Buying a complete routine sounds straightforward, but skincare sets can vary considerably in their contents, sizes and how they’re used. When you search online for skincare sets, you’ll soon see attractive packaging and promising terms such as “glow”, “anti-ageing” or “soothing”. On their own, these words say little about whether a product is right for your skin.
The main pitfalls are:
A useful set has a logical routine. For example:
Not every set includes all these steps. A Korean skincare set, for example, may contain several essences, while a simple skincare set might include only a cleanser and cream. Check that the contents fit in with your existing routine.
Look out for ingredients you’re sensitive to. For example, various travel kits in the SKIN1004 range contain Centella Asiatica, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Consumers often choose Centella skincare for a soothing, comfortable feel on the skin, but individual reactions are still possible.
The Tea-Trica range contains salicylic acid, tea tree ingredients and, in the cream, mandelic acid. The manufacturer warns that these ingredients may increase sensitivity to sunlight. So use sun protection during the day and introduce active ingredients gradually.
For a set containing retinol, such as the SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Trial Kit, the product instructions recommend starting slowly, for example by using it a few evenings a week. According to the product information, retinol may increase sensitivity to the sun. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may wish to consult a healthcare professional first.
A skincare travel kit is handy for holidays, weekends away or as an introduction to a range. Check that there’s enough product for the trip you have planned, though. A set of four 30 ml bottles is easy to pack, but it isn’t the same as a full-size routine.
Also check:
A mini set is also a sensible choice if you haven’t tried a product before. That way, you won’t buy more than you need if the formula doesn’t suit you.
Why it suits this profile: The set contains five travel-size products: cleansing oil, foam cleanser, toner, ampoule and soothing cream. It’s an easy way to try a complete routine without buying several full-size products straight away.
The product steps and contents are clearly described. Check the ingredients, though, as the cleansing oil lists fragrance components including limonene and linalool.
Five products in travel sizes, with a routine featuring Centella Asiatica throughout.
Why it suits this profile: This box contains several mini products, including cleanser, essence, lotion, cream and four masks. It’s a good fit if you’re looking for an attractive gift presentation and a chance to try a wide range of products.
The set is compact, so you don’t need to buy full-size products straight away. Check the current ingredients list and look out for any fragrance before purchasing.
Nine items in a presentation box, with several steps for facial skincare in mini sizes.
Why it suits this profile: This four-piece set is designed around a routine of BHA foam cleanser, toner, ampoule and B5 cream. It’s suited to people who pay close attention to ingredients such as salicylic acid and tea tree.
The warnings mention salicylic acid, mandelic acid and the possibility of sensitivity to tea tree. It’s therefore more important to check the details beforehand than to rely on the name of the set.
Four steps in travel sizes, with B5 cream, Centella Asiatica and exfoliating ingredients according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: The set contains body butter, body lotion, shower cream and hand cream. It makes a skincare gift for body care, rather than a complete facial skincare routine.
The contents and total quantity of 730 ml are clearly stated. This makes it easy to see that the set is primarily for the body and hands.
Four clearly described body care products and a generous total quantity.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
That depends on the full ingredients list. A set with just a few steps and hydrating ingredients may be easy to use, but fragrance, essential oils, acids and retinol may not suit everyone. Try new products carefully and stop using them if irritation occurs.
It depends on the amount of product and how often you use it. A 20 or 30 ml product may not last as long as a 50 ml product if used daily, but it’s handy for travel or as a first introduction. Follow the shelf-life information on the packaging, and note when you open a product if the period after opening is relevant.
Not always. Compare the total quantity, number of products and price per millilitre or gram. A set can be good value if you use every item. Packaging also adds to the appeal of a gift, while for your own routine, you may sometimes save money by buying only the products you need.