we compared 5 “luxury” brands — the results shocked us

Oct 3, 2025

Do You Know What’s Actually in Your Skincare?

You might be surprised at what’s hiding behind the glossy labels of so-called “luxury” skincare brands. We took a closer look at the ingredient lists of several mainstream favorites, and here’s what we found:

  • Synthetic fragrance – a known irritant that can trigger redness and sensitivity
  • Cheap fillers and drying alcohols – added to cut costs, not to benefit your skin
  • Hormone-disrupting preservatives – hidden under scientific names most people can’t pronounce

And the most shocking part? Many of these brands charge over $100 for formulas filled with ingredients your skin doesn’t need.


The ästhetik Difference

At ästhetik skincare, every ingredient has a purpose — to repair, strengthen, or nourish your skin. We believe in ingredient transparency and integrity, not marketing gimmicks.

Our promise: No fillers. No fads. No compromises.

We formulate with clean, bioavailable ingredients that your skin recognizes and can actually use. While mainstream brands focus on profit margins, we focus on results — restoring balance, radiance, and long-term skin health.

ästhetik skincare owner Alexis Pfropper standing next to the entire ästhetik skincare line


Why Transparency Matters

When you choose ästhetik, you’re not just buying skincare — you’re making an informed, empowered choice for your skin’s future. We proudly disclose every ingredient and stand behind its purpose. You’ll never find harsh alcohols, artificial dyes, or synthetic fragrances here.

Your skin deserves honesty, and your skincare should deliver visible results without compromise.

💚 Shop Smarter Skincare →


FAQ: Ingredient Integrity, Explained

What makes ästhetik different from other luxury skincare brands?

We prioritize your skin’s health over flashy packaging or mass-market shelf life. That means no parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, or hormone disruptors—ever. Our formulas are esthetician-developed and rooted in clean, effective ingredients that actually work.

Are your products safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Our entire line supports the skin barrier using gentle, plant-based ingredients. We skip common irritants like hidden alcohols and synthetic dyes to keep your skin calm, clear, and resilient.

Do you use preservatives?

Only clean, safe ones. Our preservatives prevent contamination without compromising skin health. You’ll never find benzene, formaldehyde releasers, or undisclosed irritants in any ästhetik formula.

What do you mean by “bioavailable peptides”?

These are advanced, skin-loving molecules your skin can actually absorb and use. They help boost firmness, smooth fine lines, and support long-term skin health.

I’ve been using [mainstream brand]. Will I see a difference if I switch?

Most likely, yes. Many clients report clearer, more hydrated, balanced skin within weeks. When you remove fillers and irritants, your skin finally has the freedom to thrive.

Are your products vegan and cruelty-free?

Absolutely. We’re proud to be Leaping Bunny Certified and Cruelty-Free Kitty Verified— committed to clean, ethical, and animal-friendly skincare.


Clean Ingredients. Real Results.

Don’t settle for overpriced skincare with hidden irritants. Choose ästhetik skincare — where every ingredient serves your skin, not a marketing label.

🌿 Explore our collection →

 

Follow us for more tips, tricks, flash sales and sometimes just entertainment!

Written by

Alexis Pfropper is a licensed esthetician and co-founder of ästhetik spa and ästhetik skincare, with over a decade of experience in advanced treatments and clean beauty.