I usually dislike it when brands reformulate my favourite products. If something already works well, why change it? In most cases, a new version ends up feeling like a downgrade. One of the rare exceptions for me was when Estée Lauder updated its famous Double Wear foundation. That change actually made me love it even more. Still, most of the time I’m skeptical when a beloved formula gets an upgrade.
Last year I attended an event where Charlotte Tilbury unveiled several new launches planned for 2026. Beauty editors were given early previews—from the Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer to a few products we were sworn to secrecy about. Among the biggest announcements was a reformulation of the brand’s iconic Magic Cream.
The moment that news landed, the room erupted in gasps. Magic Cream has been a cult favourite for years, and many of us were curious—and slightly nervous—about how the new formula would compare.
The New Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream is priced at £54 at Charlotte Tilbury and John Lewis, and around £195 at Sephora depending on the size or edition.
Tester: Keeks, Beauty Director
Skin type: Combination
Main concerns: Uneven tone and reduced elasticity
I loved the original Magic Cream. It began life backstage at fashion shows where Charlotte Tilbury used it to prep models’ skin before makeup. Word spread quickly when people started asking about the mysterious moisturiser giving everyone that luminous glow.
As a night cream it always impressed me. It left my skin plump, hydrated, and smooth by morning without feeling overly greasy.
Because of that history, I was eager to test the updated formula and see whether it still deserved a permanent place in my nighttime skincare routine.
Testing the Reformulated Magic Cream
I’ve been using the new version for about three months and have already finished two jars. That alone probably tells you something.
To my surprise, I actually like the reformulated cream even more than the original. My skin looks healthier and feels noticeably more resilient than before.
Previously the product worked mainly as a luxurious moisturiser. Now it feels like it actively improves the appearance of the skin.
The “Supercharged” Formula
The key upgrade lies in the new ingredient complex, particularly something the brand calls Recoverstem Peptide.
This ingredient reportedly contains over 100 peptides designed to support the skin’s natural renewal processes. According to the brand, the complex begins interacting with the skin within seconds of application.
While the science may sound dramatic, the results I noticed after several weeks were encouraging.
Results After Two Months
After consistent use my skin appeared brighter and smoother. Even without makeup there was a subtle glow that wasn’t there before.
- Skin looked more radiant
- Texture felt firmer and bouncier
- Hydration levels improved noticeably
The brand describes the effect as a “facelift in a jar,” which might be a little ambitious. It won’t erase deep wrinkles or reverse collagen loss. However, it does give tired skin a visible boost.
I personally noticed these improvements within a few weeks, and by the time I finished the first jar I was already reaching for a second.
Day or Night Use?
The brand promotes Magic Cream as a multitasking moisturiser suitable for both day and night. It can also work as a makeup primer.
In practice I prefer using it at night. The formula doesn’t contain SPF, so wearing it during the day would require layering sunscreen on top.
For my routine, that creates too many layers under makeup. I usually prefer daytime moisturisers that already include sun protection.
Is It Worth the Price?
Magic Cream sits firmly in the premium skincare category. At £54 for the standard jar, it isn’t the most affordable moisturiser.
However, considering the upgraded formula and the results I experienced, I believe the investment can be justified—especially if you’re looking for a high-performance night cream.
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After three months of use, it has remained one of my favourite moisturisers and a product I plan to keep in my routine.
