The best (and trendiest) skin care products of 2025, according to dermatologists
Best skin care quick picks
An affordable face wash: CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
A hydrating toner: Rhode Glazing Milk
A brightening serum: Cetaphil Vitamin C Serum
A skin barrier-boosting moisturizer: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
An anti-aging LED mask: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask Series 2 The New Year is officially in full swing, and you know what that means: It's time to talk about the best skin care products of 2025. (What can we say — New Year, same us!) But which formulas are actually worth investing in? And what skin care trends should you leave behind? We consulted several board-certified dermatologists for their expert insights on the matter so you don't have to navigate it alone. Without further ado, find the top products our experts recommend and swear by, plus what they predict for the future of beauty in 2025.
Less is more
Skin care minimalism is the overarching theme this year according to several of our experts. 'The 'skinimalism' movement appears to be evolving beyond just using fewer products — consumers are increasingly seeking evidence-based formulations that serve multiple purposes,' says Dr. Pooja Rambhia, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. 'For instance, products combining niacinamide with ceramides are gaining attention for their dual benefit approach. This reflects a broader shift toward viewing skin care as an investment in skin health rather than a collection of products.'
Dr. Robert Finney, a board-certified dermatologist and hair loss expert based in NYC, agrees. 'The number of steps in people's routines is getting out of hand,' he says. 'Fewer products leads to less waste, happier skin and more time to focus on things that are not skin care related.'
Biotech-powered formulas
No surprise here: Science-backed skin care is still going strong in 2025. 'I believe that we will continue to see growth in biomimetic ingredients and science-backed formulas, which have been popular for the past several years,' says Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist and surgeon based in New York City. 'Advancements in science, technology and research are allowing us to achieve incredible innovation in beauty, with new and more efficacious ways of delivering ingredients and working with our body's own reparative abilities.'
Full body care
'More of the spotlight will definitely be body-focused in 2025,' Finney says. 'Even in the last few years, more products targeted not just for your face have come out.' One of his favorites is Versed's Press Restart Gentle Body Retinol Lotion. 'It's cheap and effective at giving the rest of your skin a collagen boost and also has the added benefit of helping with hyperpigmentation from body acne and smoothing out the pesky bumps that most of us have on our arms and legs.'
CleansersDermablend Prebiotic Gentle Foaming Cleanser
If you've been on the hunt for a soothing but highly effective face wash, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick can't recommend this formula enough. 'This gentle cleanser is infused with inulin, a nutrient from chicory root, along with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and prevent dryness of the skin,' she says. 'Additionally, it works really well at removing makeup.'
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Another favorite from Garshick is this skin-calming cleanser from La Roche-Posay. 'This gentle, hydrating face wash contains niacinamide and ceramides to cleanse without stripping moisture from the skin,' Garshick says. 'It's ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive complexions as it helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier.'
Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser
'This cleanser has been one of my personal go-tos for a long time,' Engelman says of Epionce's multiple award-winning formula. 'It effectively removes makeup, buildup and impurities all while calming the skin, and I like that my skin doesn't feel dry or stripped after using it.'
Paula's Choice Calm Ultra-Gentle Cleanser
Double board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon Dr. Renata Khelemsky specifically recommends this cleanser to her patients with sensitive, reaction-prone skin. 'It supports the skin's barrier and contains soothing ingredients like glycerin, triglycerides and prebiotic sugars,' she says. 'It's a great choice for those who need a gentle, effective cleanser that prioritizes skin hydration.'
CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
This cult-classic from CeraVe is beloved by derms for a reason. 'Perfect for all skin types, this cleanser starts as a cream and transforms into a gentle foam that effectively removes makeup and dirt without stripping moisture,' says Rambhia. 'It's packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to support the skin barrier while hydrating.'
Anua Rice Enzyme Brightening Cleansing Powder
This viral Korean cleanser comes highly recommended by London-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sina Ghadiri. 'It shines for its versatility and innovative use of rice enzyme extract to target dull skin and uneven texture,' he says. Additionally, it contains soothing ceramides and is fragrance-free, making it ideal for most skin types including sensitive.
Dr. Idriss Soft Wash Jelly Cleanser
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss created this unique milky gel cleanser for all skin types — even those who typically can't tolerate traditional gel formulations. 'It's a gentle, hydrating cleanser that gets rid of all your makeup in one go,' she says. 'The best part? It's non-irritating for your face and eyes, so you can really get in there to remove your mascara, eliminating the need for a second cleanse.' TonersEltaMD Recovery Essence Face Toner
'This is an excellent toner for restoring the skin's barrier,' says Khelemsky. 'It combines amino acids and a copper-containing malachite extract to support cellular repair from environmental stressors and, in my experience, it's particularly beneficial for patients with dry or sensitive skin as it also provides noticeable hydration.'
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
Another top recommendation from Engelman is this powerhouse exfoliating toner from Biologique Recherche. 'I love and have been using it for a long time because it gently brightens and improves skin texture with niacinamide, AHAs and PHAs,' she says. 'It also helps maintain the optimal pH of the skin's acid mantle for a calmer and healthier barrier.'
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
Ghadiri raves about this affordable glycolic acid-packed option from The Ordinary. 'It has to be one of the most versatile and cost-effective products out there, serving as an excellent pre-treatment with a variety of uses,' he says. 'It works as a mild facial exfoliator and toner, and is also great at treating armpit odor and enhancing scalp renewal.'
Rhode Glazing Milk
'This is taking social media by storm, and for good reason,' says Mississippi-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky. 'It's a lightweight, milky texture that leaves the skin looking hydrated, plump and dewy.' Ideal for all skin types, it contains a nourishing blend of ceramides, magnesium, zinc and copper — all of which aid in reducing redness over time. ExfoliatorsFirst Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
Garshick suggests giving these bestselling exfoliating pads from First Aid Beauty a shot if you're in the market for a gentle exfoliant. 'Containing a combination of lactic and glycolic acids, these exfoliating peel pads are easy to use and leave the skin looking and feeling soft and smooth while improving the appearance of scars,' she says. 'They're a great option for all skin types as they don't contain alcohol and are free of artificial fragrance, parabens, phthalates and formaldehyde.'
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
If you're down to splurge, Rambhia recommends Skinbetter's award-winning variation. 'These peel pads combine glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid with a proprietary retinoid complex to gently but effectively resurface the skin, minimize pores and improve texture,' she says. SerumsGlow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum
'This gentle retinol serum contains three different retinoids which helps to address breakouts and scarring,' Garshick says of Glow Recipe's fruit-infused formula. 'Additionally, it contains glycerin and ectoin to help minimize irritation and sensitivity.'
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Serums
Engelman says you can't go wrong with Medik8's line of Crystal Retinal serums, all of which contain the fast-acting vitamin A derivative known as retinal. 'I love that they offer the serums at varying strengths, including one for sensitive skin, beginners and even an 'expert' serum for those who can tolerate a more active formula,' she explains. 'This makes it so that anyone, at any stage of their vitamin A routine, can enjoy the clinically-proven anti-aging benefits of the product.'
TruSkin Rejuvenating Longevity Serum
'A great option for someone who cannot tolerate a retinoid, this serum contains bakuchiol to help address fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation without irritating the skin,' Garshick says of this wallet-friendly formula from TruSkin. 'It also contains the lingonberry stem cells, which protect the skin from oxidative stress and blue light.'
SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum
If you can swing it, Garshick says that this wrinkle-smoothing serum from SkinCeuticals is worth the investment. 'This peptide-packed formula has been shown to reduce the appearance of expression lines, and in addition to peptides, it also contains PHA, niacinamide and laminaria extract which helps to improve radiance and hyperpigmentation.'
Cetaphil Vitamin C Serum
'The latest from Cetaphil, this vitamin C serum incorporates a blend of vitamin C, niacinamide and sunflower seed oil to help brighten the skin while also supporting the skin barrier and not clogging pores,' Garshick says. It visibly reduces dark spots, boosts skin luminosity and is formulated for sensitive skin.
Facetheory Blemicalm Azelaic Acid 10% Clarifying Serum
If you're struggling with stress-triggering breakouts, Ghadiri suggests giving this serum from Facetheory a go. 'Azelaic acid is a hero ingredient for treating a variety of skin conditions including acne, hyperpigmentation and texture issues,' he says. 'This little-known brand has been waving its flag for a long, long time and remains a great ambassador of the ingredient.'
Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum
'This is a great option for acne-prone skin due to its gentle yet effective formula,' Idriss says. 'It features mandelic acid, a mild exfoliant that helps clear clogged pores and prevent breakouts without irritating sensitive skin.' In addition to mandelic acid, it also contains calming panthenol and hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin. MoisturizersAvène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
Dealing with redness and irritation? Garshick recommends trying this soothing MVP from Avéne. 'It's a calming, nourishing cream that's great for anyone dealing with a damaged skin barrier,' she says. 'It helps to boost hydration and also uses Avene's thermal spring water to help to soften the skin.'
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream
On the pricier end of the spectrum, Rambhia recommends this clinically proven formula for all skin types — from acne-prone to mature. 'Known for its innovative TFC8 technology, this luxurious moisturizer nourishes, repairs and rejuvenates for radiant, plump skin.' It's also our favorite splurge moisturizer.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream
'This nourishing formula contains great ingredients for sensitive skin, including ceramides, glycerin and niacinamide, along with their proprietary prebiotic thermal water,' Rambhia says. 'All of these help to restore the skin barrier fragrance-free and helps to hydrate and soothe the skin."
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel
For those seeking an ultra lightweight feel from their moisturizer, Ghadiri recommends this weightless gel formula from CeraVe. 'It contains ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, and is perfect for anyone who doesn't like greasiness of any form in their skin care,' he says.
Hydromol Ointment
'This is an amazing ointment for extremely dry skin caused by conditions like eczema or psoriasis,' Ghadiri says. 'It's a dermatologist's best friend and one of my most recommended moisturizers.' It works by not only soothing dryness and irritation on contact, but by forming a protective barrier to help prevent water loss and boost hydration. Eye creamsCharlotte Tilbury Cryo-Recovery Eye Serum
This is a fabulous lightweight eye cream for dark circles and puffiness that Engelman recommends to everyone in her life. 'It tackles the main issues in the under-eye area including fatigue, puffiness and dark circles with a blend of caffeine, peptides, antioxidants and extracts from Swiss glacial soil and Swiss ice wine,' she says. 'As a nice bonus, the applicator tip is made of cooling molded metal to further de-puff and contour the eye area.'
M-61 Hydraboost Collagen+Peptide Water Eye Cream
'This product combines my favorite safe and effective ingredients for the sensitive skin around the eyes: hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, glycerin and caffeine,' Khelemsky says. 'Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture, leaving the skin plump and smooth, while vitamin C boosts brightness and supports collagen production.' Additionally, glycerin enhances hydration and caffeine helps constrict blood vessels to minimize puffiness. 'Together, these ingredients work to hydrate, firm and refresh the skin, providing a smoother and more youthful appearance.'
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Eye Balm
Ghadiri touts this unique eye balm from RoC, which you can find at your local drugstore. 'It's packed with brightening vitamin C along with other key ingredients to target dark circles and rejuvenate the delicate skin around the eyes,' he says. 'Its convenient, mess-free application makes it a standout product in the eye care category, delivering both hydration and a visible glow.'
Dieux Auracle Reviving Eye Gel
'This lightweight, hydrating eye cream is great for the winter if you have super dry skin,' says Idriss of Dieux's featherlight formula. It contains algae polysaccharides to help reduce the appearance of dark circles, a peptide complex to help firm the skin, and glycerin to lock in moisture. SunscreenColorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
Garshick says anyone and everyone will love this lightweight tinted sunscreen from Colorescience. 'It's enriched with antioxidants and effectively shields against UVA and UVB rays, along with blue light, pollution and infrared radiation,' she explains. 'It's available in four different shades, making it easy to blend with your skin for natural coverage and uses iron oxide pigments to adapt to your specific tone without leaving the skin feeling greasy.'Read our review
Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF 30 Moisturizer
'This daily face moisturizer not only offers SPF 30 protection, but also contains a patented micropeptide technology to help boost collagen production,' Garshick says of this affordable two-in-one formula. 'This helps to firm and plump the skin while also protecting from sun damage.' Lip treatmentsRevision Skincare YouthFull Lip Replenisher
This lip product recommended by Garshick combines hyaluronic acid to plump lips with powerful antioxidants to help combat environmental stressors. 'It offers an immediate plumping effect while also encouraging long-lasting hydration,' she says. Best skin care devicesNira Precision Laser
This revolutionary, FDA-cleared at-home laser works by stimulating collagen production. 'Designed to be used just three minutes per day, it's not painful and does not lead to redness or downtime,' Garshick says. 'It works to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while smoothing overall skin texture.'
Solawave Neck and Chest Rejuvenating Mask
Beloved by Garshick, this LED mask from Solawave combines red and near-infrared light to help improve the appearance of discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles on the neck and chest. You only need to use it for 10 minutes a day, and it's safe for all skin types.
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask Series 2
'Incorporating both red, near infrared and deep near-infrared, this light mask has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the overall appearance of skin tone and texture,' Garshick says. 'It offers a flexible shape making it easy to wear and can be used by all skin types for 10 minutes a day, five times a week.' Best body careRescueMD Revitalizing Body Cream
A favorite of Garshick, she says this body cream is excellent for anyone looking for an ultra-rich daily hydration solution. 'It contains lapachol, peptides and antioxidants, which help in reducing redness, firming the skin and providing a smooth and supple appearance,' she says. 'It's also suitable for all skin types and tones and is fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.'
Dove Niacinamide + Even Tone Body Cream Serum
'Packed with vitamin C along with pro retinol and shea butter, this body cream-serum hybrid helps to brighten the skin and improve the appearance of discoloration,' Garshick says. It's lightweight, non-greasy consistency makes it especially great for oily and combination skin types.
Vaseline Pro VitaB3 Serum Burst Lotion
This unique serum-lotion from Vaseline boosts moisture while brightening the skin. 'It uses a combination of vitamins C and B3 to nourish and boost radiance,' Garshick says. 'It also incorporates hyaluronic acid, peptides and lipids to leave the skin feeling soft and smooth all day.' The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick.
What is the future of beauty products in 2025?
What is the future of beauty products in 2025?
'The future of beauty is hyper-personalization alongside AI integration,' Garshick says. 'We may see brands incorporating AI-driven skin care consultations that recommend formulas based on real-time skin analysis.' She also says there will be more consideration for sustainable solutions. 'Sustainability will evolve beyond packaging, with waterless formulations and carbon-neutral production in addition to more refillable packaging,' she says.
What is the biggest trend in the beauty industry in 2025?
What is the biggest trend in the beauty industry in 2025?
According to Garshick, it's skin longevity. 'With the rise of anti-inflammaging skin care, brands will focus on reversing cellular damage and supporting skin resilience,' she says. 'Ingredients like NAD+ boosters, peptides and growth factors will continue to gain traction. Multifunctional skin care will take over, reducing the need for excessive steps in routines but still giving people an opportunity to use different ingredients.'
Will clean beauty still be relevant in 2025?
Will clean beauty still be relevant in 2025?
'Yes, but clean beauty will shift towards science-backed, transparent formulations,' Garshick says. 'The focus will be on biocompatibility rather than 'free-from' marketing. Expect fewer fear-mongering claims and more lab-tested, clinically-proven clean products that balance safety with efficacy.'
For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights on what's trending in skin care for 2025, along with their most-recommended products.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, NYC and NJ-based board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology
Dr. Sina Ghadiri, UK-based board certified dermatologist at London Dermatology Clinic
Dr. Pooja Rambhia, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm
Dr. Sherene Idriss, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology
Dr. Dendy Engelman, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist at Shafer Clinic
Dr. Renata Khelemsky, Brooklyn-based double board-certified facial plastic surgeon
Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, Mississippi-based board-certified dermatologist at Premier Dermatology Clinic
Dr. Robert Finney, NYC-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Soho Skin and Hair Restoration CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item. For this article, contributing beauty writer Kaleigh Fasanella consulted eight dermatologists about their skin care predictions for 2025 and the best products to try.
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