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    26 Skincare Products Under $50 Reviewers Say Are Totally ~Refreshing~

    These products are living proof that you can give your skin a much-needed refresh *without* draining your bank account.

    1. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence because believe it or not, snails have the healing touch. This refreshing formula can be used on all skin types! Reviewers are obsessed with how well it heals acne scars, fades dark spots, and smooths fine lines.

    Reviewer before and after picture with redness healed from their face
    The bottle of serum

    This highly concentrated formula contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate, which helps repair damage while moisturizing your skin.

    Promising review: "I really didn’t have any expectations with this product but I read some reviews and it sounded like something I should try…. So glad I did. It feels so cooling and refreshing on my sensitive skin. I love it." —Michelle Towery

    Get it from Amazon for $14.50.  

    2. Mario Badescu's Rosewater Facial Spray you'll want to spritz yourself with multiple times a day. It contains soothing aloe and rosewater to quench thirsty skin for a quick pick-me-up.

    Reviewer photo of the face spray bottle next to an orange flower
    GIF of reviewer pressing down on the spray nozzle of the bottle of face mist

    Promising reviews: "I can't say enough good things about this product! It smells like fresh rosewater, and feels instantly refreshing and luxurious when you mist it on your face. I wear a decent amount of makeup and my skin always feels dry and depleted, especially during the winter, so I use this as a pick-me-up throughout the day to re-hydrate and refresh. It won't sully your makeup and absorbs quickly, leaving you with a dewy glow. Truthfully, I've taken to spraying this liberally all over my face, hair, neck, and arms — literally everywhere. The best part is that it feels like a luxury splurge item, but is totally budget friendly. Buy the big bottle, you won't regret it!" —K. Jenkins

    "This stuff feels great on my skin and helps it feel hydrated even in the winter months. I struggle with acne and the treatments sometimes leave my skin dried out, so a few sprays in the morning and before and after makeup and intermittently through the day really help me to feel moisturized. I’ve since bought three more bottles once this one ran out." —SBrown

    Get it from Amazon for $11.40+ (available in two sizes, and also in sets of two). 

    3. A reviewer-beloved Laneige lip mask to make your lips moisturized and perfectly ~supple~ while you sleep. Slather it on before bed and you'll wake up refreshed with a super-soft pout!

    model holding the jar of scrub and using applicator to apply to lips
    open jar of the berry scrub
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "I love this product!!!!! It is so nice and refreshing to put on before bed and I wake up feeling moisturized. The smell is lovely (as I chose the vanilla scent) and it feels so nice instantly when you put it on. It’s an amazing finish to your bedtime routine." —alyciamarie16

    "I love this lip mask! I have always struggled to find a lip product that would keep my severely dry lips at bay and this is the product! I have been using this for the past few weeks and I have never had such plush smooth lips. I wear it at night and sometimes during the day depending on what I am doing. If you struggle with dry lips, I highly recommend you give this a try." —Holly2176

    Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $24 (available in eight scents).

    4. First Aid Beauty's Facial Radiance Pads, which uses lactic and glycolic acids to rejuvenate your skin with just the right amount of exfoliating, toning, and brightening! It also contains other goodies, like cucumber water, Indian gooseberry, lemon peel, and licorice root.

    the open container of exfoliating pads
    model using the pads on their freshly cleansed face
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "Love these!! I first tried the sample and was convinced right away. They are a great addition to my morning routine and also a good way to refresh my face for my evening looks. The smell is lovely too! J'adore." —MariePhilipL

    "Love these! So refreshing! These are a quick and easy way to keep my skin feeling clean and fresh." —21lauryn21

    Get a pack of 60-count wipes from Amazon for $34 or Sephora for $38 (available in two sizes).

    5. Or Bolden's Brightening Glycolic Acid Toner for anyone who wants to revive their dull skin with a powerful formula designed to target dark spots, textured skin, and hyperpigmentation. It's ideal for oily and blemish-prone skin types.

    A model holding the 8-ounce bottle of toner
    Bolden

    Bolden is a Black- and woman-owned beauty brand specializing in skincare products, including acne treatments and cleansers, that'll help streamline your daily routine.

    Promising review: "This toner is amazing! I have been using it for a little bit over a month. I am usually weary of toners because of how drying they can be, but this one has not dried out my skin at all. It leaves my skin clean + refreshed. I will for sure purchase again once this bottle is done. I have combination skin [that] usually gets drier in winter + especially around jawline area." —Madison S.

    Get it from Amazon for $22.49 or Bolden for $22.50.

    6. Neutrogena's hydrating gel cleanser when your cleanser game needs a major upgrade. This foaming face wash gives your skin a huge ~boost~ of moisture and leaves it feeling refreshed.

    Promising review: "Exactly what I was looking for! I have dry combo skin – my skin is more dry on the cheek areas and slightly oily in the T-Zone. Other cleansers that claimed to be "moisturizing" still made my skin feel parched and tight and left dry patches. This cleanser on the other hand is perfect and was exactly what I was looking for – a foaming face wash that does not over dry. It makes your skin feel clean because it foams and it has a light refreshing scent. It may not be a cream formula but it still leaves your skin feeling soft. It took me some time to test different cleansers but I'm glad I finally found the one. Affordable too! Honestly Neutrogena will always be a trustworthy brand and has been around for years. There is no need to spend a fortune to get quality skincare. Look no further!" —CJ G.

    Get it from Amazon for $9.94+ (available in two sizes).

    7. And Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel if your skin has been deprived of hydration for too long and needs a GIGANTIC drink of water. Hyaluronic acid is the star ingredient and the gel-like consistency absorbs quickly, so you can wear it under makeup!

    Promising reviews: "My skin has gotten dryer and dryer over the years. I started using this and it is like magic. I can’t use most moisturizers because they make me break out. This one has not so far. It is very lightweight on the skin and SUPER refreshing. It feels incredible and it has proven to be an amazing addition to my morning skincare routine. It also keeps my skin moisturized throughout the day, which is something I have had trouble with in the past with other moisturizers." —R Novak

    "This is the first moisturizer I have ever used. I have oily skin so I never thought I needed to use a moisturizer. I didn't want to put something on my face that would add more moisture and potentially make it more greasy or worse, cause me to break out. After one use, my face was moisturized but not overly moisturized and it felt softer and smoother. I like that this is a water-based gel moisturizer and the fact it contains hyaluronic acid. I highly recommend this!" —Kayla Williams

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99.

    Be sure to check out former BuzzFeed editor Kayla Suazo's full Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel review.

    8. An exfoliating scrub mitt that'll help you achieve ~super smooth~ skin ASAP —  no harsh chemicals or rough dry brushes necessary. Regular exfoliation is also great for reducing those super annoying probs, like bumps and ingrown hairs.

    reviewer showing their legs before and after using the glove and how different their legs look
    another reviewer showing the black glove on their hand

    Promising review: "For so many years I have struggled with constant little bumps on my upper arms and legs. And just a month of using this, and there are barely any bumps. My skin feels so soft and refreshed. Helps so much with keeping away ingrown hairs too." —Lyndsie DeHond

    Get it from Amazon for $5.99 (also available in a set of two). 

    9. 24K nano gold under-eye masks infused with collagen and hyaluronic acid to instantly rehydrate your puffy, tired eyes. Slap a pair of these on and no one will have a clue that you stayed up for hours scrolling TikTok.

    a reviewer with gold under eye patches
    another reviewer's before and after wearing under eye patches showing significantly lighter dark circles

    Promising review: "This is really an amazing product, for such a good price too. These feel so refreshing under my eyes. It’s really relaxing having them on and just letting them do their magic! I don’t have so much of the puffy eyes but I have been noticing slight dark circles lately. Just after using this one time, I can really see a difference under my eyes and these left my under eyes so soft! You just have to make sure you clean your face very well before use, and wash with warm water after use! Absolutely will be buying again!" —Kayleena

    Get 20 pairs from Amazon for $13.74.

    10. Cocokind's Texture Smoothing Cream — rightfully dubbed "green juice for your skin." It gives your face a refreshing gulp of celery seed, squalane, and Tsubaki seed oil to improve texture, minimize pores, and strengthen the skin barrier.

    the texture cream
    a model applying the cream
    Cocokind

    Cocokind is a San Francisco-based, woman-founded small business that specializes in botanical-forward skincare with an emphasis on both physical and mental health.

    Promising reviews: "Wow, I am truly impressed by this moisturizer! My skin, especially on my face, has a lot of texture due to acne and at first I wasn’t sure if the cream would be too heavy but it’s not at all. It’s lightweight yet just a tiny bit tacky in a good way?! Lol my skin soaks it up and feels very dewy afterwards!" —Alex C.

    "I’ve been using this moisturizer for several years now and it continues to be my favorite! Very lightweight and refreshing!" —Shelby b.

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99 or Cocokind for $22

    11. A wildly popular TruSkin vitamin C serum so you can hydrate and brighten your skin at the same time. It's great for many skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, and combination. The key players here are vitamins C, E, and hyaluronic acid!

    I recently succumbed to the hype surrounding this serum and I am SO glad I did. I've been using it for over a month now and have noticed a visible brightening effect and fewer dry spots on my face. I like that it's a smooth, lightweight serum rather than feeling sticky and heavy. It sinks right in and doesn't leave behind a greasy residue, which is a serum win in my book!

    Promising reviews: "First time trying this product and it exceeded my expectations!! I use it in the AM before my moisturizer with SPF. It’s made a huge difference for the two to three weeks I’ve been using it. My skin is glowing again, plump and hydrated. Friends have made comments about how great my skin is looking. I don’t write too many reviews on here but had to share my results with you. Huge fan now, will order again and tell my friends about it." —Traci M

    "I am loving TruSkin! I love how it feels on my skin, very light and refreshing. My skin feels so soft and looks brighter after I put it on. I was looking for a product with both Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid and I found it with some additional benefits! I will definitely continue to use this product and recommend it." —M. Williamson

    Get it from Amazon for $19.77+ (available in two sizes and as a pack of two). 

    12. Acure's Brightening Facial Scrub that'll quickly become a series regular in your skincare rotation thanks to its truly magical powers. Reviewers love how well the sea kelp and French green clay work together to detoxify, soften, and get rid of dead skin cells.

    A reviewer holding a bottle of the scrub
    another reviewer showing texture of the green, gritty scrub in their hand

    Promising review: "I use this scrub every other day and it’s my favorite part of my skincare routine. I have combo skin, more dry in winter, and after I use this my skin feels so clean. It leaves a soft and smooth feel but no oil residue at all it feels very natural. It Unclogs your pores and totally refreshes your skin without completely stripping it :)" —Hannah Fast

    Get it from Amazon for $6.62+ (available individually or as a pack of two).

    13. A shampoo scalp massager when your neglected scalp needs to be rescued, stat. This helps revive your sad scalp by breaking down product buildup. Plus, it just feels really nice, too!

    BuzzFeed editor holding pink scalp massager with silicone bristles
    Back of reviewer's head before using scalp massager
    Back of reviewer's head after using scalp massager
    Emma Lord / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com

    Promising review: "I love this scalp massager. Every time I get an actual massage, I always request a scalp massage as they are the most relaxing to me. I used this once my shampoo was evenly distributed in my hair and did small, firmer circles and it was amazing. My scalp felt refreshed afterwards and it did not rip a single strand of hair from my head. It is definitely worth it; super relaxing and I've already recommended it to multiple people. The price is wonderful as well!" —Suzanna

    Get it from Amazon for $6.98+ (available in three colors).

    14. La Roche-Posay's Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, aka a dream come true for sensitive skin that's looking to be refreshed *without* being stripped. It gently removes makeup, dirt, and impurities while maintaining the protective barrier and pH level.

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

    Promising review: "I LOVE THIS CLEANSER. This is one of my all time favorite cleansers. I have dry acne-prone skin and this makes my skin feel extremely hydrated and refreshed. This normalized my combination skin and made it back to normal. I love this cleanser and would recommend it for people who are having troubles finding the right cleanser for them, or for people with dry skin like me." —Joey

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

    15. I Dew Care's Chill Kitten Moisturizer — a heavenly, lightweight cooling gel made with prickly pear extract, heart-leaf extract, and aloe vera leaf that'll replenish dehydrated skin before you know it.

    the green and pink tub of clear gel moisturizer
    Amazon

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Chelsea Stuart says: "I recently started using this, and I love it!! I have dry, sensitive skin, and one of my favorite things about it is that it's fragrance- and oil-free. It goes on soooo smooth (it's not tacky or greasy), and it leaves me feeling like a glazed donut for a few minutes before it sinks into my skin."

    Promising review: "I really hate creamy moisturizers, so this gel one is perfect. It’s very lightweight and dries fast. It leaves my skin feeling refreshed and soft. There’s little to no scent (it smells a little like aloe). The packaging is super cute. The box it comes in is recyclable, and the product is vegan and cruelty free, which was a big selling point for me. Definitely would recommend!" —Hannah Nelson

    Get it from Amazon for $23.

    16. Radha Beauty's Rosehip Oil to conquer some of the main difficulties your skin has likely faced at some point: dryness, redness, flakiness, and breakouts. Need I say more? This fragrance-free oil hydrates *and* heals while increasing elasticity.

    Radha Beauty is a small business that offers a slew of all-natural, organic beauty products.

    Promising review: "This stuff is life changing! I have incredibly oily skin that is acne prone. Although it seems counterintuitive to put oil on my oily skin, it does wonders for keeping my skin clear and refreshed and gives it a healthy glow! I apply 2-3 drops each night after washing my face and sometimes use it as my moisturizer during the daytime as well. Very excited to see the long term results, as my skin has already improved greatly in the last few weeks." —RC

    Get it from Amazon for $14.95.

    Check out our in-depth look at this miracle facial oil!

    17. UpCircle's face moisturizer rich with moisture-packed ingredients, like argan oil, cocoa butter, and aloe vera so you just *know* your skin is about to be invigorated to the max! This fast-absorbing formula aims to nourish, brighten, and moisturize the skin.

    model applying moisturizer to face
    the orange jar of moisturizer
    Goodful

    This UpCircle moisturizer is 100% vegan and cruelty-free! It comes in a glass jar with an aluminum lid, so it's fully recyclable.

    Promising review: "Gorgeous moisturizer that I use every night. I wake up every morning and skin feels smooth and refreshed. Great value, gorgeous packaging, yummy smell and overall a fab product to add my ever growing UpCircle collection!" —Penny S.

    Get it from our Goodful shop for $26.

    18. Skinfood's Egg White Pore Mask, which I promise isn't nearly as gross as it sounds. This magical pore-refining potion helps eliminate blackheads and gently exfoliates to leave your skin lookin' smooth and feelin' refreshed.

    Promising review: "I love this mask. It's so great! When it dries, it feels nice and you can still move your face muscles easily. The feeling of the mask is so refreshing. I use a brush to apply it on my face and it works wonders. Leaves my face feeling tight and hydrated, unlike other masks that normally leave my face feeling tight but dry. I recommend washing your face with warm water once it dries and then using a warm towel to remove whatever is left. The smell is also not bad, I honestly can't really smell anything." —Jas

    Get it from Amazon for $11+ (available in two sizes).

    19. K-Beauty brand The Saem's Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick because your under-eye area needs to be revitalized, too! It's more than just cute packaging — this adorable polar bear helps improve your skin's elasticity and minimize the appearance of dark circles.

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

    It contains active marine ingredients like Icelandic moss, xylitol, niacinamide, and adenosine!

    Promising review: "Actually love this for my under eye.... it is so cooling and refreshing! I can't put normal moisturizer under my eyes because my skin is sensitive but somehow this does the trick. I also leave it in my fridge to get that extra cooling effect but it is also amazing without it! Highly recommend for anyone who has sensitive skin and wants a nice hydrating under-eye skincare to add to their routine!" —Teah Dempsey

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99

    20. facial steamer so you can give yourself a spa-like experience from the comfort of your home. You know when you leave a facial appointment feeling conflicted because your skin feels *amazing* but your bank account doesn't? Problem solved!

    a reviewer's facial steamer
    another reviewer in front of the facial steamer allowing steam onto their face

    Reviewers suggest you use distilled water only. The steamer also comes with a five-piece stainless-steel blackhead and blemish extractor kit. 

    Promising review: "Glad I decided to buy this steamer. Pleasantly surprised at the amount of steam this machine produces. After using this steamer, my face feels so soft, moisturized and refreshed immediately after, as well as days after using. It’s as if I had gone to a spa. I added this to my weekly skincare routine and look forward to it every week." —Tyreek Duren

    Get it from Amazon for $33.95 (available in three colors).

    21. Peach & Lily's matcha antioxidant moisturizer for stressed skin that needs to ~chill~ out. It contains matcha to fight free radical damage and niacinamide to reduce inflammation and brighten dark spots. It also has adenosine to energize and smooth the skin's surface.

    GIF of model rubbing the moisturizer into their hand
    Peach & Lily

    Peach & Lily is an Asian- and woman-owned small business that makes Korean skincare products using natural, toxin-free ingredients. This antioxidant cream, which is suited for all skin types, is also vegan and cruelty-free. 

    Promising reviews: "This lotion is one of my favorites because it really moisturizes my face, especially now that the air is dryer due to the cold weather. It also has this very smooth texture and it doesn't feel heavy in any way. Usually, I just put this lotion on without applying foundation and then go about my day. It gives my skin this very dewy and healthy glow. Definitely recommend it!" —Tinyan S.

    "Very pretty mint green color and smells amazing. Not only does your skin feel refreshed, but it adds all the right kind of moisture! Love this product. You can literally feel the antioxidants working into your skin. Very important step in my routine." —Amirah D.

    Get it from Peach & Lily, Ulta, or Target for $43.

    22. Glow Recipe's Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer which not only smells downright ~divine~ but will immediately hydrate and soothe your skin with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants from watermelon extract.

    the bottle of Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer
    model applying it to the back of their hand
    Glow Recipe

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Heather Braga loves it: "I've been using this product for the last few years and it has become one of my favorites. It's a brightening and lightweight moisturizer that really works! I like to use it in the morning for a fresh start to my day. The pretty pink hue and glass bottle also just looks gorgeous on my counter — no complaints!"

    Promising review: "This product is really great! Super light, refreshing, and didn’t cause any breakouts for my normally sensitive skin. It also smells amazing!" —kelsjmills

    Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $21+ (available in two sizes).

    23. Keys Soulcare's water-activated Be Luminous Exfoliator to help buff away dull, dead skin and leave your face with a wonderfully refreshed feeling. This reviewer-loved formula is rich in antioxidants, including green tea, hojicha powder, mung beans, oats, and lactic acid.

    Alicia Keys applying the exfoliator
    the purple exfoliator bottle
    the powdered exfoliator
    Keys Soulcare

    Promising review: "Love the creative ideas that went into the packaging and overall design. I was initially drawn to Alicia’s Products because of how it helps set the tone and prepare you full day or night routine of well-being. As soon as I apply the product, I can sense the difference in my skin’s tone. Additionally, such a small amount can produce such a good lather, leaving skin feeling, smooth, and refreshing." —Juliana A.

    Get it from Ulta or Keys Soulcare for $25.

    24. O'Keeffe's hand cream because your hands need some love, too. Whether they're dry, cracked, red, or all of the above, this cream can help transform 'em! It adds a protective layer to boost hydration and prevent further moisture loss.

    reviewer holding jar of working hands hand cream
    another rreviewer's dry, cracked hand before using the cream and soft, moisturized hand 1 week after using it

    Promising reviews: "Winter is always rough on my hands — the dry desert air is not gentle. The reviews and ratings are what made me give this a try, and I am so glad I did!!! It takes my hands (in particular the back of them) from papery or red and irritated to hydrated and soft — and younger looking to boot! And the hydration lasts through multiple hand washings, which is what I am most impressed by. Other types of hand lotions and creams that I’ve tried pale in comparison! A teensy bit goes a long way, so this is definitely a product worth trying, I’m glad that I did." —aznatalie

    "Not sure what it's made of but I think it's magical Unicorn dust. My hands after an 8 hour day at a dirty and dry construction site and after washing my hands with harsh hand cleaners, [they] seem to be refreshed by this cream. It's amazing how little it takes to make your hands go from feeling like cement to silk. AMAZING." —Some random

    Get it from Amazon for $6.39+ (also available in packs of two or 12).

    25. Eight Saints Cloud Whip Vitamin C Face Moisturizer made with organic ingredients to block free radicals, reduce the appearance of sun spots, and prevent discoloration. You'll always be able to ~freshen~ your face up with this stuff on standby.

    reviewer photo holding the Eight Saints Cloud Whip C Cream
    another reviewer with a splotch of cloud whip on their face

    They key ingredients in this moisturizer include vitamins C and B5, MSM, and borage oil. It's also a cruelty-free and fragrance-free formula!

    Eight Saints is a woman-owned small business that uses only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products.

    Promising review: "I usually hate moisturizing because most are thick and oily on my skin. However, this cloud whip feels so light and fluffy, I look forward to putting it on my skin. It’s refreshing and gives my skin the moisture and glow it needs. One of my favorite Eight Saints products. Highly recommend buying it for your routine!" —John Bowman

    Get it from Eight Saints on Amazon for $33.

    26. Or Saturday Skin's Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask if you can't be bothered with a gazillion-step skincare routine but still want to look *and* feel like a million bucks. It works overnight to soothe your skin and improve the barrier function. You'll wake up to a silky-smooth, hydrated face, and TBH, what's better than that?

    the jar of Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask next to lemons
    Saturday Skin

    Promising review: "I have really dry and dull skin, and honestly, I'm really lazy when it comes to using sheet mass or fresh masks because I don't like the point of washing them off or dealing with the cotton sheet mask. That's why I tend to gravitate towards sleep masks. I love this Vitamin C yuzu mask, the jelly texture sits on my skin nicely and feels so refreshing." —Angelica P.

    Get it from Amazon or Saturday Skin for $29.

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