two, but five molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid—each of which can reach a different layer of skin to plump and smooth it from the inside out. Its watery texture doesn’t leave any residue, making it a seamless step ahead of moisturizer, not to mention great for layering with other serums.

Best Retinol Serum: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum

Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking to start retinol, the gold-standard ingredient for speeding skin cell turnover and boosting collagen production, but are worried about irritating side effects, we’ve got you. Despite the stacked retinoid lineup, Iope’s Retinol Super Bounce Serum—which is inspired by radio frequency treatments—is extremely gentle because it incorporates encapsulated, time-released retinol as well as granactive retinoid, which doesn’t need to undergo conversions, thus reducing irritation. Additionally, squalane, shea butter, cypress leaf, and lactobacillus ferment lysate act as buffers against irritation and flaking, helping to strengthen your barrier. The result is a dream for people who want to guard their skin against signs of aging.

Best Post-Procedure Serum: Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule

Why it’s worth it: Forget plant stem cells. The primary active ingredient in Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule is a growth factor derived from wild salmon, says Julie Chung, MD, cofounder of T3 Micro and board-certified ophthalmologist at Advanced Vision Care in Los Angeles, California, who notes that it’s all the rage in Korea right now. “It can be injected into the skin, but is also thought to be effective topically. It increases skin elasticity, decreases wrinkles, and improves hydration,” Dr. Chung says. “I’ve been using this product for about three weeks now and do feel that my skin is now quite supple—but time will tell if it actually makes my face look more lifted!”

Best Ampoule: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule

Why it’s worth it: Skin1004 brings the powers of Centella asiatica straight from the island of Madagascar to your skin-care routine. The Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule is packed with soothing cica to calm and repair your skin, plus probiotics to strengthen your barrier, ceramides to drench your skin in hydration, and peptides to keep things firm and bouncy. It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and perfect for tackling redness, dryness, dullness, and acne, as contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai attests below.

Best Body Wash: Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Body Cleanser

Why it’s worth it: This isn’t just any body wash—Some By Mi’s AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Body Cleanser is formulated with salicylic, mandelic, and citric acids to unclog pores and smooth uneven texture—ideal for anyone who deals with annoying body acne. While it sounds harsh, given the trifecta of acids involved, it’s surprisingly gentle—a calming trio of tea tree extract, eucalyptus, and truecica minimizes irritation. The same ingredients lend themselves to a refreshing, spa-like herbal scent. To sum it up, this is a necessary addition to your everything shower.

Best Body Lotion: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

Why it’s worth it: If Illiyon isn’t already on your radar, allow this all-purpose formula to be your introduction to one of Korea’s top body-care brands. The Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream provides even the most sensitive skin with moisture and irritation relief. The decadent nourishing cream contains barrier-repairing ceramides to help keep your skin feeling hydrated all day long, says board-certified dermatologist Yunyoung Claire Chang, MD. “As we mature, our skin’s ceramide level decreases, so it’s important to replace this [loss] with ceramide-containing skin-care products,” she adds. We also love how you can choose from several sizes, including a travel-friendly tube and a hefty tub.

Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb

Why it’s worth it: An intensely soothing formula that’s perfect for sensitive skin, Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb is powered by a blend of inflammation-fighting tiger grass, oat kernel extract, and comfrey leaf. It provides an instant burst of coolness upon application, but the benefits of skin-plumping glycerin and squalane last for the entire day. This gel-like cream feels like a refreshing drink that skin slurps up, making it great for year-round use, but especially during warmer weather. “During the summer, The True Cream Aqua Bomb’s consistency is a hydrating, lightweight dream come true,” reports one tester. “The gel-like formula absorbs in seconds, leaving skin feeling instantly refreshed.”

Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin: Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream

Why it’s worth it: Sulwhasoo’s Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream contains a proprietary Ginsenomics blend, which features ginseng in the form of saponin, peptides, roots, and flowers to visibly hydrate and lift skin. For the unfamiliar, ginseng is a do-it-all ingredient that addresses fine lines and wrinkles by boosting circulation, which then ramps up collagen synthesis, leading to firmer, plumper skin. Ginseng also guards your skin against environmental stressors like free radicals that could lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as dark spot-causing pollutants, as explained by New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD.

Best Retinol Eye Cream: Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal

Why it’s worth it: One of the buzziest K-beauty products, full-stop, is Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Eye Cream Ginseng + Retinal, whose fans include board-certified dermatologist Hee Jin Koh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Jersey, and cosmetic chemist Ramón Pagán. “I love the ultra-nourishing and soothing formula with the added (gentle) kick of retinal,” Pagán tells Allure. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginseng help minimize puffiness, while liposome-encapsulated (and therefore stabilized) retinal brightens and smooths. According to Dr. Koh, retinal “only requires a one-step conversion to the active form of retinoic acid, unlike retinol, which requires a two-step conversion.” In other words, it’s more effective and less irritating than your traditional retinol.

When it comes to hydration, two ingredients often stand out in skincare: squalane and hyaluronic acid. While both are known for boosting moisture, they work in different ways. Here’s a breakdown of how they compare—and why you may want to use them together.

What is squalane?

Squalane (with an “a”) is a stable, lightweight oil lab-derived from squalene, a lipid our skin naturally produces. As we age, our natural squalene production decreases, leading to drier skin. Squalane mimics this natural sebum, making it an ingredient the skin easily recognizes and absorbs.

---

Squalane is an emollient, and works by creating a lightweight barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It doesn’t necessarily hydrate the skin; it locks in the moisture that is already there. It’s non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, but typically best for dry, mature, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a major component of the skin’s structure and is responsible for its plump, hydrated appearance. Just like squalane, our skin produces less hyaluronic acid as we age.

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, and works like a sponge, attracting and holding onto water molecules and pulling them into the skin. A single gram can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It deeply hydrates and plumps the skin, and delivers a major hydration boost when applied to damp skin.

How are the ingredients different?

While both squalane and hyaluronic acid provide moisture, they work differently. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant and draws water into the skin, while squalane is an emollient, which means that it acts as a barrier and traps moisture in the skin. Think of hyaluronic acid as a drink of water, while squalane is the bottle cap that keeps the water from evaporating.

---

Different skin types can also benefit from each ingredient. Because of its light texture, hyaluronic acid works best on oily and acne-prone skin, while squalane is especially effective for drier skin types.

How can squalane and hyaluronic acid be incorporated into a skincare routine?

Good news: you can incorporate these hydration heroes into practically any step of your routine. From serums to moisturizers, here are some of the best ways to incorporate each.

Squalane

Squalane can typically be found in facial oils, creams, and treatments that deliver long-lasting nourishment.

Try:

---

Hyaluronic Acid

You’ll often find this powerful humectant in cleansers, serums, and elixirs that deliver hydration at different stages of your routine.

Try:

Can you combine squalane and hyaluronic acid in one routine?

As well as these ingredients work on their own, they’re even better together. For the most effective results, use a hyaluronic acid serum or elixir first to flood skin with hydration (remember to apply to damp skin!), then follow with a squalane oil or cream to lock it in.

Abs-olutely flawless! Michelle Monaghan wasn’t just showing off her signature glow on Sept. 9 — she was spilling all her workout and wellness tips to ET while celebrating the launch of U Beauty’s SMOOTH Dynamic Wrinkle Defense Serum at The Hole in Los Angeles, California.

The 49-year-old actress stole the show in season 3 of The White Lotus and fans couldn’t stop talking about her performance, toned abs, and flawless skin.

So, how does she keep her body strong and her skin radiant? It all starts with hydration.

“I drink a lot of water, and I like staying hydrated. It makes me feel good from the inside out. … I start with lemon water in the morning, and I think that’s really critical. I like that it flushes and detoxifies my system,” she shared.

From there, it’s straight to her skincare regimen, with her U Beauty staples front and center.

“I previously had concerns with my skin that predominantly revolved around sun damage, like hyperpigmentation and some dark spots. I started to use the Resurfacing Compound and saw incredible results within about a week. Now that I’ve incorporated the SMOOTH Dynamic Wrinkle Serum, my skin has never looked better or healthier.”

But the luminous skin isn’t just about what’s in her beauty cabinet. The Mission Impossible star also credits movement and mindfulness.

“I exercise almost daily, and I meditate as well. It helps me have a calm, focused nervous system, and that makes me look and feel beautiful.”

Her fitness formula? “I do two days of strength training a week and Pilates a few times a week. That’s been tried and true for me. I love mixing strength training with flexibility and the breath work that’s incorporated into the Pilates.”

And the benefits go beyond sculpted abs.

“I feel like my best self after a workout. I feel really strong mentally and physically and I’ve got great endorphins going,” the Iowa native noted.

When it’s time to wind down after the grind, Monaghan swears by a simple massage before prioritizing her number one beauty secret: sleep.

“I was taught lymphatic massage techniques by a couple of different facialists, and the benefits are incredible, especially under your clavicle. It really helps take out inflammation and depuffs certain areas of your body.”

Then, it’s light’s out (and early.)

“Sleep is king in my house. It’s something I really value because I know how good it makes me feel and look when I’m well rested. It’s tricky, but I typically go to bed at around 8:30 or 9 p.m. If I can get a solid nine hours in, I’m winning at life,” she laughed.

Of course, her weekends come with a cozy twist.

“I’m an early riser and a morning person, but I love a Saturday or Sunday wake up where I get to stay in bed, pull back the curtains, and drink coffee while hanging out with my husband and hearing our kids walk around the house. That makes me feel really good, comforted, and calm.”

RELATED CONTENT:

 

Everybody wants this glow! Leighton Meester and Adam Brody turned heads at the 2025 Emmy Awards at Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California on Sept. 14, and ahead of hitting the red carpet, the couple indulged in pre-show rituals that set the tone for the night. 

Celebrity makeup artist Bethany McCarty and groomer Kim Verbeck spilled all the behind-the-scenes details on the pair’s prep with ET, which was equal parts fun and equal parts glam.

Before the actor, 45, and actress, 39, slipped into their coordinating Prada ensembles, with Brody in a pale blue suit and Meester in a baby pink gown, the beauty pros perfected radiant looks for the duo.

“With Leighton, we used the Bubble cleanser, layered serums, cream, and eye cream for a fresh, dewy base,” McCarty explains. “If we have time, I’ll do some light lymphatic drainage massage while applying cream to de-puff and wake up circulation. If not, I keep the application gentle but intentional.”

For The O.C. star, the approach was just as thoughtful. “I always like to start with the cleanest skin possible and then move into the most moisturized,” Verbeck shares. “After applying the Enhanse Super Moisture, I use a couple massage techniques to get rid of tension and add some lymphatic drainage.”

Their meticulous pre-show routines ensured both shined on and off camera while they celebrated Brody’s Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series nomination for his portrayal of Noah Roklov on Nobody Wants This.

“Good skin prep is everything. It keeps makeup seamless, fresh, and youthful without any heaviness or creasing,” McCarty says. “The better the skin looks, the less makeup you need.”

Verbeck adds, “The entire grooming process is usually around 30-40 minutes and ultimately, I get the skin to a matte finish for the event.”

Once their luminous skin was set, the Gossip Girl star went on to fully embrace a retro prom aesthetic.

“Leighton’s ’60s inspired gown alongside Adam’s tux led us to a classic cat eye, rosy cheeks, a matte lip, a hint of shimmer to echo her dress, and a soft nod to Brigitte Bardot with her hair,” McCarty shares.

And the energy in the room was just as vibrant as their get-ups.

“It’s always a fun vibe with our whole crew,” Verbeck dishes. “There’s always music playing and we’re all making each other laugh and having good conversation.”

McCarty continues, “It honestly feels like playing dress-up with a friend. We have at least one major laughing attack, catch up about life and our kids, and just have fun.”

RELATED CONTENT:

Once upon a time, bar soap was considered more practical than pampering (think waxy hotel minis or squeaky-clean blocks that you dreaded using as a kid). But the best exfoliating bar soaps are rewriting the story in our skin-care routines. Today’s versions don’t just cleanse; they polish dullness and refine texture, leaving skin soft, smooth, and refreshed, and can even address issues like keratosis pilaris and ingrown hairs. Better yet, their solid, plastic-free format makes them a sustainable, travel-friendly upgrade from bulky body washes. And when it comes to formulas, forget the harsh, scratchy scrubs of the past—these bars are powered by strategic ingredients like salicylic acid or finely milled natural particles that gently buff away dead cells without leaving skin tight or raw.

Our Top Exfoliating Bar Soaps

The key is in how you use them. “Exfoliating bar soap is used the same way you would a regular bar soap, but don’t be too aggressive in scrubbing since the bar soap is doing most of the heavy lifting,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. In short, getting smooth, polished skin doesn’t have to feel like an arm workout as these bars do the work for you. Ahead, the best derm-approved options that buff, brighten, and make your skin feel like silk.

Best Overall: Soft Services Green Banana Buffing Bar

Why it’s worth it: This isn’t your everyday cleansing bar—and it’s not trying to be. The Soft Services Buffing Bar is made for stubborn skin issues that your regular body wash may not address, including rough patches, bumps, keratosis pilaris, and even ingrown hairs. With superfine sanding crystals blended into a moisturizing base, it physically buffs away uneven texture, leaving the skin feeling silky-smooth. “This bar is for the person who wants to have a deep, strong, and intense exfoliating experience,” says Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona. It’s not the best pick for sensitive skin, but if you can handle it, expect seriously polished results.

P.S. The Buffing Bar is also available in Affogato L’Orange and the original blue, if you want a more subtle scent.

Best for Keratosis Pilaris: Glossier Body Hero Exfoliating Bar

Why it’s worth it: We could spot Glossier’s signature millennial pink from a mile away—and their Body Hero Exfoliating Bar is just as fun to use as it is to look at. Instead of overly scratchy scrubs, it’s packed with finely milled bamboo powder and sunflower seed oil beads that slough away dead skin without irritation. The creamy lather is boosted with “aloe and sunflower oil to help lock in moisture and keep your skin barrier happy,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami. And while it leaves skin soft and glowing straight out of the shower, the real treat is the lingering scent, with fresh, sparkling hints of pear, mandarin, and cypress.

Best for Dry Skin: Flamingo Estate Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick

Why it’s worth it: Unlike many gritty scrubs, Flamingo Estate’s Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick relies on natural exfoliants, like round poppy seeds, instead of jagged particles, so it buffs away dead skin without causing microtears. “Peppermint’s cool, tingly scent perks you right up, French blue clay draws out impurities, and Big Sur sea salt helps the poppy seeds with exfoliation,” says Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Thousand Oaks, California. Thanks to its oversized shape, this soap brick is easy to grip and impressively long-lasting compared to the average bar.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Topicals Slather Exfoliating & Smoothing Bar

Why it’s worth it: If you were obsessed with the 2024 Best of Beauty Award–winning Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, you’re going to love its shower-ready twin. The Slather Exfoliating & Smoothing Bar pairs biodegradable exfoliating particles with retinol and lactic acid to smooth rough patches, fade bumps, and help prevent future breakouts. Just like in a serum, the retinol in this bar speeds up cell turnover to reveal brighter, clearer skin, and helps even out tone and texture with consistent use. And because exfoliation can sometimes be harsh on sensitive skin, lavandin oil and squalane step in to calm and hydrate. Your skin gets that fresh, deep clean right out of the shower—and with every use, the glow only builds.

Best Drugstore: CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin

Why it’s worth it: Dermatologists often point to the CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin as a reliable choice for tackling texture issues. “This exfoliating body soap has some of the best support behind it as it is dermatologist-formulated, which helps ensure there is a unique blend that both supports the skin barrier and effectively exfoliates,” says Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. It combines salicylic acid to slough off rough skin and reduce keratin buildup with jojoba beads for gentle physical exfoliation, making it especially helpful for conditions such as keratosis pilaris or acne. Bottom line: If you want smoother skin without the irritation, this bar’s got you.

Best for Brightening: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliant Bar

Why it’s worth it: Formulated with 2% upcycled wood pulp, the Nécessaire Body Exfoliant Bar gently buffs away dead skin cells with eco-friendly, finely milled plant fibers that polish without the scratchiness of harsher scrubs. “This exfoliating bar is perfect for those looking to address any skin texture issues,” says Dr. Chacon. Beyond exfoliation, it’s powered by niacinamide to help brighten and even skin tone, as well as ceramides and glycerin to strengthen the skin barrier and draw in hydration. Nourishing oils like cacay and meadowfoam keep skin soft and supple. “I love that this product is fragrance-free and sulfate-free, so it’s suitable for sensitive skin,” she adds. No wonder this bestseller picked up a 2023 Best of Beauty Award for its skin-smoothing results.

Best for Acne: Carbon Theory Salicylic Acid & Shea Butter Exfoliating Cleansing Bar

Why it’s worth it: Who knew a humble bar of soap could earn such a loyal fan base? Carbon Theory’s Salicylic Acid & Shea Butter Exfoliating Cleansing Bar goes beyond basic cleansing, doubling as an active treatment that helps keep skin clearer, smoother, and more balanced. “This is a great bar that has 1.8% salicylic acid, which exfoliates while unclogging pores that lead to breakouts,” says Dr. Bittar. If gritty scrubs typically leave your skin irritated, this chemical exfoliating bar takes a gentler approach by pairing chemical exfoliants with nourishing moisturizers, such as shea butter, to keep your skin soft, soothed, and balanced.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you use an exfoliating bar soap differently from regular bar soaps?

You’ll still lather an exfoliating body bar in your hands or on a washcloth like a regular soap, but it pays to use a gentler touch. Since these bars contain actives like salicylic acid—or even physical exfoliators—you don’t need to lather aggressively. “As these soaps have exfoliating agents, excess scrubbing can really irritate the skin,” says Dr. Safaee. Instead, massage the lather lightly onto damp skin, let it sit for a minute for the ingredients to sink in, then rinse. Most dermatologists recommend incorporating it into your body-care routine a couple of times a week, adjusting as your skin tolerates it. “If you overuse it, it can break down the skin barrier and exacerbate dryness and redness,” Dr. Safaee adds. And remember—not every bar is a cleanser, too; some, like the Soft Services Buffing Bar, are designed strictly for exfoliation.

How are exfoliating bar soaps better than exfoliating body washes?

Exfoliating soap bars and body washes can both smooth skin, but they work a little differently. “One major difference is that the body wash is usually formulated with other moisturizing agents and emollients and uses only chemical exfoliators like AHAs rather than particles found in soap. This allows a more suitable option for those with sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Safaee. By contrast, the bar soap often includes gritty particles, which are used as physical exfoliators, and so “these are best suited for thicker skin areas such as the elbows and heels and for the upper arms when treating keratosis pilaris,” she adds. Bar soaps are generally travel-friendly and longer-lasting, but can be slightly harsher on the skin depending on the formula, according to our derms. To keep irritation at bay, follow up with a soothing body lotion to support your skin barrier.

Meet the experts

• Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute, based in Miami
• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami
• Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology, based in Thousand Oaks, California
• Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Los Angeles
• Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology, based in Scottsdale, Arizona

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

If you’re chasing that youthful glow but cringe at the thought of needles or lasers, your answer might be as easy as adding one of the best growth-factor serums to your routine. But for the uninitiated, what are growth factors? “Growth factors are proteins that play an important role in stimulating cell growth, regeneration, and healing,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. “In skin care, they’re typically used to encourage cell turnover and collagen production, and may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.”

Growth factor serums are also a well-researched and highly effective addition to modern skin care, according to Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, NY, and Newport Beach, CA. “Clinical trials have demonstrated their ability to improve skin firmness, hydration, and elasticity,” she says. However, as with all serums, not all growth-factor serums are created equal. “Some might have low concentrations of active ingredients or poorly formulated bases that interfere with effective absorption,” says Dr. Amin. And since most growth factor serums don’t come cheap, wasting money on an underperforming product is far from ideal. So, let’s cut to the chase.

Our Top Growth Factor Serums

Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Why we love it: A routine Best of Beauty award winner, SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is a growth-factor OG that set the standard long before it became a buzzword. If you’re wondering, TNS stands for tissue nutrient solution, a nod to its star ingredient: human fibroblast conditioned media. This serum supplies the skin with growth factors to improve the appearance of fine lines, coarse wrinkles, skin tone, and texture. “SkinMedica received the patent in 2000 for the first cosmetic product with growth factors. Numerous clinical studies have since backed TNS growth factors,” explains Dr. Amin. “It’s one of the most clinically supported growth-factor serums on the market, offering firmer-looking skin in as little as two weeks,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.

Best for Mature Skin: PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal

Why we love it: Some days call for a multistep routine in the name of self-care. Other days, you just want results—fast. PCA SKIN Pro-Max Age Renewal is your shortcut to firmer, bouncier skin powered by growth factor-mimicking peptides. Unlike traditional growth factors, which can be unstable and struggle to penetrate the skin, these peptides are smaller, more stable, and shown to stimulate collagen and elastin. “This serum is formulated to penetrate more deeply to trigger collagen production, while micro-algae deliver instant firming and kangaroo paw flower smooths texture,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York. In other words, it supports the very cells responsible for firmness and elasticity, so skin looks tighter, plumper, and smoother over time.

Best for Dry Skin: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

Why we love it: If firmer, smoother skin is on your vision board, Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum turns goals into results. Infused with a growth factor complex, peptides, and moisturizing lipids, “this non-comedogenic anti-aging serum is designed for those who want to target wrinkles and a loss of skin volume and firmness,” says Dr. Camp. Plus, that means that beyond lifting and firming, it helps improve elasticity, restores hydration, and strengthens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion looking more resilient and refreshed.

Best Splurge: Angela Caglia Cell Forté Serum

Why we love it: You could juggle four different serums, or you could use one that works as hard as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides combined. Angela Caglia’s Cell Forté Serum uses the brand’s proprietary BIOMSC technology to pack serious multitasking power into a single bottle. This serum is made with human conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells, so it’s packed with growth factors to boost collagen and cell turnover, exosomes to help skin cells ‘communicate’ with each other, and cytokines to calm inflammation and support repair, according to Dr. Camp. In layman’s terms, it smooths fine lines, brightens tone, and boosts elasticity. Plus, it deeply hydrates thanks also to tremella mushroom, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and Bacillus ferment that also helps support a healthy skin barrier. In short, it’s a serum that really does the most.

Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum

Why we love it: If you’re looking for the latest clean technology, The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum bottled it up. “In addition to plant-derived peptide EGF to target hyperpigmentation, this serum also brightens the skin with 15% vitamin C,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. Designed for use in the morning, the salve has a lightweight feel and sinks quickly into the skin—be sure to layer SPF on top. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can boost the efficacy of your everyday sunscreen, though it can’t stand in for sunscreen on its own. The best part is that “while most epidermal growth factor (EGF) serums are over $100, this one is less than $20,” he says.

Best Sensitive Skin: Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum

Why we love it: While some serums just moisturize, Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum actually changes the way your skin looks and feels. “This product focuses on plumping the skin and producing a youthful appearance,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, who notes that it works for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With plant- and enzyme-derived growth factors, collagen-boosting peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it helps smooth fine lines and improve elasticity. “The product also helps uneven tone,” Dr. Goldenberg adds. When it comes to targeting aging prevention, it’s an overachiever in every sense.

Best for Uneven Texture: Neocutis Bio Serum Firm

Why we love it: Growth factors work like keys, unlocking receptors on skin cells to activate processes like collagen and elastin production, cell growth, and improved blood flow. “When the key clicks into the lock, it activates the cell to do things, like grow and divide, make more collagen and elastin, or increase blood flow,” Gail Naughton, a regenerative medicine researcher and growth-factor formulator, previously told Allure. That’s exactly what makes the Neocutis Bio Serum Firm so effective. With a formulation that combines human growth factors, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it targets fine lines, wrinkles, texture, brightness, firmness, and elasticity. “These key ingredients reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, refine texture, brighten skin, and improve firmness and elasticity,” says Dr. Camp.

Best Brightening: Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma Bioactive Growth Factor Serum

Why we love it: Dr. Jason B. Diamond, a Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon, created the Metacine collection as a take-home version of his famous Diamond InstaFacial—a treatment beloved by the Kardashian sisters and Alex Cooper of Call Her Daddy. While the in-office facial uses lasers, microneedling, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to tighten skin, the Metacine system delivers similar effects with two products: plasma and emulsion. Plasma features bioidentical human growth factors to boost skin regeneration, while Emulsion, with retinoids, accelerates cell renewal. Designed over five years with rigorous testing, the celebrity-approved formula has even earned Kate Hudson’s stamp of approval as “dreamy and creamy.”

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Do growth-factor serums really work?

“Data suggest that well-formulated, high-quality growth factor serums can deliver measurable benefits,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “With consistent use, these serums can lead to noticeable improvements in overall skin quality, making them a valuable tool in skin care.” Alas, they don’t work overnight. “Like any skin-care product, growth-factor serums should be used for at least two to three months before you can accurately decide if they are effective—or not—for your specific skin concern,” says Dr. Camp. “Consistency is key in treating the skin with a new active ingredient, such as a growth factor.”

According to Dr. Amin, “It is also important to note that not everyone will respond the same way to these serums, and factors like genetics, lifestyle, and diet can influence the outcome.”

Is growth factor better than retinol?

“Growth-factor serums stimulate the skin’s natural cellular repair processes, promoting rejuvenation with minimal irritation, making them a great option for sensitive or reactive skin types,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “However, they tend to be quite expensive. Retinol, derived from vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Unlike growth factors, retinol often causes skin irritation and requires a gradual introduction into your routine. Both can support skin hydration and are powerful tools for addressing signs of aging, but their best use depends on your skin’s needs and tolerance.”

According to Dr. Amin, the decision to use retinol or growth factor depends on what you’re looking for in a skin-care routine. “For improving skin texture, retinol may be more effective in the long term due to its ability to promote cell turnover and collagen production,” she says. “Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of retinol and retinoids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. For very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinol, growth factors may be more suitable, especially if you’re looking for something less likely to cause irritation.”

Meet the experts

• Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
• Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology, based in New York City
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago
• Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and Newport Beach, California

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best growth factor skin-care products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.