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Valentine’s Day is almost here, and whether you’re headed for a romantic date, a Galentine’s catch-up, or a solo self-care night, it’s the perfect excuse to play with your glam. Whether you’re getting cosy with flirty pinks, bold pops of colour, or something a little sultrier, there’s never been a better time to indulge in some me-time.

We’ve rounded up five trending Valentine’s Day makeup looks you need to try this year. From dreamy monochrome moments to statement lips and smoky romance, we’ve put together all the inspo and the makeup essentials to help you nail each look. Ready to fall head over heels for yourself this Valentine’s? 

Image credit: @makeupbyvictri

For a dreamy Monochromatic Valentine’s makeup look, choose one colour story and carry it across eyes, cheeks, and lips for an effortlessly harmonious vibe. Sweep pastel pinks from the By BEAUTY BAY Berries 42 Colour Palette across your lids, then add a luminous flush to the cheeks with Flower Knows Shell’s Jewel Collection Silk Satin Blush in Luna Pearl. We love the Dasique Juicy Dewy Tint in Pink Guava for this look, giving your lips a juicy, petal‑pink finish that pulls the whole look together. The result is a soft, flirty, Valentine’s-ready glow that’s easy to achieve and fun to wear.

Image credit: @abbysoniedo

Want to jump on the blurred-lip trend this Valentine’s? Inspired by Nina Park’s signature look which has graced red carpets everywhere, it gives lips a plump, diffused finish that makes them the star of the show. Start by lightly contouring with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Smooth Blur Contour Stick to shape your pout, then choose a shade close to your natural lip colour, like Made By Mitchell Modern Melt, and gently smudge it out with a brush or your fingertip (no harsh lines allowed). Finish with By BEAUTY BAY Sheer Tinted Lip Balm in Rose Latte for a sheer wash of colour and soft, nourished lips. If you’re after a subtle but high-impact glam, this one’s for you.

Image credit: @glambymykaila

Maximalist Valentine’s Day makeup is all about bold colour, playful details, and letting your creativity shine. Sweep bright, romantic shades from the By BEAUTY BAY Bright 42 Colour Palette across your lids, then add a soft, blended wash of colour to cheeks and lips with the fwee Lip and Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot. Brighten the eyes along the waterline with the Kevyn Aucoin In Perspective Eyeliner Pencil in White for an instant pop, and finish with a scattering of face gems or flowers for a Zara Larsson-inspired twist. Bursting with colour from top to tip, this is a Valentine’s look made for having fun, standing out, and showing off your playful side.

Image credit: @davidrazzano

Simple Valentine’s makeup is all about glowing skin, soft definition, and looking like the best version of you. Start with a fresh, radiant base using the By BEAUTY BAY Glow Filter Complexion Skin Tint for that lit-from-within finish. Add a natural flush with the By BEAUTY BAY Liquid Blush, which doubles as a soft pink eyeshadow and lip colour too, making it perfect for a quick, fuss-free routine. Brush through brows with the BPerfect Indestructi’brow Brow Fiber Gel Mascara for subtle shape and definition. The overall vibe is effortless, fresh, and perfect for a low-key Valentine’s look that still feels polished.

Image credit: @fetish.of.mine

Dark Romantic Valentine’s Glam is all about sultry eyes and a juicy, just-bitten lip that feels straight out of your favourite vampire fantasy. Build a smoky, seductive eye using deep shades from the Dark Lights 20 Colour Palette, then add a touch of molten glow with the Samplr COLOUR_HIT Shimmer Cream Shadow for extra dimension. Finish with the By BEAUTY BAY Dewy Hint Lip Tint for a soft, stained effect that looks effortlessly undone and irresistibly romantic. Moody and mysterious, this look is perfect for anyone who loves their Valentine’s glam with a darker edge.

From red carpets to your Instagram feed, Nina Park makeup has become the blueprint for “it-girl” glam in 2026. Her look is defined by softly sculpted skin, a radiant base, and blurred details that look just as flawless on camera as they do in real life. Loved by A-listers and beauty lovers alike, it strikes the perfect balance of fresh, refined, and spotlight-ready.

If you’ve spotted the Nina Park makeup looks trending everywhere and are eager to try them yourself, you’re in the right place. We’ve heard your beauty wishes and put together a Nina Park makeup tutorial, breaking down exactly what makes her style so iconic. From her flawless complexion to her signature Nina Park lip, keep scrolling to learn how to recreate her look, step by step.

Nina Park is quickly becoming the makeup artist everyone is talking about, with a client list straight from Hollywood, including Zoe Kravitz, Sadie Sink, and Emma Stone. Her signature glam is all about enhancing what you already have, combining a seamless base, subtle contouring and blusher, and eyes that are defined without looking overdone. The finishing touches include plump, blurred lips and carefully placed pops of colour that feel fun and wearable. With Nina Park, even classic looks like smokey eyes feel minimalist, modern, and cool.

Step 1: Natural, sculpted base

The foundation of Nina Park glam is soft, sculpted, “me, but better” skin. Start with a lightweight skin tint or tinted moisturiser to even out your complexion while keeping it fresh and natural. Add a touch of cream bronzer to subtly define the cheekbones, jawline, and temples, then finish with a muted blush for a natural, skin-like flush. The goal is a polished look that enhances your features without ever feeling heavy or overdone.

Step 2: Soft, fluffy brows

Nina Park brows are defined but natural, with a soft, feathered finish that frames the face. Use an ultra-fine brow pen or powder to fill in sparse areas lightly, following the natural shape of your brow. Set them with a tinted or clear brow gel to lift and hold the hairs in place while keeping them soft and touchable. The result is a brow that enhances your eyes without overpowering your overall look.

Step 3: Subtle, sculpted eyes

Eyes in Nina Park’s glam are defined yet understated. Start with neutral eyeshadow shades and softly blend them into the crease to create depth. A touch of liner close to the lash line enhances definition without being harsh. Finish with a coat of mascara to lift and separate lashes for a natural, wide-eyed effect. The aim is to sculpt the eyes in a way that feels elegant and effortless, complementing the rest of your makeup.

Step 4: Blurred, full lips

Nina Park lips are all about a soft, haloed, plush effect. Start by blending a cream bronzer or contour just around the outer edge of your lips, focusing on the lighter halo rather than the lips themselves. Trace over this with a cool-toned lip liner, lightly set with powder, then apply a tinted lip balm to the centre of the lips and diffuse outward. Finish with a warm nude liner to softly define the edges, then buff everything together for a seamless, blurred finish.

Step 5: Soft-focus finish

The final step is all about sealing in Nina Park’s signature skin-like finish. Use a light setting mist to melt all the products together and give skin a seamless, airbrushed effect. This keeps the makeup looking fresh and radiant, with a soft-focus effect that softens any harsh lines and ensures the look feels natural, polished, and wearable from every angle.

It’s time to escape the everyday and take your makeup somewhere a little more magical. Whether you’re embracing your ethereal era or just craving something new, the By BEAUTY BAY Wanderscape 20 Colour Palette is here to guide you into your favourite fantasy. This 20-shade edit of fairy-lit pinks, shimmering blues, mossy greens, and shadowed neutrals is designed for otherworldly, ethereal makeup looks that feel fresh, enchanting, and always on-trend.

With ultra-pigmented, blendable, and long-lasting shades, our Wanderscape Palette makes it easy to recreate the eye looks you’re seeing everywhere right now, from delicate pinks and sparkling shimmers to moody, sultry tones. Ready to take your look to new realms?

From light-catching shimmers to full-on pink glam and smoky, spellbound eyes, we’ve rounded up our favourite looks to get lost in, and every one can be recreated with our Wanderscape Palette.

Ethereal makeup

Showcasing pastel duochromes, whimsical details, and ultra-shiny finishes, ethereal makeup combines playfulness with colour to create a look straight from a fantasy tale. If you want glam that effortlessly enchants, these are a must.

Image credit: @claudiu.burca

Image credit: @rosycolors

Image credit: @savanahnormanmua

Image credit: @theballerinabridemua

Image credit: @andyreymua

Smoky eye makeup

Dive into shadowy depths with forest green tones, siren blues, and shadowed neutrals to give your classic smoky eye a fantasy twist. Perfect for channeling your inner woodland sorceress, blend, smudge, and layer for a look that’s dark, mysterious, and sultry.

Image credit: @bablonia

Image credit: @zemyfenty

Image credit: @angelina.masich

Image credit: @starbyrd.makeup

Pink makeup

Step into fairy-core with candy-hued shimmers, sultry pink mattes, and delicate face gems. Soft, charming, and full of romance, pink eyeshadows bring a dreamy, otherworldly glow to your everyday makeup. Pair with a pink-toned blush for the ultimate fairy-tale finish.

Image credit: @theballerinabridemua

Image credit: @makeupwlp

Image credit: @malvina_isfan

Image credit: @bylaurajne

Shimmery makeup

Shimmery eyeshadows are having their moment, and the Wanderscape Palette delivers spellbound sparkle. From wet-look shine to a delicate dusting of glitter, shimmery eye makeup adds instant dimension and ethereal radiance. Sweep across lids, highlight inner corners, and dust over cheekbones for next-level glow.

Image credit: @fetish.of.mine

Image credit: @merry.laney

Image credit: @anniexsangharartistry

Image credit: @staceyedohmakeup

Image credit: @sarafarremua

While makeup trends in 2026 have embraced a clean-girl, natural vibe, we can’t help sneaking a nostalgic peek at the bold 2016 glam we once lived for. Remember makeup in 2016? Full-coverage foundations, sharp brows, sculpted contour, statement lips, and highlighter bright enough to be seen from space. Today, clean glam is taking over, with skin-focused, effortless makeup that enhances rather than masks. From dewy bases to blurred lips and soft, fluffy brows, it’s all about embracing a natural, glowier version of yourself.

If, like many of us, you’re torn between these two glam worlds, fear not. In honour of one of the most iconic makeup eras (Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade, we’re looking at you), we’re breaking down the biggest differences between 2016 makeup looks and today’s polished, skin-first favourites. Here’s how to embrace both styles with ease.

2016 Base Makeup

Base makeup in 2016 was about creating a flawless, high-impact canvas. Matte foundations and heavy contour took centre stage, while baking ensured a long-lasting, polished finish. Highlighter added dramatic brightness, emphasising cheekbones and key points of the face for a striking, sculpted effect. Every detail was deliberate, giving skin a polished, camera-ready finish that was impossible to ignore.

Your 2016 base essentials

2026 Base Makeup

In 2026, base makeup is softer and more effortless. Skin tints, blurring primers, and light-coverage foundations even out the complexion without covering it up. Cream bronzers and pops of dewy blusher add gentle dimension, letting your natural glow shine through. The goal? Skin that looks like skin, with a healthy, radiant finish. 

Your 2026 base essentials

2016 Brow Makeup

2016 was officially the year of bold, precise brows. Thick, bold arches were defined with full-pigment pomades or pencils, while concealer carved out crisp edges for a polished, high-impact finish. Brow gels kept every hair in place, creating a look that was sharp, structured, and impossible to miss.

Your 2016 brow essentials

2026 Brow Makeup

In 2026, the emphasis has shifted to softness and movement. Fluffy, brushed-up brows that follow your natural shape are in, enhanced with tinted gels, ultra-fine pencils, or brow soaps. The goal is effortless definition and brows that frame your face naturally and complement your features without overpowering them.

Your 2026 brow essentials

2016 Eye Makeup

Eyes were the main event in 2016. Cut creases, bold shimmer, and thick eyeliner defined every look, while dramatic false lashes added instant glamour. Highly pigmented, colourful shadows and precise application created striking, statement-making eyes that demanded attention. No matter how small the occasion, the eyes were always the focal point.

Your 2026 eye makeup essentials

2026 Eye Makeup

Leaning into soft glam, eye looks in 2026 are soft, wearable, and favour easy application. Cream eyeshadows add effortless definition, while subtle shimmers are swiped seamlessly over lids for instant, gentle shine. Full, ultra-dark lashes have traded places with mascaras that create a natural-looking lift, leaving a fluttery, your-lash-but-better effect. 

Your 2026 eye makeup essentials

2016 Lip Makeup

In 2016, lips were all about bold colour and long-wear impact. Matte liquid lipsticks paired with sharp liner created crisp, defined shapes in statement shades that lasted all day (and night), sometimes even set with powder for extra staying power. From deep nudes to rich reds, the focus was on high-pigment colour with zero shine and maximum wear. 

Your 2016 lip makeup essentials

2026 Lip Makeup

Today, beauty lovers reach for plumping glosses, nourishing balms, and juicy, hydrated finishes. The desire for long-lasting lips hasn’t gone away, but instead of powdering them for staying power, we now turn to lip stains for a more natural, low-maintenance finish. Cloud lips are also a trending 2026 favouite, pairing blurred edges with a soft-focus, glossy finish for a plumped, lived-in effect. Apply a lip stain or balm, smudge the edges with a fingertip or brush, and top with gloss for a soft, cloud-like finish.

Your 2026 lip makeup essential

Looking to upgrade your lip game? Here at BEAUTY BAY, we’ve worked hard to create the ultimate range of lip products designed to deliver juicy, vibrant, and hydrated lips for every occasion. From the creamy By BEAUTY BAY Gel Lip Liners and nourishing lip balms, to our bestselling, high shine plumping gloss, there’s something for every type of lip look. Best of all, every one of our products is vegan and cruelty-free, so you can swipe on your best lips yet completely guilt-free. 

Tried, tested, and loved by all, keep scrolling to find out why our lip-loving must-haves need a spot in your beauty bag. 

Shades available: Brulee, Love, Slippers, Mallow

Meet your perfect balance of hydration and colour, the By BEAUTY BAY Hydrating Lip Tints. Packed with hyaluronic acid, seaweed, and Irish moss, these tints drench your lips in moisture while delivering a soft, natural wash of colour. Lightweight and balm-like, they glide on smoothly for a glossy, tinted finish that feels as good as it looks.

Shades available: Crush, Crave 

Want a lip look that lasts? Lock it in with the By BEAUTY BAY All Hours Lip Stain. In a buildable, high-pigment lip stain formula, it delivers a natural looking tint that can be worn either as a lip liner or on its own. Perfect if you love a low maintenance lip, its formula is budge, smudge, and and fuss-proof –  simply swipe on, let it set for 30 seconds, and blot away to reveal your lip colour of dreams. 

Shades available: Bitten, Teddy, Softie

Click. Swipe. Shine. The By BEAUTY BAY Hyper-Gloss Lip Click will leave lips with an ultra-glossy, 3D glass-like shine that will add the finishing touch to any makeup look. It features a sleek, handy click pen design, making it perfect for on-the-go. Infused with skin-loving vitamin E and a delicious coconut flavour, it leaves your lips with a juicy sheen and sheer wash of colour. Plus, lips are left feeling smooth, comfortable, and nourished without any stickiness.

Flavours available: Sweet berry

If you’re looking to transform dry, textured lips into soft, supple, plump ones, the By BEAUTY BAY Lip Prep & Plump Duo is your new favourite lip care routine. The exfoliating and nourishing Lip Prep + Vitamin E buffs away dry, dead skin and leave lips smooth, soft, and supple. And the hydrating and plumping Lip Plump + Tripeptide + Hyaluronic Acid leaves lips fuller-looking, giving you a glossy pout. Featuring a sweet berry flavour, this duo will have your lips prepped, plumped, and perfected.

Shades available: Cherry, Vanilla & Coconut, Strawberry, Papaya, Watermelon & Kiwi

Swipe on summer with the By BEAUTY BAY Jelly Lip Oil, a glossy, subtly tinted treat for your lips. Infused with jojoba, meadowfoam, macadamia oils, and vitamin E, it nourishes and smooths while adding a sheer wash of colour. Non-sticky, ultra-glossy, and irresistibly scented, this is the secret to your juiciest lips ever.

Shades available: Strawberry, Cherry, Vanilla & Coconut, Hot Chocolate, Mulled Cherry, Rose Latte

Looking for a product that cares for your lips and enhances them? We heard your wishes and made the By BEAUTY BAY Sheer Tinted Lip Balm. Enriched with jojoba oil and vitamin E, these balms deliver a touch of subtle colour, glossy hydration, and a hint of flavour in every swipe. Lightweight, non-sticky, and perfect for everyday wear, these lip-boosting balms will be your new go-to for soft, smooth, and naturally radiant lips.

Shades available: Whip, Vintage, Toast, Heather, Pulp, Heart, Ruffle, Balloon

Define like never before with the By BEAUTY BAY Super Sculpt Lip Liners, your go-to for precise, smudge-proof colour. With a soft, creamy formula and four matte shades, these liners effortlessly enhance your natural lip shape. Long-lasting and easy to apply, they’re the ultimate finishing touch for any makeup look.

Shades available: Chai, Terracotta, Saddle, Truffle

Our Gel Lip Liners are designed to add smooth and effortless dimension to your lips. Buttery-soft and ultra-creamy, the formula glides on to deliver bold, long-lasting colour that stays put. Smudge-proof and transfer-resistant, these liners are the solution to flawless, fade-free lip looks. Pair with our Hydrating Lip Tints for next level smooth, soft colour.

Ski trips might be good for the soul, but they’re notoriously harsh on your skin. With cold temperature, strong winds, high-altitude UV, and dry indoor air all working together to challenge hydration levels and the skin barrier, a simple, targeted routine – and the right skincare for skiing – is key. The best skiing skincare helps support moisture, comfort and protection so your skin stays balanced and glowing on and off the slopes. By choosing a few effective skiing skincare products, you can easily prevent dry skin, minimise irritation and keep your complexion looking fresh, making these the ultimate skiing skincare essentials for anyone heading to the mountains.

While skiing might conjure up thoughts of fresh, glowing skin and rosy cheeks, the reality isn’t quite as picture-perfect. Freezing cold air slows oil production, while alpine winds cause wind burn and weaken the skin barrier. Higher altitudes bring stronger UV exposure even on cloudy days, and dry, heated indoor environments pull moisture from the skin, all of which can lead to tightness, flaking, redness and irritation.

To protect your skin on the slopes, your routine should focus on gentle cleansing to avoid stripping the skin, deep hydration to replenish lost moisture, barrier support to strengthen and repair the skin’s defences, and daily SPF to shield against UV. Prioritising these essentials helps keep your skin resilient, comfortable, and radiant throughout your trip.

Don’t let the mountain weather mess with your skin. From skin-quenching serums to ultra-strong SPFs, pack these must-have products to keep your skin looking its best from first lift to après-ski.

Gentle cleanser

Your skin is already under enough stress on the slopes, so the last thing it needs is a harsh, stripping cleanser. Using a gentle cleanser helps remove sweat, SPF and impurities without disrupting the skin barrier or stripping away essential oils, which is key for preventing tightness, dryness, and irritation. Look for low-foam or oil-based formulas with hydrating and soothing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or oat extract, and avoid strong surfactants, alcohol, or heavy fragrance. Your skin should feel clean, soft and comfortable after cleansing, never tight or squeaky.

Hydrating serum

On the slopes, skin loses hydration faster than usual, which can leave it feeling tight, flaky and dull. A hydrating serum helps replenish that water and keeps skin plump and comfortable throughout the day. Look for lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which draw moisture into the skin, and soothing ingredients like panthenol or squalane to calm irritation. Applying a serum before your moisturiser helps lock in hydration and creates the perfect base for barrier-supporting creams and SPF.

Barrier-strengthening cream

Harsh conditions can leave skin feeling vulnerable and sensitive. A barrier-strengthening cream helps reinforce your skin’s natural defences, sealing in hydration and reducing the risk of irritation. Look for rich, nourishing ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, squalane, or shea butter, which restore resilience and keep skin soft and comfortable. Use it after your serum to protect against the elements and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion throughout your ski trip.

High-protection SPF

At higher altitudes, UV exposure is significantly stronger, and snow reflects sunlight, increasing the amount of radiation your skin receives. This makes broad-spectrum SPF non-negotiable on the slopes to protect against sun damage, pigmentation, and premature ageing. Choose an SPF 30 or higher with both UVA and UVB protection, and opt for a hydrating, comfortable formula that layers well over skincare and under makeup. Apply generously as the final step in your morning routine, and reapply throughout the day to keep your skin protected while you ski.

Nourishing lip care

Lips have no oil glands, making them especially vulnerable to dryness, cracking and wind burn when skiing. A nourishing lip balm helps protect this delicate skin, locking in moisture and shielding lips from the elements. Look for formulas with emollient ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, lanolin or plant oils, and ideally one with added SPF to protect against UV exposure at altitude. Apply regularly throughout the day and before bed to keep lips soft, smooth and comfortable on and off the slopes.

There are many steps in a makeup routine that really do tie the whole look together, and bronzer is one of the most important ones. Sweeping on some warmth and sculpting definition transforms the complexion from 2D to 3D with a healthy, golden glow. And our By BEAUTY BAY bronzers are just the ticket.

Whether it’s our By BEAUTY BAY liquid bronzer, buttery-smooth powders, or dew-inducing bronzing drops, they’ll always come into clutch and be the ones we reach for. Each one has a melt-into-the-skin formula that provides maximum pigment payoff and blendability with minimal effort (I mean, the By BEAUTY BAY Bronzer swatches say it all).

And don’t worry about your bronzer looking muddy, patchy, or lifting (ruining) your base makeup, these bronzers deliver lit-from-within warmth and chiselling dimension with no drama… 

When we need an instant, shimmery tan touch-up, there’s only one we rely on: the By BEAUTY BAY Bronzing Drops. This wash-off, liquid-gold-of-a-formula effortlessly adds some serious heat to your beat with sheer, sunlit radiance. Blurring, bronzing, illuminating, and hydrating (I know, what can’t they do?), these hyaluronic acid-infused drops don’t just stop at the face either. Working wonders on the neck and body, they blend super seamlessly into the skin for a head-to-toe glow you don’t have to graft for.

Shades available: Fudge, Cacao, Ganache, Butterscotch, Mocha, Walnut

In a few words: they serve sun-kissed skin. The lightweight but pigment-packed By BEAUTY BAY Liquid Cream Bronzers effortlessly blend into the skin for that back-from-holiday warmth. Yes, smoothing microsphere powders give you a soft-focus finish, but this bronzer also calls on the nourishment of sweet almond and jojoba oils for a lit-from-within look. It’s buildable too so you can make it as subtle or dramatic as you like. BTW, if you like layering, this formula will perfectly set you up for that final dusting of powder bronzer.

Shades: Fair – Medium, Tan – Deep 

As well as being a creamy bronzer must-have, our Make Face palette also features blush, concealer, and powder shades to flush, correct, and set with. Perfect for contouring and sculpting your face, our Make Face bronzing shades effortlessly blend to give seamless definition. Each shade is rich and pigmented too, give you just the right amount of buildable bronze you need.

Shades: Caramel, Fawn, Donut, Oak, Beach, Chestnut, Button 

The By BEAUTY BAY Powder Bronzer makes bronzing a total breeze. Boasting an assortment of shades and undertones, this buttery powder bronzer lets you chisel and define your complexion whilst adding dimension, all without leaving a chalky finish. Purely because it buffs and blends onto the skin so smoothly and you can build up the intensity for anything from a subtle sculpt to cut-throat contour. 

With ultra-hydrating ingredients, skin-loving formulas, and glow-boosting results, K-beauty has some of the most effective solutions out there. But with so many options, you might be wondering: What Korean skincare is good for dry skin? Or even more specifically, what Korean cleanser is best for dry skin, or what is the best hydrating serum? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. From the best Korean skincare for dry skin, a breakdown of the must-have ingredients, and what to skip if your skin’s feeling parched, we’re here to help you get that glassy, bouncy skin of your dreams. 

When it comes to treating dry skin, hydration alone isn’t enough. Your skin also needs ingredients that help lock in moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and soothe irritation. Korean skincare is packed with gentle, nourishing ingredients that do just that. While there are a few hydrating heroes to look out for, here are eight of our skin-quenching favourites: 

Hyaluronic acid: A hydration magnet that attracts up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping your skin look instantly plumper and more hydrated.

Ceramides: Naturally found in your skin, ceramides help repair and strengthen the barrier so it holds onto moisture better and stays protected from dryness.

Glycerin: A classic, no-fuss hydrator that draws water into the skin and keeps it soft, smooth, and supple. 

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Soothes, softens, and hydrates the skin while helping to calm redness and support your skin barrier. 

Squalane: A lightweight oil that mimics your skin’s natural moisture, helping to lock in hydration without feeling greasy. Bonus: it’s non-comedogenic.

Centella Asiatica (Cica): A calming plant extract that helps soothe irritation, speed up healing, and gently hydrate while reducing redness. 

Snail mucin: A multitasking powerhouse that hydrates, helps fade scars, and supports healing, all without feeling heavy or sticky.

Shea Butter: Rich and deeply nourishing, it softens flaky skin, smooths out rough texture, and seals in moisture. 

When caring for dry skin, it’s just as important to avoid certain ingredients and habits as it is to add the right ones. If you’ve got dry skin, here’s what to skip when it comes to your skincare: 

Harsh cleansers or stripping products: Foaming cleansers with a high pH or strong ingredients can wash away your skin’s natural oils, making it even drier. Choose gentle cleansers with a low pH that clean without harming your moisture barrier.

Alcohol based toners: These can dry out and irritate your skin, especially if it’s already dry or sensitive.

Strong exfoliants: Using AHAs, BHAs, or scrubs every day can damage your skin’s barrier. If you exfoliate, pick mild options and don’t overdo it.

Retinoids and retinol: While powerful for anti-ageing, these ingredients can be too drying for some with naturally dry skin. If you do use them, opt for gentler alternatives like bakuchiol or use them sparingly with lots of hydration support.

Fragrance-heavy products: Synthetic fragrances can irritate sensitive, dry skin and contribute to inflammation or flakiness.

Over-washing or hot water: Long, hot showers or washing your face too much can dry your skin out even more. Use lukewarm water and cleanse just once or twice a day.

ARENCIA Calendula Rice Mochi Cleanser

Key ingredients: Calendula extract, heartleaf extract, prickly pear extract, finely milled rice powder

Soft, bouncy, and comforting, the Arencia Calendula Rice Mochi Cleanser is a gentle all-in-one cleanser for dry and sensitive skin. Crafted through a traditional kneading process, its mochi-like texture melts away makeup and impurities while helping maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance so skin feels clean, never tight or stripped. Calendula extract rich in vitamin C and flavonoids hydrates, brightens, and calms irritation, while heartleaf and prickly pear extracts soothe, purify, and replenish moisture with antioxidant protection. Finely milled rice powder provides mild exfoliation to smooth texture and lift away dullness without disrupting the skin barrier. The result is soft, balanced, and comforted skin with a fresh, healthy glow.

haruharu wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil

Key ingredients: Rice bran oil, jojoba seed oil, olive fruit oil, sunflower seed oil, macadamia seed oil

Simple yet seriously effective, the haruharu wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil melts away makeup and impurities while delivering deep hydration. Powered by haruharu wonder’s patented Ultra Deep Technology and featuring a 95%-natural formula, it helps active ingredients penetrate more deeply into the skin. Vitamin-rich rice bran oil brightens dullness, while jojoba and olive oils calm inflammation and nourish dry patches. Infused with five plant-based oils, this gentle cleanser strengthens the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss, leaving your skin clean, soft, glowing, and never tight or greasy.

ANUA Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner

Key ingredients: Heartleaf extract (77%), panthenol, sugarcane extract (AHA), centella asiatica

Lightweight, calming, and deeply hydrating, the ANUA Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is a soothing daily essential for dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Formulated with 77% heartleaf extract, it helps reduce inflammation, calm redness, and relieve irritation while restoring balance to your skin’s natural oil and moisture levels. Panthenol works as a powerful humectant to hydrate and soften, leaving skin feeling plump, comfortable, and refreshed. AHA-rich sugarcane extract provides gentle exfoliation to smooth texture and reduce dullness without disrupting the skin barrier, while centella asiatica strengthens and soothes stressed skin. The result is calmer, clearer, and more balanced skin that feels hydrated, soothed, and visibly healthier with every use.

TirTir Milk Skin Toner

Key ingredients: Rice bran extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, chamomile extract

Otherwise known as glass skin in a bottle, this award-winning Milk Skin Toner from TirTir is a hydration hero for dry and dehydrated skin. The milky formula blends brightening rice bran extract and niacinamide with deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid and calming chamomile extract to deliver a smooth, luminous finish that’s as soft as it is radiant. Layer it up (especially if your skin’s feeling extra thirsty) for that plump, well-rested glow, no matter how little sleep you’ve had. It’s perfect for all skin types, but especially effective for dry skin in need of a serious moisture boost.

Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Cream In Ampoule Brightening Serum

Key ingredients: Purified rice extract, niacinamide, multi-layer hyaluronic acid

The Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Cream In Ampoule Brightening Serum is a radiance-boosting must-have for dull, dehydrated skin, leaving it bright, plump, and deeply hydrated. Its innovative bio-phase formula combines purified rice extract with niacinamide to brighten, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier, just shake to activate before use. Infused with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, this serum delivers long-lasting hydration at every layer of the skin, leaving your complexion soft, smooth, and glowing. Perfect for daily use, it transforms tired, lacklustre skin into a luminous, healthy-looking canvas ready for the rest of your routine.

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Key ingredients: 96% snail mucin extract, antioxidants

A viral K-beauty favourite for good reason, the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is packed with 96% snail mucin to deliver deep hydration, promote skin repair, and leave your complexion visibly smoother and more radiant. Yes, it really is produced by snails, but don’t be put off by its slimy origins – the fast-absorbing, gel-like texture glides on easily and instantly soothes dryness, redness, and irritation. Rich in natural antioxidants, it also helps strengthen the skin barrier, fade acne scars and fine lines, and support overall skin health. Loved by all skin types, it’s especially perfect for dry, dull, or tired skin in need of a hydrating glow-up.

Biodance Hydro Cera-Nol Ampoule

Key ingredients: Low-molecular panthenol (5%), multi-layer hyaluronic acid (15 layers), multi-layer ceramides (five layers)

Lightweight, calming, and intensely hydrating, the Biodance Hydro Cera-Nol Ampoule is a non-sticky moisture booster designed to soothe and repair dry, sensitive skin. Formulated with 5% ultra-low molecular panthenol (205.3 Dalton), it penetrates deeply to calm irritation, relieve tightness, and strengthen the skin barrier from within. A multi-layer complex of 15 types of hyaluronic acid and five layers of ceramides works at different depths to flood the skin with hydration, fill in surface moisture gaps, and lock it all in for long-lasting comfort. The result is skin that feels plump, soothed, resilient, and perfectly moisturised with no heaviness or residue.

Belif Aqua Bomb Sleeping Mask

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, herbal moisturising complex

Turn bedtime into the ultimate treat for your skin with this jelly-textured sleeping mask that delivers a surge of overnight hydration. Powered by hyaluronic acid and brightening niacinamide, Belif’s Aqua Bomb Sleeping Mask replenishes dry, dull skin while you sleep, locking in moisture and soothing irritation. Its signature herbal blend helps calm and nourish, while the memory-gel texture hugs every contour of your face, melting into fine lines and dry patches without a trace. Non-sticky, mess-free, and pillow-proof, this overnight mask leaves you waking up to softer, smoother, and visibly refreshed skin.

Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

Key ingredients: Collagen, moisture-locking barrier complex

Wake up to plump, dewy, and radiant skin with the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask. This peel-off sleeping mask works overnight to lock in hydration, boost elasticity, and refine texture, giving your skin a visibly smoother, firmer finish by morning. Enriched with a potent dose of collagen, it creates a breathable barrier that seals in moisture and nutrients while you sleep. Clinically tested and suitable for sensitive skin, this mask transforms your nighttime routine into a next-level glow ritual, leaving skin soft, nourished, and radiant.

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream

Key ingredients: Blue hyaluronic acid, barrier-strengthening complex

Rich, soothing, and deeply hydrating, the Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream is a barrier-boosting moisturiser designed to rescue dry, sensitive skin. Its balm-to-cream texture melts effortlessly into the skin, delivering intense moisture while calming redness and relieving irritation. Enriched with blue hyaluronic acid, it helps strengthen the skin barrier and lock in hydration for long-lasting comfort. Clinically proven to nourish every skin type, this intensive cream leaves skin soft, plump, and glowing.

I’m From Rice Cream

Key ingredients: Rice bran ceramide, nourishing fatty acids

Soft, supple, and never greasy, the I’m From Rice Cream is a nourishing moisturiser designed to support dry and sensitive skin. Enriched with rice bran ceramide, it helps strengthen the skin barrier, maintain moisture levels, and balance hydration for a healthy, radiant finish. This lightweight yet deeply hydrating cream also works to control sebum, leaving skin smooth, comfortable, and perfectly nourished throughout the day. Ideal for daily use, it transforms dull, thirsty skin into a soft, glowing complexion.

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturising Cream

Key ingredients: Birch tree sap, jojoba esters, amino acids

Lightweight, fluffy, and deeply hydrating, the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturising Cream delivers a refreshing hit of moisture while supporting the skin barrier. Its gel-like texture glides effortlessly across the skin, locking in hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Enriched with mineral- and antioxidant-rich birch tree sap and nourishing jojoba esters, it helps calm irritation, replenish moisture, and strengthen the barrier. A blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals leaves skin smooth, protected, and radiant, making it the perfect daily moisturiser for clear, healthy-looking skin.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick

Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica, blue algae, hyaluronic acids

Deliver SPF 50+ protection in a swipe with the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick. Lightweight, soothing, and ultra-convenient, its soft, velvety formula glides effortlessly across the skin to shield against harmful UV rays without a heavy or greasy feel. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, blue algae, and hyaluronic acids, it strengthens, hydrates, and calms sensitive skin while balancing oil and resisting sweat. Perfect for on-the-go protection, this portable sun stick keeps skin smooth and nourished, making sun care effortless, anytime, anywhere.

Purito Seoul Wonder Releaf Centella Daily Sun Lotion

Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica, brown algae extract, sodium hyaluronate

Soothe, hydrate, and protect with this ultra-lightweight Wonder Releaf Centella Daily Sun Lotion from Purito. Infused with calming Korean Centella Asiatica, this gentle sunscreen relieves irritation and redness while supporting your skin’s natural barrier. Brown algae extract defends against urban pollutants and fine dust, while sodium hyaluronate locks in moisture for all-day hydration. The custard-like texture melts into skin without a trace, leaving behind a dewy, fresh-faced glow with no greasiness or white cast. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, it provides gentle, hydrating, and effective protection for dry and sensitive skin types. 

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++

Key ingredients: Aloe arborescens leaf extract, tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E)

The COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++ is a gentle yet powerful daily sunscreen that shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays while delivering lasting hydration. Infused with soothing aloe arborescens leaf extract, it boosts moisture levels for a refreshed feel, while calming irritated or sensitive skin. Vitamin E works to protect against environmental damage while moisturising and supporting the skin barrier. This lightweight cream absorbs quickly with a non-sticky finish, leaving your skin protected and comfortably hydrated. 

ROM&ND Glasting Melting Balm

Key ingredients: Argan oil, rosehip oil, evening primrose oil

Juicy, glossy, and nourishing, the ROM&ND Glasting Melting Balm is a tinted lip balm that softens and hydrates in one swipe. Its lightweight, butter-like formula melts effortlessly into lips, filling in creases and locking in moisture without stickiness or uneven colour. Infused with plant-based oils like argan, rosehip, and evening primrose, it nourishes and protects lips from dryness while delivering a translucent yet vibrant wash of colour. Wear alone for a fresh, plump finish or layer over your favourite lip products for extra shine and lips that stay silky-soft, moisturised, and radiant all day.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask 

Key ingredients: Berry Fruit Complex, vitamin C, coconut oil, murumuru butter, shea butter

This cult-favourite Lip Sleeping Mask from Laneige does the heavy lifting while you sleep, so you can wake up with softer, smoother lips. Powered by Laneige’s antioxidant-rich Berry Fruit Complex (featuring pomegranate, grape, and raspberry juices) and boosted with nourishing butters like coconut, murumuru, and shea, this silky treatment delivers 8-hour hydration to rescue lips from dryness and flaking. Vitamin C offers environmental protection, while a choice of delicious flavours, from creamy Vanilla to sweet and fruity Gummy Bear, makes nightly lip care feel like a treat. Whether you use it as an overnight mask or a glossy daytime balm, your lips will drink it up.

Our AM and PM skincare routines are one of the highlights of our day here at BEAUTY BAY (cute or sad, who knows?) We love adding in new and trending products that slot right in with our carefully crafted routines. But when said product or a new ingredient doesn’t quite sing in tune with our skin or other skincare? Cue the violins.

Sometimes it can just be down to different skin types, needs, and tolerances. But sometimes, it can be down to mixing certain skincare ingredients that don’t mix well or complement one another. Whether it’s experiencing redness or a compromised skin barrier, or just noticing no difference whatsoever, we’ve popped together a simple guide to mixing skincare ingredients so you can avoid irritated skin and of course, wasting that precious new product.

1. Vitamin C + AHAs/BHAs

Vitamin C is effectively an acid (it’s sometimes known as ascorbic acid), so layering vitamin C with AHAs and BHAs like glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids isn’t recommended. Vitamin C is also known for its instability, which essentially means it can degrade or lose effectiveness when exposed to light, air, heat, and other intense ingredients – like AHAs and BHAs.

2. Retinol + AHAs/BHAs

AHAs and BHAs are intense exfoliators, and although retinol doesn’t exfoliate quite as much, it’s also a peeling agent that stimulates cell turnover to get rid of old and damaged skin cells. Mixing retinol with acids can cause dryness and irritation and damage the skin’s moisture barrier.

When layered together, retinol and AHAs/BHAs can also increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, meaning you’re at a much higher risk of burning your skin and causing UV damage. So, it’s recommended to use these ingredients on alternate days or weeks if you want to reap the benefits of both.

3. Retinol + Vitamin C

Should you use retinol and vitamin C together? Layering the two can be yet another recipe for irritation, peeling, and redness, especially for sensitive skin, as these are very active ingredients.

However, both ingredients are firm favourites in many skincare routines when used separately and at different times of the day. It’s best to use vitamin C in the morning to help boost collagen production and provide antioxidant protection throughout the day. And retinol is best used as part of your nighttime skincare routine as it stimulates fibroblast activity and produces collagen.

4. Glycolic Acid + Salicylic Acid

Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid work by removing dead skin cells from the upper layers of your skin, which means you could be getting double the exfoliation – which you don’t need. Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are great ingredients used separately (or in pre-formulated blends) but mixing the two yourself could cause a major reaction, irritation, and compromise your skin barrier.

5. Water-based and oil-based skincare

Whether it’s skincare or otherwise, oil and water don’t mix. In fact, oil actually repels water, so when it comes to your skincare, using an oil-based product will leave a film on your skin which prevents water-based formulas from absorbing. If you want to use both formulas in the same routine, apply your water-based products first, and oil-based products on top.

1. Vitamin C + Niacinamide

Despite speculation from previous years that advised not using vitamin C and niacinamide together, the two can complement one another. Either use them together or at different times during the day, as the two can work together to brighten and even skin tone.

Our favourite Vitamin C + Niacinamide combination:

2. Hyaluronic Acid + AHAs/BHAs

As AHAs and BHAs chemically exfoliate skin to remove dead cells, your skin can sometimes be in need of a gentle serum afterwards. Hyaluronic acid is a soothing and hydrating acid that works well with a lot of skincare ingredients, but especially AHAs and BHAs as it’s non-clogging and calming for breakout-prone skin.

Our favourite Hyaluronic Acid + AHA/BHA combination:

3. Hyaluronic Acid + Retinol

If you’re wondering if you can use hyaluronic acid with retinol, you can. Although retinol is a dermatologist-recommended skincare ingredient, it can sometimes be irritating and extremely drying as it promotes surface cell turnover and can leave skin feeling tight. As hyaluronic acid is a humectant, it holds moisture in your skin to deeply hydrate and leave skin feeling plumper and looking more youthful.

Our favourite Hyaluronic Acid + Retinol combination:

4. Niacinamide + Retinol

A potential side effect of retinol is irritation, which niacinamide can help with. Layering niacinamide before retinol can reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier over time to make it more resistant to irritation. Both ingredients also help with hyperpigmentation as retinol boosts cell turnover to reveal refreshed and younger-looking skin, whilst niacinamide brightens skin by lightening dark spots.

Our favourite Niacinamide + Retinol combination:

5. Vitamin C + SPF

Although you should be applying SPF every day, and it works with every skincare ingredient, SPF and vitamin C work particularly well together. This is because the antioxidant properties of vitamin C pair well with the protective powers of sunscreen, enhancing your skin’s defense from sun exposure and pollution.

Long-term research actually shows that combining vitamin C and SPF can help prevent long-term pigmentation from sun damage. Plus, whilst SPF protects the skin from UV damage, vitamin C can help to reduce and repair the damage.

Our favourite Vitamin C + SPF combination:

If you’re looking for a safe way to mix skincare ingredients, try the below skincare routines for AM and PM. Both combinations will avoid irritation and help you get the most effective results from your products.

AM Skincare Ingredient Routine:

– Niacinamide

– Vitamin C

– SPF

PM Skincare Ingredient Routine:

– Retinoids/ AHAs and BHAs (alternate daily or weekly)

– Hyaluronic Acid