There’s something oddly satisfying about finishing up a skincare product. Whether it’s the quiet joy of tossing that empty bottle into the recycling bin or the thrill of knowing a product was so good that it’s now a holy grail and you’re already planning to repurchase it. Empties are more than just leftovers—they’re little victories in your skincare routine. And today, I’m sharing a few of mine.
From balancing toners to glow-boosting sunscreens, 2024 has definitely delivered some serious skincare winners that have earned a permanent spot in my routine. Spoiler: Some of these are so good, I’ve already stocked up! So if you’re on the hunt for products that actually live up to the hype, or if you’re prepping for that back-to-school glow-up, you’ve come to the right place.
What’s an “Empty,” and Why Does It Matter?
If you’re new to the beauty world, you might wonder what the big deal is about empties. Simply put, an “empty” is a beauty product that’s been used all the way to the last drop. These are the products that earned their place on your shelf, stood the test of time (and consistency), and, most importantly, delivered results.
But why do empties matter? In a world where new skincare launches are happening every month, only a handful of products make the cut for a repurchase. If a product is worth buying again after you’ve finished the whole thing, it’s more than just a trend—it’s a game-changer. So, here are my skincare MVPs of 2024 and why they’ve completely won me over.
Let’s get to the good stuff—the products I’m absolutely repurchasing in 2024.
1. SKIN1004 Centella Cleansing Oil Light
When it comes to starting my nighttime routine, this cleansing oil is a must. Formulated with soothing Centella Asiatica extract, the lightweight formula is perfect for melting away makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime without leaving a greasy residue. Unlike other oil cleansers that feel heavy, this one keeps my skin hydrated, fresh, calm, and non-clogged. Plus, for sensitive-skin warriors, it’s a dream come true.
Why I’m Repurchasing: Its been perfect for my acne-prone combination skin, It does the heavy lifting without stripping my skin’s natural moisture barrier. Plus, the hydrating but non-greasy finish makes it ideal for all skin types—even oily and sensitive skin!
2. i’m from Mugwort Essence
If you haven’t yet been introduced to mugwort, let this be your sign. Mugwort essence is a soothing, anti-inflammatory elixir that calms redness and irritated skin. It’s packed with antioxidants and is particularly great for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. I love applying this right after cleansing, as it preps my skin for the rest of my routine and gives me that hydration from within.
Why I’m Repurchasing: For me this is like magic in a bottle, It’s like a tall glass of water for my skin—hydrating, soothing, and balancing. This has worked wonders for repairing my skin barrier and has significantly helped with my redness while also improving my breakouts. I already new from using it the first couple of times it was going to become a staple in my everyday routine and that I needed to purchase the big bottle IMMEDIATELY … and as you can see thats what I did!
3. Hypochlorous Acid Spray
If you know then you know! Hypochlorous acid is a total lifesaver for reactive skin and for me this is definitely a new holy grail in my skincare routine. This spray is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and helps soothe everything from acne flare-ups to post-workout redness. I use it as a toner step after cleansing in the evening or whenever i feel my face is a bit dirty, and it works wonders for keeping my skin clear and balanced.
Why I’m Repurchasing: It’s a multitasker that soothes irritated skin fast. Plus, it feels refreshing, and I can even use it on my body post-shave to avoid any irritation. I have definitely noticed a reduction in blemishes and breakouts … I love this!
4. Haruharu Wonder Fragrance-Free Toner
Haruharu Wonder’s toner is the one product I recommend to everyone—especially if you’re gearing up for that back-to-school glow. This fragrance-free, hydrating toner features fermented black rice, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts hydration and strengthens the skin barrier. The light texture absorbs beautifully without leaving any stickiness, making it perfect for layering and locking in moisture.
Why I’m Repurchasing: This toner is like a hug for my skin. It’s simple, fragrance-free, and super hydrating—an essential for anyone with sensitive acne prone or dehydrated skin.
5. SKIN1004 Centella hyla-cica water-fit Chemical Sunscreen
Finding a sunscreen that ticks all the boxes (lightweight, non-greasy, and no white cast) is no small feat, but SKIN1004 nailed it with their Waterfit Chemical Sunscreen. This formula not only protects from harmful UV rays but also is super affordable and contains soothing Centella Asiatica extract to keep skin calm and hydrated. Definitely good for drier skin types that need more hydration or even for those looking for a glowy dewy finish. It layers beautifully under makeup, too! Check our my blog on SKIN1004 Sunscreens – and which ones right for you? for a more detailed guide on their mineral and chemical sunscreen and which is best for your skin type!
Why I’m Repurchasing: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable, and this one makes applying SPF an enjoyable part of my routine. It leaves my skin hydrated without feeling heavy and the best bit is that i find it doesn’t clog my pores. Plus, the Centella Asiatica keeps my skin feeling calm and cool, even on the hottest days.
6. Purito Barrier Serum (Fragrance-Free)
Repairing my skin barrier is always a priority, especially after using actives like retinoids or exfoliants. The Purito Barrier Serum is packed with ceramides, panthenol, and squalane—ingredients that work together to restore and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. I reach for this serum whenever my skin feels dry, sensitive, or compromised. When i was travelling and overused my actives whislt being in the sun , this saved my skin!
Why I’m Repurchasing: It’s the perfect fix for stressed-out skin. Fragrance-free and full of skin-loving ingredients, it’s ideal for anyone with sensitive skin and prone to irritation but wants to lock in some extra hydration under a moisturiser. Its worked perfectly for my acne prone combo skin!
7. Dermatica Squalane Cleanser
The Dermatica Squalane Cleanser is all about nourishing and deeply cleansing without stripping away your skin’s natural oils. Squalane is known for its hydrating properties, and this cleanser takes off all the day’s impurities—makeup, sunscreen, pollution—while leaving your skin feeling moisturised and soft. It’s particularly great for dry or combination skin, making it a versatile pick for many.
Why I’m Repurchasing: This is my go-to for double cleansing in the evening. It leaves my skin feeling fresh, but never dry. This is a cleanser I reach for when my skin is feeling particularly dry in the colder months, and my skin thanks me for it. Even though it provides intense hydration, it doesn’t block your pores; in fact, I’ve noticed that it’s helped minimise mine, particularly when I really focus on massaging it in.
8. SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule
The SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule is pure magic in a bottle for sensitive or inflamed skin. Formulated with 100% Centella Asiatica extract, it’s a skin-calming powerhouse. I use it as a serum step in my everyday routine to combat irritated, reactive, and/or dehydrated skin. It’s lightweight but packs a punch, and I’ve noticed how much faster my skin heals when I incorporate this into my routine.
Why I’m Repurchasing: I cant believe how much I’ve loved this. I was a bit unsure initially as i thought it would be a thicker consistency and potentially pore clogging, but after seeing many reviews I caved and i’m so glad I did. This lightweight, watery formula offers my sensitive combination skin the ultimate hydration and soothing sensation. It absorbs quickly, making it perfect for those with oily or combination skin who need extra moisture beneath their moisturizer. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, ensuring it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.
9. SKIN1004 Airfit Suncream Light SPF 30
If you prefer a mineral sunscreen for daily use, the SKIN1004 Airfit Suncream Light SPF 30 is your answer. This sunscreen has a gentle, airy formula that provides solid SPF protection without feeling heavy or greasy. It’s perfect for days when you don’t need heavy-duty SPF but still want to protect your skin from daily sun exposure. The addition of Centella Asiatica helps soothe the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin or those prone to redness… and the best bit is that it dries down without a white-cast! (that said you do need to rub it in well but for this price you cant get better!)
Why I’m Repurchasing: Before this, I used to avoid putting sunscreen on my face, in fear of clogged pores and looking pasty or too oily; but now I have my everyday skincare routine down and this is apart of it. It easily layers well under makeup leaving a velvet matte finish and doesn’t clog pores! This is my favourite un-tinted mineral sunscreen at the moment.
10. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cleanser
A staple in the world of gentle cleansing, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cleanser is an all-time favourite for sensitive and reactive skin. It’s a cream-based formula that effectively removes impurities while maintaining your skin’s natural barrier. Free from fragrances and unnecessary irritants, it’s my go-to everyday second cleanser in my double cleansing routine.
Why I’m Repurchasing: This cleanser is perfect for anyone with reactive skin or who simply wants a no-frills, effective cleanser that gets the job done without irritation. It’s a classic for a reason. I have bought this over and over and I just love how gentle it is. I don’t cleanse in the morning but this would be a great option for those oily skin types that would prefer to!
FAQ: How Do I Know When My Skin Barrier Needs Repairing?
One of the most common questions I get is, “How do I know when my skin barrier is compromised?” For a deeper dive, be sure to check out my blog post titled “What a Damaged Skin Barrier Looks Like and How to Fix It!” In the meantime here are a few telltale signs: persistent redness, sensitivity, dry patches, and breakouts that come out of nowhere. If you’re experiencing any of these, it might be time to focus on barrier repair with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, squalane, and centella asiatica – those are just to list a few! All of these products mentioned have helped me build and maintain a healthy skin barrier and achieve clear skin.
How to Repurchase Wisely
Now that you know the best of my 2024 beauty empties, the question is—how do you decide which products to repurchase? It comes down to knowing your skin type and your skin’s specific needs. For example, if you’re someone who struggles with oily, acne-prone skin, the SKIN1004 Centella Cleansing Oil Light and Mugwort Essence might become your best friends. If your skin is on the drier, more sensitive side, Dermaticas Caring Squalane Cleanser alongside the Purito Barrier Serum and Haruharu Wonder Toner are essentials. However all of these products definitely provide benefits to all skin types!
Over to You!
What beauty products are you finishing up in 2024, and are any of them worthy of a repurchase? Have you tried any of the products I mentioned? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s been working (or not working) for you!
Remember, taking care of your skin is the ultimate self-care move. Whether you’re going back to school or just want a fresh start, the products you choose can make all the difference. So here’s to glowing up and feeling confident in the skin you’re in!
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