5 of the best facial moisturisers (ranked by HerFamily.ie)

If there's one thing the internet has given us, it's access to the expertise of health and skincare gurus from all over the world. As an added bonus, it's also allowed us beauty junkies to access a wealth of incredible products made in far flung destinations.  Here's my pick of the best moisturiser buys you've never heard of... 1. Heaven Skincare Essential Moisturiser The buzz: This UK brand is taking the skincare world by storm. I had the pleasure of meeting the enigmatic lady who invented this range of creams and even got the famed "bee-sting" facial. The cream performs in one critical area - alleviating the issues of intolerable dry and lacklustre skin. The geranium oil and vitamin E in combination with a few secret ingredients have made it number one with HerFamily.ie. Amazeballs is not a word we use lightly but this is an exception. Why splurge? The inventor Deborah Mitchell, of Heaven Skincare is on the Buckingham Palace speed-dial list. Her facials keep K Middy looking like she hasn't been up all night with a wailing baby. The range has even been hailed as a natural alternative to Botox - impressive. How much? €137 from HeavenSkincare.com or Hyde Salon. 2. Natura Bissé Moisturiser The buzz: This Spanish moisturiser is the only one in the world that introduces macro-antioxidants to the skin. The cream, made in Barcelona, is extracted from orange fruit skins and works to eliminate free radicals (the nasties that cause age spots). The formula combats the onset of wrinkles and can be used as an all-year-round moisturiser.  The National Spanish Research Council have just patented it. Why splurge? It's a dry oil of SPF 30, with rapid absorption, and it's super-lightweight on the skin. Apply 30 minutes before hauling your pasty butt out into the sun. How much? €65 from SpaceNK, Grafton Street, Dublin 3. Dr. Ohhira's Probiotic Lavender Moisturiser The buzz: If you suffer cystic acne, skin irritation or any other ailments of the skin this Japanese lotion would be my number one choice for you as it reduces inflammation. It addresses dermal pH balance and has soothing organic acids and a sweet lavender scent that calms redness. Why splurge? This jammy, double-duty product can be used on the hands and body too. I often get compliments on the scent when I use it. In a pinch it could even triple as a fragrance on the bod. How much? €30 from DrOhhiraProbiotics.com 4. Voya Me-Time Moisturiser The buzz: This Irish product contains seaweed from the homeland. It's rich in collagen-enhancing organic ingredients including chamomile and aloe vera. Voya is perfect for the gal who loves a light moisturiser that quenches the skin instantly. It boasts an array of wholesome ingredients, all sourced in Ireland. Why splurge? It's anti-ageing, fast-working and Irish. How much?  €57 from Voya.ie, their shop in Sligo or selected outlets nationwide. 5. Omorovicza The buzz: This balancing moisturiser from Budapest wins the battle with oily, imbalanced skin. It regulates the production of sebum with a cooling gel/cream consistency. I would advise it for the most oily skin type. If you are in a hot country it can save your life if you suffer a shiny face from dusk 'til dawn. It doesn't leave skin looking dull. In fact, it cleared my skin completely from spots and recurring pustules over the course of a few months. I love this stuff. Why splurge? It contains pineapple enzymes and rosemary so you'll smell like one of the HerFamily.ie morning smoothies. All. Day. Long. They also do a great UV shield with an SPF of 30, which would make a nice accompanying product. How much? €121 or from Harvey Nichols, Dublin or Omorovicza.com If you would like advice on particular skin or beauty issue, drop me a mail: karen.forde@herfamily.ie