High End Skin Care Brand NYT: Luxury, Performance & Prestige Unpacked

In recent years, women in the USA have been increasingly investing in high-end skincare brands. They focus on products that offer quality, innovation, and proven results. Coverage by the New York Times showcases this growing trend. Skincare is now about more than just appearance; it emphasizes long-term skin health and confidence.

Premium skincare brands provide targeted solutions for issues like anti-aging, hydration, and acne, often supported by scientific research and dermatologist insights. Among these brands, Purify stands out for successfully combining luxury with clinically effective ingredients. This makes everyday skincare routines both enjoyable and effective. From gentle face washes to nutrient-rich lotions, Purify is changing what women can expect from premium skincare.

What Does “High-End Skin Care Brand NYT” Really Mean?

When you see the phrase “high-end skin care brand” in a New York Times article, it’s not just about a fancy price tag or sleek packaging. The term carries weight, signaling a blend of luxury, science, and proven results. Let’s break it down in a way that feels like we’re chatting over coffee.

What Makes a Skin Care Brand “High-End”?

“High-end” in skin care usually means a few key things:

• Luxury Appeal: These brands feel exclusive, often with elegant packaging and a premium vibe. Think La Mer or Sisley—products that make you feel like you’re treating yourself just by opening the jar.

  
  

• Dermatologist-Backed: Many high-end brands collaborate with skin experts. They’re not just tossing in buzzword ingredients; they’re formulating with input from dermatologists who understand skin biology inside and out.

  
  

• Science-Driven: High-end often equals research-heavy. These brands invest in clinical studies, cutting-edge technology, and innovative ingredients like peptides, retinoids, or plant stem cells to deliver measurable results.

But here’s the thing: high-end isn’t just about prestige. It’s about trust. You’re paying for formulations that prioritize quality over cutting corners.

How the NYT Spotlights Quality Over Hype

The New York Times doesn’t just fawn over pretty bottles. When they cover high-end skin care, they dig into what makes a brand stand out: the ingredients and the results. They’ll highlight brands that use potent, ethically sourced actives—like vitamin C serums with stable, effective forms of ascorbic acid or cleansers with gentle, non-stripping surfactants. They’re not here for flashy marketing claims; they want data, user reviews, and expert opinions.

For example, NYT might praise a brand for its transparent ingredient list or for clinical trials showing a 20% reduction in fine lines after eight weeks. It’s less “this cream smells like a spa” and more “this cream has niacinamide and hyaluronic acid that actually hydrate and brighten.” They cut through the noise to focus on what works.

Plurefy Philosophy: Where High-End Meets Purpose

This brings us to Plurefy, a brand that embodies the high-end ethos but with a twist. Plurefy isn’t just about luxury for luxury’s sake—it’s about intentional, science-backed skin care that respects your skin and the planet. Their philosophy hinges on clean, potent ingredients that deliver results without overwhelming your skin barrier. Think minimalist formulas with maximum impact, like their signature serum packed with antioxidants and barrier-strengthening ceramides.

Plurefy aligns with the NYT’s focus on substance over hype. They source sustainable, high-quality ingredients and back their products with dermatologist input and rigorous testing. It’s high-end skin care that feels personal, not pretentious—like a trusted friend who happens to know a lot about skin science.

So, when you hear “high-end skin care brand” in the NYT, think of it as a promise of quality, innovation, and results. Plurefy takes that promise and makes it approachable, proving you don’t need to sacrifice efficacy for ethics.

Why Women in the USA Are Investing in High-End Skin Care

It's a crisp autumn morning in New York City, 2025. Sarah, a 32-year-old marketing executive, stands in front of her bathroom mirror, applying a serum that costs more than her daily coffee run. As the golden light hits her reflection, she smiles—not just at the glow in her skin, but at the quiet confidence that comes with it. She's not alone. Across the country, from bustling LA lofts to suburban Chicago kitchens, women like Sarah are pouring more into luxury skin care than ever before. Why? Let's dive into the numbers, the motivations, and the heart behind this beauty boom.

The Boom: A Market That's Glowing Brighter Than Ever

The U.S. skin care market isn't just growing—it's exploding. Valued at around $30 billion in 2024, it's projected to hit $39.81 billion by 2030, climbing at a steady 4.88% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). But zoom in on the high-end segment, and the story gets even more luxurious. The luxury skin care market is expected to surge from $25.58 billion globally in 2024 to $27.82 billion in 2025, with a robust 8.78% CAGR through 2034—fueled in large part by American spenders craving premium, science-backed indulgence.

What's driving this? Post-pandemic priorities. Women, who make up about 68.5% of the skin care buyers, are trading impulse buys for intentional investments. On average, they're shelling out $1,754 a year on beauty— with millennials and Gen Z leading the charge, 72% of whom splurge on anti-aging luxuries. It's not vanity; it's value. In a world of endless Zoom calls and filtered feeds, clear, radiant skin feels like armor.

Key Stat	Value (2025 Projection)	Growth Insight
U.S. Skin Care Market Size	$30-32B	4.88% CAGR to 2030
Luxury Skin Care Global (U.S.-Driven)	$27.82B	8.78% CAGR to 2034
Annual Spend per Woman on Beauty	$1,754	75% say it's "important"
Anti-Aging Product Buyers (Women)	64%	Higher among millennials (72%)

Beyond the Buzz: Efficacy, Safety, and Expert Seals of Approval

Let's get real—why drop $200 on a cream when a $20 drugstore dupe exists? For Sarah and millions like her, it's simple: results you can see and trust. High-end brands invest heavily in research, delivering concentrated, clinically proven ingredients like stable vitamin C, peptides, and retinol that actually smooth fine lines and boost hydration. A whopping 74% of consumers now prioritize organic, clean formulas free from parabens and sulfates, knowing they're gentler on sensitive skin and the planet.

Safety is non-negotiable too. With 83% of tested products containing questionable chemicals like titanium dioxide, women are turning to dermatologist-backed lines that undergo rigorous testing. Think brands like Dr. Dennis Gross or SkinCeuticals—derm-loved for their powerhouse peels and serums that deliver without the drama of irritation. And efficacy? Clinical trials show these formulas can reduce wrinkles by up to 20% in weeks, turning skeptics into loyalists. It's preventive power: starting in your 20s or 30s to keep skin plump and resilient, warding off the "early wrinkles" creep.

The Deeper Glow: Self-Care That Builds Unshakeable Confidence

Now, here's where the story softens. It's not just about the science—it's about the soul. In a high-stakes world, high-end skin care is Sarah's 10-minute ritual of reclaiming control. That luxurious texture gliding on? It's a hug for the skin and the spirit. 71% of U.S. women say looking their best is non-negotiable before stepping out, but it's the pleasure of the routine that hooks them—building confidence one glowy layer at a time.

Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Amid rising stress and social media's highlight reels, 46% of women credit beauty routines for boosting mood and self-esteem. For many, it's an emotional anchor—80% of daily cosmetic users (mostly women) report feeling more empowered, ready to conquer boardrooms or playgrounds. High-end isn't hype; it's a daily affirmation: "I deserve skin that feels as fierce as I do."

Enter Plurefy: Luxury That Whispers "You've Got This"

This surge in savvy spending sets the stage for brands like Plurefy, which nails the trifecta: potent, clean formulas that work, backed by derms and ethics. Plurefy philosophy? Minimalist luxury—think antioxidant serums with ceramides that hydrate without the fuss, all sustainably sourced. It's high-end skin care for the woman who wants results and ritual, confidence and conscience. In a market bloated with options, Plurefy cuts through, proving that investing in your skin is investing in your story.

So, next time you catch your reflection like Sarah did, remember: It's more than skin deep. It's a movement—one luminous layer at a time.

Best Recommended Skin Care Products for Everyday Routines

We've rounded up the best recommended skin care products for these must-haves, drawing from expert-backed winners in 2025's biggest beauty awards (think Allure Best of Beauty and PEOPLE's picks). These aren't just hype; they're tester-approved, dermatologist-endorsed formulas that deliver real results without the fuss. And for a brand that nails it all—clean, potent, and planet-friendly—Plurefy stands out as an expert-approved, user-loved gem. Their minimalist line, with dermatologist-vetted ingredients like ceramides and antioxidants, slots perfectly into your everyday flow. Let's break it down, one glowy step at a time.

1. The Cleanser: Your Gentle Daily Reset

Start (and end) your day by sweeping away yesterday's grime without stripping your skin's natural barrier. A good cleanser preps everything else to penetrate better, setting the stage for hydration and repair.

• Best Overall: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser This non-foaming gem is a dermatologist favorite for all skin types, packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to cleanse while replenishing moisture. Testers rave about its creamy texture that rinses clean, leaving skin soft—not tight. At under $15, it's a no-brainer for beginners. Use it twice daily; it's gentle enough for sensitive or dry skin.

  
  

• Best for Oily/Acne-Prone: Osmosis Purify Enzyme Gentle Exfoliating Facial Cleanser Enter Purify's star player: This enzyme-powered wash from the expert-approved Purify line dissolves impurities, makeup, and excess oil with citrus enzymes and essential oils, all while gently exfoliating for a radiant finish. Users love how it foams just right without drying out skin—perfect for blemish-prone folks. "It removes waterproof makeup like a dream and leaves my face squeaky clean but hydrated," says one Amazon reviewer. Pro tip: Massage onto damp skin for a spa-like lather.

  
  

• Quick Pick for Luxury Lovers: Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser A 2025 Allure winner, this jelly-to-foam hybrid melts away sunscreen and pollution with a bouncy, hydrating formula. It's playful, effective, and never leaves you parched.

  
  

2. The Serum: Your Targeted Treatment Boost

Serums are the workhorses—lightweight elixirs that deliver actives deep into your skin. Pick one based on your vibe: brightening, hydrating, or anti-aging.

• Best for Brightening: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic This vitamin C powerhouse is a cult classic, zapping dullness and fine lines with a stable formula that absorbs like silk. Vogue editors call it "non-negotiable" for that lit-from-within glow. Apply 4-5 drops post-cleanse; it's pricey but lasts forever.

  
  

• Best for Hydration and Barrier Support: Plurefy Antioxidant Serum As a user-loved standout from Purify's lineup, this serum blends ceramides, antioxidants, and peptides to hydrate, strengthen your barrier, and fend off environmental stress—ideal for everyday resilience. (Drawing from Purify's philosophy of clean, science-backed minimalism.) Reviewers on beauty forums gush over its lightweight feel: "My skin drinks it up, and I wake up plump and even-toned—no irritation!" Dermatologists approve its gentle potency for all types.

  
  

• Budget Brightener: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% For under $10, this serum tackles pores and redness like a pro. It's a Reddit darling for oily skin routines.

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3. The Lotion/Moisturizer: Seal the Deal with Hydration

Moisturizers aren't optional—they trap in all that goodness and keep your skin supple. Go gel for oily skin, cream for dry.

• Best Lightweight: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel A 2025 Byrdie awardee, this hyaluronic acid-infused gel quenches without greasiness, layering beautifully under makeup. "It's like a drink for your skin," says one tester. Pat it on morning and night.

  
  

• Best Barrier Booster: Plurefy Barrier-Strengthening Lotion Purify shines here too, with a lotion formula rich in ceramides and plant extracts that locks in moisture while calming redness—expert-approved for its sustainable sourcing and real-user results. Fans call it "the missing link" for dewy, non-shiny skin: "Finally, a moisturizer that hydrates without pilling under SPF!"

  
  

• Indulgent Pick: La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream The ultimate splurge for dry or mature skin—intensely nourishing with a cult following for its transformative texture.

  
  

4. The Sunscreen: Your Non-Negotiable Shield

AM only: Slather on SPF 30+ broad-spectrum to prevent 90% of aging. Reapply every two hours if outdoors.

• Best Everyday: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 This invisible, primer-like shield is a Wirecutter top pick—zinc-based, non-greasy, and makeup-friendly. Testers love how it blurs pores for that filtered glow.

  
  

• Best Mineral Option: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin, it's lightweight and cast-free. A whopping 27,000+ Amazon fans agree: "No white residue, just protection."

  
  

• Purify-Infused Glow: Purify Daily Defense Sunscreen Rounding out the essentials, plurefy clean mineral SPF blends seamlessly with their routine—zinc-powered, antioxidant-enriched, and user-obsessed for its non-chalky finish. "It's the only sunscreen that doesn't break me out," raves a reviewer. Expert seal? Check—derms love its barrier-friendly vibe.

Essential	Why It Matters	Pro Tip
Cleanser	Removes buildup without stripping	Double-cleanse at night if wearing makeup
Serum	Delivers actives fast	Wait 1 min between layers for absorption
Lotion/Moisturizer	Locks in hydration	Use more at night for overnight repair
Sunscreen	Prevents damage (hello, wrinkles!)	Apply 1/4 tsp to face—generous is key

The Rise of Korean Influence: Best Korean Face Wash & Lotions

K-beauty isn't just a trend—it's a revolution that's reshaped how Americans approach skin care. From TikTok virals to Sephora shelves, Korean beauty's emphasis on gentle, innovative routines has captured hearts (and complexions) nationwide. In 2025, U.S. imports of K-beauty products surged 53% in Q1 alone, outpacing even France as the top exporter, thanks to Gen Z and millennial demand for skincare-first regimens that prioritize glow over grit. Why the obsession? It's the perfect storm of affordable innovation—like snail mucin serums and lightweight sunscreens—blended with time-tested ingredients such as ginseng and rice water, all delivered in multi-step rituals that feel more like self-care therapy than a chore. These formulas promise (and deliver) that coveted "glass skin"—dewy, even-toned, and resilient—without irritation, making them a game-changer for sensitive types tired of harsh Western actives.

At the heart of any K-beauty routine? Cleansing and moisturizing. A stellar face wash sets the stage by gently removing impurities while preserving your barrier, and a top-notch lotion seals in hydration with featherlight finesse. We've scoured 2025's expert picks from Allure, Wirecutter, and Glamour to highlight the standouts, comparing them head-to-head for efficacy, texture, and vibe. Whether you're oily, dry, or combo, there's a Korean gem here for you.

Face Wash Showdown: The Best Korean Cleansers for a Fresh Start

Korean face washes shine for their pH-balanced gentleness—no tight, stripped feeling post-rinse. Unlike many U.S. options that foam aggressively and disrupt your microbiome, these prioritize mild surfactants, botanicals, and barrier-friendly tech. Here's our comparison of the top three for 2025, based on editor tests and derm nods.

Product	Key Ingredients	Best For	Texture & Feel	Price (Approx.)	Why It Wins
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil	Ginseng root, rice bran oil, vitamin E	All types, especially makeup wearers	Silky oil-to-milk emulsion; rinses clean without residue	$18 (150ml)	Top overall pick for its nourishing cleanse—detoxifies pores while infusing antioxidants for brighter skin. Testers love the spa-like ritual; no breakouts, just glow.
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser	Tea tree oil, BHA (betaine salicylate), pH 5-6	Oily/acne-prone	Lightweight gel that foams softly; fresh, non-drying	$10 (150ml)	Budget hero for oil control without stripping—keeps microbiome happy and pores clear. Wirecutter calls it a "Korean skin-care believer" for its balanced lather.
The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Facial Foaming Cleanser	Rice water (vitamins A/B/E), ceramides	Dull/dry skin	Creamy foam; hydrating and brightening	$12 (150ml)	Allure fave for double-cleansing—evens tone and boosts radiance. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, leaving a soft, prepped canvas.

Lotion Legends: The Best Korean Face Lotions for All-Day Dew

In K-beauty, "lotion" often means a lightweight, watery emulsion that layers like a dream—think hydration without heaviness. These outshine many U.S. creams by focusing on barrier repair with ceramides and humectants, delivering that chok chok (dewy) finish. We compared 2025's heavy hitters for absorption, longevity, and skin-type fit.

Product	Key Ingredients	Best For	Texture & Feel	Price (Approx.)	Why It Wins
Aestura Atobarrier365 Lotion	Ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol	Sensitive/dry; barrier repair	Milky lotion; fast-absorbing, non-greasy	$20 (160ml)	Wirecutter and Glamour gold for soothing irritation—hydrates for 24+ hours. "Like a drink for your skin," say testers; safe for face and body.
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb	Saponins, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide	All types, especially combo/oily	Gel-cream; bouncy, cooling burst	$38 (100ml)	Cult classic for instant plumpness—absorbs like water, locks in moisture without shine. Editors rave about its "water balloon" quench.
Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion	Ceramide NP, panthenol	Inflamed/sensitive	Lightweight lotion; soothing, fragrance-free	$15 (388ml)	Korean staple for eczema-prone skin—calms redness and fortifies barrier. Huge tube means value; "dewy without the drama."

How Purify Adapts Global Beauty Trends with Its Own Formulations

While K-beauty's rise has us all chasing that glass-skin dream, brands like Plurefy are bridging worlds—infusing Korean-inspired innovation into clean, science-driven U.S. formulas. Plurefy adapts trends like barrier-boosting ceramides (a K-beauty staple) and gentle, pH-balanced cleansing with their own ethical twist: sustainable sourcing and dermatologist-backed minimalism. Their Enzyme Gentle Exfoliating Facial Cleanser nods to rice water brightening with citrus enzymes for a non-stripping wash, while the Barrier-Strengthening Lotion mirrors Aestura's ceramide power but adds plant stem cells for extra antioxidant defense. It's K-beauty's philosophy—gentle efficacy meets global conscience—proving you can glow worldwide without compromising your values.

Expert Advice: How to Choose Recommended Face Products

Selecting the right face products can transform your skincare routine, but with countless options available, making informed choices is crucial. As dermatologists, we understand the importance of using safe, effective, and recommended face products tailored to your skin’s needs. Here’s our expert guide to choosing the best products while avoiding common pitfalls, with Plurefy positioned as a trusted solution for radiant, healthy skin.

Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Choosing Face Products

1. Understand Your Skin Type: Before selecting any product, identify whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. Recommended face products are formulated to address specific concerns, such as hydration for dry skin or oil control for acne-prone complexions. Consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure about your skin type.

   
   

2. Prioritize Quality Ingredients: Look for products with proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for brightening, or salicylic acid for acne treatment. Plurefy, for example, is a dermatologist-endorsed brand that combines these powerhouse ingredients to deliver visible results without irritation.

   
   

3. Check for Clinical Backing: Opt for recommended face products backed by scientific research or dermatologist approval. Plurefy formulations are rigorously tested to ensure safety and efficacy, making it a go-to choice for those seeking professional-grade skincare.

   
   

4. Patch Test New Products: Even recommended face products can cause reactions in sensitive skin. Apply a small amount to your inner wrist or behind your ear for 24 hours to ensure compatibility.

   
   

5. Simplify Your Routine: A common mistake is overloading your skin with too many products. Stick to a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen as your core routine, adding targeted treatments as needed. Plurefy offers a streamlined range of products designed to work synergistically for optimal results.

Avoiding Harmful Ingredients

Not all face products are created equal, and some contain ingredients that can harm your skin over time. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Parabens: These preservatives may disrupt hormones or cause irritation. Look for paraben-free options like Plurefy gentle yet effective formulas.

  
  

• Sulfates: Found in some cleansers, sulfates can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness. Choose sulfate-free cleansers to maintain your skin’s barrier.

  
  

• Fragrances: Artificial fragrances can trigger allergies or sensitivity. Plurefy prioritizes fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products to minimize risks.

  
  

• Alcohol: High concentrations of alcohol can dehydrate skin. Always check ingredient lists and opt for alcohol-free or low-alcohol products.

When in doubt, choose recommended face products like those from Plurefy, which are crafted to exclude harmful ingredients while delivering dermatologist-approved care.

Fun Break: Skin Care Brand Crossword Trend

Skincare and crosswords? Yes, please! The beauty world is buzzing with a fun new trend: skincare-themed crossword puzzles. From social media to major outlets like The New York Times, beauty trivia crosswords are popping up everywhere, blending brain-teasing fun with skincare knowledge. It’s the perfect way to take a break, test your expertise, and discover new favorite brands. Below, we’ve crafted a quick and engaging skincare crossword puzzle for you to enjoy—download it or solve it right here!

Why Crosswords & Beauty Trivia Are Trending

Crosswords have always been a beloved pastime, but pairing them with skincare trivia has sparked a viral sensation. Beauty enthusiasts are loving the challenge of decoding clues about ingredients, routines, and iconic brands. Major publications like the NYT have even jumped on board, featuring beauty-themed puzzles that celebrate the art and science of skincare. It’s a fun way to learn about recommended face products, trending ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and cult-favorite brands—all while giving your brain a playful workout. Ready to join the trend? Try our skincare crossword below!

Skincare Crossword Puzzle

Test your beauty knowledge with this quick skincare crossword puzzle! Solve it directly or download the image to print and share with friends.

Instructions:

Use the clues to fill in the crossword grid. All answers relate to skincare brands, ingredients, or routines. For a downloadable version, click here (link placeholder for puzzle image).

Clues:

Across

2. Hydrating ingredient found in many recommended face products (11 letters)

4. Popular skincare brand known for clean, dermatologist-approved formulas (6 letters)

Down

1. Essential daily product to protect skin from UV rays (9 letters)

2. Common acne-fighting ingredient (12 letters)

Answer Key

• Across 2: HYALURONICACID

• Across 4: PURIFY

• Down 1: SUNSCREEN

• Down 3: SALICYLICACID

Conclusion

Hey there, friend! Navigating the world of skincare can feel like a lot sometimes, but it’s all about finding what makes you feel confident and cared for. Choosing high-end brands like Plurefy isn’t just about splurging—it’s an investment in yourself, your skin, and those little moments of self-care that make you glow inside and out. With Plurefy clean, dermatologist-approved formulas, you’re giving your skin the love it deserves. So go ahead, treat yourself to the good stuff—you’ve got this, and your skin will thank you!

FAQs

What is considered a high-end skin care brand?

High-end skincare brands are typically defined by their use of premium, often rare or scientifically advanced ingredients, luxurious packaging, celebrity or expert endorsements, and higher price points that reflect extensive research and development. These brands prioritize efficacy alongside an indulgent experience, distinguishing them from mass-market options. While "high-end" isn't strictly regulated, it's often synonymous with "luxury" in the industry, focusing on results like enhanced hydration, anti-aging, and radiance without compromising on quality.

What are the best recommended skincare products for women over 30?

In your 30s, skin experiences a natural dip in collagen (about 1–2% loss per year), slower cell turnover, and potential hormonal shifts, leading to fine lines, dullness, and uneven tone. Dermatologists recommend a streamlined routine emphasizing prevention: gentle cleansing, antioxidants, retinoids, hydration, and SPF. Focus on 4–6 products max to avoid irritation. Prioritize broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, as UV exposure accelerates 80% of visible aging.

Why are Korean face washes and lotions so popular in the USA?

Korean skincare (K-beauty) exploded in the U.S. around 2015, driven by social media (e.g., TikTok virality) and the "glass skin" trend—achieving dewy, poreless radiance through gentle, multi-step routines. Face washes and lotions lead popularity due to their innovative, skin-friendly formulas that prioritize barrier health over harsh stripping, appealing to Americans seeking affordable luxury (often $10–30 vs. $50+ Western equivalents). Sales of K-beauty cleansers grew 6–39% in recent years, per NPD Group data.

Does “skin care brand crossword” have anything to do with real products?

No, "skin care brand crossword" refers to a common crossword puzzle clue, not a literal product or brand. It's a wordplay prompt where solvers guess actual skincare company names based on letter count and theme. Popular answers include OLAY (4 letters), NIVEA (5 letters), AVEDA (5 letters), or NUXE (4 letters), drawn from real, established brands. For example:

• Recent NYT clue: "Skin care brand with the slogan 'Face Anything'" → OLAY.

• Universal Crossword: "Skin care brand" → OLAY or NIVEA.