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- Vodcast
- Sigourney's Edit
- About
50
The Best
Skincare Products
for every age
Why I Made The Sacred Sixty
I created this edit after years of testing products, speaking with leading experts, and watching trends come and go from the vantage point of a magazine beauty desk. What remains are the formulas I genuinely rate: the ones that deliver, earn a place in your routine, and stand the test of time.
This guide brings together 50 skincare essentials, organised by decade as a helpful starting point rather than a set of rules. You can shop directly from the guide, and where available, you’ll also see a small video icon: tap to watch the product in action, see textures, or hear why it made the edit.
Many of the links are affiliate links, which means that when you shop via this edit, you’re supporting Beauticate at no extra cost to you.
As a thank you, I’ve also secured exclusive subscriber-only offers on select brands, you’ll find those highlighted throughout.
Most of these products can be used at any age. Think of this as a considered starting point — an invitation to refine, upgrade, and enjoy your skincare routine a little more.
— Sigourney x
TEENS &TWEENS
Although these years are often plagued by angst and blemishes, they’re also the Best Years of Your Skin’s Life from a collagen perspective. So enjoy them!
“This is the time to begin good skincare habits, like daily cleansing and non-negotiable sunscreen.”
A LIGHT WEIGHT MOISTURISER
This oil-free gel cream gives a lovely matte finish and zero residue. An oil-free dreamboat of a moisturiser for people who hate wearing moisturiser. GO-TO Skincare Very Lightweight Moisturiser, $55
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2.
AN AFFORDABLE SUNSCREEN
This cult sunscreen for all ages is light and easy to wear, which is key when you use it every day. It’s also purse-friendly too. Watch the video. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+,$38.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
AT CHECKOUT FOR $25 OFF $120+
3.
A CLARIFYING CLEANSER
This spot-seeking oil-buster contains ceramides, niacinamide, salicylic acid and purifying clay to help deeply clean and minimise future breakouts. Cerave Blemish Control Cleanser, $24.99 Get it now at Adore Beauty →
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
4.
BLEMISH PATCHES
A game-changer for breakouts. These ones contain Abscorbic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil and Niacinamide to nix breakouts fast. The Breakout Hack patch it up – everyday pimple patches, $19.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
5.
A SKIN-SLOUGHING EXFOLIANT
Swipe on this award-winning lotion on any time your skin is feeling too oily or clogged up to prevent breakouts and brighten. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $54
6.
A GLOW SERUM
Who doesn’t want luminosity? This skincare/makeup hybrid delivers in spades and is a firm favourite among glow-seeking gen-zs. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops , $35
7.
A DRYING LOTION
I can’t count the number of times this little pink lotion has saved my bacon. Often it dries pimples out overnight. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, $31
8.
A CLAY MASK
For those days when a breakout is imminent apply this detoxifying mask to problem areas to draw out oil and bacteria.Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Clay Mask, $73
9.
A NON-OILY OIL
This somehow balances oily skin, quenches dry skin, and doubles as a beautiful primer for makeup. From another ex beauty-ed Zoe Foster, Go-To’s products are en pointe. Go-To Skincare Face Hero, $45.
10.
A CLEANSING TOOL
Tools take your cleansing to the next level and will help minimise blackheads and breakouts. Foreo Luna 3 for Combination Skin, $302.29
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
TWENTIES
We really want to enjoy these years of the social-butterflying while also looking after the biggest organ on our body. How? Daily sunscreen (yes I know I harp on), thorough cleansing and antioxidants to protect and prevent premature aging.
“Your twenties are about learning what your skin loves and protecting it before you ever think you need to.”
11.
THE ‘CLEAN’ SUNSCREEN
Some people worry about chemicals in their sunscreen. This one is delightfully low-tox and still nice to wear. Watch the video. Ultra Violette Clean Screen, $49
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
12.
THE LAZY-GIRLS
CLEANSER
For those nights when you can barely be bothered to remove your makeup keep this bottle and some reusable pads stashed on your night stand: Watch the video. Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micellar Water Makeup Remover, $22.99
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
13.
THE SUN PROTECTING CC CREAM
Another cult product that delivers a flawless complexion with SPF 50+ and skincare properties. Watch the video. It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, $82
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
14.
THE CULT VITAMIN C
I still use this daily and I notice when I don’t. It truly does deliver bright, glowing skin in a bottle. You should use this at every age. Watch the video. Skinceuticals CE Ferulic Serum, $249
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
15.
THE DO-EVERYTHING CREAM
The ultimate makeup artist’s moisturiser it primes perfectly for foundation and can also be used as a masque or cleanser. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré. $48
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
16.
CLEANSING PADS
If you wear a lot of makeup these are a genius and sustainable way to remove it, along with sunscreen. The Inkey List Double Sided Cleansing Pads, $20
17.
THE DATE NIGHT MASK
This deliciously peppermint-scented yellow concoction uses rosehip seeds, turmeric and papaya enzymes to brighten and energize dull or sleepy skin. Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, $29
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
18.
THE DOLPHIN SKIN HYALURONIC
This clinical strength elixir works on surface hydration while also quenching more deeply with varying sized hyaluronic acid spheres, niacinamide and ceramides leaving your skin porpoise-plumped. PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum, $240
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
19.
THE DO-EVERYTHING CREAM
Almost every handbag of mine contains a tube of this superstar. Soothe parched pouts, hydrate cuticles, heal abrasions, tame brows and flyaways and soothe rashes with this pure lanolin balm. Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm, $18.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
20.
THE BRIGHTENING EYE CREAM
Another skincare/makeup hybrid, this yellow-tinted creamy concoction instantly sparks up tired, dehydrated eyes and helps disguise dark circles. Watch the video. Ole Henriksen Banana Bright+ Eye Crème, $64
THIRTIES
As we bid farewell to our twenties, focus on maintaining that youthful glow while addressing the first signs of aging. Introduce targeted anti-aging products like retinols and preventative LED.
“Prioritize hydration and sun protection to keep your skin looking radiant and healthy.”
21.
THE EXPRESS LED MASK
This mask is customisable so you can use different light wavelengths for different areas of the face – I zone blue light for my hormonal chin breakouts and red anti-aging for the rest of the face. Plus it’s only 3 minutes a day. Qure Rejuvalite LED Mask, $499
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
22.
EASE INTO RETINAL
The Crystal retinal (a form of vitamin A) line is perfect for first time users of retinal and this is the middle step for non-sensitive skins. It resurfaces, fades acne scars and fine lines Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6, $135
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
21.
THE EXPRESS LED MASK
This mask is customisable so you can use different light wavelengths for different areas of the face – I zone blue light for my hormonal chin breakouts and red anti-aging for the rest of the face. Plus it’s only 3 minutes a day. Qure Rejuvalite LED Mask, $499
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
23.
A CLEVER CLEANSING OIL
This decadent oil melts makeup and strips away sunscreen residue, transforming into a silky milk when you rinse it off and taking all the dirt and yukky stuff with it down the drain. Cue clean skin. Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil, $76
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THE DIY DAILY PEEL
Single use pads – step 1 has five AHA/BHAs to boost radiance, target pores, diminish fine lines while step 2 neutralizes and hydrates. Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $36.00 to $264.00.
25.
A VERY WEARABLE SUNSCREEN
This is one of the most comfortable sunscreens you’ll find – light, fragrance free and beautiful under makeup. Skinceuticals Ultra Defense Facial Sunscreen SPF 50, $69
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
26.
THE HYDRATING MICRONEEDLING DEVICE
This at-home needling device was a total game-changer for my skin. You stamp the serum into skin to deliver it to the lower layers. Watch the video. Qure Micro-Infusion System with Hydra Soothing Serum,
27.
THE BRIGHTENING ELIXIR
A cult product for good reason, this water contains over 90% of the brands famous Pitera – a natural bio-ingredient containing over 50 micro-nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids and organic acids to brighten, smooth and hydrate. SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, $139
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
28.
THE BARRIER REPAIRER
A God-send for when the skin’s natural moisture barrier is impaired: this soothing, nourishing cream contains the brand’s signature thermal water that leaves a protective film to preserve the skin’s moisture. Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream, $39.99
29.
THE NECK AND DEC LED
Once you’re into a routine with your face LED add a neck and dec to your treatment plan. Now is the time to start to prevent aging in this area. This one is affordable and has a handy clip on so you can wear it around the house. Qure Neck & Décolletage LED Light Therapy Device, $499
30.
A TOP RATED NIACINAMIDE
If niacinamide isn’t already in your routine, consider this your sign. Korean-made SKIN1004 Niacinamide 10% Boosting Shot Ampoule, $17.95, delivers a skinsmoothing 10% niacinamide hit, paired with tranexamic acid to help minimise pores and diffuse redness. It leaves skin looking clearer, calmer and quietly more luminous.
29.
THE NECK AND DEC LED
Once you’re into a routine with your face LED add a neck and dec to your treatment plan. Now is the time to start to prevent aging in this area. This one is affordable and has a handy clip on so you can wear it around the house. Qure Neck & Décolletage LED Light Therapy Device, $499
FORTIES
In this decade, our skin undergoes noticeable changes, from a decrease in collagen to increased pigmentation and fine lines. But with the right skincare routine, we can defy the hands of time. Amp up your anti-aging game with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C.
“Targeted high-tech treatments and tools are key, along with prioritizing self-care for overall well-being.”
31.
THE HYDRATING CLEANSER
This cleanser is gloriously quenching yet satisfyingly effective at whisking away dirt, makeup and sunscreen. And it’s beautifully priced, too. Watch the video. Cerave Hydrating CreamTo-Foam Cleanser , $24.99
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
32.
THE PIGMENT PREVENTING SPF
So many derms and doctors I’ve interviewed have recommended this as a sunscreen that not only protects but helps prevent new pigment forming. Great for people with melasma and recurring pigmentation. Watch the video. Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Melan 130 Pigment Control, $76.5
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
33.
THE GLYCOLIC EXFOLIANT
Swipe off the dead skin cells that lead to breakouts and dullness and wipe on radiance with this potent exfoliating lotion it contains 5% Glycolic Acid and licorice extract. Alpha H Liquid Gold, $76.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
34.
THE PIGMENT KNOCKOUT
This powerful serum contains L-Ascorbic Acid, a derivative of hydroquinone, Niacinamide and Lactic acid to seek and destroy pesky pigment and dark spots. Aspect Pigment Punch, $155
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
THE SERIOUS NIGHT CREAM
If you’re looking for a full suite of products from one brand, I’m a huge fan of the whole Rationale Essential Six. This night cream features their exclusive complex of Vitamin A (Retinol and Retinal) to tackle fine lines in a gorgeous hydrating formula. Rationale #6 The Night Cream, $110
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THE DERMASTAMPING SERUM
Step up your at-home microneedling game with this Epidermal Growth Factor Serum. I do this before any big event and at least once a month. Watch the video
37.
THE BIG GUNS LED MASK:
A step up this is the gold standard of masks with more lights and strength than most on the market, plus it has red for rejuvenation and blue light for breakouts. I use this when I have 10 – 20 minutes spare. Watch the video. San Lueur Advanced LED Light Therapy Mask, $795
38.
DRY SKIN SAVIOUR
One for moisture-sapping climates or dry skin moments this gloriously scented balm is 100% certified natural with Sunflower Seed Oil and Lanolin. It doesn’t hurt that it’s beautifully priced, too. video. Watch the video Weleda Skin Food, $29.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
37.
THE BIG GUNS LED MASK:
A step up this is the gold standard of masks with more lights and strength than most on the market, plus it has red for rejuvenation and blue light for breakouts. I use this when I have 10 – 20 minutes spare. Watch the video. San Lueur Advanced LED Light Therapy Mask, $795
39.
THE COLLAGEN CONSERVER
Futureproof your skin with a protective blend of Colagen Amino Acids, Carnosine Dipeptide, and Antioxidants. I noticed a significant change in my hydration levels when I used this for a few weeks. Dermalogica Pro-Colagen Banking Serum, $152
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
40.
THE NIGHTLY ELIXIR
This iconic serum is designed to target multiple signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and uneven tone, leaving the skin looking smoother, firmer, and more radiant. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex, $139
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
FIFTIES & BEYOND
In this decade and beyond, our skin may need a little extra love as it navigates the natural aging process. Nourish your skin with rich moisturizers, luxe oils, and targeted treatments for sagging skin or age spots and carve out time for selfcare as a priority.
“This is the stage where skincare meets self-love. Slower, richer, and entirely on your own terms.”
41.
THE CULT CREAM
Find out what all the fuss is about. This supremely luxurious, uber hydrator employs Argan, Avocado and Evening Primrose Oils that are rich in omega 6 fatty acids and antioxidants along with is Augustinus Bader’s patented technology TFC8 that boost skin’s own natural renewal processes. It’s perfect for cold, dry climates. Watch the video. Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream, $153 – $859
42.
A HYDRATING SPF
A skin quenching SPF with glycerin and vitamin C-pumped kakadu plum. It’s a joy to wear, which means you WILL wear it. Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Sunscreen, $52
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
41.
THE CULT CREAM
Find out what all the fuss is about. This supremely luxurious, uber hydrator employs Argan, Avocado and Evening Primrose Oils that are rich in omega 6 fatty acids and antioxidants along with is Augustinus Bader’s patented technology TFC8 that boost skin’s own natural renewal processes. It’s perfect for cold, dry climates. Watch the video. Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream, $153 – $859
43.
THE RITUALISTIC CREAM CLEANSER
A new age take on the old-school cold cream cleanser, use this gorgeously sensual balm with a warm muslin and inhale clove, eucalyptus and camomile oils. Eve Lom Cleanser, $46 – $224
44.
THE CLASSIC ALL-ROUNDER BALM
From soothing sore lips, to hydrating chapped hands and feet, Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream is the cure for all manner of beauty sins. Also useful for keeping brushed up, groomed brows in place; dotted along the cheek and brow bones for a fresh, radiant highlight. Watch the video. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, $37
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
45.
THE MELANIN REGULATING TONER
Do believe the hype. Known as a ‘facial in a bottle’, this blend of glycolic and lactic acid brings about gentle exfoliation which gently lightening dark spots, brightening the skin and revealing lost radiance. Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, $260
46.
THE SPA-SCENTED MIST
This all natural sublimely-fragranced mist is adored by those-in-the-know worldwide for it’s tightening yet hydrating properties. Perfect for setting makeup, and refreshing or hydrating through the day. Ideal for travel. Caudalie Beauty Elixir, $93
47.
THE DATE NIGHT MASK
For any age or skin type that is sensitised, sensitive or damaged this balm is loaded with hydrating and repairing ingredients to soothe troubled skin and reduce redness. Great postprocedure or after a burn. Watch the video about their mask. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+, $42.95
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
48.
THE TRIPLE STRENGTH HYDRATOR:
Another superior moisturiser than has a loyal following, it slips onto the skin like a balm and melts in like a dream thanks to the cocktail of fatty acids, ceramides, and natural cholesterol. Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, $215
CODE: PARBEAUTICATE
49.
THE LUXE LIFTING SERUM
If you have the budget, La Prairie products are the creme de la creme when it comes to pairing innovation and luxury and this product is one of their best. Caviar extracts are combined with skin-boosting biomolecules, lipids, peptides, amino acids, and minerals into a silky, lightweight serum that lifts. Watch the video. La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift, $1175
THE ROLLS ROYCE OF MOISTURISERS
It’s still one of the world’s most luxurious creams with the signature Miracle Broth, to improve skin barrier function and accelerate cell regeneration. Creme De La Mer, $189 – $955
50.
A Final Note
Remember, great skincare isn’t about doing more.
It’s about understanding what works for you and returning to it consistently.
Use this edit as a reference point. Dip in when you’re ready to upgrade, reassess, or simply remind yourself of the essentials that make the biggest difference.
This is a living collection, shaped by experience, research, and real-life testing, and it will continue to evolve.
For more skincare insights, expert interviews, tutorials, and thoughtful edits across beauty, wellbeing and living, you’ll always find more on Beauticate and on the Beautiful Inside podcast.
Thank you for being here.
— Sigourney