Homegrown Heroes: Your Guide To The Best Local Skincare Products

As much as we love our international skincare and beauty brands, nobody quite knows Malaysian skin like Malaysians. Not only will you be supporting local with these brands, but you already know for a fact that their products will hold up through rain or shine, and our ever-humid climate. Most Asian skincare products, including those made in Malaysia, are backed by solid research and proven results, so just because it isn’t made in Paris or London doesn’t mean it’s any less effective.

Whether you’ve got dry skin that’s just begging for some hydration heroes, or oily skin that could use a lil’ more lovin’, these local skincare brands have got your back! We know you’re in the mood to shop, so let’s take a look at the best local skincare products – because your skin only deserves the best!

Frequently Asked Questions About Local Skincare Products in Malaysia

1. What should I look for when choosing a local Malaysian skincare product?

When choosing Malaysian skincare products, check if they suit your skin type, are made for Malaysia’s humid weather, and contain safe, effective ingredients. Look for products that address your skin concerns like acne, sensitivity, or dullness, and check user reviews or dermatologist recommendations when possible.

2. Where is the best place to buy authentic Malaysian skincare, online or in-store?

You can find authentic local skincare brands in Malaysia through official brand websites, Shopee Mall, Lazada, and selected pharmacies like Watsons and Guardian. Always buy from verified sellers or authorised resellers to avoid counterfeit products.

3. Are Malaysian skincare products approved by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA)?

Yes, reputable local skincare products in Malaysia are registered with the NPRA under the Ministry of Health. Look for the NPRA notification number on packaging or check the NPRA website to confirm if a product is officially listed.

4. Can I trust local brands to avoid harmful ingredients or banned substances?

Most well-known Malaysian skincare brands comply with NPRA safety standards and avoid banned or harmful ingredients. However, always read labels carefully and avoid unknown or unregistered products sold at unusually low prices.

5. How do Malaysian skincare brands compare to Korean skincare?

Malaysian skincare brands offer effective, fuss-free formulas tailored for our hot and humid weather. While Korean skincare often uses multi-step routines, many Malaysian products are simplified and focus on hydration, oil control, and barrier repair, perfect for everyday tropical skincare.

6. Are there Halal-certified skincare options from Malaysian brands?

Yes, many Malaysian skincare brands offer Halal-certified products. Brands like Safi, Alha Alfa, and Ainaa emphasize Halal compliance in both ingredients and manufacturing processes, catering to Muslim consumers looking for ethical skincare choices.

7. Which Malaysian skincare brands are worth trying?

Some popular and well-loved local skincare brands in Malaysia include The Mineraw, Chuck’s, Ainaa, Claire Organics, Alha Alfa, Chique, and TMO. These brands are praised for their clean formulations, affordability, and suitability for Malaysian skin types and weather.

8. What’s the best skincare routine for Malaysian weather?

For Malaysia’s hot and humid climate, a basic routine should include a gentle cleanser, hydrating toner, lightweight serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen. Focus on oil control and hydration, and avoid overly heavy or greasy formulas that may clog pores.

The Best Malaysian Skincare Products

1. The Raw. Niacinamide 5% Serum

If you haven’t heard of The Raw., you are totally missing out. A local brand that’s the brainchild of a Malaysian pharmacist, The Raw., is all about creating effective products centred around active ingredients that don’t cost a fortune. This Niacinamide 5% Serum is seriously incredible at fading dark spots, reducing acne, controlling oil and sebum production, and minimising the appearance of pores, and trust us when we say that it works wonders. Other bestsellers from The Raw. include their Daily Ceramide Moisturiser, the Arbutin 2% Serum, and the Acne Spot Drying Solution!

Price: RM49.00

Where to buy: The Raw.

2. Chuck’s Glow On Brightening Peony Mask

You definitely already know about Chuck’s, but it can’t hurt to talk about one of our most-loved products; the Glow On Brightening Peony Mask. We love a good sheet mask, and we reach for this one a lot. It’s formulated with 78% Peony Water, which is chuck-full of antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, which really help to calm the skin and leave your skin looking bright. This sheet mask also contains Niacinamide, which has tons of benefits like minimising pores, improving the skin tone, and softening fine lines. Seriously, this is one of our favourite local skincare products ever.

Price: RM57.60

Where to buy: Chuck’s

3. LUMI Vitamin Glow Super Serum

Get your glow on with the Vitamin Glow Super Serum by LUMI! Packed with a ton of skin-loving natural ingredients, this serum is amazing at brightening up the skin. With naturally-derived Vitamin C from fruits and veggies like citrus, grapes, and apples, this serum promises to even the skin tone, smooth the skin, reduce signs of ageing, and retain moisture. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and easily absorbs into the skin — what more could you ask for in a serum when living in Malaysia’s humid weather?

Price: RM135.00

Where to buy: LUMI

4. CLEF Skin Perfecting Tinted Physical Sunscreen

If you’re the type to often find yourself rushing and having to choose between sunscreen and foundation, CLEF has got the answer for you: their Skin Perfecting Tinted Physical Sunscreen! It’s a tinted sunscreen that does a great job at both protecting the skin and covering up blemishes — perfect for days when you just have to go, go, go. We love how this tinted sunscreen doesn’t have that awful sunscreen-y smell, but it does leave a natural, semi-matte yet radiant finish. CLEF also stands for “clean” and “effective,” so you can be sure that their products only contain ingredients that are good for your skin.

Why we love it:

• Has a medium, semi-matte, buildable coverage
• Does not smell like sunscreen
• Contains antioxidants

Cons:

• Only available in three shades

Price: RM41.00

Where to buy: CLEF

5. Handmade Heroes Oat Mighty Cleansing Balm

When Lily Collins uses this brand herself, there’s no doubt that it’s good. We all know the importance of double-cleansing, which is why you need an effective cleansing balm to start your skincare routine right. And there’s nothing better than the Oat Mighty Cleansing Balm by Handmade Heroes! Truly one of our favourite local skincare products, this vegan and cruelty-free cleansing balm removes every trace of makeup, grime, and impurities with ease. It’s also formulated with Colloidal Oats, Ceramides, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, and a blend of skin-loving oils, which ensure that your skin stays happy and hydrated, not tight or squeaky.

Why we love it:

• Easily removes stubborn makeup
• Unscented
• Leaves skin feeling soft

Cons:

• May sting the eyes

Price: RM58.00

Where to buy: Handmade Heroes

6. Cuura Sleeping Mask Night Mask

We know how hot some nights can be, so if you’re always sleeping in the chill of an air-conditioned room, it might be time to consider using a sleeping mask every so often. Sleeping masks help to deeply nourish the skin to keep it hydrated, resilient, and healthy, and that’s why we really love the Sleeping Mask Night Mask from Cuura. Made from natural ingredients, this sleeping mask has both Hyaluronic Acid and vitamin C, so you will wake up to glowing, bright skin.

Why we love it:

• Suitable for all skin types
• Has a lightweight texture
• Formulated with natural ingredients

Cons:

• May have a slightly earthy scent

Price: RM48.30

Where to buy: Cuura

7. ZarZou Daily Deep Cleanser

A good cleanser is essential in any solid skincare routine to remove any excess sebum, impurities, and even excess makeup, which keeps your pores clean and clear in the long run. One of our favourite cleansers is the Daily Deep Cleanser by ZarZou, which always does an excellent job at deeply cleansing the skin without stripping it of its oils. What we love most about this cleanser is that it’s formulated with 2% AHA and 2% BHA, which gently exfoliates the skin to remove dead skin cells and sebum. Combined with the soothing properties of Allantoin and Aloe Vera to calm irritation and redness, and you’ve got yourself a winner!

Why we love it:

• Gently exfoliates the skin
• Leaves skin feeling soft and supple
• Clears clogged pores

Cons:

• Not suitable for sensitive skin

Price: RM44.00

Where to buy: Zarzou

8. Yello Skincare Oatmeal Turmeric Mask & Scrub

When we feel like our skin needs some scrubbing, we always turn to the Yello Skincare Oatmeal Turmeric Mask & Scrub. As one of the best local skincare products in Malaysia, this 2-in-1 mask and scrub is suitable for all skin types, especially those with acne-prone skin, acne scars, and dullness. Don’t be surprised by its bright yellow powder — it’s made with turmeric to tackle acne breakouts and unclog pores. With oatmeal as its base, we love that our skin feels softer and smoother after each use. Get rid of dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells for radiant skin!

Why we love it:

• Addresses acne breakouts
• Exfoliates dead skin cells
• Tackles dull skin issues

Cons:

• Can be messy to use due to its powder form

Price: RM39.00

Where to buy: Yello Skincare

9. Kayman Beauty Skintella Moisturizing Gel

Malaysians have been raving about Kayman Beauty, and we get the hype. With its wide range of bestselling products, one particular item has caught our attention: Skintella Moisturising Gel. It’s a weightless moisturiser with a texture between gel and cream. Thanks to its skin-loving ingredients — Centella Asiatica extract, Squalane, Ceramide, Beta Glucan, and Cholesterol — it helps soothe the skin and provides enough moisture to repair the skin barrier. We also dig its easy-to-use pump, allowing us to dispense the appropriate amount of product with ease.

Why we love it:

• Contains soothing ingredients
• Repairs the skin barrier
• Lightweight formula

Cons:

• May be on the pricier side for some

Price: RM72.60

Where to buy: Kayman Beauty

10. Ruruberry Alpha Arbutin Toner

You can’t have a complete skincare routine without adding a toner. Formulated for people with uneven skin tone and blotchy patches, Ruruberry Alpha Arbutin Toner is our beloved microbiome-friendly, milky toner that softens and hydrates the skin. Its white, milky consistency absorbs quickly and evens skin tone while brightening the complexion. Infused with Alpha Arbutin and Meadowfoam seed oil, we are impressed that this toner helps prevent post-blemish redness and age spots while locking in moisture without any greasy feeling. Unquestionably, one of the best local skincare products that we will always want to stock up on.

Why we love it:

• Brightens the skin
• Hydrating formula
• Helps prevent age spots

Cons:

• Its tall bottle packaging may not be suitable for travelling

Price: RM69.00

Where to buy: Shopee

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