Typology, a French skincare and cosmetics brand, has quickly become a buzzword in the beauty world. Known for its minimalist packaging, clean formulas, and targeted product offerings, it has captured the attention of skincare enthusiasts and makeup lovers alike. With a reputation for luxury and efficacy, Typology is often compared to other well-established brands like Aesop and The Ordinary, yet it promises a distinctive approach by focusing on simple, effective ingredients with a transparent philosophy.
But does Typology live up to the hype? We tested several of Typology’s top products to give you a comprehensive review. From skincare to makeup, here’s everything you need to know about whether Typology is truly worth the investment.
What is Typology?
Typology was founded in France with the mission of offering a clean, effective, and minimalist skincare line. The brand places a strong emphasis on transparency, simplicity, and using active natural ingredients. Most of Typology’s products are designed to address specific skin concerns, with a focus on purity and high-quality formulations that aim to deliver real, visible results.
In addition to its skincare line, Typology has expanded into makeup, incorporating skincare benefits into its products to create a hybrid experience. The brand is cruelty-free, vegan, and complies with stringent EU regulations, offering a trustworthy option for consumers looking for clean, high-performing beauty solutions.
What Did We Test?
We put several of Typology’s top products to the test, including skincare and makeup products that promise to address everything from acne to dry skin and lackluster complexion. Here’s what we tested:
- 9-Ingredient Face Moisturizer
- Tinted Serum with Vitamin C, Squalane & Aloe Vera
- Exfoliating Serum with 10% Glycolic Acid
- Mattifying Loose Powder with 1% Zinc PCA
- Tinted Lip Oil
- Radiance Serum with 11% Vitamin C
- Tinted Concealer
Typology Skincare Reviews
1. Typology 9-Ingredient Face Moisturizer
Price: $36.80
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, glycerin, purified water
The 9-Ingredient Face Moisturizer from Typology is a standout product in the brand’s line. It’s formulated with just nine ingredients, offering a minimalist approach to hydration. The combination of hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and coconut oil delivers intense moisture while remaining lightweight and non-greasy.
Pros:
- Hydrates deeply without being greasy
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Simple yet effective formula with no unnecessary additives
- Leaves the skin feeling plump and refreshed
Cons:
- Often sells out or goes out of stock due to high demand
This moisturizer is perfect for those who want clean, simple hydration without the risk of irritation. It quickly absorbs into the skin and offers long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy.
2. Typology Tinted Serum with Vitamin C, Squalane & Aloe Vera
Price: $42.90
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, squalane, aloe vera
The Tinted Serum from Typology is an exciting hybrid product that combines skincare with light foundation coverage. It offers a lightweight, medium coverage with a dewy finish, making it ideal for those with dry or combination skin. The formula features squalane for hydration, aloe vera for soothing, and vitamin C for brightening, which makes this product more than just a tinted moisturizer.
Pros:
- Offers medium coverage without a heavy, cakey finish
- Contains skincare ingredients like vitamin C, squalane, and aloe vera
- Lightweight, easy-to-blend formula
- Great for acne scars and uneven skin tone
Cons:
- Limited shade range
- Pipette can be tricky to work with
Overall, this tinted serum provides excellent coverage while still feeling like skincare. The only downside is the limited shade range, which could be expanded for more inclusivity.
3. Typology Exfoliating Serum with 10% Glycolic Acid
Price: $39.30
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, chamomile extract, mastic pistachio extract
Typology’s Exfoliating Serum is formulated with 10% glycolic acid, which helps to exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant. The addition of chamomile and mastic pistachio extract helps soothe and tighten pores, making this serum ideal for acne-prone and combination skin types.
Pros:
- Gentle yet effective exfoliation
- Does not sting or irritate the skin
- Brightens and tightens skin over time
- Can be used nightly
Cons:
- Must be used with sun protection
This glycolic acid serum is a great addition to any skincare routine, especially for those who suffer from clogged pores or uneven texture. Just make sure to apply sunscreen during the day as glycolic acid can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Typology Makeup Reviews
4. Typology Mattifying Loose Powder with 1% Zinc PCA
Price: $31.80
Key Ingredients: Zinc PCA, hyaluronic acid
The Mattifying Loose Powder is a lifesaver for combination skin. With a fine texture, this powder mattifies the T-zone while still allowing dry areas to maintain their natural moisture. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid helps the powder retain hydration, making it a unique, skin-loving option for controlling shine.
Pros:
- Mattifies without being drying
- Helps reduce the appearance of shine and pores
- Lightweight and non-cakey
- Contains hyaluronic acid for added hydration
Cons:
- Packaging can be messy if not handled carefully
This powder is a perfect balance for combination skin. It mattifies where needed but doesn’t leave dry patches or cake on the skin.
5. Typology Tinted Lip Oil
Price: $27.90
Key Ingredients: Mineral oil-free, silicone-free
The Tinted Lip Oil provides a burst of hydration with a subtle tint. It’s not sticky like many other lip oils, making it a comfortable option for everyday wear. The doe-foot applicator makes precise application a breeze, and it’s available in six shades.
Pros:
- Hydrates lips without being sticky
- Available in six shades
- Smooth texture with a glossy finish
Cons:
- Not long-wearing
This lip oil gives a glossy finish while keeping your lips moisturized. However, if you’re looking for something more long-lasting, this might not be the best option.
6. Typology Tinted Concealer
Price: $32.90
Key Ingredients: Caffeine, niacinamide, cornflower hydrolate
The Tinted Concealer from Typology is great for covering acne and dark circles without feeling heavy or cakey. It’s packed with caffeine, niacinamide, and cornflower hydrolate, ingredients that soothe, hydrate, and correct the skin.
Pros:
- Hydrating and soothing
- Provides good coverage without caking
- Lightweight and comfortable on the skin
Cons:
- Limited shade range
This concealer is a great pick for anyone who needs coverage without sacrificing comfort. It blends beautifully and feels more like skincare than makeup.
Typology Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Ingredients | Price | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9-Ingredient Face Moisturizer | Hyaluronic Acid, Coconut Oil, Glycerin | $36.80 | – Hydrates deeply without being greasy – Suitable for all skin types – Simple, clean formula | – Often out of stock due to high demand |
| Tinted Serum with Vitamin C, Squalane & Aloe Vera | Vitamin C, Squalane, Aloe Vera | $42.90 | – Lightweight, medium coverage – Combines skincare & makeup – Brightens and soothes the skin | – Limited shade range – Pipette can be tricky |
| Exfoliating Serum with 10% Glycolic Acid | Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, Mastic Pistachio Extract | $39.30 | – Gentle exfoliation – Brightens and tightens skin – Can be used every night | – Must use with sun protection |
| Mattifying Loose Powder with 1% Zinc PCA | Zinc PCA, Hyaluronic Acid | $31.80 | – Mattifies without drying – Non-cakey and lightweight – Hydrates while controlling shine | – Messy packaging if not handled carefully |
| Tinted Lip Oil | Mineral Oil-Free, Silicone-Free | $27.90 | – Hydrating and smooth – Not sticky – Available in 6 shades | – Not long-wearing |
| Tinted Concealer | Caffeine, Niacinamide, Cornflower Hydrolate | $32.90 | – Hydrates and soothes – Good coverage without caking – Lightweight | – Limited shade range |
Final Verdict: Is Typology Worth the Hype?
After testing a wide range of Typology’s products, it’s clear that the brand lives up to its reputation. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight tinted serum, a soothing exfoliating serum, or a mattifying powder, Typology delivers effective, clean beauty solutions that feel luxurious but are priced relatively reasonably compared to high-end competitors.
The standout products for us were the 9-Ingredient Moisturizer, which offers simple yet potent hydration, and the Tinted Serum, which provides medium coverage while incorporating skincare benefits. The minimalist packaging and clean formulations are the cherry on top, making Typology a brand worth checking out for anyone seeking effective, no-fuss skincare and makeup products.
If you haven’t already tried Typology, now might be the time to give it a shot — especially if you’re looking for skincare products that can double as makeup, or if you want clean, vegan, and cruelty-free options for your beauty routine.
FAQ Section
1. What skin types are Typology products suitable for?
Typology offers products for a variety of skin types, including dry, combination, oily, and sensitive skin. The brand focuses on clean formulations, so most products are gentle enough for sensitive skin, though it’s always best to patch-test before full use.
2. Are Typology products vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes, Typology is a vegan and cruelty-free brand. All of their products are free from animal testing, and they do not use any animal-derived ingredients.
3. How do Typology products compare to other skincare brands?
Typology stands out with its minimalist, ingredient-focused formulations. Compared to other brands like The Ordinary, Typology focuses on simplicity while incorporating high-performance ingredients like squalane, vitamin C, and glycolic acid for real skin benefits.
