Independent · Editorial · Est. 2026

The House

La Mer Skincare Review: Separating Fact from Fiction

By The Luxe Edit · Updated July 2026

We may earn a commission from links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Our editorial picks are chosen independently. This is cosmetic and editorial content about the appearance of skin — not medical advice. For any skin concern, consult a qualified professional.

In short

La Mer offers a 1 oz face serum, The Concentrate, designed for stressed, reactive skin, which can help improve the appearance of visible redness in as little as a few weeks

With a brand history spanning over 50 years, La Mer has built a reputation for its high-end skincare products, often touted for their ability to transform the complexion. One notable product, The Concentrate, boasts a 1 oz size and is specifically formulated for stressed, reactive skin, featuring key ingredients like Green Tea and Squalane. But does La Mer truly live up to its promise of delivering exceptional skincare results? In this review, we'll delve into the specifics of La Mer's product line, comparing the marketing claims to the actual performance, to provide you with an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right products for your skin type.

The Product Line

La Mer offers a range of products catering to different skin concerns, including the 1 oz face serum, The Concentrate, which targets visible redness and reactive-looking skin. The Eye Concentrate, a 0.5 oz eye cream, is designed to address dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines & wrinkles. For dehydrated skin, The Treatment Lotion, a 5 oz essence, provides long-lasting hydration. Additionally, the brand features The Lip Balm for dry lips and the iconic Crème de la Mer, a rich moisturizer for dry, mature skin. - Key ingredients such as Green Tea, Squalane, and Caviar Extract are prominently featured across the product line. - The brand's Miracle Broth, a proprietary blend of fermented ingredients, is also a highlight of many La Mer products.

Texture and Application

The texture of La Mer products varies, with The Concentrate having a lightweight, serum-like consistency and Crème de la Mer offering a rich, buffered balm-cream texture. - Application timing also differs, with The Treatment Lotion recommended for use after cleansing and toning, while The Eye Concentrate is best applied in the morning and evening. - It's essential to follow the specific application instructions for each product to achieve the desired results.

Pros and Cons

La Mer's products have several benefits, including deeply nourishing dry skin, as seen with Crème de la Mer, and providing an iconic, spa-like sensory experience. - However, some products may be too rich for oily or combination skin, and the premium price point can be a deterrent for some. - The brand's use of fragrance in some products may also be a concern for sensitive skin types.

Shop La Mer

La Mer Crème de la Mer

The cult Miracle Broth cream that rebuilt the luxury-moisturiser category.

Check price on AmazonSponsored

Key takeaways

  • La Mer's The Concentrate is a 1 oz face serum specifically designed for stressed, reactive skin, featuring key ingredients like Green Tea and Squalane
  • The Eye Concentrate, a 0.5 oz eye cream, targets dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines & wrinkles with Caviar Extract and Squalane
  • Crème de la Mer, a rich moisturizer, provides long-lasting hydration for dry, mature skin, but may be too rich for oily or combination skin
  • The Treatment Lotion, a 5 oz essence, is designed for dehydrated skin and offers a lightweight, non-greasy texture

Frequently asked

What is the best La Mer product for dry, mature skin?

Crème de la Mer is a rich moisturizer specifically designed for dry, mature skin, providing long-lasting hydration and helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, its rich texture may not be suitable for oily or combination skin.

Can I use La Mer products if I have sensitive skin?

While La Mer products are generally gentle, some may contain fragrance or other ingredients that could potentially irritate sensitive skin. It's essential to patch test any new product and start with a small amount to assess your skin's tolerance. The brand's fragrance-free options, such as The Treatment Lotion, may be a better choice for sensitive skin types.

How often should I apply La Mer products?

Application frequency varies depending on the product and your individual skin concerns. For example, The Eye Concentrate is recommended for use twice daily, while The Treatment Lotion can be applied as needed to help maintain hydration levels throughout the day.

Are La Mer products worth the premium price?

La Mer products are indeed premium, and their prices reflect the high-quality ingredients and research that goes into their development. While they may not be the most affordable option, many users find the benefits to their skin to be well worth the investment. It's essential to weigh the costs and benefits based on your individual skin concerns and budget.

Can I use La Mer products under makeup?

Yes, many La Mer products can be used under makeup, but it's essential to choose the right product for your skin type and concerns. For example, The Concentrate is a lightweight serum that can be applied under makeup to help improve the appearance of stressed, reactive skin, while Crème de la Mer may be too rich for use under makeup during the day.

Does La Mer offer any products for acne-prone skin?

While La Mer does not specifically market products for acne-prone skin, some products, such as The Treatment Lotion, can help to balance and hydrate the skin, which may be beneficial for acne-prone skin types. However, it's essential to choose products that are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritation and clogged pores.

More for La Mer