Prequel Skincare Review

When I decided to refresh my skincare routine, I wasn’t looking for the latest trendy products or miracle cures. As someone with sensitive skin, I’ve learned that less is often more when it comes to skincare. My goal was simple: find products that would support my skin barrier without overwhelming it with unnecessary ingredients.

That’s when Prequel started appearing on my radar. I noticed the brand gaining traction in trusted skincare communities and across social media, but what really caught my attention wasn’t the hype. It was the brand’s philosophy. Founded by a dermatologist and focused on real skin concerns rather than fleeting trends, Prequel seemed to align perfectly with what I was looking for.

After several months of testing their products, I’m ready to share my honest experience with this increasingly popular skincare line.

What Sets Prequel Skincare Apart

Dermatologist-Founded Expertise

Prequel was founded by Dr. Samantha Ellis, a board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist. This isn’t just another celebrity-backed skincare line. It’s formulated by someone who understands skin science at a clinical level. Dr

Skin Barrier-First Approach

What I appreciate most about Prequel is their unwavering focus on skin barrier health. Every product is designed to be:

• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Hydrating to support moisture retention
• Supportive of long-term skin health, not just quick fixes

Affordable Without Compromising Quality

One of the most refreshing aspects of Prequel is the pricing. These are high-quality, dermatologist-developed formulations at price points that won’t break the bank. You’re getting clinical-grade skincare without the luxury markup.

Minimal, Effective Formulations

Prequel products contain only what your skin needs—no unnecessary fragrances, no filler ingredients, no gimmicks. Each formula is:

• Fragrance-free
• Hypoallergenic
• Non-comedogenic
• Allergy–tested

Prequel Skincare Review

Gleanser

This is a very gentle, glycerin based cleanser designed with sensitive and dry skin in mind. It works well enough as a face cleanser, but I do not feel like it gets my body fully clean. It has that soft, almost slippery texture that some people really enjoy, especially if they are trying to avoid anything stripping. For me, it just does not feel like enough. I think this would be best for very sensitive skin types, those dealing with extreme dryness or dehydration, or anyone who finds most cleansers too harsh.

Would I Buy Again: No.

Gleanser with SA

After not loving the original Gleanser, I tried this version hoping the addition of salicylic acid would give it a bit more cleansing power. Unfortunately, it still feels very similar. The texture is the same and it is still extremely gentle, so I never quite get that deeper clean I am usually looking for. It is a large bottle, so it is a good value and I will use it up, but it is not something I reach for. I could see this working for sensitive or acne prone skin that needs a mild exfoliating cleanser without being too harsh.

Would I Buy Again: No.

Multi Quench Plumping Hydration Serum

This is one of those easy, reliable hydrating serums that just fits into your routine without any effort. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly, and it layers beautifully without any stickiness or pilling. I like using it right after cleansing to add a boost of hydration before moisturizer. It makes my skin feel more comfortable without ever feeling heavy, which I really appreciate. This would work well for all skin types, especially if your skin is feeling dehydrated and needs a little extra support.

Would I Buy Again: Yes.

Redness Reform Soothing Serum

I was really hopeful about this serum since I deal with occasional redness, especially in my cheeks. I have been using it consistently, but I just have not seen much of a difference. It is not irritating and it feels fine on the skin, but it is also not doing anything noticeable in terms of calming or reducing redness. I think this might work better for someone with very mild redness who wants something extremely gentle.

Would I Buy Again: No.

Multi Acid Milk Peel AHA Exfoliating Solution

I definitely should have listened to the brand’s warning about this exfoliator because it is not for sensitive skin. I used it on my face once and immediately felt tingling and noticed some redness afterward. Since then, I have been using it on my body instead, which has worked out better. It is clearly a stronger exfoliating product, so I would only recommend it for more resilient skin types or those who are already comfortable using chemical exfoliants.

Would I Buy Again: No.

AM/PM Modern Moisturizer

I went into testing this moisturizer fully expecting it to be too heavy for my skin, and it ended up being one of the biggest surprises in the line. It is not greasy and does not leave that filmy feeling I usually associate with richer creams. Instead, it feels balanced and hydrating in a way that is comfortable for all day wear. It has quickly become a favorite and might even replace my usual Kiehl’s moisturizer. I think this would work best for normal to dry skin or anyone looking for something nourishing that still feels lightweight.

Would I Buy Again: Yes.

Half and Half Fluid Moisturizer

I went into testing this moisturizer expecting something similar to the Rhode Glazing Milk, but it is actually more like Ilia’s Skin Milk. It feels less like a simple hydrating layer and more like something that supports the skin barrier. I have been using it on its own, but I could easily see someone with drier skin layering this with another moisturizer. It is a nice product, just not one I find myself reaching for over others I already love.

Would I Buy Again: No. I prefer the Rhode.

Barrier Therapy Skin Protectant Cream

This has been such a solid lotion for dry, winter skin. I have mostly been using it as a body lotion when my skin feels itchy or irritated, and it gives that immediate sense of relief without feeling too heavy. It absorbs easily and does not take forever to rub in, which makes it really practical for everyday use. If your skin barrier feels compromised or your skin tends to get very dry, this is a great option to have on hand.

Would I Buy Again: Yes.

Urea Advanced Relief Moisturizing Milk

I almost skipped this one because I was not sure how I would use it, but it ended up being one of the most surprisingly useful products. Urea is great for softening and gently exfoliating the skin, and I have been using this on my dry, cracked feet. I apply it at night, put on socks, and by morning, my skin feels noticeably smoother. It may not be the intended use, but it works incredibly well this way. I think this is best suited for very dry, rough areas like feet, elbows, or knees.

Would I Buy Again: Yes.

Solar Shade Chemical Sunscreen SPF 46 PA++++

I was immediately drawn to this SPF because of the thinner consistency, which is usually something I love in a sunscreen. The first thing I noticed, though, was the smell, which is not great. Thankfully, it does not linger. The bigger issue for me is the finish. It feels quite greasy on the skin and does not layer well under makeup, which makes it hard to use during the day. I will use it up on no makeup days in the winter, but overall, it is better suited for very dry skin types.

Would I Buy Again: No.

Final Thoughts On Prequel Skincare

Overall, I think Prequel has some really solid products, especially if you are focused on barrier support and gentle skincare. While not everything worked for me, there were a few standouts I would absolutely recommend, including the AM/PM Modern Moisturizer, the Multi Quench Plumping Hydration Serum, and the Barrier Therapy Skin Protectant Cream. Those are the products I found myself reaching for the most and would genuinely repurchase.

Since Prequel is putting out new products, I will be adding to this review as I try more from the line. Make sure to save this post to Pinterest so you can come back to it later.

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