Confused about skincare trends? This is what you need to know

The Age

26-04-2025

This story is part of the April 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories.
Innovation in skincare generally comes in fits and starts and is often centred around breakthrough ingredients and formulas driven by scientific research. With this is mind, keep your eyes peeled for new multi-tasking products, body serums with the power of face serums, and amped-up sunscreens.
Simplicity is the buzz word for skin this year, with a shift towards minimalist routines with multi-functional products (using too many products can result in sensitivity, irritation and a disrupted skin barrier). One of our favourite newcomers in this category is Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF35 ($126), a wrinkle-smoothing SPF, eye cream and concealer in one that brightens, hydrates and protects the delicate under-eye area.
Sunscreens, always an essential part of any skincare routine, are also improving, especially their texture. According to US dermatologist Dr Mona Gohara, 'Brands are in continuous pursuit of silky, lightweight textures that feel luxurious, making them easier and more enjoyable to incorporate into skincare routines.' A good example is Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Mineral SPF 15 Moisturiser ($58), which combines moisturiser and sunscreen.
On the body front, skincare ingredients are front and centre with a technique called 'faceification' – face ingredients adapted for body application. Unilever's top product-development priorities for 2025 are focusing on this using retinols and barrier repair ingredients – try The Ordinary 0.5% Salicylic Acid Body Serum ($24). This is The Ordinary's first body-care product, and it targets dry, flaky skin and dehydration. Use an exfoliating body cleanser before applying it and follow with an antioxidant moisturiser with sunscreen, paying particular attention to exposed areas.
On the ingredient front, there's hope that exosomes (nanoparticles released by cells in the human body that carry molecules) might be able to send signals to skin cells to help repair and regenerate and improve skin texture. The jury, however, is still out on their efficacy. According to US dermatologist Dr Daniel P. Friedmann, 'Exosomes are just storage structures allowing for the transit of other molecules between cells, akin to that of shipping containers. Putting certain molecules or drugs in those 'shipping containers' does not necessarily ensure they will reach their appropriate destination.'
Barrier-repair skincare helps support the outermost layer of the skin, sealing in moisture and keeping irritants out, and is targeted specifically at eczema sufferers or those with an impaired skin barrier. If this sounds like you, try Rationale #4 The Barrier Balm ($98), but note that going overboard with these products when you don't actually have an impaired skin barrier could set you up for other concerns, such as breakouts.
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