Top Skincare Brands for Radiant Young Skin

Navigating the skincare world can be overwhelming, especially for young skin that is just beginning to experience the nuances of different products. Numerous brands have gained popularity by focusing on ingredients that cater to youthful skin's unique needs, such as hydration and gentle protection. From the simplicity of brands like CeraVe and the natural compositions of The Ordinary to the innovative science-backed formulations of Paula's Choice and the trusted efficacy of Neutrogena, there's something for everyone. Below, discover a carefully curated list of top skincare brands that promise to nurture and enhance young skin's natural glow.

Illustration of skincare for young skin

Best brands of skincare for young skin in 2025

CeraVe

CeraVe, founded in 2005, is a dermatologist-developed skincare brand known for its effective and affordable products, which contain three essential ceramides to help restore the skin barrier, and they had a 50.3% sales growth in 2023, making it a popular choice for young skin; their gentle cleansers and moisturizers, like the foaming cleanser and ultra-light moisturizing gel, are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin, while also incorporating hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for added hydration and skin-brightening benefits, and the brand is often recommended by dermatologists; these products utilize MVE technology to ensure long-lasting hydration and gentle action. For more information on their skincare solutions, visit CeraVe's official website.

The Ordinary

The Ordinary, established in 2016, is a popular skincare brand known for its affordable yet effective products, especially favored by those in their early 20s due to the brand's focus on potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which help with hydration and acne; their Squalane Cleanser and Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA are great for gentle cleansing and hydration. With many serums available for under $20, The Ordinary makes it easy to experiment to find the right products for you. One such serum is the Mandelic Acid 10% + HA, which is a gentle exfoliator that is also good for acne. You can explore their range of products on their website.

Neutrogena

Neutrogena, established in 1930, is a leading skincare brand offering a range of products, including their popular Hydro Boost line, which is known for providing hydration, with some products containing hyaluronic acid to help replenish and lock in moisture, contributing to a youthful and vibrant look. They provide gentle cleansers, like their Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, which is ideal for young skin as they are effective at removing dirt and oil without causing irritation or dryness, making them a go-to choice for a simple and effective skincare routine. Their products are available in over 70 countries worldwide.

La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay, established in 1975, is a leading dermocosmetic brand recommended by 90,000 dermatologists worldwide, offering a range of skincare solutions for young skin, including their popular Effaclar line for acne-prone skin, and the Toleriane line for sensitive skin, with products designed to address concerns like breakouts due to hormonal changes during puberty. They have conducted over 600 clinical studies on 90,000 patients, ranging from newborns to 104-year-olds, demonstrating their dedication to diverse skin needs and ages. They are committed to making dermatology accessible and continue to innovate with products and technology like their AI-powered Effaclar Spotscan web app. For more information, visit their official website.

Paula’s Choice

Paula's Choice, launched in 1995, is a science-backed skincare brand that emphasizes transparent formulations and effective ingredients, offering a range of products suitable for young skin, including those with concerns like acne and clogged pores. With some products containing potent ingredients like 2% BHA and 10% Niacinamide, they also have a variety of retinols available ranging from 0.01% to 1% strength. Additionally, Paula's Choice provides moisturizers with SPF 50 for daily protection, while being fragrance-free, dye-free, and cruelty-free.

Drunk Elephant

Drunk Elephant, founded in 2013, has become a popular skincare brand, particularly among younger consumers, with a reported 61% increase in net sales in 2019 compared to 2018, and a 118% compound annual growth between 2016 and 2019. The brand is known for avoiding the "Suspicious 6" ingredients and using biocompatible ingredients. Although some of their products, like those containing acids and retinols, may not be suitable for very young skin, options like the Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser, Virgin Marula Oil, and Lala Retro Whipped Cream are considered safe, emphasizing a simple routine. You can explore their product line.

Glossier

Glossier, founded in 2014 by Emily Weiss, is a popular skincare brand particularly loved by those with young skin for its simple yet effective formulations, with their Milky Jelly Cleanser being a widely used favorite, and many users appreciating the brand's focus on hydration, as seen in their Priming Moisturizer. Though some find certain products easily replaceable with more affordable options, their overall approach is considered modern and effortless, with a focus on natural beauty. You can explore their products on their website.

Cetaphil

Cetaphil, a brand with over 70 years of experience in skincare, is a top dermatologist-recommended choice for young and sensitive skin, offering gentle cleansers and moisturizers that are clinically proven to defend against dryness, irritation, and roughness, using key ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin; with 70% of Americans self-diagnosing with sensitive skin, Cetaphil provides accessible and effective products for various skin types, including those prone to acne, with their PRO DERMACONTROL line containing zinc to reduce inflammation, and a 2016-2017 survey showing 5.7% of Americans aged 18-34 preferring Cetaphil facial moisturizer. For more detailed information about their products, visit their official website.

Youth to the People

Youth to the People, founded in 2015, is a vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand inspired by 40 years of family aesthetics, offering innovative products with superfood ingredients designed to support young, active lifestyles with a focus on sustainability; their formulations, combining plant extracts and science, are well-regarded for addressing concerns like acne and dullness. The brand was acquired by L'Oreal in 2021, further establishing its presence in the skincare market, while focusing on high-performing skincare with earth-friendly packaging. You can find their products at Youth to the People.

Olay

Olay, a skincare innovator for over 70 years, offers a range of products with science-backed ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and retinol, clinically proven to deliver visible results for younger-looking skin. Their Regenerist line often outperforms even higher-priced brands in hydration and texture improvement, with studies showing that 80% of skin's anti-aging is within women's control. Olay provides solutions for various skin concerns, including acne, fine lines, and dryness, making it a suitable brand for young skin. Olay's commitment to no retouching in advertisements by 2021 further highlights its dedication to realistic beauty standards, with its Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream being a popular choice among users.