Best Skin Care Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to the Year’s Top Performers

Best Skin Care Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to the Year’s Top Performers cars.truckstrend.com

The year 2017 was a fascinating period in the world of skincare, marking a pivotal shift in consumer awareness and product innovation. It was a time when the "clean beauty" movement began to truly gain momentum, ingredient transparency became a non-negotiable demand, and the influence of K-beauty routines permeated Western markets more than ever before. Understanding the "best" skincare brands of 2017 isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about recognizing the brands that set trends, delivered consistent results, and laid the groundwork for many of the skincare staples we cherish today. This guide will delve into the landscape of 2017 skincare, highlighting the brands that truly shone, what made them stand out, and how they helped shape the routines of millions.

Understanding the 2017 Skincare Landscape

Best Skin Care Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to the Year’s Top Performers

In 2017, consumers were becoming savvier. The internet, particularly social media platforms and beauty blogs, had democratized skincare knowledge, moving it beyond the exclusive realm of dermatologists and estheticians. This increased access to information led to a greater demand for effective, science-backed products, but also for options that aligned with personal values, such as ethical sourcing and cruelty-free practices.

Key trends that defined 2017 skincare included:

• Ingredient Focus: Terms like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, and AHAs/BHAs became household names, with consumers actively seeking out products featuring these powerhouses.
• Minimalism Meets Multi-Step: While the elaborate 10-step K-beauty routine gained traction, there was also a growing appreciation for effective, minimalist routines focusing on a few high-impact products.
• Affordable Efficacy: The rise of brands offering potent formulations at accessible price points began to challenge the notion that effective skincare had to be expensive.
• Clean Beauty on the Rise: Awareness of potentially harmful ingredients (parabens, sulfates, phthalates) led to a demand for formulations free from these chemicals, even if regulatory definitions were still evolving.
• Personalization: While not as advanced as today, the desire for products tailored to specific skin concerns (acne, aging, sensitivity, hydration) was strong.

Criteria for "Best" in 2017

Determining the "best" skincare brands in any given year involves a multi-faceted approach. For 2017, the following criteria were particularly important:

• Efficacy: Did the products deliver on their promises? Were active ingredients present in effective concentrations?



• Innovation: Were brands introducing new technologies, formulations, or ingredient combinations?
• Consumer Reviews & Popularity: What were real users saying? Were products consistently selling out or garnering significant buzz?
• Dermatologist & Expert Endorsement: Were professionals recommending these brands for specific concerns?
• Ingredient Transparency: Were brands clear about what was in their products and why?
• Accessibility: Was the brand widely available, either online or in major retailers?



• Brand Reputation: Did the brand have a history of quality, safety, and customer satisfaction?

Based on these criteria, several brands consistently rose to the top, catering to diverse needs and budgets.

Top Skincare Brands of 2017: A Detailed Look

In 2017, the skincare market offered a rich tapestry of options. Here’s a breakdown of some of the standout brands:

1. The Ordinary (DECIEM)

Why it was a standout: Launched in late 2016 and truly exploded in 2017, The Ordinary revolutionized the skincare industry. It offered highly concentrated, single-ingredient formulations at unprecedentedly low prices. This transparency and affordability made advanced skincare accessible to the masses, empowering consumers to build their own routines based on specific ingredient needs.
Key Products: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Lactic Acid 10% + HA, Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA, Retinoids.
Benefits: Unbeatable value, ingredient transparency, highly effective formulations for targeted concerns.
Challenges: The sheer number of single ingredients could be overwhelming for beginners; required self-education on how to layer.

2. CeraVe

Why it was a standout: A long-standing dermatologist favorite, CeraVe continued its reign as the go-to brand for barrier repair and sensitive skin. Its core philosophy of using ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE delivery technology made its products incredibly effective for maintaining skin health, often at drugstore prices.
Key Products: Hydrating Cleanser, Moisturizing Cream, PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, SA Cleanser.
Benefits: Dermatologist-recommended, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, excellent for all skin types, especially sensitive and dry.
Considerations: Focuses on foundational skin health rather than advanced anti-aging treatments.

3. La Roche-Posay

Why it was a standout: Another pharmacy staple with a strong dermatological backing, La Roche-Posay excelled in addressing specific concerns like acne, sensitivity, and sun protection. Their use of thermal spring water and rigorously tested formulations made them a trusted choice for those with reactive or problem skin.
Key Products: Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen, Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment, Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Cicaplast Baume B5.
Benefits: Formulated for sensitive skin, effective for specific concerns (acne, sun protection), widely recommended by dermatologists.
Considerations: Products can be slightly pricier than CeraVe but offer targeted solutions.

4. SkinCeuticals

Why it was a standout: Representing the pinnacle of professional-grade skincare, SkinCeuticals was (and remains) a leader in antioxidant and corrective serums. Their commitment to scientific research and clinically proven results, particularly with their patented Vitamin C serums, set them apart in the premium segment.
Key Products: CE Ferulic, Phloretin CF, Blemish + Age Defense, Hydrating B5 Gel.
Benefits: Gold standard for antioxidant protection, highly effective for anti-aging and corrective treatments, backed by extensive research.
Considerations: High price point, primarily available through dermatologists or authorized retailers.

5. SK-II

Why it was a standout: A luxury J-beauty brand renowned for its iconic Facial Treatment Essence, SK-II continued to be a symbol of high-performance skincare in 2017. Their signature ingredient, Pitera™ (a yeast-derived ferment), promised crystal-clear skin and anti-aging benefits, attracting a dedicated global following.
Key Products: Facial Treatment Essence, R.N.A. Power Radical New Age Cream.
Benefits: Delivers visible results in skin texture, radiance, and overall appearance; cult following.
Considerations: Very high price point, some find the essence scent unusual.

6. Paula’s Choice

Why it was a standout: Paula Begoun’s brand continued to champion evidence-based skincare, focusing on effective concentrations of active ingredients, fragrance-free formulas, and extensive consumer education. Their range of BHA and AHA exfoliants, along with targeted treatments, made them a favorite for those seeking smart, no-nonsense skincare.
Key Products: 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, C15 Super Booster, Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment.
Benefits: Science-backed, effective formulations, no irritating ingredients (fragrance, dyes), excellent educational resources.
Considerations: Can be overwhelming with the vast product range; requires understanding ingredients.

7. Drunk Elephant

Why it was a standout: Though still relatively new, Drunk Elephant was rapidly gaining traction in 2017 for its "clean clinical" approach. Their philosophy centered around avoiding what they called "Suspicious 6" ingredients (essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones, chemical sunscreens, fragrances/dyes, SLS) and focusing on biocompatible formulations.
Key Products: T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, C-Firma Day Serum, Protini Polypeptide Cream.
Benefits: Focus on clean ingredients, effective formulations, appealing minimalist packaging.
Considerations: Premium price point, some debate around the "Suspicious 6" claims.

Building Your 2017 Skincare Routine (Still Relevant Today)

The principles of a good skincare routine in 2017 are largely timeless:

1. Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities without stripping the skin.
   • Example: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.
2. Treat/Target: Apply serums or treatments addressing specific concerns. This is where brands like The Ordinary, SkinCeuticals, and Paula’s Choice shined.
   • Example: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for breakouts/texture, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic for antioxidant protection, Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for clogged pores.
3. Moisturize: Hydrate and protect the skin barrier.
   • Example: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer.
4. Protect (AM): Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily, regardless of weather.
   • Example: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights:

• Patch Test: Always try new products on a small, inconspicuous area of skin first, especially if you have sensitive skin.
• Introduce Slowly: Don’t introduce multiple new products at once. Give your skin time to adjust to one new product before adding another.
• Consistency is Key: Skincare results don’t happen overnight. Stick with a routine for at least 4-6 weeks to see if it’s working.
• Understand Your Skin Type: Knowing whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin is crucial for selecting the right products.
• Read Reviews, But Be Critical: While reviews are helpful, remember that everyone’s skin is different. What works for one person may not work for another. Look for patterns in reviews rather than isolated experiences.
• Consult a Professional: If you have persistent skin concerns, a dermatologist can provide personalized advice and recommendations.

Challenges and Solutions in 2017 Skincare

While 2017 offered a wealth of excellent products, consumers still faced challenges:

• Information Overload: With so many new brands and ingredients, it was easy to feel overwhelmed.
  • Solution: Focus on reputable sources (dermatologists, established beauty editors), and simplify your routine.
• Product Overload/"Skincare Hoarding": The affordability of brands like The Ordinary led some to buy too many products they didn’t need.
  • Solution: Be intentional. Identify your primary skin concerns and select products that specifically address them. Less can often be more.
• Ingredient Conflicts: Layering multiple active ingredients incorrectly could lead to irritation.
  • Solution: Research ingredient compatibility (e.g., don’t mix high concentrations of Vitamin C and Retinol in the same application). Brands like The Ordinary provided guidance on their websites.

Price Table: Representative Products and Approximate 2017 Pricing

Please note that these prices are approximate and reflect typical retail costs in USD for 2017. Actual prices may have varied based on retailer, promotions, and specific product sizes.

Brand	Product	Product Type	Approximate 2017 Price (USD)	Key Benefit
The Ordinary	Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%	Serum	$5.90 – $6.80	Regulates sebum, reduces blemishes
	Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5	Serum	$6.80 – $7.50	Hydration, plumping
	Lactic Acid 10% + HA	Exfoliating Serum	$6.70 – $7.90	Gentle exfoliation, brighter skin
CeraVe	Hydrating Cleanser	Cleanser	$10.00 – $14.00	Gentle cleansing, preserves skin barrier
	Moisturizing Cream	Moisturizer	$13.00 – $18.00	Intense hydration, barrier repair
	PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion	Moisturizer	$14.00 – $18.00	Lightweight hydration, niacinamide benefits
La Roche-Posay	Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60	Sunscreen	$25.00 – $30.00	High broad-spectrum UV protection
	Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment	Spot Treatment/Serum	$20.00 – $30.00	Targets acne blemishes and clogged pores
	Cicaplast Baume B5	Balm	$14.00 – $18.00	Soothes, repairs irritated skin
SkinCeuticals	CE Ferulic	Antioxidant Serum	$160.00 – $170.00	Advanced antioxidant protection, anti-aging
	Hydrating B5 Gel	Hydrating Serum	$70.00 – $80.00	Oil-free hydration
SK-II	Facial Treatment Essence	Essence	$160.00 – $180.00	Improves texture, radiance, firmness
Paula’s Choice	2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant	Exfoliant	$28.00 – $32.00	Unclogs pores, smooths skin, reduces blackheads
	C15 Super Booster	Vitamin C Serum	$48.00 – $52.00	Brightens, firms, antioxidant protection
Drunk Elephant	T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum	Exfoliating Serum	$90.00 – $98.00	Chemical exfoliation, refines skin texture
	C-Firma Day Serum	Vitamin C Serum	$78.00 – $82.00	Brightens, firms, protects against environmental stressors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Best Skin Care Brands 2017

Q1: Why is 2017 considered a significant year for skincare?
A1: 2017 was a pivotal year because it saw a surge in ingredient-focused awareness, the mainstreaming of K-beauty concepts, the rise of affordable yet effective brands like The Ordinary, and a growing demand for transparency and "clean" formulations. It truly democratized advanced skincare knowledge.

Q2: Are the "best" brands from 2017 still good choices today?
A2: Absolutely! Many of the brands that excelled in 2017 (CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, SkinCeuticals, Paula’s Choice, The Ordinary, SK-II, Drunk Elephant) continue to be leaders in the industry. Their foundational products and philosophies remain highly relevant and effective.

Q3: How did K-beauty influence skincare in 2017?
A3: K-beauty introduced concepts like the multi-step routine (double cleansing, essences, ampoules), ingredient innovation (snail mucin, propolis), and a focus on hydration and "glass skin." While not all brands adopted the full 10-step routine, the emphasis on layering, essences, and gentle formulations became more widespread.

Q4: Was "clean beauty" a big trend in 2017?
A4: Yes, 2017 saw the "clean beauty" movement gain significant momentum. Consumers became more conscious of ingredients they wanted to avoid (like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances), leading brands like Drunk Elephant to highlight their "free-from" lists.

Q5: What was the biggest innovation in skincare products in 2017?
A5: While many innovations occurred, the most impactful was arguably the rise of The Ordinary’s single-ingredient, transparent, and ultra-affordable formulations. This disrupted the traditional pricing model of skincare and made advanced ingredients accessible to a much broader audience.

Q6: How do I choose the right brand for my skin from this list?
A6: Consider your budget, skin concerns, and preferences.

• Budget-friendly/Sensitive Skin: CeraVe, The Ordinary, La Roche-Posay.
• Targeted Concerns/Science-Backed: Paula’s Choice, SkinCeuticals, La Roche-Posay, The Ordinary.
• Luxury/High-Performance: SK-II, SkinCeuticals, Drunk Elephant.
• "Clean" Focus: Drunk Elephant.

Q7: Were there any challenges associated with these brands or trends in 2017?
A7: Yes. The explosion of information and products, especially from The Ordinary, could lead to confusion about ingredient layering. The "clean beauty" trend, while positive, also led to some "fear-mongering" around certain ingredients without full scientific context. Finding the perfect routine still required research and patience.

Conclusion

The year 2017 was a landmark year for skincare, characterized by a dynamic blend of scientific advancement, consumer empowerment, and a burgeoning emphasis on transparency and ethical practices. The "best" brands of that era weren’t just selling products; they were fostering a deeper understanding of skin health and ingredients, allowing individuals to become more informed participants in their own skincare journeys. From the disruptive affordability of The Ordinary to the trusted dermatological efficacy of CeraVe and La Roche-Posay, and the luxurious performance of SK-II and SkinCeuticals, the brands highlighted in 2017 set high standards. Their continued relevance today is a testament to their enduring quality and the timeless principles they championed: efficacy, innovation, and a genuine commitment to healthy, radiant skin. Investing in knowledge and understanding the core strengths of these pioneering brands from 2017 remains an invaluable step toward achieving your best skin.