The Best Skincare Trends Of 2024, According To Dermatologists
Skincare trends come and go as each year passes, and in 2024, we saw a ton of trends that focus on restoring the skin barrier, opting for the less-is-more route, and being more cautious about sun care. With the new year approaching, it’s the perfect time to reminisce on the skincare trends that influenced our personal skin rituals this year.
From the TikTok popular morning shed routine to red light therapy face masks and everything in between, we spoke with dermatologists to get their opinion on which they think were the best, as well as which ones weren’t exactly worth the hype.
1. Tinted Sunscreen
Tinted sunscreen is a great product to have for those who want sun protection and a bit of coverage, but don’t want to lather a bunch of products on their face.
“Tinted sunscreens are popular because they are offered in a variety of tints to accommodate lighter and darker skin tones,” said Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist and physician assistant. “Tinted sunscreens also protect skin from visible light because they include iron oxides, which are absent from sheer sunscreen.”
Looking for a popular one? Try Isdin’s Ageless Ultralight tinted mineral sunscreen.
2. The Rise Of Skin Minimalism
“While social media is great for people to learn about skincare trends and products, it can cause some people to use more products than needed,” said Dr. Noah Gratch, a board certified dermatologist and co-founder of MDCS Dermatology in New York.
Dr. Howard Sobel, clinical attending cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital, said this “less is more” trend is his favorite, as “I think there are a lot of people who use too many skincare products.”
3. Overnight Patches For Fine Lines
Just like pimple patches, overnight patches offer a temporary fix with regard to fine lines. Camp says these are popular “among those looking to limit the appearance of wrinkles without committing to in-office treatments like neurotoxins or fillers.”
If you’re curious, Frownies are an exceptionally popular brand of wrinkle patches.
4. Hypochlorous Acid Sprays
Hypochlorous acid sprays have grown in popularity this year because of how easy they are to use, as well as how effective they are. According to previous HuffPost reporting, the ingredient is a soothing, potent antimicrobial that helps treat eczema and dermatitis, reduce redness, calm breakouts and strengthen the skin barrier.
“I love these products for your gym bag or on-the-go skincare. The spray bottle makes it easy to apply and most contain natural ingredients that work to kill bacteria that causes acne,” Gratch said.
Check out Tower 28’s legendary SOS spray, and six others like it.
5. Using SPF
While SPF has always been important to use to protect your skin against harsh rays, Dr. David Kim, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City, says, “More and more people are finally understanding the importance of SPF for anti-aging, preventing hyperpigmentation, skin cancer prevention and so much more.”
Many people are implementing it into their everyday skincare and makeup ritual, even after the warm summer months pass. This may be thanks to skin experts and knowledgeable enthusiasts spreading awareness on the importance of using sunscreen on social media apps such as TikTok and Instagram.
Our readers say these are the best sunscreens of all time.
6. Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash
Many skincare enthusiasts and social media users have raved about the benefits and possible results of using benzoyl peroxide face wash, especially for those struggling with acne. Since it is made with benzoyl peroxide ― a stronger formula that can be accompanied with side effects such as dry, flaky skin, and even more breakouts ― Kim says that it’s important to understand the correct way to use it. “Leave it on your face for 30 seconds to one minute before washing it off,” when you’re using it to tackle acne.
PanOxyl’s foaming face wash contains 10% benzoyl peroxide.
7. Lip Treatments
“Many brands have released lip products that focus on keeping the lips hydrated while giving the same shiny effect that lip gloss does,” Gratch said. “Ingredients to look out for are ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin E, and oils such as jojoba, coconut, etc.”
Below are 12 intensely hydrating lip products.
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Amazon
A colorless lip balm that plumps lips while you sleep
You’ll notice a difference in how hydrated and plump your lips look just one night after applying this Revision Skincare lip balm — at least, one former HuffPost editor did. While it does have a slight sheen to it, this lip balm is colorless. The key ingredients are hyaluronic acid (which helps lips retain moisture) and THD ascorbate (a powerful antioxidant).
Promising review: “When I say I cannot live without this, it is an understatement. It will not move all day and all night, even after eating and drinking. I get so many questions and compliments on how my lips look so glossy. My lips used to crack and peel because they were so dry and ever since using this I have not had a problem. Worth every penny!” — Amanda J
Amazon
A lip balm with shea butter and SPF
Ask any dermatologist what’s most important for preserving skin and they’ll answer with three letters: SPF. If you’re forgetting to apply SPF to your lips, that stops now. This Jack Black lip balm has SPF 25, plus shea butter, which keeps lips moisturized and smooth.
Promising review: “This is my second time buying this. It took me about a year to get through a tube. I put it on at night to wear to bed. I like it because it is thick and seems to keep my lips healthy. I also like it because it’s no-nonsense. No smells or flavors. It has shea butter and SPF (not that I really need that at night). They have scented ones, but for me this one is the best.” — PJ
Amazon
A lip mask with vitamin C
Made to be applied before bedtime, this lip mask by Laneige is made with antioxidant-rich berry fruit complex, shea butter and murumuru seed extract, which is super moisturizing. The combo works to keep lips soft and smooth — no cracked lines here!
Promising review: “I have been using this lip sleeping mask for years. I try to incorporate some other ones to see if I can find a second option, but I always come back to this product. As soon as I stop using this product, my lips feel and look different. I always wake up with super hydrated and plump lips. It stays on all night and I don’t have a problem with transferring the product some other places. I love this product. Highly recommend.” — MMartinez
Amazon
A vitamin E-rich cream that reduces fine lines
For less than $10, this anti-aging lip balm from Burt’s Bees is a steal. People are obsessed with it: More than 15,000 people have bought and rated it on Amazon, giving it a collective rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Made with vitamin E, it helps lips maintain their natural moisture barrier, keeping them smooth with no cracked lines.
Promising review: “The first night I got this I immediately applied it. The next day my lips weren't chapped! I was so happy. Every time I wake up, my lips are always chapped and now with this they’re not! If I'm being honest, this is probably my favorite buy from Amazon. Highly recommend.” — Maya
Amazon
A lip balm made with coconut oil and shea butter that smells like peaches
The moisturizing powers of both coconut oil and shea butter are well-known. This Yuglow lip balm combines them so you can benefit from both, as well as beeswax and jojoba oil, which also help lock in moisture. It has a nice, peachy smell too.
Promising review: “I have and always will be gatekeeping this. I know it says to wear it at night, but I wear it when I go out as well. I used to have very dry lips but after using this daily, my lips are like clouds.” — Funky monkey
Amazon
A lip-balm packed with collagen
A basic building block for skin, collagen is key for keeping skin looking youthful — and this balm is packed with it. Made with three types of collagen, it fills in lip lines and naturally plumps lips. Bonus: You can use it around your eyes too.
Promising review: “This is a lovely little product. It is a small container, but truly a little does go a long way so the container should last you a while. After the first application I already saw a subtle difference in plumpness and lines—and every time I use the product. The scent is absolutely light and lovely. Beautiful shine. And when you apply it it feels so good and smooth. I do really enjoy using this product. We’ll see at the end of the little tub if the benefits are enough to purchase again as it is a little pricey. But it’s a lovely little product that I will definitely enjoy till the end.” — MzB
Amazon
These collagen lip masks
Another collagen-rich product to consider is this pack of lip masks. Wear it for 20 minutes and, when done regularly, you’ll notice fine lines on your lips disappear.
Promising review: “This product is a miracle for dry lips. You will notice the difference the first time you use it. It’s amazing what using a product for 20 minutes for three to five days can do for your lips.” — Senija Mehmedovic
Amazon
A pink lip balm loaded with antioxidants
A lot of anti-aging lip balms are colorless, but this one by IT Cosmetics comes in four different shades of pink. Besides adding a little color, it hydrates lips thanks to its antioxidant-rich ingredients, like sweet cherry seed oil and safflower seed oil.
Promising review: “My lips are already dry, chapped and peeling. Most chapsticks just sit on top of the lips and I still peel every day. This is one of the few lip conditioning products that actually works! My lips feel hydrated and smooth for hours. It’s not sticky or thick at all. The color is more like a tint. Don’t expect it to be a long-lasting saturated color.” — Kaitlyn
Amazon
This glossy balm in different hues that doubles as an overnight lip mask
This is another product that gives lips a hint of color while it works to nourish them. Made by Julep, there are 10 different colors to choose from (including a plain gloss, if you don’t want any color at all) and the balms are made with shea butter and antioxidant-rich songyi mushroom extract peptides. Wear it during the day or at night, while you sleep.
Heads up: Amazon currently has the best deal on this, with a 20% off coupon you can clip to get a discount at checkout.
Promising review: “I wear this every night at bedtime and I love it. My lips are more moist and seem fuller after using for a month. Get it!” — Tiffany S
Amazon
A lip balm that increases collagen production in three days
Yes, this anti-aging lip balm from U Beauty is a bit pricier than the others, but it’s formulated to boost collagen production in lips after just three days of consistent use. It’s made with hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, collagen peptides and vitamin E to both plump and soften lips. Choose from between 10 different tints.
Promising review: “I used the original lip compound and wanted to try the new colors. Makes my lips extra soft, great moisturizing treatment and color just enhances the product. I would highly recommended even if the price is high." — Audrey
Amazon
This age-repair lip treatment that’s 100% vegan
Grown Alchemist has cultivated a loyal following for their 100% plant-based products that really work. This lip repair balm is made with tri-peptides (for plumping), African butter tree extract (for moisturizing) and violet leaf extract, which is high in antioxidants.
Promising review: “This is by far the BEST lip balm I have ever used. I've tried so many over the years and this one is like putting silk over your lips. I have ordered this several times now and love it so much. Would highly recommend! Just wish the price was lower!” — TJC
Amazon
This lip oil full of vitamins
Made with essential oils and vitamins, this lip oil from Hourglass goes on clear and can be worn during the day or at night while you sleep. The ingredients are formulated to both moisturize lips as well as reduce the appearance of lip wrinkles.
Promising review: “Works as an exfoliating agent and makes my lips softer, smoother looking and naturally pinker (youthful). I will be purchasing again!” — Kristi Jones
