10 Cult Skincare Items Every Insider Owns
In the world of skincare, there are some items that earn cult status. Widely used among industry insiders, these products are known for their seriously dramatic results and ability to land on the sellout list. So which are the key cult skincare products every beauty and fashion girl owns?
The most talked-about formulas have proven abilities to transform the complexion by boosting hydration, combating acne, or reversing signs of aging. Many of these you’ll even find in the beauty arsenals of celebs such as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley to Victoria Beckham. From the face moisturizer that’s backed by 30 years of stem cell research to the $10 non-drying clay face mask to the LED light that mimics in-office treatments (and more), these are the 10 must-own cult skincare products to know about now. Here, find out why they’re so popular, and then shop each of them.
Augustinus Bader Creams
What it does: A favorite of Victoria Beckham, these face moisturizers are powered by stem cell technology developed by Professor Augustinus Bader over 30 years. They've reached cult status for their ability to hydrate and resurface the skin.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum
What it does: A cocktail of pure hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-packed purslane that hydrates, firms, and smooths the skin. Used long-term, the serum prevents wrinkles caused by dehydration.
Shani Darden Texture Reform Gentle Resurfacing Serum
What it does: A gentle retinoid formula, this serum minimizes wrinkles and fades brown spots without the harsh peeling effects stronger retinol products can have.
Nécessaire The Body Lotion
What it does: A hydrating body lotion formulated using only clean ingredients and infused with marula, cacay, and meadowfoam oils to produce a healthy glow.
Rodin Olio Lusso
What it does: A hydrating face oil blended with pure botanical oils that achieve smooth, glowing skin.
Versed Photos, Please Brightening Tightening Mask
What it does: Infused with kaolin clay for exfoliation and Tumerica for brightening and evening, this non-drying face mask leaves skin smooth and glowing.
Sunday Riley Good Genes
What it does: A powerful AHA treatment fueled by lactic acid to retexture and smooth skin without any abrasive scrubbing.
Supergoop! Superscreen
What is does: A hybrid moisturizer and SPF 40 sunscreen that protects from harmful UVA and UVB rays while hydrating the skin.
Costa Brazil Kaya Jungle Firming Body Oil
What it does: This body oil helps to tone and firm skin with Kaya Oil—a powerful antioxidant harvested exclusively for the brand—plus vitamins A and E. It counts Rosie Huntington-Whiteley among its fans.
Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite Faceware Pro
What it does: An LED light–powered face mask that is supposed to mimic the effects of treatments from the dermatologist's office. Blue lights smooth wrinkles, firm skin, fade discoloration, and clear acne. Red lights stimulate collagen and elastin and reduce wrinkles, sun spots, and redness. Blue/red lights provide combination therapy.
Next, shop the under-$100 fashion finds that will earn you compliments.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
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