If you’ve been in the market for a moisturizer or lotion in the past decade or so, you’ve no doubt seen the brightly colored text from Malin + Goetz’s product line popping out at you from the shelf or screen. Since its founding in 2004, the brand has become an absolute go-to for people of all genders, especially those with sensitive skin, looking for luxury skincare made with natural ingredients. The brand began with a single shop in New York’s Chelsea neighborhood, but has since expanded globally, with stores in Europe and Asia as well as products on offer in hotels and airlines. Despite this worldwide reach, Malin + Goetz products are still made locally in New York City in order to reduce the brand's carbon footprint.
Malin + Goetz
Founded: By Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz, in 2004.
Based in: New York City
Pricing: $$
Best known for: Being a gender-neutral line of premium skincare in eye-catching packaging.
Most popular products: Grapefruit Face Cleanser, Vitamin E Face Moisturizer
Fun fact: Before founding Malin + Goetz, Matthew Malin worked as a cosmetics buyer for Barneys. After developing numerous brands for the company, he went on to oversee global distribution for Kiehl’s.
Other brands you’ll love: Jack Black, Baxter of California, Aesop
Malin + Goetz has always had sensitive skin in mind, as co-founder Matthew Malin has experienced eczema, seborrhea, and rosacea and wanted to create a line of simple yet luxurious products featuring natural ingredients. The brand’s cleansers include amino acids to hydrate without drying, and its moisturizers feature fatty acids that nourish skin without leaving residue.
“Our names are on the bottles. As such, so are our values,” co-founder Andrew Goetz says of the duo's commitment to create high-quality products in an eco-conscious way. “We strive to make the most efficacious and healthful products possible. It’s incredibly paramount to us that every product does what we say it’s going to do, and to formulate products that are safe and gentle.” The brand does not test on animals, and packaging is constantly evolving to be as sustainable as possible.
Intrigued by the brand ethos but not sure where to start? Below, we’ll talk about 11 of our favorite Malin + Goetz products for everyday use.
Grapefruit Face Cleanser
The brand’s best-selling Grapefruit Face Cleanser is a foaming gel that removes dirt and excess oil, which leaves skin feeling fresh and comfortable. “This is a product that a lot of our male customers steal from their girlfriends,” Malin says. “It is the foundation for taking care of your skin both day and night.” The gentle cleanser is safe for everyday use and eliminates the need for a toner.
Vitamin E Face Moisturizer
This bestselling moisturizer is residue-free and made with natural antioxidant vitamins E and B5 along with calming chamomile, which can help soothe razor burn on the face and neck. It's an effective, all-in-one light moisturizer that won’t clog pores, meaning it won't contribute to future breakouts.
Bergamot Hand + Body Wash
This gentle foaming wash in the brand’s signature bergamot scent smells great both in and out of the shower. It's free of harsh detergents, which makes it great for those with eczema-prone or sensitive skin. It does a great job of washing away the grime accumulated from city living without stripping or drying out skin. “As I am washing my hands a lot, especially over the past two years, I appreciate this product even more to help prevent my hands from feeling dry and irritated,” Malin says.
Revitalizing Eye Gel
This super-lightweight eye gel treatment works any time of day to nourish and brighten tired, overworked eyes. “I use this [lightweight gel] to address the bags that are developing under my aging eyes,” Malin says. The formula includes rice and soy protein amino acids that brighten the overall eye area, while cucumber extracts cool and soothe dry skin to help alleviate puffiness.
Recovery Treatment Oil
A powerful anti-aging tool, this treatment product uses various oils to produce a wide array of results. Primrose, argan, and jojoba oils boost hydration and reinforce the skin's moisture barrier while softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Meanwhile, grapeseed and rosehip oils add vitamins C and E to prevent damage from free radicals and improve elasticity. Geranium and borage seed oils reduce inflammation and balance skin by normalizing oil production.
“[If you] do not usually like greasy products, here you go,” Malin says. The treatment differs from those that seem to sit on top of skin without absorbing: “It is both light and effective as a luxurious treatment that can be used on its own after shaving, or like a serum to boost moisture under a moisturizer (which is how I use it in the summer vs. the winter).”
Lip Moisturizer
This ultra-hydrating formula is perfect for those who don't typically like lip balm, but still need that added dose of hydration. A tiny amount will deliver soft lips without the shine that most lip balms leave behind. The package is also the perfect size for pockets—if you’re like me, you’ll want an extra in your dopp kit for travel.
Sage Styling Cream
A standout styling product for control and shine, this cream works well on a variety of lengths. It creates a medium hold that looks put-together but still allows you to run your hands through your hair. It also works to smooth and define curls, while boosting texture and volume for fine and thin hair types.
Advanced Renewal Moisturizer
This daily moisturizer with a lightweight, firming feel helps to immediately smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “This is a great light moisturizer (and better for those that are not interested in an oil [based moisturizer]),” Malin says. “It can be used on its own after shaving or as a hydrating serum under a moisturizer for a little boost to drier skin (think sun and ski weather).”
Detox Face Mask
This easy, five-minute treatment acts as a two-in-one mask and cleanser, so it's great to integrate into a quick routine with minimal steps. It also works as a pre-shave treatment to soften the beard—apply it to cleanse and hydrate the skin just before showering, and simply shave it off. This mask will leave skin clear, glowing, and baby-soft.
Peppermint Shampoo
Another signature product from the brand, this shampoo combines natural peppermint extract with amino acid-based cleansing agents. The blend is gentle enough for daily use without drying, stripping, or causing irritation or buildup in your scalp. “For anyone that uses wax or other sticky styling aids in their hair, this is the shampoo for them,” Malin says. “This formula cleanses away dirt, oil, and styling aid residue without leaving the scalp itchy or the hair dry.”
Cilantro Hair Conditioner
“After shampooing, adding back in that essential hydration to the hair and scalp is super important,” Malin says. The cilantro hair conditioner rinses clean with a fresh, subtle scent, leaving no greasy residue on the scalp or hair. It works as both a leave-in treatment and as a rinse. It's also gentle enough that Malin says, in a pinch, it can even substitute for shaving cream.