The eight best body serums for boosting your moisturiser in winter
Now that winter has well and truly set in across Australia, you're likely feeling the effects on your skin. Maybe you have your winter skincare routine sorted for your face, but don't neglect your body – it, too, can end up dry, itchy and tight-feeling thanks to constant changes between indoor and outdoor temperatures, wind chill, and hot showers (we know they're bad for us, but we can't help ourselves!).
Body serums have been on the rise for the last few years, and while they may seem like an extravagance, they actually do serve a purpose. Usually packed with highly effective moisturising actives like hyaluronic acid and ingredients to fight environmental damage like antioxidants. A little also goes a long way – combining a pump or spritz with your usual body moisturiser is all you need, so while body serums for winter can be a little pricey, they're also long-lasting.
Here are some of our current favourites.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
We have waxed lyrical about the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin collection in previous articles, and we're going to do it again because this really is one of the best-kept secrets of skincare fans. COSRX's products are incredibly affordable, a little goes a long way, and they're suitable for all skin types – even sensitive ones. This essence is technically for the face, but given it spreads quickly and blends well with creams, we think its hydrating, skin-plumping benefits are great for body care, too.
Paula's Choice 5% Niacinamide Body Serum
Paula's Choice is a trusted skincare brand thanks to Paula Begoun, the founder also known as the 'Cosmetics Cop', who made a name for herself in the 1990s by assessing the ingredient lists in popular makeup and skincare products to determine their efficacy. Many of Paula's Choice products are well-loved for their simplicity, and this goes for the 5% Niacinamide Body Serum – the science-backed ingredients help to rebuild the skin's moisture barrier while evening out redness.
Biologi Bf Restore Face & Body Serum
This serum from Australian skincare brand Biologi is so popular it comes in multiple sizes – some choose to use it on their face exclusively, but others invest in larger bottles to incorporate it into their body care routine. "This serum leaves me with such soft and supple skin, I really love it," writes one Adore Beauty reviewer. It's also particularly well-loved by those suffering from eczema or sensitive skin.
Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Body Oil
With omega fatty acids and a collection of natural oils, this 125mL product from Dermalogica is a fantastic addition to your winter skincare routine. Fermented red ginseng helps to plump skin and reduce inflammation, sunflower and avocado oils protect via antioxidants, and French plum seed oil provides additional hydration. If body oils are too heavy on your skin, just mix a few drops with moisturiser.
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NIOD Superoxide Dismutase Saccharide Mist
NIOD is part of the DECIEM family, which also includes the hugely popular skincare brand, The Ordinary. NIOD is kind of the super-scientific big sister – its products can be confusing at first glance but often have rock-solid fan bases thanks to their efficacy. This mist is well-loved as a hydration booster for the face, but given its size, could easily be used on the whole body. It helps protect against environmental stressors and soothes inflammation.
SkinCeuticals Body Tightening Concentrate
If you're after a lifting, firming effect from your body serum, this product by SkinCeuticals might be right up your alley. It's easy to be sceptical about body care products that promise firming effects, but the Body Tightening Concentrate has fantastic reviews backing it up. "This smooths the skin," writes one recent reviewer on Adore Beauty. "Any little bumps are gone, feels lovely on the skin and can feel the difference after just one use. Yes, it's pricey but worth every penny."
L'Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil
This is an Australian beauty editor favourite, and while it's technically a body oil, it deserves inclusion thanks to its excellent results. Almond oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, both of which help to nourish and rehydrate dry, dull skin. The real bonus here is the scent, which many say they wear as a subtle perfume. "My skin is so soft, and the smell is amazing," raves one reviewer.
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Endota New Age Body Firming Serum
Using peptides and hyaluronic acid, plus Endota's own Body3 Complex, this 120mL serum promises a reduction in the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks, plus increased skin elasticity. Designed to be massaged into the skin daily, it sits well under moisturiser so can be used in the morning if you want the hydrating benefits throughout the day. In addition, it's fragrance-free, which will please those who don't like over-perfumed body products and is vegan.
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