We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    Just 40 Skincare Products That Really And Truly Work

    Including a splurge-worthy device that gives you at-home facials in just two minutes 🙌🏻

    1. COSRX's Snail Mucin Repairing Essence addresses dullness and dehydration with — yes 😌 — 96% snail sludge that's harvested in a *100%* ethical and environmentally friendly way. Thanks for sharing the goods, friends! 🐌  

    a reviewer's before and after showing a significant reduction in acne and dark spots
    the snail mucin essence

    Here's what BuzzFeeder Emma Lord has to say:

    "I use this on my skin and definitely have noticed results! While it didn't help kick my all of stubborn pre-period hormonal acne, it has done *wonders* with reducing redness on my face, particularly around my nose, and in dealing with my pores. Since I started using it, my primer and foundation goes on a whole lot smoother, and I'm struggling a whole lot less to cover my pores. After using it a few weeks, I read the advice of one reviewer to put this on when your face is slightly moist from washing, rub it in, let it dry, and then put your moisturizer on top of it — I've found that it's what got me the best results!"

    Promising review: "So I have been using this for a month and I have to say — AMAZING. It really has helped my dark spots, which are also tied to my hormones. So the fact that it lightens them and keeps them from getting dark again during my period is a testament to the power of this stuff. Plus, this stuff just keeps going!! One pump is enough for my face, or two for my face and neck. Because of this it will last! It works amazingly well and considering how much you get, this is an amazing product. I highly recommend it." —JH

    Get it from Amazon for $12.50.

    2. And the brand's Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is the natural next step as it pairs *perfectly* with their repairing essence. 😊 The TL;DR: it can help relieve redness and dryness!

    a jar of snail mucin moisturizer
    a jar of snail mucin moisturizer

    Check it out on TikTok here!

    Promising review: "I fought buying this, but after several friends swore by this I caved. I have sensitive acne prone skin but also have some fine lines. Let me tell you after applying this I immediately felt my skin calm down. And the next day my skin was glowing and my acne had diminished. This will forever be apart of my regimen." —arand5292

    Get it from Amazon for $16.

    3. Foreo's UFO 3 uses cooling cryo-therapy, warming thermo-therapy, gentle massage, and the full spectrum of LED wavelengths to give you a mini facial in just two minutes!! The device and serum-soaked masks push active ingredients (think: hyaluronic acid, collagen, peptides, jojoba oil, etc.) deep into your skin so you can enjoy optimal hydration and results. 

    models using the foreo UFO 3
    buzzfeeder holding the device
    Foreo, Chelsea Stuart / BuzzFeed

    I've been using the UFO 3 for a few weeks now and it's such a TREAT. I've tried the Make My Day and Call It A Night masks — they're the size of a cotton pad and easily attach to the device with a ring that holds them in place — and my skin is so dang glowy and hydrated and, honestly, it's just such a nice way to start and end my day. I've toyed around with manual settings (you can choose which LED light you want and gentle heat or intense cold) and used the Foreo app for the pre-set treatments which are catered to each mask and I've had great results with both. It really seems like you can't go wrong! 

    The included LED settings and their benefits are as follows: 

    Red: Stimulates the production of collagen

    Blue: Helps mitigate acne

    Green: Evens out skin tone and addresses dark circles

    White: Tightens skin and reduces puffiness

    Purple: Boosts radiance and pacifies inflammation

    Orange: Helps erase sun damage

    Yellow: Soothes sunburn, softens rosacea, and combats swelling

    Cyan: Calms stressed-out, inflamed skin

    Get it from Foreo for $359 (available in four colors; comes with 24 masks). 

    4. K-Beauty brand The Saem's Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick improves under eye elasticity and keeps bags at bay so no one will be the wiser if you nostalgia-binged The Angry Beavers (my fellow '90s babies — it's on Amazon Prime!!!) into the wee hours of the morning. Plus, it comes in a cutesy polar bear container and, I mean, that's enough to sell me. 

    the polar bear-shaped product
    a reviewer's before and after showing how the stick has decreased under eye bags and puffiness

    How does this cute lil' guy work, you may be asking? It's filled with active marine ingredients like Icelandic moss, xylitol, niacinamide, and adenosine — that's how!

    Promising review: "I love this so much! It's super hydrating and feels really nice under the eyes. Recently my eyes have been super puffy due to allergies and this has been helping. I would recommend putting it in the fridge before you use it so it's extra cooling. I think that this product is comparable to if not better than Milk Makeup's Cooling Water Gel Stick (which I have also tried)." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $6.79

    5. Clean Skin Club's 100% bio-based face wipes are just the ticket if BeautyTok has convinced you to ditch regular towels which — even when freshly laundered — can harbor acne-causing bacteria. 

    reviewer holding one of the towels
    reviewer's before/after showing how their acne reduced after using the towels

    These are 100% USDA-certified bio-based, meaning they're made entirely from plant-based materials and better for the environment than your regular disposable wipes.

    Clean Skin Club is a small business that launched in 2019 to create innovative natural skincare products.

    Promising reviews: "Starting in my 30s, I had developed some acne, and not just around that time of month. I read your bath towels can develop bacteria every few days if they're not washed, and so putting that on your face can cause acne. That's why I bought these towels! I use them after my skincare routine on my face, and then again, to clean up our sink (yay for double use)! They have cleaned up my skin significantly, and I highly recommend these!" —Jaclyn O

    "I’ve dealt with mild acne and terrible scarring since I was in 8th grade. I’m 30 now. I haven’t had one pimple since I’ve switched to using these. I use the same towel for about 3–4 days, which is 6–8 uses, so it’s not even necessary to use a new one every day / every use. They’re really wonderful." —Dami

    Get a 50-pack from Amazon for $17.05 (also available in other packs). 

    6. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant helps scrub away dead skin cells, leaving behind clear pores and a bright complexion. Apply it morning and night (after your cleanser and toner) and it'll leave ya lookin' as radiant as Ben Affleck when caught by the paps holding a whole tray of Dunkin' iced coffees.

    A reviewer showing before and after pictures of their skin
    The liquid exfoliant

    Promising review: "I have every skin issue you can think of. Rosacea, acne, dehydration, excessive oiliness, redness. I’ve spent probably thousands on a multitude of different products. I’ve had many procedures, many trips to the dermatologist. Nothing has made such a profound difference in the appearance of my skin. Having rosacea, my face often felt hot, bumpy, and burned. While my complexion is naturally fair and pink, this has seriously covered all my bases in a gentle and effective way. I’ve been trying to turn my skin around for YEARS!! this was the product that did it. If I could give it 100 stars I would. It has seriously changed my life!!!"—hc

    Get it from Amazon for $12.35+ (available in two sizes).

    7. Perfect Image's Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel removes dull, uneven layers of epidermal skin and stimulates cellular activity to reveal a softer, healthier complexion underneath. The professional-strength formula — which is boosted with retinol and green tea — also allows your skin to better absorb future products.

    before photo of a reviewer with dimpled skin texture on their cheeks
    the same reviewer after using the peel consistently and the pitting on their cheeks has lessened dramatically

    Promising review: "This stuff is absolutely incredible. In January of 2017 I finally decided to try an at-home peel in conjunction with retinoids. Take a look at the photos I posted and you'll see how happy I am with my progress (after photo on the right taken June 2017). I've used this peel once a week and have had incredible results. Previously I did three rounds of Fraxel, which only resulted in severe pain, peeling, and grossness. Oh yes, and an empty savings account. For 30 bucks every few months I achieved better results than I got at a dermatologist's office." —Meredith

    Get it from Amazon for $26.96.

    8. Missha's Soft Finish Sun Milk promises long-lasting SPF 50+ protection as it's able to withstand sweat and even tears if you're just overwhelmed by how beautiful the weather is. 

    In the progression photos above, you can see a reviewer before applying the sun milk, after applying the sun milk, and then the sun milk under makeup.

    Promising review: "I have dark, oily skin and purchased this product after reading recommendations. There is no white cast; you can barely see it upon application unless you use too much. You definitely do not need a lot, it spreads thin. When it dries, any color is gone. It also helps slow down my face getting all greasy as the day goes on, which I love. My skin is very, very oily but I can still apply this after my moisturizer and feel totally comfortable. I'm not a fan of scents, and the scent on this is extremely mild." —Ms. Renee

    Get it from Amazon for $19.

    9. Elizavecca's Milky Piggy carbonated bubble clay mask exfoliates skin with a combination of carbonated water, collagen, green tea, charcoal, and clay. And the fact that it erupts in a face full of selfie-friendly bubbles after three to five minutes? Well, that's just icing on the cake. 

    reviewer with the bubbly face mask applied
    after showing the same reviewer's clear, bright skin

    Promising review: "I have used this mask twice, and so far, I love it. I have acne scars, enlarged pores, and blackheads, and after two uses, I can already notice a difference in the appearance of my skin. My pores look smaller already, and the blackheads are clearing. I have used everything on my face, and nothing has worked on my pores. I LOVE this mask. It looks so funny!" —jburge

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

    10. Lee Beauty Professional's Liquid Callus Remover eliminates the hard skin on your hooves (ahem, :::clears throat::: feet) if you're too terrified to face the glorified cheese grater at your local salon. 

    Promising review: "BEST THING I'VE EVER BOUGHT. I’ve spent so much money on foot creams, lotions, and foot scrubbers over the years. Like for legit 10 years now I’ve had cracked heels. My feet are always dry and my heels get so bad that they crack and bleed. After reading all the reviews... even the scary ones that made me almost not want to buy it... I thought I’d give it a chance. I followed the directions exactly, and used gloves along with only leaving the gel on for no more than five minutes. They look like brand new feet!! The kind of feet I thought I’d never have! So, I’m incredibly impressed and so excited!" —Heather Nelson

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

    11. And Soft Touch's Foot Peel Mask is SO effective, the before and after photos will both give you nightmares and earn a spot on your vision board.

    before of a reviewer's peeling foot
    same reviewer's foot nice and smooth

    If foot graters give you the heebie-jeebies (hi, hello, it's me!), try these instead. Just slip on the booties for one hour, wash away the leftover solution, and then wait patiently as it takes 7–14 days before your feet shed like a freakin' iguana. At the end, you'll be left with moisturized, baby-soft tootsies!

    Promising review: "This peel is TRULY amazing!!!!! I had mixed feelings, as I looked at different brands. I chose this one, due to the reviews and the fact that there are two pairs!!! Great value for the money! I will definitely be buying again. I soaked my feet for 30 minutes in warm water prior to putting on the booties, and also made sure to soak my feet every night for at least 10 minutes. You definitely need to wear socks and shoes once the peeling starts! Baby-soft feet after about two weeks, start to finish!!!" —Rebecca Hickson

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in two scents).

    12. Mighty Patch Hydrocolloid Spot Treatments speedily pull the pus out of your most worrisome whiteheads. (Sorry that was a gross sentence, but it is what it is. 🤷‍♀️) Before you head to bed, just slap the dots right on any zits and they'll work their magic overnight.

    The red and white box which comes with 36 patches
    A reviewer's before and after photo which shows how the patch has drawn pus out of a pimple

    Promising review: "I do not claim to understand the science behind these tiny miracles, but they have changed my life. I spent my workday looking forward to going home and putting one of these bad boys on my newly erupted Mt. Zit and the overnight results were Shocking. Not only is it grossly satisfying, but it saved me several days of walking around with a bloody crater in my face because my previous method of dealing with unsightly blemishes was to pick pick pick." —Adg

    Get a pack of 36 from Amazon for $11.97.

    13. SKIN1004's Zombie Face Masks employ albumin (an ingredient extracted from egg whites) and aloe vera extract to visibly hydrate, lift, and brighten your complexion in just 15 minutes. Just FYI: Reviews say the tightening effect can be startling, but the results are worth it!

    Promising review: "I've had my eye on these for A WHILE. It seems to be a possible comp for the viral Hanacure masks. It’s a two-step wash-off mask. The smell is a bit reminiscent of household cleaner, which I don't love but it doesn't cause any skin irritation. As it dries, it shrinks a lot. But it's no more uncomfortable than a standard clay mask. It washes off easily with water. My skin has a lovely glow and brightness after." —rookery

    Get a box of eight masks from Amazon for $25 (also available in multipacks).

    14. LilyAna Naturals' Eye Cream targets dark circles and puffiness so everyone in the office will assume you got a full eight hours of sleep and definitely didn't stay up until 3 a.m. scrolling TikTok...

    bottle of eye cream
    a reviewer's before and afters showing significantly less puffiness under their eye

    Promising review: "I LOVE THIS! I spent every weekend for about a month buying high-end moisturizers and eye creams and then returning them because my dry skin had gotten soooooo bad and nothing was helping! This has helped tremendously. I was about to give up on even wearing concealer because it was looking so dry and crepey but my concealer is looking good again since I've been using this for a few weeks! I am also noticing a small change in my fine lines. Like others, I started using this as a face cream as well and I could not live without this product! It is the most hydrating product for my face and eyes!" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $16.83+ (available in three sizes).

    15. Bio-Oil is sure to come in clutch for anyone who spent their teen years picking and prodding at pimples. If you were left with acne scars and skin damage as a result, it'll swoop in and encourage new collagen production and help with elasticity. 

    reviewer holding bottle of bio oil
    reviewer's before and after showing skin irritation and then clear skin

    Take it from BuzzFeed shopping writer Emma Lord

    "FWIW re: scars, this stuff really works. I had thyroid surgery a few years ago and Bio-Oil took me from looking like I'd stumbled out of the Red Wedding to virtually no detectable scar within a few months. All I did was apply it once in the morning and once at night."

    Promising review: "I used to work at Sephora AND a Nordstrom beauty counter for 5+ years and hands down, this is the best facial oil I’ve used. I have DRY skin, so I use it to hydrate and give a dewy glow. Goes great under makeup, and makes my skin look so healthy." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in two sizes). 

    16. TruSkin Vitamin C Serum wards off wrinkles, evens out dark spots, and helps brighten your overall complexion with a 🍃plant-based🍃 blend of ingredients including hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, witch hazel, and jojoba oil.

    A reviewer's before and after pictures which show her skin is much brighter and clearer
    A different reviewer holding the 1-ounce bottle

    Promising review: "I am so pleased with how the TruSkin serum is working, not only has my hyper pigmentation and discoloration completely subsided, but my skin feels so hydrated and supple! My skin has been put through the wringer these past few months because I started taking Spironolactone and using a topical retinoid to help with my acne. My skin was extremely dry and riddled with dark spots but after just a few weeks of using the TruSkin vitamin C facial serum, it looks and feels brand-new! It has definitely become a staple in my skincare routine." —Selena Sandoval

    Get if from Amazon for $21.97+ (available in two sizes).

    17. Aveeno's Daily Moisturizing Body Oil Mist promises noticeably smoother skin in just a week thanks to vitamin E and fatty acid-rich ingredients like oat and jojoba oils. PS: Reviewers with sensitive skin (and even eczema) say it's a winner for them too. 

    reviewer image of the oil spray
    reviewer with soft skin after using the oil spray

    Promising review: "I love this product so much. Keeps your skin glowing and smelling good. The scent lasts for a great amount of hours. Comes in handy if you’re someone who sweats a lot. Will give you smooth skin as well. I highly recommend." —Kennasia Sarnae

    Get it from Amazon for $9.58+ (available in two sizes).

    18. First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub gets rid of pesky "chicken skin" — AKA those tiny bumps clinically known as keratosis pilaris — with glycolic and lactic acids as well as pumice buffing beads. After a good scrub down, the results will make you feel like you got a legitimate chemical peel!

    the purple bottle of exfoliator
    before and after of a reviewer's bumpy skin and then clear skin

    Promising review: "LOVE. I am a believer and this is now a permanent staple in my shower. It’s significantly reduced the bumps/tiny ingrown hairs I would get on my legs after shaving. Praise be." —Sarah Sledge

    Get it from Amazon for $25.50.

    19. RoC's Retinol Correxion Eye Cream — users swear by it to address puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. One reviewer says it took 10 years off of their face in just five days!

    RoC tube
    Reviewer before and after photo

    Reviewers say patience is the key with this cream! It might take a couple of months to see results. (Note: This product contains parabens.)

    Promising review: "I don’t write reviews, and I'm a huge skeptic. This eye cream is awesome! I almost don’t believe it! The pictures are proof. I’ve been using it for three months. Twice a day! I am blown away by the results. It’s so affordable, and if you're like me, I’m not a huge skincare guru!! Amazing product! Very happy with it." —Vett

    Get it from Amazon for $10.97+ (available in two sizes).

    20. Cuccio's Revitalizing Cuticle Oil is the answer if your nails have been hurting from recent cold weather. The natural formula hydrates dry skin and strengthens nails so you can work on growing them out, if that's something you've always dreamt of doing!

    a reviewer holding the milk- and honey-infused cuticle oil
    a different reviewer holding the pomegranate cuticle oil

    Promising review: "I’ve bought in various fragrances and all are a great value. I pick at my dry cuticles so these are a life saver and really moisturize the cuticle. Will keep purchasing!" —Helen C.

    Get it from Amazon for $7.78+ (available in three sizes and nine scents).

    21. Tony Moly's octopus-shaped Tako Pore Black Head Scrub Stick gently removes blackheads, whiteheads, and excess sebum so your T-zone can get a much-deserved breather. 

    A black small octopus shaped remover in a reviewer's hand
    the cap off to show the salt on the top of the remover

    See it in action on TikTok here

    Promising review: "I thought these were a gimmick. WRONG!! It works so very well. I was astounded at how clear and glowing my skin was after first use. I just turned 60 and have really nice skin for my age, but I do still have occasional clogged pores in my T-zone. This little cutie cleans out pores like a super powerful vacuum. I've been using about once a week and each time, skin is clearer than before. I am a firm believer and will definitely keep using. Great buy and cute packaging." —Fashion Ragazza

    Get it from Amazon for $12.50

    22. CeraVe's Hydrating Facial Cleanser combines hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to rid your pores of makeup, dirt, and excess oil while also locking in moisture. It's certainly no secret, but if you've been looking for a sign that it's time to finally try it, consider this it. ⬇

    A reviewer's before and after photo which shows her skin much clearer and brighter
    The green and white bottle

    Promising review: "I can't rave enough about this product! It has the ability to really make your face glow. I have dealt with extremely dry skin for most of my life. There was not enough moisturizer in the world to get my skin to feel hydrated and quenched. Then, CeraVe entered my life! The hylauronic acid along with the ceramides rebuild your skin and turnover old cells to leave you glowing. I noticed a clear difference from the day that I began using the product. My skin felt more youthful, moisturized, hydrated, and radiant after the first use. If you feel like you are missing that glow to your skin, this is a staple on any bathroom vanity! This is a 10 out of 10 every single time!!!" —Andy

    Get it from Amazon for $18.39.

    23. Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream delivers on its promise to tighten and soften skin and give you an all-over glow, but really, reviewers seem to stick around for the intoxicating scent!

    Open tub of Brazilian bum bum cream with a product swatch
    person applying cream to thigh
    Amazon

    Promising review: “I've been eyeing this product for over a year. I've heard great reviews but thought the price was ridiculous. Well, I had a little extra money and treated myself and it's 100% worth the money. My skin is super soft, it has the smallest amount of sparkles to it but even without the glitter it does a great job making my skin glow. I was laying in bed and looked down because something caught my eye... it was the reflection from the light outside my window bouncing off my leg. My skin is so smooth it's like glass ahahaha. Anyway, the smell is fresh and the formula is great, it rubs in well but you still have a dewy moisturized feel for a while which I love." —the sparkles go everywhere

    Get it from Amazon for $45.60.

    24. A Tree of Life's Power Trio is the definition of "more bang for your buck" with vitamin C, retinol, and hyaluronic acid serums for less than $30! When used in tandem, the routine can help reduce dark spots and fine lines, support elasticity, and brighten and hydrate skin. 

    before/after of reviewer's face after using the serum
    trio of serums

    Be sure to follow the brand's instructions on how to use these together!

    Promising review: "I'm in my mid-30s and realized it was time to step up my skincare game. I always looked younger than my age, but recently that's worn off a bit and makeup remover wipes and argan oil at night weren't cutting it. I happened across this trio and, for the price, thought I'd give it a try. My skin feels AMAZING!!! This trio is worth every penny. I don't even feel like I have to wear makeup all the time anymore and when I do, it goes on so much smoother. This is definitely going to be part of my routine for years to come!" —Caitlin

    Get the pack of three from Amazon for $26.99

    25. Cosmedica Skincare's Hyaluronic Acid Serum visibly plumps, hydrates, and smoothes skin at SUCH a deliciously affordable price, you won't cry when it's time to repurchase it. 

    reviewer's before and after showing the serum got rid of red irritated bumps on their cheek
    another reviewer showing off their breakout-free skin

    Promising review: "I love this product! I use it before my moisturizer and makeup during the day and then before my serums at night. It has definitely helped my 56-year-old skin — people think I'm 40! It does work best if you apply it to clean skin, wait until it absorbs, and then add moisturizer. It does make your skin seem tight when you apply it but that's where using moisturizer comes in. The combination of the two really helps me keep my skin looking great. I am a beauty product lover (in all price categories) and for the money, this is a great product. I've tried other hyaluronic acid products and always come back to this one. This is a beauty staple for me." —Kerry

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in four sizes).

    26. Acure's Brightening Facial Scrub — with sea kelp and French green clay cleanses — softens, draws out impurities, and evens out skin tone when used three times a week.

    Promising review: "I am a skincare lover; I probably have $5,000 worth of skincare products and this is definitely a staple in my routine. I use this about three times a week in the shower and it gives my face a nice glow. I have sensitive skin and this is great. Instead of spending money on an exfoliant,  purchase this and save your money for a good serum!" —Jill

    Get it from Amazon for $7.91

    27. La Roche-Posay's Hydrating Gentle Cleanser was made for sensitive faces as its milky formula preserves your skin's natural protective barrier and pH level.

    A reviewer holding the bottle
    a reviewer showing how easily the cleanser removes makeup

    Promising review: "Arrived fast and is very gentle on my skin. I use it morning and night, apply it to dry skin, and give it a good rub. Then I wash it off with a hot face cloth. The combination has left my skin glowing and feeling really clean. I even use less foundation now as my skin is so happy. Definitely recommend this product for normal to slightly dry skin." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in two sizes).

    28. Peach & Lily's Glass Skin Refining Serum is packed with peach extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptide complexes — all of which help your skin look brighter, dewier, smoother, and just downright radiant. Apply a small amount after you clean and tone your face but before you moisturize! 

    gif of someone applying the serum to their hands and rubbing it onto their face
    the clear serum
    Peach & Lily, Target

    See it in action on TikTok here

    Peach & Lily is an Asian woman-owned small business that specializes in Korean skincare products. 

    Promising review: "I saw this serum all over my TikTok for you page, and I knew that I had to try it out, as their serum is so versatile and can cover and help so many kinds of skin concerns that I've been dealing with since my early teens. And now, ever since using it, I honestly swear by it. If you are considering trying the Peach and Lily collection products, I 100% recommend this serum repeatedly. My skin had never looked this great until I first tried it out. And my face looks so glowy, clear, and radiant." —Natalie Y.

    Get it from Peach & Lily, Target, or Ulta for $19+ (available in two sizes). 

    29. Thayers' Witch Hazel Facial Toner tightens up pores, reduces redness, and keeps oil production in check with rose petal water, witch hazel extract, and aloe vera. As far as curb appeal goes (or counter, if you will), we also love that the bottle looks like it came from an old-timey apothecary.

    A reviewer holding the red and white bottle which says the toner has been in production since 1847
    A reviewer's before and after photos which show them first with lots of acne and then with very minimal acne

    Promising review: "I have an oily forehead and very dry cheeks and jaw area. I coupled this product with Naturium Niacinamide Face Serum and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser and the trio had done WONDERS for my skin and pores. Since implementing the new routine, my skin is glowing nonstop with zero break out periods. I HIGHLY recommend getting all three but this product specifically has closed up my pores and makes my skin feel incredibly fresh to the touch." —Diamond Cooper

    Get it from Amazon for $9.49+ (available in two sizes and six scents).

    30. Garnier's SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water works as a cleanser and makeup remover. Use it in the a.m. and p.m. to hit refresh on your face before applying your regular moisturizer and serum.

    Promising review: "I had never heard of micellar water until I stumbled upon it while browsing online. Turns out, it's the product I've needed all my life. No more complicated makeup and cleansing routines — simply use a cotton pad to wipe this product all over your face and neck. It has a clean smell, leaves no residue, removes even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and lipstick, and even leaves your face with a beautiful matte finish. Even on days when I wear no makeup, I still use it to give my skin a clean, non-shiny glow. Throw away all those expensive makeup removers, wipes, etc., and get this product instead. You won't be disappointed." —Julie K.

    Get it from Amazon for $8.22+ (available individually or in a pack of two).

    31. Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask keeps your pout nice 'n' soft throughout the winter months when it tends to get dry and cracked.

    the laneige lip sleeping mask in a pink jar next to assorted berries
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I have been reading reviews about this product for some time and I was a little bit skeptical. No more! This product works great!!! My lips chap very easily, even if I wear lipstick and lipgloss all day long. I have tried so many balms! Some better than others, but none of them worked like this product. Besides, I have been using it now for over a month and the jar is still almost full. It is a very good value, especially since I bought it on sale. I will definitely buy it again. And again. :)" —Miriam B. 

    Get it from Amazon for $24 (available in seven flavors).

    32. Radha Beauty's Rosehip Oil addresses all sorts of skin concerns (think: blemishes, fine lines, age spots, and scarring) thanks to its natural vitamin-, antioxidant-, and essential fatty acid-filled formula. If you're trying to combat more than one issue and want to keep your routine simple, try this baby out!

    reviewer's before photo showing redness and acne
    reviewer's after photo showing almost completely clear skin

    Promising review: "This is my daily staple. I use twice daily on my face and neck. It is literally the best for skin. My skin is dewy, clear, smooth, and radiant. I live in a very dry environment at high altitude with extreme winter temperatures and the oil provides a nice barrier to the elements." —Victoria

    Get it from Amazon for $14.95.

    33. Kiehl's' Truly Targeted Acne-Clearing Solution works just like a pimple patch but it's *actually* invisible. The formula calls on salicylic acid to shrink your zit before niacinamide and licorice root swoop in to reduce redness and fade post-breakout marks. 

    bottle of acne serum
    model wearing the invisible acne serum
    Sephora

    Promising review: "Bought this on a whim because I have a few breakouts here and there and needed something for under makeup... I have now thrown all my pimple patches away and only use this! It took two days for my pimple to completely disappear! It's magic!" —Sephora Reviewer

    Get it from Sephora or Kiehl's for $30. 

    34. Lather's Body Butter packs a punch with a trio of hydrating ingredients including manuka honey, cocoa butter, and shea butter. Add the oils of naturally moisturizing nuts to the mix (macadamia, kukui, and Brazil) and you've got a no-nonsense formula.

    The blue and white body butter container
    Manuka honey which is one of the main ingredients
    Lather

    Lather is a woman-founded clean beauty brand that trades irritating synthetic scents for naturally fragranced ingredients that are also vegan and gluten-free when possible.

    Promising review: "Your Manuka Honey Body Butter is JUST the richness my skin needs. It doesn’t take much and quickly absorbs, leaving my skin smooth and smelling great. Thank you for another great product." —Helayne L.

    Get it from Lather for $30.

    35. Blume's Meltdown Acne Oil can help clear skin without depleting moisture. The nourishing rosehip, blue tansy, tamanu, and black cumin seed formula can be used as a spot treatment or mixed into your moisturizer for a full-face treatment. 

    before and after pic of person with pimple and then clear skin
    Blume

    Blume is a woman– and POC–owned small business based in Canada that specializes in cruelty-free, vegan, and environmentally friendly products for skin, body, and period care.

    Promising review: "Holy grail. This has changed the way my skin looks and feels! Hormonal breakouts are no longer a huge bummer, and I have officially subscribed to this product monthly!" —Ashley G.

    Get it from Blume for $28+ (available in two sizes).

    36. Cocokind's Mymatcha All-Over Moisture Stick is a versatile lil' product you can use on your lips, under eyes, and dry spots. The hydrating formula is packed with coconut oil, sunflower oil, and vitamin E which are gentle on your skin barrier as well as caffeine-rich matcha which can help relieve puffiness. 

    model using the matcha stick in five different ways: eye moisturizer, brow gel, flyaway gel, dry spot treatment, lip balm
    matcha stick

    Check out a TikTok of the matcha stick in action.

    Promising review: "If your face is the Sahara...then buy this. I cannot keep putting lotion on at work because I wear gloves most of the day, but I carry this little guy in my scrubs and apply when needed and it's mess free. Also makes me want a matcha latte all day as it smells wonderful." —sam

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in two formulas). 

    37. Jack Black's Intense Therapy Lip Balm protects you with vitamin E, natural emollients, and SPF 25 because yes — you can sunburn your kisser and no, I don't recommend it. 

    Promising review: "I have used Avon's lip conditioner for over a decade and they DISCONTINUED IT!!! WHY!? So, I've been hunting for something comparable and WOW...it's not easy. Everything is greasy, or actually makes my lips peel!! I've wasted a lot of money, but this!! Not only is it just as nice as my beloved Avon, dare I say — it's better!! AND I'm not needing to use it 20 times a day. I think that's a true testimony to a product working and doing what it's supposed to do. You actually don't need it as often! Thank you Jack Black for designing a product that does what it says it does. I'm a customer for life." —T-NAY

    Get it from Amazon for $10 (available in six flavors). 

    38. Primera Alpine Berry Watery Soothing Gel Cream absorbs ⚡️lightning fast⚡️ while providing a refreshing cooling and soothing effect. If you're prone to redness, tightness, or general irritation, this deeply moisturizing gel will be your BFF.  

    model rubbing the clear gel moisturizer on their hand
    the tub of moisturizer
    Amazon

    I just started using this moisturizer, from K-beauty brand Primera, a month or two ago and I've already vowed to repurchase it when I hit the bottom of the pot. I have combination skin and often creams make me oily while gels aren't quite hydrating enough. This stuff right here though?? This makes my skin downright luminous. It swipes on SO nicely and absorbs almost instantly which I appreciate because I hate feeling tacky or greasy. The slight cooling effect is also extremely refreshing and makes my skin feel even cleaner after I cleanse it. (If that makes sense?) A little goes a long way, too, so I think it's worth the price. 

    Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in two consistencies).

    39. Kate McLeod's Body Stone is formulated to nourish and soften skin with a delicate mix of rose, frankincense, and neroli. If you've never used one before, it's super simple! Just warm it up with your hands and apply it to dry skin, where it'll melt right in.

    the body stone next to its wooden holder
    Kate McLeod

    Kate McLeod is a former bakery owner and pastry chef who turned her attention to creating "skin food." For two years, she developed her body stones right in her kitchen mixing pantry-sourced ingredients like cocoa butter and avocado oil.

    Promising review: "AMAZING!!!!!!! Melts into skin so incredibly. Never have I received this much moisture in my skin from lotions. My skin in a few uses is more moisturized and plumped up... I am hooked!!!!!" —Kristin

    Get it from Kate McLeod for $12+ (available in two sizes and with a muslin travel bag or reusable bamboo canister).

    40. And Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator clears pores and addresses uneven texture while keeping your skin's protective barrier intact. If you're a "I need to know the ingredients!" type of person, it utilizes gentle cleansers like salicylic acid, colloidal oatmeal, and gingko.

    model pouring product from white bottle into hand
    model with visible acne on left; moderate acne in middle; and almost no acne on right
    Sephora

    Promising review: "My crops are flourishing, my grades are high, and, most importantly, my skin has NEVER been so clear! I have tried everything Sephora has to fix my acne and nothing worked until now! I've been using this for about a month and the difference is incredible! My skin is zit-free, my pores have shrunk, my skin is brighter, and my face hasn't been this soft since I was a CHILD. The price was a bit of a turnoff for me at first, but now I know its a really good deal for what you're getting!" —Jurban

    Get it from Sephora for $18+ (available in two sizes and as a refill).

    Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.