IT RUBS THE LOTION ON Six skincare products currently saving us from the depths and throes of winter

Sydney winter may not require snow boots or any real knowledge of central heating. It does, however, remain extremely capable of making our skin dry, dull and just a bit shit, really.

Between cold mornings, dry weather, and that Anko heater that I know is running directly in your face overnight, I can confidently speak on behalf of many of us when I say that the good ol’ slap on of moisturiser and hope for the best kind of approach is just not going to cut it.

So if you’re like me and currently in the depths of a winter uglies crises, we’ve rounded up six products we’re currently using, testing or repeatedly reaching for. Oh, and they’re also all (except one) under $30, so it’s a double win.

Editor’s note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning So Sydney! may earn a small commission if you click-through. All products featured have been independently selected and personally tested by our team.

No7 Good Intent Skin Sip Moisture Milk

The one thing that I HATE about winter skincare is feeling like I’ve literally buttered myself up. Despite what the influences say, no, I do not wish to ‘slug’ my face.

Hence No7’s Skin Sip Moisture Milk, the lightweight option from the new Good Intent range that’s just landed in Australia. A similar vibe to the Rhode glazing milk but a lot cheaper and easier to get your hands on. It combines hyaluronic acid and squalane in a silky formula designed to leave skin hydrated, dewy and soft without a heavy finish. That also makes it perfect to also put under makeup or a richer moisturiser.

SHOP HERE: $29.99 at Priceline.

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

There are moisturisers, and then there are products you reach for when your face has simply had enough. Avène’s Cicalfate+ falls firmly into the latter category.

The French-pharmacy staple soothes and protects dry, sensitive and compromised skin, creating a protective film that maintains the moisture barrier. I’ve also had many friends swear this was the only thing that cured their perioral dermatitis. In other words, this is the one we’re pulling when we’ve destroyed our skin barrier, and this is the one that works every damn time.

SHOP HERE: $17.39 for 40mL at Chemist Warehouse.

No7 Good Intent Dream Drench Wrapping Mask

Part skincare, part strangely satisfying evening activity, No7’s Dream Drench Wrapping Mask begins as a silky gel before drying into a peelable layer. We like that about it.

The formula contains niacinamide and panthenol and is designed to seal in hydration before being peeled away to reveal softer, glowier-looking skin. It is an ideal option for anyone who wants their winter hydration with a little more ceremony than simply applying moisturiser and going to bed.

SHOP HERE: $29.99 at Priceline.

Paula’s Choice 4% BHA Advanced Exfoliating Serum Toner

There’s a reason why Paula’s Choice has a cult following. And despite most of the hype being over their famous 2% formula, their new 4% BHA Advanced Exfoliating Serum Toner is like that but on steroids.

No seriously, it’s that good and has now become a personal holy grail. Especially if you’re like me and struggle with both dry skin and congestion at the same time (wtf)? The salicylic-acid refines the appearance of pores, smooths bumps and improves uneven texture, which are all things that I greatly appreciate. Fair warning, it is considerably stronger than the OG, so it’s a no to using this every day.  

SHOP HERE: $59 online at Paula’s Choice.

No7 Good Intent Silky Jelly Lip Mask

No7’s Silky Jelly Lip Mask is the softer, shinier alternative to straight Vaseline.

Made with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, the smooth jelly formula can be worn throughout the day or layered on more generously as an overnight treatment. It is designed for dry and dehydrated-feeling lips and, at $19.99, offers a fairly affordable route into the increasingly crowded lip-mask economy (thank you Laneige). 

SHOP HERE: $19.99 at Priceline.

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Yes, it’s that one from TikTok. And let’s just say it’s viral for a goddamn reason.

Designed to be worn for several hours (or even overnight), the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask gradually becomes clear as it gets absorbed. And while topical collagen is not rebuilding the collagen inside your face, the mask does deliver the kind of intense hydration and temporary plumping that serves as a welcome treat in the middle of winter. It’s also somewhat theatrical, which is also appreciated.

SHOP HERE: $19.64 for 4-pack on Amazon.