FJ readers share the skincare products that get them the most compliments
image via @paulaschoice/INSTAGRAM
words by daisy henry
Retinols, exfoliants and sheet masks, oh my!
The world of skincare is notoriously broad, making it difficult to know where to begin. There’s an array of cleansers, oils and serums, and that’s not to mention the niche sub-categories of LED face masks and facial massagers.
Though there’s no guarantee that what works wonders on one person’s skin will perform the same way on someone else’s, we still find ourselves wanting to know what everyone’s holy grail product is.
We like nosy people. Don’t be shy, head to our Beauty section for more.
We’re talking about that desert island item, the one that never fails to get you compliments from people eager to know your skincare secret. Perhaps it’s a retinol that has transformed your texture, or maybe it’s a face mask that never fails to perk your skin up, no matter how bad the hangover. So, we put the call out to Fashion Journal readers, asking them to reveal their all-time favourite product.
Emily*, 20, she/her
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The skincare product that gets me the most compliments is the Glossier Futuredew Oil Serum. People usually say my skin looks so glowy and fresh but I know it’s mainly because I’m wearing this product.
I first discovered this product when I was travelling in America. Glossier hadn’t come to Australia yet and I saw it when I was in Sephora. It was a little expensive to me, given the conversion rate, so I didn’t buy it. When I found out that Glossier was coming to Mecca and knew I had to finally get it. Since using the serum, I’ve noticed my skin is more hydrated and generally looks better.
Kate*, 25, she/her
Whenever I use the La Roche-Posay Uvidea Melt-In BB Cream people will tell me my skin is glowing. I have super sensitive skin and was looking for a BB cream that doesn’t oxidise orange, that would provide enough coverage and that has a good SPF. This is the absolute best and checks every box. It’s always sold out at Chemist Warehouse, so you know the girlies love it.
Tara*, 27, she/her
I swear by the Nimbus in No. 9 Essence. I was influenced by TikTok to convert my entire routine to Korean Skincare and immediately noticed the difference. My skin looks and feels visibly plump and hydrated. I noticed the fine lines under my eyes and across my forehead have significantly reduced and the essence gives me a gorgeous, healthy glow!
Sienna*, 20, she/her
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I have to credit Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and By Terry Brightening CC Serum in ‘Sunny Flash’ for reeling in the most compliments on my skin. Whenever I’m regularly using these products, my friends and family tell me I’m glowing.
I’ve been using the Paula’s Choice product since I was a teenager, it’s probably the only skincare product I’ve consistently stuck with because the results are really dramatic. It clears congestion and smooths my skin texture like nothing else. By Terry I discovered while working at Mecca years ago – its like a skincare and makeup hybrid that adds a hint of bronze and glow, in the most natural way. I mix it into my moisturiser and always get asked what’s on my face.
Last year I also got a ‘salmon sperm’ facial (Rejuran injections) which was such a painful, OTT experience but I must say, my skin was glowing and hydrated for a good six weeks after the treatment, and I got a lot of compliments on my skin.
James*, 40, he/him
I love the Ksecret Seoul 1988 Serum Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng. Honestly, this is a great beginners retinal. Gentle and effective, this Korean beauty evens my skin tone out and makes my fine lines far less visible. I’ve been using for a month and massive difference in how great my skin looks. Retinal takes time to be effective but I felt like this gave me almost instant results.
Mary, 26, she/her
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Whenever I use the Go-To Transformazing Sheet Mask, I feel like it makes a world of difference. I’ve had friends and colleagues compliment my skin and I’ve started noticing the pattern – it always happens to be when I’ve used it before an event or on a work day when I need a pick-me-up.
I’ve known of the product and brand for a while but only first started using it around six months ago. It’s $11 for one mask which feels like a treat, given the results. I have combination skin – it’s a little sensitive, a little oily, a little dry. It’s always been a point of insecurity, so when I get any comments to say it’s looking good, I get excited.
Effie*, 33, she/her
My friends have been telling me that my skin is looking really clear and I fully credit Medik8 retinal. I even get asked to show my ID now when buying a cheeky wine! I first discovered it through some humble Googling and since using it, my skin texture has become a lot more even. So many retinols are harsh and irritating but this one has been gentle, yet effective.
For more on winter skincare, try this.
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