Have you noticed something in common about the majority of new skincare products hitting the shelves? Milky skincare products are on the rise, and the beauty industry can't get enough of it. This summer, for example, Hailey Bieber's skincare line, Rhode Skin, celebrated their second anniversary with the launch of their Glazing Milk—a nutrient-rich, lightweight milky essence that preps the skin with barrier-boosting ceramides and luminous hydration. Without days of its launch, content creators took to TikTok to rave about it (and with good reason).
As someone with notoriously sensitive skin, I've struggled to find products that sooth and cleanse the skin of impurities without stripping away the good stuff (a.k.a. natural oils). For me, the early days of the COVID lockdown is heavily defined by my efforts to revamp my lifestyle; starting with updating my skincare routine with high-quality products. Today, a good chunk of the skincare I use in rotation has a milky quality to them and my skin has never been better. Keep reading to discover how I made it happen, and why I believe milky skincare isn't going anywhere.
With milky skincare products trending throughout summer and now well into fall, we thought it was time to ask a dermatologist to weight in. "Skin milk is the name often given to skincare products that have a milky appearance," explains cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Dusan Sajic of Sajic Skin Science. "They typically do not contain actual dairy. The Term 'milk' in this context describes the product's texture and consistency." The skincare in question? Milky cleansers, lotions, serums, and more designed to be creamy, smooth, and light on the skin (similar to the qualities of milk), formulated to provide gentle hydration and cleansing.
According to Dr. Sajic, skincare products with milky formulas have risen in popularity recently due major skincare movements that could very well have altered the beauty industry for good—minimalist skincare (commonly referred to as 'skinimalism') and the natural/clean beauty movement. "With the trend leaning towards minimalist skincare and 'skinimalism,' many consumers are seeking simple, effective products that serve multiple purposes. Skin milks often fit this bill," he continues. "The name 'skin milk' resonates with consumers who are looking for more natural, uncomplicated, and 'clean' skincare products."
If you're still not convinced you should be adding these products your your skincare routine, you may be swayed after learning why skincare experts and beauty editors alike can't stop raving about them. Skin milks products are also often perceived as being gentler on the skin, making them suitable for all skin types and textures. What's more, their lightweight, hydrating properties provide moisture without the greasiness of traditional cream-based moisturizers. In a cleanser form, these products work to effectively remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of natural oils. Alternately, milky moisturizers can be gently massaged into the skin for deep hydration.
Pro tip: before using a new product, Dr. Sajic recommends always patch-testing before fully integrating it into your routine. If you have specific concerns or needs, consult first with your dermatologist our skincare professional.
Thirsty for some milky skincare recommendations? We've got you covered. Below, you'll find 13 of the best milky face and body products money can buy from a beauty editor who's gotten her hands on them.