Ilia’s New Face Milk Essence Is the Perfect Makeup Base for My Parched Winter Skin

In my skincare routine, I follow multiple steps that at least include toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. But this time of year calls for a combination of robust formulas and some skilled layering to repair the damage the dry, cold air so easily inflicts on my complexion. I didn't typically start to include essences in my regimen until recently, when I discovered Ilia's newest skincare launch, the Base Face Milk.

The creamy fluid is the multitasking must-have I didn't know I needed. I received a free sample to try from the brand about a month before its initial launch this past January and have happily worked it into my rotation for my daytime routine. In combination with prickly pear extract, a combination of squalane, lipids, and hyaluronic acid imparts both plenty of moisture and a delicate plumping effect The antioxidant-rich microalgae extract also alleviates the irritation of my dry, itchy skin, leaving me with a non-greasy, dewy glow.

Ilia The Base Face Milk

You don't need much of this hydrating, watery essence hybrid, to get the desired effect. Usually, after cleansing, I'll either use this as a final step or layer a cream on top— depending on my skin's mood—by warming up the product between my palms, and then pressing it into my face and neck. I also love to use this as a smoothing hydrator to prep my skin for makeup, helping me cut down my routine, or use it to soothe my skin after dermaplaning. 

While I do lend some attention to multiple essences, Ilia is my go-to daytime formula, because it feels so lightweight, no matter how I utilize it in my routine. Despite its deceptively thin consistency, the versatile product delivers a much-needed dose of moisture. Though $58 can seem pricey for a skincare product; consider the multiple ways you can effectively use this nourishing concentrate and how little you need, I find it worth the price. You could also try a mini size before committing for $28.

It's official: Ilia's the Base Face Milk is giving my makeup primers a run for their money while remaining a staple in my skincare routine. We also found five more top-performing formulas worth checking out from Ilia.

Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint

Ilia Bright Start Retinol Alternative Eye Cream

Ilia The Cleanse Soft Foaming Cleanser

Ilia Multi-Stick