This Moisturizer Is Beloved by Anne Hathaway and Me — Here’s Why I'm Obsessed

As a beauty editor who tests countless new products a year, I've seen some pretty outlandish product claims made. Due to the unregulated guidelines, brands are free to claim something as "clean" or say it "yields instant results" without having to prove these statements with hard facts. Not only does that make it tricky to decipher who is telling the truth, but it also makes it time-consuming to test products that don't deliver what they promise.

This is why I was so excited when I heard Shiseido, a Japanese brand that's over 150 years old, added a new product to its Vital Perfection collection, utilizing a special ingredient that it's been researching for 30 years. I've been testing the Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream ($140) for over eight months and can confirm all the benefits claimed are true. Plus, Anne Hathaway endorses it. Judging by her luminous skin alone, I was further inclined to try it.

Keep reading for my full review of the Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream and find out why it's the multi-functional hero in my assortment.

Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream

From

$140

$140 at Sephora

I have a very minimalist skin-care routine of a gentle cleanser or balm, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Whenever I add something new to it, it has to be simple yet effective. As an existing fan of Shiseido — I own many of its sunscreens and cleansers — I enjoy the rich texture of this moisturizer as it glides across my skin into a lightweight finish sans residue.

Thanks to the caffeine in the formula, it immediately improved the luminosity of my skin and, over time, the darkness around my undereyes and any post-breakout hyperpigmentation — two concerns I constantly think about. With three decades of research, the brand developed this new SafflowerRED technology that is paramount in supporting the skin's collagen production and aiding in how your skin delivers nutrients. Around month three, I noticed increased firmness in my jaw and forehead.

Most noticeably, my skin is more radiant than it was eight months ago. There have been many mornings when I have considered forgoing my routine after seeing a bright and even complexion staring back at me in the mirror. Truly, this soft-to-the-touch cream continuously garners results each time I use it.

Following the brand's guidelines, I've been using the moisturizer each morning and night for eight months. I simply take two pearl-sized drops of product and smooth it all over my face, starting with my cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Like all moisturizers, make sure you wait a couple of minutes before applying makeup or the next step in your regimen. If you're using it in the morning, you'll need to follow the application with an SPF.

Although the cream is targeted for mature skin, it can be used on all skin types, but those with oily skin might find the texture a bit too heavy. If you consider yourself a minimalist, this is a great cream for you as it packs a variety of benefits.

Rating: ★★★★★