Call it the Instagram effect: These days the lure of a product can come from its picture-perfect packaging alone. And that’s nowhere more apparent than in the world of luxury skin care. But beyond the gorgeous bottles, high-end brands are also taking a spare-no-expense approach to formulating what goes into them to deliver results that are truly worth posting about.
After all, there’s no bigger bragging rights than a foundation-free snap shared with the world, courtesy of a get-shit-done serum. Scroll through to see the new Glamour Beauty Awards skin care winners that prove they’re really great investments. We and our panel of derms, makeup artists, and industry prospromise.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The Best Cleanser
“Micellar cleansing water is one of the few innovations that aren't gimmicks. Micelles are little lipid spheres that truly hydrate as they cleanse so that you aren’t left feeling stripped postwash. It’s all about combining multiple benefits in your cleansing routine specifically removing dirt while replenishing your skin barrier with lipids.” Macrene Alexiades, M.D., dermatologist
$28
Kiehl's Herbal-Infused Micellar Cleansing Water
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Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner Glamour Beauty Awards 2019
The Best Toner
“This toner is lovely year-round but especially during the harsh winter months. As soon as the climate turns cold and dry, I pat down two to three layers right after cleansing. It always manages to soothe, hydrate, and balance my combination to dry skin.” Adri Navidad, beauty blogger
$45
Fresh Rose Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner
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Caudalie VinoPerfect Concentrated Brightening Essence Glamour Beauty Awards 2019
The Best Essence
"What a great essence! This feels incredibly calming; plus it gently exfoliates the surface of my skin with AHAs (which means: definitely make sure to wear sunscreen after it). Basically, it gives my complexion a luminous glow and leaves it feeling super supple.” Adri Navidad, beauty blogger
$49
VinoPerfect Concentrated Brightening Essence
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Shani Darden Texture Reform Gentle Resurfacing Serum Glamour Beauty Awards 2019
The Best Serum
“I’ve used Shani's products since 2013. Her original Retinol Reform serum was a staple in my routine, so when she launched this new, gentler version, I knew I had to have it. I use it nightly to help with texture and prevent or treat any breakouts. It’s an incredible product for sensitive skin as well.” Marianna Hewitt, beauty blogger and founder of Summer Fridays
$95
Shani Darden Texture Reform Gentle Resurfacing Serum
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Shiseido Future Solution LX Replenishing Treatment OilGlamour Beauty Awards 2019
5/17
The Best Face Oil
“Face oils can be heavy, but this is lightweight and massages beautifully into your skin. You can press it directly in or mix it with your moisturizer for a quick hit of extra hydration.” —Nam Vo, makeup artist
$188
Shiseido Future Solution LX Replenishing Treatment Oil
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Agusitnus Bader The Cream Glamour Beauty Awards 2019
6/17
The Best Moisturizer
"This formula is insanely moisturizing but doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy at all. I use this cream for day and the richer version at night. It’s amazing for long-haul international flights, since it keeps your skin super moisturized and hydrated for a long time.” —Chriselle Lim, beauty, fashion, and lifestyle blogger
$265
Augustinus Bader The Cream
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Summer Fridays Overtime Mask Glamour Beauty Awards 2019
The Best Exfoliator
“I love using this guy first thing in the shower as a scrub and leaving it on while I shampoo and condition my hair. Once it’s done its thing, I rinse it off, and my skin is so much softer and smoother. It smells like a pumpkin spice latte, which is also a huge plus.” —Chriselle Lim, beauty, fashion, and lifestyle blogger
$44
Summer Fridays Overtime Mask
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