3 Autumn Skincare Updates: What’s Actually Worth It (from a GEN Z who’s tried it all)

As a Gen Zer raised among skincare obsessed friends and Gen Alpha relatives perfecting 10-step routines before puberty, I’ve seen more “holy grail” products go viral on Tik-Tok than I can count. The glow, the mist, the “clean girl aesthetic”… it all starts to blur together after a while.

But as autumn settles in; the air a little crisper, the shelves lined with new products, I’ve been thinking less about trends and more about what genuinely earns its place in a real routine. The products that survive the hype cycle and actually work: the hydrating fixes that bring skin back to life after a night out, the masks that calm rather than clog, and the essentials that make sense for Gen Z’s ever evolving beauty habits.

LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK

Laneige lip masks have long been a staple in my beauty routine, but this autumn, my obsession has landed firmly on their newest edition: Pumpkin Pie. Unlike the spring’s Matcha lip mask (which leant more cupcake frosting than clean, grassy matcha) this scent comes startlingly close to real pumpkin, something many scented beauty products miss. I’ve been layering it over my everyday nude lipsticks for a glossy, nourishing finish that lasts, and turning ordinary evenings into small moments of cosy self-care. The formula glides effortlessly, cushioned with shea butter and glycerin, without ever feeling sticky. Truly my autumn go-to: cosy, nourishing, and wearable over makeup!

(If you are new to Laneige, skip the full-size and try the mini trio; the quickest way to test the flavours without hitting flavour fatigue). 

WATERMELON GLOW PINK JUICE MOISTURIZER

After the cosy, nourishing pumpkin pie lip talk, it’s time to discuss what your skin actually needs in autumn: hydration without heaviness. I finally tried the Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturiser; a Gen Z favourite I’d somehow never gotten around to. It is lightweight, breathable, and leaves skin plump without feeling heavy, which is ideal as temperatures drop and dryness starts creeping in. The scent is fresh and fruity, not overpowering, and the antioxidant-rich skullcap extract plus skin-strengthening proteins help calm and protect, keeping your complexion balanced all season.

**A heads-up: contains fragrance, minimal, but something to be aware of for younger and more sensitive skin.Best for oily to combination skin, overall, it’s a lovely everyday hydrator.

WATERMELON GLOW ULTRA-FINE MIST

The matching Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist has quickly become my go-to for autumn. It’s carried seamlessly from my summer beach bag to my everyday city bag, ready to spritz over makeup during commutes or mid-day. It refreshes without disturbing your look, while rice germ extract supports the skin barrier, nourishing and giving an instant boost. For chilly mornings or a quick pick-me-up, it’s practical, effective, and keeps skin glowy.

Why it’s worth it: Cold-weather hydration that doesn’t feel heavy or sticky is non-negotiable. Glow Recipe nails the balance: easy, practical, and visibly effective!