From the extensive 11-step K-beauty routine to the more minimalist-minded J-beauty approach, it’s no secret that some of the biggest skin-care trends come from around the globe. And this season, we’re particularly feeling the influence from down under: A-beauty — aka, Australian beauty — is the latest international phenomenon to sweep our top shelves. With a focus on simple yet effective formulas, it’s the laid-back beauty approach for any kind of lifestyle (surfing skills not required).
Among the mix of emerging A-beauty brands, there’s one heritage favorite that just landed stateside — sold exclusively at Sephora, nonetheless: Alpha-H, the almost 25-year-old cosmeceutical brand that boasts a range of highly concentrated, glow-ready essentials to renew and refresh skin in no time at all. From a cult-favorite glycolic-acid liquid exfoliant that leaves skin looking lit-from-within to a vitamin B serum that protects your complexion as it builds up moisture, there’s an option for every aspect of your routine. Ahead, we spotlight six of our editor-approved, can’t-miss favorites from the beloved Aussie brand. Get ready to add a few new stamps to your beauty passport!
Liquid Gold
True to its name, this resurfacing treatment is the skin-care equivalent of finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. (Gold being glowier skin overnight, of course.) This one-step, no-rinse formula harnesses the power of glycolic acid — a chemical exfoliant that breaks down dead skin cells to reveal a more radiant complexion — to work its magic while you sleep, revealing brighter, clearer skin in the a.m. If there’s one product you add to your beauty basket, make it this. It comes in a travel-friendly size, as well, so you can maintain your glow on the go.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold, $60, available at Sephora
Balancing Cleanser
Cleansers may not seem as sexy as other members of your skin-care arsenal, but they are critical for a fresh, clear complexion. This creamy, pH-balancing must-have dispels the myth that cleansing your skin means stripping your skin, thanks to its ultra-nourishing ingredients: Aloe vera soothes and heals any irritated areas, and vitamin E fights off redness and any inflammation. It’s a top-shelf essential suitable for all skin types.
Alpha-H Balancing Cleanser, $44, available at Sephora
Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream
For an instantly refreshing, renewing effect, this antioxidant-rich eye cream will do just the trick. The cooling applicator helps de-puff under eyes and the peptide-infused formula works its magic to soften lines, gently exfoliate, and brighten dark circles over time. (Diamond powder helps further illuminate the area, as well.) And with no flash-back, it’s the ideal eye primer for every selfie.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream, $99, available at Sephora
Essential Hydration Cream
Restore and replenish skin with this soothing, sea-mineral-infused daily moisturizer. The no-nonsense cream utilizes skin-lifting peptides to improve elasticity and essential fatty acids to calm and heal sensitive areas. It’s suitable for all skin types (even the most sensitive) and can be used both in the morning and at night. We’re betting it will quickly become your new go-to moisturizer.
Alpha-H Essential Hydration Cream, $52, available at Sephora
Vitamin B Serum
Vitamins are often neglected from our skin-care routines, so do yourself a favor and add this hyper-potent, vitamin-spiked serum as a brand new step. The supercharged formula bolsters hydration and builds up moisture thanks to a cocktail of antioxidants like chia and niacinamide, along with energizing copper tripeptides that fight off environmental aggressors and diffuse redness.
Alpha-H Vitamin B Serum, $70, available at Sephora
Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask
You can credit the powerful combination of glycolic and lactic acids in this at-home facial for the impossibly quick results: The former speeds up cellular turnover while increasing connective tissue stimulation, and the latter helps clear out dead skin cells and reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Consider it one badass team — and not for the faint of heart.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask, $75, available at Sephora
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Source: Refinery29 – Jennifer Mulrow