These “unsexy” skincare products are so good, beauty insiders don’t care what they look like

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, $28.60 on Shopee

Credit: Nizoral

2/18

“I’ve tried it and this really helps clear dandruff in a few washes! It also fixes the issue which prevents future itchy scalp. I highly recommend it to those who suffer from itchy scalp or dandruff. This makes a world of difference, and it’s not expensive.”

Bioderma Sensibio Defensive Active Soothing Cream, $25.55 at Amazon

Credit: Bioderma

3/18

“This is great for anyone suffering from sensitive skin or if your skin barrier feels damaged and dry. I highly recommend this to those whose skin is itchy and red. If your skin is having a reaction, this calms it down too.”

Dr Morita Hyaluronic Acid Long Lasting Facial Mask, $11 at Watsons (Amazon Fresh)

Credit: Dr Morita

5/18

“It’s fuss-free, works well on my skin and great value for money. It is also easy to find and you don’t have to pay top dollar for something that may work well for others but not for you. ⁠I use a sheet mask daily and I realised that this gives me the hydration and soothing effects that I look for especially after a full day outdoors. I run and cycle and spend hours outdoors at a time so dehydrated and sun-exposed skin is always a concern.”

Ginvera Nutri White Marvel Gel, $16.60 at Watsons

Credit: Ginvera

6/18

“I’ve liked this since I was a teenager, and I found that physical exfoliators (St. Ives, anyone?) were too harsh for my skin. This is a gentler exfoliator that does not irritate my skin, and my skin feels clean and absorbs the beauty products subsequently. The fact that it’s still around for decades shows how good a product it is!”

Once A Week Weekly Deodorant, $4.60 for three pieces at Watsons

Credit: Once A Week

7/18

“This is a lifesaver. I don’t have to remember to wear deodorant even on long humid days, and it saves me a lot of time and embarrassment, especially after long sessions on the bike or runs.”

9Wishes White Tone-Up Body Serum, $52.18 at Shopee

Credit: 9Wishes

9/18

“Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your body. I use this on myself and my clients whenever we’re filming outdoors. It leaves an initial white cast but once it’s fully absorbed, it brightens the skin tone without leaving any residue.” 

Illiyoon Easy-Wash Sun Cream, US$20.26 at Olive Young

Credit: Illiyoon

10/18

“This is another body sunscreen that I would recommend. It doesn’t feel greasy or sticky on the body even in Singapore’s weather. It’s great for anyone who’s afraid of the sun because it has SPF 50+ built-in. Plus, it’s light in texture so you can just wash it off at the end of the day using your usual shower gel.” 

Cerave Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin, $27.90 at Watsons (Amazon Fresh)

Credit: Cerave

12/18

“I use this twice a day on my limbs and I can feel that my skin is more moisturised than without using it. It’s a very functional and cost-effective body moisturiser, softening my skin and leaving it moisturised the next day. There are no frills about it, no scents or sexy packaging but it gets the job done for me. It contains ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier so users with eczema may find this useful for them.”

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400, $43.92 at Watsons (LazMall)

Credit: La Roche-Posay

13/18

“I’m in the sun a lot and this broad spectrum, high protection sunscreen with new generation UV filters against the long wavelength UVA rays is a must for protecting my skin. It’s also lightweight, dries quickly and water resistant, making it perfect for Singapore’s hot and humid weather.” 

Acnetin-A 0.05% Tretinoin, price unavailable at Watsons in Bangkok, Thailand

Credit: Acentin-A

15/18

“I was looking for an upgrade from the adapalene gel that I was using, and after some research, I decided to give tretinoin—which treats acne and wrinkles—a go. However, I couldn’t find it in Singapore without a doctor’s prescription so I got this in Watsons in Bangkok when I was holidaying there. I use this as the last step of my nighttime skincare, and it helps me to control breakouts and smoothen uneven skin surface.”

Audace Extra Hair Reactive and Hair Fall Control Shampoo, $12.56 at Watsons (LazMall)

Credit: Audace

16/18

“My scalp turns greasy by midday even when I’ve washed it before leaving my house. Some days, my scalp even reeks of excess sebum and it’s unpleasant. I chanced upon this shampoo at myCK department store, and after using it for the first time, I realised that my scalp has become less oily and stinky. Since then, I’ve been stocking up on this shampoo.” 

Skinoren Azelaic Acid, price unavailable at Guardian’s pharmacy

Credit: Skinoren

17/18

“After watching Dr Samue Choudhury recommend this azelaic acid cream on his Instagram, I went to Guardian’s pharmacy and got it. It’s helped to clear up my blackheads, keeping my skin condition in control. If you’re trying this high strength azelaic acid, be warned: your skin might peel and turn itchy so a little goes a long way.” 

Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Cleanser, $35.60 at Guardian

Credit: Physiogel

18/18

“My monthly laser treatment leaves my skin slightly red and raw for a few days so I always use this to wash my face. It’s made specially for dry and sensitive skin while repairing and strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier. Consider getting this when it goes on sale so that you can get a huge bang for your buck!”