There's more to self-care than slathering on a face mask, but there's often comfort to be found in skincare rituals. Thankfully there was no shortage of new products to dip into this year, from gentle cleansers and exfoliating masks to new takes on cult moisturizers. But with so many innovative formulas to choose from, figuring out what really works (and what’s worth your $$$) is no small task.
We sent our top picks to readers across Canada for their no-holds-barred feedback. Here, they share their thoughts on the best skincare products of the past year, at every price point.
“This water-like solution easily removes every last trace of makeup without drying out or irritating my sensitive skin—even my stubborn waterproof gel liner doesn’t stand a chance. The fact that it doesn’t need to be rinsed off is a huge plus for me.” —Kathy Chin, 45
$20, vichy.ca
“This ultra-nourishing balm doesn’t leave the slightest trace of makeup behind. Thanks to exfoliating papaya enzymes, my skin feels soft and my complexion looks brighter.” —Josyane Simon, 37
$42, sephora.ca
“I love that this moisturizer contains SPF—a must even in winter! A dime-sized amount of product is enough to keep my skin hydrated all day. The lightweight cream absorbs quickly so I can apply makeup right overtop, and its light- reflecting finish gives my skin a radiant, lit-from-within glow.” —Sharon O'Neil, 63
$35, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“I use this moisturizer in the morning and at night. Upon application, my face and forehead feel noticeably smoother and more hydrated. The formula is soothing and lightly scented, with notes of aloe, cucumber and lime. The texture is so silky and fast-absorbing that I’ve been using it as a hand cream, too!” —Chantale Tremblay, 57
$50, sephora.ca
“After a long day spent wearing PPE at work as a registered massage therapist, this rich night cream hydrates and soothes my parched, irritated skin. After a few weeks of daily use, I’ve noticed that my skin tone is more even. I also love that it’s a perfume-free formula that’s made right here in Canada.” —Melanie Brohm, 43
$35, marcelle.com
“It can be hard to find a night cream that’s both nourishing and lightweight, but this one ticks all the boxes. Since this cream can also be used around the sensitive eye area, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to simplify their routine while still getting noticeable results.” —Maryse Drolet, 56
$65, jouviance.com
“This eye cream feels quite thick right out of the pot, but the delicate skin around my eyes absorbs it quickly. The formula is gentle and soothing, without any of the dryness or irritation often associated with retinol.” —Marie-Pier Fortin, 36
$44, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This gel-cream absorbs easily and makes quick work of the puffiness I get under my eyes after a restless night or when I’m dehydrated. I like that the product comes with a pump, so I get just the right amount every time.” —Dee Roderique, 40
$91, clarins.ca
“This lightweight serum is refreshing and pairs well with my go-to moisturizer. I’ve been using it for a few weeks and I’ve noticed that my sensitive skin is softer and plumper. Plus, I love that it’s made in Quebec!” —Sandra Michaud, 52
$39, karinejoncas.ca
“This serum has a creamy consistency that sinks into my skin quickly to gently slough away dead skin cells overnight. Since I started using it, my complexion has been noticeably brighter and smoother. The pump dispenses just the right amount of product to cover my whole face and neck.” —Andrea Byaruhanga, 39
$82, sephora.ca
“Used before bed, this oil helps blur and soften the fine lines on my brow and eliminate the dry spots I typically have on my cheeks.” —Janice Hudson, 42
$29, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This luxurious oil provides plenty of hydration without looking greasy. My skin feels smoother, softer and brighter after use, and the herbal scent makes for a relaxing experience.” —Sandy Lopes, 57
$58, well.ca
“Finally, I’ve found an exfoliant that’s gentle on my skin! After I wash the mask off, my skin looks and feels noticeably smoother, without any irritation or redness. The lovely apricot scent is just a bonus.” —Olivia Polowski Amores, 35
$35, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“I love the creamy texture and gentle feel of this exfoliant. I use it multiple times a week and the results are immediate—it makes my skin glow every time. It’s the perfect way to get my skin ready for my nighttime routine.” —Elle Ayoubzadeh, 39
$48, avon.ca
“I love mixing the serum with the sheet mask myself—the DIY aspect is fun. Once soaked in serum, the mask has a refreshing, jellylike consistency. After just 15 minutes, my complexion looks brighter.” —Vicky Boisvert, 40
“I have dry skin, which tends to show off my lines and wrinkles. After using this moisturizing mask just once, the lines on my forehead didn’t seem as deep, the skin under my eyes wasn’t as dark and my cheeks were suddenly smoother. The consistency is thick, like butter, but it’s easily rinsed off with just a little bit of water.” —Lisa Hannam, 46
$49, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This palm-sized bottle is great for on-the-go sun protection. The lotion is lightweight and fluid, and blended easily into my caramel-toned skin without leaving any chalky residue or white cast behind.” —Shalini Roy, 45
$15, walmart.ca
“The beautifully designed bottle comes with a mess-free dropper that makes this sunscreen a cinch to use, whether you’re applying it directly to your skin or mixing it into your favourite moisturizer. It has a milky, serum-like texture that spreads evenly, offering protection even in tough-to-reach spots. It doesn’t irritate my eczema and is even gentle enough to use on my kids.” —Jennifer Perez, 43
$62, sephora.ca
“Thanks to its angled tip, this lip balm is easy to apply. It instantly soothes my chapped lips and makes them appear smoother. From the barely-there scent to the intense hydration, everything about this balm is comforting.” —Marie-Josée Tremblay, 57
$10, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This oil has a high-gloss finish that turns into a slight sheen, giving my lips a subtle wash of colour that’s perfect for no-makeup days. The application is easy—thanks to a large, cushy doe-foot applicator—and the results are surprisingly long-lasting.” —Hannah Henderson, 39
$42, sephora.ca
“This hand cream has been working wonders on my dry, cracked hands. The cream feels thick, but it’s quickly absorbed into my skin, leaving behind a beautiful orange-and-pistachio scent. The small tube is an ideal size to keep in my purse.” —Johanne Gervais, 59
$7, walmart.ca
“This hydrating balm is the perfect salve for anyone with sensitive skin that’s irritated by frequent handwashing and harsh alcohol-based sanitizers. The bright citrus scent always cheers me up. Plus, I feel good about supporting a Canadian company.” —Kara Gibbs, 39
$24, bkind.com
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