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.

    46 Beauty Products With Before-And-After Pictures That’ll Make You An Instant Believer

    Today marks the day we'll never be without cold sore patches again.

    1. An eye primer to ensure your flawless smokey eye isn't ruined by your chronically oily eyelids on a night out.

    reviewer at 8:30 a.m. showing off their eye makeup
    the same reviewer at 6:30 p.m. showing their eye makeup still looks the s

    Promising review: "I feel so stupid...I'm 65 years old and have always been annoyed by the fact that by mid-afternoon, my upper lids would be oily, shiny and sporting a stripe from my eye liner. I didn't think there was a cure. Then stumbled upon the idea of using a primer/foundation designed for the eyelids. What? How BRILLIANT!! Who would have thought? I dipped my toe into the water and purchased one tube of the Thank Me Later Eye Shadow Primer. I don't use eye shadow on my lids, but I do use it as a liner on my lower lashes. (I add water to compressed eye shadow and put it on my skin with a sponge-end pencil thing). This stuff ROCKS!! At the end of a hot Texas day, my lids are still as fresh and dry as they were at 6 a.m. And it only takes a pinhead-sized drop to cover one entire lid from lashes to eyebrow, with enough left to cover the lower lid area as well. It's creamy, but dries very quickly. Awesome! The only thing that keeps this product from being 100% perfect is that it has a chemical smell when you first put it on...BUT...after a few minutes, the smell is gone and my eye makeup looks impeccable for 12+ hours. Obviously, I highly recommend this product. They've found a lifetime customer with me." —ShortieTX

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99.

    2. A cruelty-free vitamin C serum that'll give your skin a much-needed pick-me-up. Just listen to the 93,000+ people who gave it a 5-star review: This stuff brightens, softens, and dramatically fades hyperpigmentation.

    Promising review: "Works as advertised. I find it makes the dark marks disappear much quicker after a breakout. I bought this for mild under eye wrinkles and have definitely seen the difference. Been using it for two months or so and now it's part of my holy grail products. I also noticed that I have had less breakouts since I started using this product." —M. Russell

    Get it from Amazon for $21.97.

    3. A nail concealer for subtly hiding yellowing and staining on your nails.

    reviewer wearing the pale pink version
    reviewer photo of their nails with 1, 2, and 3 coats of polish

    Promising review: "Saw this on BuzzFeed and gave it try — happy I did! This is a great neutral for any length nails. It’s opaque enough that two coats look great, no brush strokes but not dead white. It covers ridges very well and my nails seemed to grow better when I kept the covered in this. It’s worth the $$." —Diablita

    Get it from Amazon for $20 (available in five shades).

    Check out our Londontown Illuminating Nail Concealer review for more deets!

    4. A calming cream if your complexion is often red and splotchy. This soothing formula contains centella asiatica — also called "tiger grass" — which calms redness and irritation.

    reviewer with rosacea and dark red splotches on their nose and cheeks
    the same reviewer with skin that's no longer red

    Promising review: "Absolutely worth every single cent! I have severe rosacea that leaves my nose and cheeks dry, flaky, and breaking out. I’ve had little success with anything topical that will provide relief to my irritated skin. My sister recommended it to me when I was looking for a moisturizer after a severe sunburn that left my nose blistered and raw. I received my order Wednesday and applied it that night after washing my face. By Saturday afternoon my face is almost completely healed. The cream prevented peeling, and helped clear up my rosacea skin irritation! I’m completely amazed! I’ve applied less than a dime size over my face four times! My skin has truly never felt better! It’s got to be witchcraft because not even the different RXs I’ve tried over the years have produced these results. *I will note there was a very mild sting that lasted a couple seconds when initially applying but that was likely due to the raw skin. It was completely bearable." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $19.90+ (available in two sizes).

    5. A pack of cold sore healing patches because they create a discreet barrier around the blister that helps protect against bacteria and prevent scabbing. They contain hydrocolloid, which can help speed up the healing process.

    reviewer with a cold sore on their top lip
    the same reviewer whose cold sore is now much less noticeable and definitely looks more healed after using 2 patches

    Promising review: "No other products would work for me when I get nasty cold sores, but this has been the only thing to noticeably help, and the patch itself, if you catch the cold sore before scabbing period, literally cant even tell its there. I would give it 10 stars if I could" —Cheyenne

    Get a pack of 15 from Amazon for $12.99.

    6. color-changing aloe vera lipstick so every time you swipe it on you're wearing *your* perfect shade. It magically adjusts hues depending on your temperature and your lip's pH, and leaves behind a subtle sheen and a hydrating finish.

    reviewer wearing the lipstick only on their bottom lips and you can see the lipstick gives a slightly pink and shimmery finish
    reviewer holding the tube of green lipstick

    Promising review: "I’m so happy with these! They smell SUPER nice and clean. It goes on clear and smooth, is decently moisturizing, and it’s not overly greasy. It gave me a nice pinkish reddish tone like my lips are two shades darker, and I love it! It looks very natural and perfect! PLEASE keep these in stock, I want to keep these forever! I applied once hours ago, and also applied a different clear lip balm over it later on, and I still have color even. It seems to last so long even through eating and drinking. It doesn’t smudge off and looks so cute! I’m so happy with these! I love the smell and the color so much! Much better and longer lasting than a lipgloss I had!" —Lin

    Get it from Amazon for $3.99.

    7. A hair removal device designed to permanently reduce hair growth at home so you can skip the $$$ laser hair removal treatments.

    reviewer showing hair growing in their armpit
    the same reviewer after 10 weeks showing their armpit hair is much thinner

    It's safe to use on your bikini line, upper lip, chin, face, armpits, back, chest, stomach, arms, and legs. Do not use it on your eyebrows or on tanned or tattooed skin.

    Promising reviews: "7 out of 5 stars. After two months of using it as directed, I am impressed with the results. My face has post-menopausal coarse hair growth. In the past, I have spent thousands of dollars to have the hair on my legs and bikini area professionally removed. Rather than risking possible COVID-19 exposure due to multiple office visits at a professional salon, I chose to purchase this device to remove my facial hair. Even the medium and fine black facial hairs have disappeared." —Prague

    Get it from Amazon for $62.99.

    8. The cutest stinkin' polar bear hydrating eye stick that'll help hydrate and cool your puffy, tired eyes. A very big-brained reviewer recommends sticking it in the freezer before you use it so it's extra chilly.

    The small polar bear shaped eye stick in a reviewer's hands
    Before and after pic of reviewer with dark under eyes that are gone in the second pic

    Promising review: "I have eczema around my eyes and they are always red, dry, flaky, and puffy. This is the first product that I have tried that has healed my eyes! In less than one week my eyes were completely transformed! I would give this more than 5 stars if I could!!!!" —amy

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99

    9. Or a CeraVe eye cream for helping reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles, as well as helping hydrate and calm tired skin.

    reviewer before using eye cream and the skin under their eyes is dark
    the same reviewer after using the eye cream and their under eye skin is much brighter and less puffy

    Promising review: "I think out of the hundreds of products I've bought, I've written maybe five reviews. Most of those were bad reviews. 😅 THIS review is like the 10 gold stars of reviews. I LOVE THIS EYE CREAM! I have a pretty nasty bag under only one of my eyes. Within four days, that bag is GONE! I don't know how, but it is. The area around my eyes is softer than it's ever been. Even makeup looks amazing now. It no longer settles in those pesky fine lines. I wish I could find a cream that made my entire face this soft. I microneedle, I've done TCA peels, I'm obsessed with Korean skincare, but NOTHING has ever given me such results as this eye cream. The area around my eyes feels like silk. BUY THIS EYE CREAM! You won't be disappointed." —Emily Hunter

    Get it from Amazon for $11.78.

    10. A splurge-worthy tube of Stila mascara if you're dreaming of a formula that doesn't flake, fade, or streak again.

    buzzfeed writer's face with one set of eyelashes with no product on and the other wearing the mascara looking longer and darker
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: "I don't think I ever knew the true meaning of wide-awake eyes until I armed myself with this mascara from Stila. Let's just start with the look and feel of it: It comes in a weighty gold tube — so you already know you're about to experience something special — and the applicator is curved in the center with just the right amount of product on it. Clearly from my experience, you can tell the obvious difference between the with and without — and, TBH, the 'without' has been my general M.O. during these recent times. But that has all changed thanks to this lash extension in a tube! Not only do my eyelashes appear thicker, but the length is just truly phenomenal. I feel like a brand-new, less-tired-looking woman any time I apply a lick of this!" —Jasmin Sandal

    Get it from Amazon for $26.

    11. Or a cruelty-free lengthening mascara because it's only $5. This one won't let you down — I promise! It's lightweight, won't transfer, doesn't smudge, and lasts all day. Consider your expectations exceeded!

    before and after showing the mascara made their light lashes visible and lengthened
    Reviewer showing off their fluffy, full-looking lashes

    Promising review: "After using Lights, Camera, Lashes by Tarte for the past year, I got tired of breaking the bank over mascara. My sister suggested Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect and I IMMEDIATELY fell in love. It provides dramatic length and great volume. I can honestly say I can’t stop looking at my eyelashes in the mirror every single day because of how awesome they look. Also, it is very long wearing. I go from an eight-hour work day right to the gym and sweat...and this stuff doesn’t budge! I love it!!" —Carrie E Weikert

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    12. A bottle of dandruff shampoo so you can banish white flakes from your scalp. It's made with ketoconazole 1%, an antifungal ingredient that'll tell your dandruff it's no longer welcome here.

    before reviewer image of hair and scalp covered in dandruff
    after reviewer image of no dandruff on scalp

    Promising review: "MIRACLE PRODUCT! If you have a flaky scalp from dandruff, BUY THIS. I was about to go to the dermatologist if this stuff didn’t work. Thank goodness I saved myself hundreds of dollars by giving this product a shot. I used it four of five times (over a month) and it cleared my scalp almost completely. One more use and my scalp will be 120% healed! This stuff blew my mind. Totally worth it." —chris

    Get it from Amazon for $15.88.

    13. A coil-sculpting custard to not only help your kinks and curls hold their shape, but also inject your strands with some serious hydration.

    reviewer comparing their curls with and without the custard, and the custard clearly helps define their ringlets
    reviewer with 4c hair showing their natural twists

    Promising review: "Someone had asked about doing natural twists with this product…I use just enough product on each section by itself, then I spray my oil on it after I’m done. No flaking. I love it!! When I tell you my low porosity 4C hair just love this product... I give this product 10 ⭐️" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

    14. A cuticle oil that'll restore your shredded nails after a gel mani. A combination of sweet almond oil, vitamin E, and jojoba softens the cuticle and strengthens your claws so you'll be proud to show them off.

    Before and after of reviewer who used the oil, showing that it helped reduce nail breakage
    reviewer with healthy-looking cuticles

    Check it out in action on TikTok here!

    Promising review: "This product is amazing. I've always had acrylic or dipped nails because my real nails have always been brittle and always break and peel. I decided to give my nails a break and wanted to try and grow them out. I can't even believe the outcome! They are stronger than ever and growing! I really wish I had taken a before pic to show the difference!" —JOE D.

    Get it from Amazon for $9.90.

    15. A bottle of professional grade callus-removing gel for dissolving hard dead skin in literal minutes. (Seriously, reviewers say you should only let it sit for two to three minutes!) Then, give it a good scrub with a foot file and your heels will be baby bottom smooth.

    Promising review: "This is a Hail Mary! This is hands down the best product ever!!!! I have been using this product on my clients and it has made my job so much easier and less time consuming." —Diamante Valentine

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

    16. A CeraVe salicylic acid body wash if rough, bumpy skin is annoying the heck out of ya. It exfoliates without the harsh microbeads, lifting away dead skin while leaving behind moisturizing hyaluronic acid and calming niacinamide.

    Promising review: "I never do reviews...but this product WORKS! I have KP on my legs and it got rid of it 10000%. It must be used consistently and you have to also exfoliate with an actual natural loofa or something similar, but YOU WILL SEE RESULTS. Great product for a great price! Would give 100 stars if I could!" —layla mahmoud

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99.

    17. A beloved tightening cream because the 14,000+ reviewers who rated it 5 stars is all the proof you need. It's infused with caffeine, coconut oil, and guarana extract to firm, smooth, and add shimmer to the skin. Plus the vanilla, salted caramel, and pistachio scent is better than any perfume out there.

    before photo of a 60-year-old reviewer's legs and cellulite on their thighs
    after photo of the same reviewer showing their leg skin is much tighter and the cellulite is basically gone

    Promising review: "I am 60 and notice that no matter how much diet and exercise I do, I could not get rid of the cellulite on my legs. I started using this product six weeks ago and can noticeably see a difference. I apply morning and evening, before bed for optimal results. It goes on smooth and has a creamy, non-sticky feel. The smell is dreamy, and even my husband has commented on the improvement. Make sure you apply in a circular motion for optimal coverage, absorption and circulation." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $22+ (available in two sizes).

    18. An extreme hold eyebrow gel so you can achieve that laminated brows look. It offers 16 hours of hold without looking crunchy, and doesn't leave behind white flakes. Sweat and water, mortal enemies of brow gels everywhere, meet your match!

    before photo of a reviewer's natural lashes
    after photo of the same reviewer's lashes looking thick and defined after applying the eyebrow gel

    Promising review: "I would use hair spray to hold my eyebrows and throughout the day I would sweat through it and it wouldn’t last. I tried this because the price was great and I’m glad i did. This product is awesome. I’ve had it on my brows for a nine-hour shift and they are still in place! It doesn’t dry and get flakey, nor does it feel uncomfortable on the skin. Lastly, I use brow powder and this does NOT affect the look of the powder nor does it smudge it. I will FOREVER buy this product." —Shelby

    Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in five shades).

    19. A powerful snail repair cream to brighten dull skin, fade discoloration, add plumpness. Snail mucin extract is a popular ingredient in K-beauty products and is rich in hyaluronic acid (hydrates) and glycolic acid (stimulates collagen production).

    Promising review: "I'm 55 years old and my skin is a bit sensitive. I don't have a lot of wrinkles, but I'm definitely noticing a few more laugh lines and forehead crinkles than I had a few years ago! I've tried several moisturizers and have not been terribly impressed with any of them until now. This stuff really is great — incredibly hydrating without feeling greasy and it absorbs quickly. It feels great on my skin. In just a few short weeks, I definitely notice an improvement in my skin tone and fewer lines and wrinkles! Plus, the customer service is great. I had questions when I first received the product and got followup response immediately. I will definitely be ordering this product again. I use it in the evening and morning; no need for two different moisturizers. Very pleased!" —sbakey

    Get it from Amazon for $20.

    20. And speaking of snails, a reparative K-beauty snail mucin essence that'll rejuvenate your face, help lighten hyperpigmentation, and prep your skin so it's ready to drink up all the benefits of your moisturizer.

    Promising review: "This stuff is incredible. I have suffered from minor acne for almost two years, and I finally realized the products I was using were far too harsh for my dry, sensitive skin. After using gentle products and eventually moving on to K beauty, I found this to lighten all the scarring from the years of picking at my breakouts. My scarring is still a bit noticeable, but it has gotten tremendously better thanks to this product and this product alone." —Marc

    Get it from Amazon for $15.99.

    21. Some acne patches for slurping out the gunk in your zits, both delighting and disgusting you. They'll also help prevent picking or popping (which can lead to scarring) while shrinking and healing your breakouts.

    amazon reviewer's clear pimple patch full of sebum
    Reviewer before and after photo using patches

    These are hands down the best pimple patches I’ve ever used. Why? Because they actually work. IMO they work best on whiteheads, drawing out the pus and preventing me from picking. Once all the fluids are drained (yum!), I plop a patch on what was once home to a very angry whitehead and replace it twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). In my experience, that has been the best treatment for preventing really noticeable hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, which my skin is really prone to after breakouts.

    Promising review: "I have been experiencing terrible cystic acne. I also am a stress picker. I decided to get these as a last resort to avoid any more acne scars and it was the best purchase I have ever made. I put these on some really painful zits before bed and when I woke up they were gone! They literally suck all of the grossness out of my zits. I don’t want to say it was like magic but it was pretty much magic." —Demetria Olsen

    Check out the rest of my Hero Cosmetics Mighty Pimple Patches review for more deets!

    Get a pack of 36 from Amazon for $11.97.

    22. A dry shampoo powder if you're looking for a travel-friendly option (it's a powder, not an aerosol can) to mattify your roots, absorb excess grease, and help extend the life of your hairstyles between washes.

    reviewer tapping the sponge on their roots to apply the white powder
    before photo of a reviewer's greasy roots
    after photo of the same reviewer's hair looking less greasy

    Promising review: "I've always needed dry shampoo for my top roots, which get oily far before the rest of my hair. THIS is by FAR the best I've ever used. The applicator is genius — it goes on so easily. And I've NEVER had a dry shampoo last like this for DAYS! It's easy to work in with my fingers and it is a wonderful volumizer. The size is great for travel. I hope they never change the formula — it is just wonderful — even the very light, delicate fragrance is perfect. I give it 100 STARS for its safety, convenience, design AND for all the time it saves me." —Lexi Jean

    Get it from Amazon for $18.

    23. A collagen-coating hair treatment because your dry, damaged, and overprocessed strands could use a little TLC. This reparative five-minute hair mask will revive your mane and leave it soft, silky, and smooth.

    reviewer before and after using the hair mask and you can see that their hair looks softer and more hydrated after using the mask
    reviewer with 4c hair holding a section of their hair showing how strong and hydrated their strands look

    Promising review: "My hair used to be really soft, and then I discovered hot tools and hair dye. While my hair looks good, I really miss the soft texture. This works so well. There are no instructions on the box, but I washed my hair with my usual shampoo, towel dried it, worked about two quarter-sized dollops through my hair, let it sit for 20 minutes, and then rinsed it out. I went to bed with wet hair, which usually results in my hair being kind of tangled and rough-looking, but I woke up, and my hair was as soft and silky as it was before I started coloring it. I'm totally in love with this product. I have long, fine hair, but this doesn't leave it greasy or weigh it down. I'll definitely buy again." —Ellie

    Get it from Amazon for $6.68.

    Read our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to learn more about why my colleague calls it, "the miracle product I've been searching for."

    24. A multi-use skincare oil so you can say bye bye to uneven skin, stretch marks, and acne scars. It helps your body retain moisture (see ya later, dry skin!) and absorbs into the skin fast so you won't feel greasy.

    Psst! Bio-Oil contains retinol, which accelerates skin turnover but can make you more sensitive to the sun — so don't forget your sunscreen!

    Promising review: "I was skeptical of how amazing the reviews are, but this stuff is pure gold. I use it on stretch marks on my legs and in just a week they went from bright angry red to purple. I use it twice a day if I remember, and it's amazing. I also rub it on my face after I wash my face. It has made my acne on my cheeks go WAY down, and is removing the scars. I have amazing skin now. I use this stuff EVERY day, and I've barely even put a dent in it. This size is amazing, and for the price — holy cow. I seriously never leave reviews, but seriously this stuff is pure magic. I tried vitamin C serum, rosehip, witch hazel, etc. and this is the only thing that has worked for me. Good luck!!" —Jessamyne Campbell

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

    25. A fungal nail renewal pen to help reduce discoloration and thickness, as well as restore moisture to peeling brittle nails.

    Promising review: "I have used Kerasal for three days, and fungal [damage] is 95% gone! A very easy-to-use dispenser that eliminates mess during application. You can apply yourself effortlessly. Gonna tell other family members with toenail problems about this! I would give it 10 stars if there were room!!!" —Dennis Downing

    Get it from Amazon for $17.97.

    26. A Danessa Myricks blurring balm that'll make your mouth literally drop when you see this magical this balm-to-powder reduce the appearance of texture and imperfections. This can be used as a primer or foundation depending on the level of coverage you want. And reviewers with oily skin especially LOVE this stuff!

    model with medium skin tone before and after applying the blurring balm and it completely covered hyperpigmentation on their cheeks and evened their skin tone
    model with a darker skin tone before and after applying the balm, which evened their skin tone, and hid dark under eye circles and acne scars
    Sephora

    Danessa Myricks is a Black woman-owned business. Check out a Reel of the Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder in action!

    Promising review: "I have finally found the answer to my oily skin! I have the kind of skin that starts producing oil an hour after my makeup application, even with mattifying primers, translucent powder to set, AND a mattifying setting spray. I’m now going on four hours, and my face is completely matte! I’ve seen other people say that they use this as a primer under their foundation, but I used it as THE foundation, and it’s total perfection. Buildable coverage so you can either go for the ‘no makeup’ look or a full beat. " —Songstress81

    Get it from Sephora for $36 (available in 14 shades).

    27. A CeraVe hydrating cleanser for folks with dry skin who don't want to faff around with a million different products.

    Promising review: "I have really dry skin and usually face washes dry out my skin to the point where it gets a bit flakey. I haven't been using this cleanser for that long, but my boyfriend has noticed my face getting clearer of acne. I would recommend this product." —brianna

    Get it from Amazon for $11.72+ (available in three sizes).

    28. A facial hair trimmer if you're tired of plucking your unibrow or mustache and would rather reach for an electric option that's painless and fast.

    before photo of dark black hairs growing on a reviewer's upper lip and chin
    after photo of the same reviewer who's shaved all the hair off

    Promising review: "I love love love this facial hair remover. I use it probably every two weeks (that is usually when my peach fuzz starts to return fully and is noticeable). Super easy to use and clean! Clean out the fuzz after every use for the best result. It’s oddly satisfying to see how much fuzz it removes, too. Highly recommend. I really like using this versus the scrapers!" —Regan Paynter

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in four colors).

    29. A sun milk with SPF 50+ because it's like a sunscreen and primer in one. It boasts a double-layer UV-blocking system that lasts through sweat and water, while creating a silky-smooth base for makeup. And it corrects skin tone so you can just skip the makeup entirely.

    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 $19.90.

    30. Or a tube of Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 to protect and moisturize without leaving behind that awful white cast. It's specifically designed for melanated skin and made with ingredients like avocado, carrot juice, jojoba, sunflower oil, and more.

    Hands using the sunscreen
    a model applying the sunscreen and showing how it doesn't leave a whitecast
    Target, Target

    Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned business whose sunscreen is designed not to leave a white cast on melanated skin. It's ultra-sheer, water-resistant, and super nourishing thanks to its all-natural ingredients. Plus, it's cruelty-free! They also make sunscreen for kids with SPF 50.

    Promising review: "I’ve tried many, many sunscreens that claim to blend and not leave a white cast when applied. This was so much better than I expected. A nickel-size amount goes a long way and blends into a smooth, dewy finish. I also didn’t notice a scent so there was no worries of walking around smelling like sunscreen." —Target Customer

    Get it from Target for $15.99 or Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99.

    31. A skin spatula to help remove blackheads and de-gunk pores using high frequency vibrations. This can also help your skincare absorb better since your pores won't be blocked with debris.

    Close-up of the scraper showing dead skin and sebum
    reviewer's before and after three days apart and you can see that the spatula helped improve the texture of their face and made their skin look smoother

    Promising review: "I never write reviews but I could not pass this one up. I have been fighting with my skin for years! After my last pregnancy, I started developing cystic acne; my skin was congested with oil, whiteheads, blackheads, you name it. All those years of desperately doing my own extractions, trying every mask, cleanser, device, my skin was left scarred and discolored. I hated the texture of my skin. I impulsively bought this and tried it the day it was delivered. I was amazed at how well it extracted all the gunk I could and couldn't see lurking under my skin. I use it every night to cleanse, then apply my serum and moisturizer. I took the first set of photos on 5/27 and still didn't love how my skin looked under makeup. I could tell it was doing something though so I stuck with it. Three days later, I woke up in shock! Took the second set of photos wearing the same makeup (but needed much less). I am finally happy with the way my skin looks and posted a selfie without a filter for the first time since I can remember! Just try it! (All photos were taken in natural light. Must've gotten some cloud cover in the last one. No filters on ANY of them! I'm still in shock!)" —Marlena H.

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three colors).

    32. A box of pore-tightening, skin-lifting face masks that'll truly terrify you, first because you'll look like a zombie once you've applied it, and second because it's so darn effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

    Promising review: "I have never written a review before, but I am compelled to do so now. Let’s start with what my 41-year-old face looked like. I had bumps, tiny bumps all over my skin, especially my forehead. My skin NEVER felt smooth, even with the prescriptions I was given to help with these tiny bumps. Rosacea = bad, bad, bad. So bad that it was actually causing my cheeks to have what appeared to be thickening skin. Wrinkles, some that were quite deep. My pores were friggin huge and getting bigger day by day, it seemed like. I know that it says to use this product every three days. I chose to go with every single day for the first box of eight. The results were so amazing I decided on every day for the second box. Even more amazing results. EVERY SINGLE ISSUE LISTED ABOVE NO LONGER EXISTS!!!! I moisturize deeply after rinsing, and my face looks absolutely amazing. My face did not even look like this at 30. I will buy no less than three packs every single payday so I can stock up on this stuff in case they ever decide to quit selling it. If I had 10 stars available to rate, I would use them and more!" —Amazon Customer

    Get a box of eight masks from Amazon for $24.75.

    33. Differin, a once daily topical retinoid for acne that hasn't responded to any other treatments. It contains adapalene, a retinoid that unclogs pores and speeds cell turnover so acne doesn't even have a chance to form.

    I use Differin, and it's great, but I must warn you: It is strong. Unfortunately, I wrecked my skin the first few weeks after buying it because I applied it way too often and paired it with chemical exfoliators and a really drying face wash. Once I cut back my application to one to two times per week and switched to gentler cleansers, my skin flourished. The annoying bumps on my forehead (the ones that aren't acne but are literally just tiny little bumps) disappeared over time, my temples stopped breaking out, and my acne scars lightened. If you're dipping your toes in the Differin pool, it's not a bad idea to check with your dermatologist before starting!

    Promising review: "I've used this product about two months now and not only does my skin rarely have breakouts, but also other people are telling me how smooth and good my skin looks. I've always had moderate adult acne, and I cannot recommend this product enough. It's not a quick-acting gel; it takes weeks to see results, but it's worth it!" —Leann M Smith

    Get it from Amazon for $13.32+ (available in two bottle styles).

    34. A pack of facial and eyebrow razors if the thought of trimming your brows reminds you of the horrible time in middle school that you accidentally shaved off half your eyebrow. Thankfully this has a precision cover to prevent such mishaps.

    A customer review photo showing their skin before and after using the razor
    A customer review photos showing the razor with hair collected

    Promising review: "I love 💕 these little razors for all that peach 🍑 fuzz. My face looks so smooth now!!! They’re really easy to use. I had no idea there was such a product! My esthetician used something similar on my face, and I thought 💭 I can do that!! So glad I found it!" —Patti16

    Get a pack of three from Amazon for $5.94.

    35. A teeth-whitening pen because it's a heck of a lot quicker (and tastes a lot better) than those irritating whitening strips that slip and slide all over your teeth. You can use each pen ~20 times and should expect your teeth to lighten four to eight shades.

    Promising review: "I was hesitant to try a new teeth-whitening product after using harsh whitening strips that caused pain and lingering sensitivity. But, as a coffee and red wine drinker, I wanted to find a solution. This teeth whitening pen is terrific. Easy to use, works well and does not have the downside of either the strips or the $450 option at the dentist. I also really love this product since whitening my front teeth is the objective. It is a great value as I anticipate the two pens that are included will last one year. I will definitely buy this again and am very happy to recommend it." —Rebecca Shehee

    Get a two-pack from Amazon for $18.95.

    36. A wowworthy lip balm so you can say goodbye to cracked and bleeding lips once and for all. This hypoallergenic blend of beeswax, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and 1% hydrocortisone is designed to moisturize and heal severely chapped lips caused by weather, cold sores, medication, lip licking, mouth breathing, eczema, and more.

    Promising review: "There isn't a scent or flavor. My lips went from dry, flaking, and cracked to soft in a matter of two days. 10 stars wouldn't be enough of a rating for this fantastic product. I've tried them all but this is the only one that works." —Linda lulu

    Get it from Amazon for $7.50.

    37. An overnight mask to inject your skin with ~super collagen water~ (so fancy!) and baobab water as you sleep. The results = soothed and moisturized skin. You may even skip a full beat the next morning!

    Promising reviews: "I really love this! It really does keep your face hydrated at night and when I wake up, I notice my face is brighter too. I'm African American by the way :) People have noticed that my dark spots are decreasing and my skin just looks so bright." —Sam

    "I have been using this for about two weeks now, and my skin has never been this smooth or soft. I see definite improvement in dryness and it is just pleasant to put on. I have somewhat sensitive skin and this has not bothered me at all. My new favorite! To top it off, my husband noticed that there was something 'different' about how my face looked." —Terisa

    Get it from Amazon for $17.

    38. A Paula's Choice liquid exfoliant that'll resurface the skin, brighten hyperpigmentation and acne scars, clear pores, and improve skin texture. If you're just dipping your toes in the chemical exfoliant pool (first of all, welcome!!), start by applying this every other day or a few times a week to build up a tolerance and not irritate your skin.

    Reviewer's before and after showing the exfoliant dramatically reduced hyperpigmentation on their cheek and made the skin smoother
    A reviewer with dark skin and their before and after showing the exfoliant brightened dark spots along their hairline and made their skin look bright

    Promising review: "Love this product. Have already purchased it twice. I could actually see improvement in the size of my pores, redness around my nose and dullness. Mind you, I do follow a very strict skincare routine, but I think that I will stick to this product for a while. I use a cleaner, toner, then this Paula product, followed by my nighttime serum and my vitamin A (retinol) cream for face and the neck, and décolletage cream as well. My husband has noticed the improvement as well. If you are hesitant, you can always try buying the traveling size bottle as well. That's what I did and then I got hooked. Get it! It won't disappoint!" —Felicitas Martinez

    Get it from Amazon for $13+ (available in two sizes).

    39. An exfoliating scrub mitt for buffing away beads of dry, dead, and flaky skin (you'll literally be able to see them) to reveal buttery, baby soft skin underneath — and probably make you feel like a lizard shedding its skin.

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

    Promising review: "I have very thin and light body hair, so any form of removal (shaving, waxing, etc.) usually leaves me with a lot of ingrown hairs. I've tried body scrubs and washcloths and neither really do a great job. I saw this product recommended by a dermatologist on TikTok and thought I'd try it — it's amazing! I also have very sensitive skin, and this mitt doesn't leave my skin irritated at all. However, absolutely do not use this mitt on your face, neck, or other sensitive areas, it would be way too harsh. I like to use this mitt first when I get in the shower, then use a body wash (a gentle chemical exfoliant) and follow up with body lotion for dry and sensitive skin. This whole routine is fragrance free and leaves my skin feeling very soft and moisturized." —Kat

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in a set of two). 

    40. Dyson Airwrap if you get hand cramps and a case of dead arm every morning drying and styling your hair. It comes with various attachments — smoothing brushes, a round brush, curling barrels, and more — to help you look like you walked out of a salon when you simply exit the bathroom in the morning.

    before photo of a model with dry, unstyled hair next to an after photo of a model whose hair has been blownout with a Dyson Airwrap and it looks bouncy and shiny
    Nordstrom

    Promising review: "I have waited a few years to get the Airwrap because it’s so darn expensive. I finally purchased it six weeks ago, and it has changed my life. This tool replaces your hair dryer, curling iron, and straightener. It’s great to pack for traveling since it’s the size of a larger curling iron with a few attachments and so lightweight. I’ve never had so many compliments on my hair, and I put in half the effort I did previously. My hair looks a lot healthier, too" —alisonshops6

    Get it from Amazon and Nordstrom for $599 (available in three colors).

    41. A box of disposable face towels because 1) there could be bacteria on your regular face towels (yes, even if you let them air dry), and 2) there could be fabric softener buildup on the towel that's irritating your skin. Disposable face towels may be a more sanitary option for ya, and reviewers say they're large enough and absorbent enough that you can cut 'em in half to make the box last longer.

    before photo of a reviewer with red breakouts on their cheek and chin
    after photo of the same reviewer whose face is now clear of breakouts

    Promising review: "I will always use these from here on out! i use these after i double cleanse and there is still make up that comes off on these when i use them. These make sure i get everything off my face along with being soooo gentle on my skin. they absorb so much and are so handle to bring on the go. I made sure to put a couple in my personal item on a flight to wash my face when we landed and I'm so happy i had them! I've ordered in multiple size sheets but a little goes a long way with these. Very happy with this product. No more make up wipes!" —Shaun van Huyssteen

    Get 50 towels from Amazon for $17.95 (available in larger packs and a travel-friendly set).

    42. A box of wart-removing pads so you can say goodbye to your extra growth faster than it'll take you to name it. Apply it just like a bandage and voila — see ya later!

    Reviewer's progression photos showing the pads removed a wart on their finger
    Different reviewer's progression photos showing the pads removed a dime-size wart

    Promising review: "I had a stubborn wart on my right thumb that has been there for almost a year. Went to the doctor the first time to freeze it, but it didn't completely remove the wart, so I decided to try the gel. The gel helped, but not too long, and the wart came back (in a couple of days). Long story short, I got these medicated bandages, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Used these every day for a week, and the next week, my wart is gone. So far, it's been a week after, and I haven't noticed any growth." —J

    Get 14 pads from Amazon for $7+ (available in three styles and multi-packs).

    43. A Denman hair brush to help your curls ~curl~. Reviewers swear by this brush for creating stunning curl definition and detangling without causing pain.

    A customer review photo of their hair, half brushed and half not brushed
    A customer review photo of their hand next to white brush on table to show the size

    This brush is great for 3c/b hair!

    Promising review: "I love this brush! I ordered it because I saw a YouTube video of a girl with curly hair using it, and her curls came out amazing! I always do wash-and-gos, and I usually would only brush/comb my hair in the shower, style it once I was out, but sometimes, if I waited a little longer to style it, my hair would get dry and frizzy. It would be almost impossible to get my curls defined without getting back in the shower. With this brush, now all I have to do is spray my hair with water, put the product in it, and comb it through with this brush, and my curls are poppin'!" —Bryant

    Get it from Amazon for $18.75+ (available in a variety of sizes and colors).

    44. A Maybelline concealer that'll mask dark circles and reduce under-eye puffiness (because what is sleep?). This may be what feels like the millionth Monday you've woken up wishing it was still the weekend, but at least you'll look fresh, well-rested, and ready to take on the day. 

    Reviewer with dark under-eye bags
    The same reviewer wearing the concealer, which has brightened the under-eye area

    Promising review: "I am a 30-year-old female. I have extremely dark under-eye circles. Honestly, that is the only reason I wear makeup — to cover them. I've used numerous kinds of concealers. Tarte Shape Tape, Mary Kay, Estee Lauder (assorted kinds), IT Cosmetics Bye Bye under eye, Clinique, Laura Mercier, Mac, and Bobbi Brown. I usually spend anywhere from $25–30 on one tube of concealer and still feel unsatisfied with the coverage. Or it looks too heavy and thick by the time I set it with a damp makeup sponge and powder (accentuating my under-eye fine lines). This little gem is great. I use this concealer every day instead of all my high-end brand concealers. It's full coverage, buildable, lasts all day, is not drying, and is not too liquidy. I'm so happy I gave this a try, I will definitely be keeping this baby in my everyday makeup bag." —Brittney

    Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in 22 shades).

    Check out my colleague's Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer review and learn why it's her favorite.

    45. A volcanic stone face roller for removing oil and shine from your face. And unlike oil-blotting sheets, the ball can be popped out and washed so you can use this over and over and over again.

    Promising review: "This has transformed my makeup routine! My skin is so oily, every day, I was dabbing it, rinsing it off, or wiping the oil off with a tissue. It was so embarrassing to me. Now, I just go over my T-zone with this roller, and my face stays dry all day; no more shine! Don’t hesitate to purchase this roller; it’s absolutely wonderful and gets the job done!" —GLENDA GERDES

    Get it from Amazon for $8.97.

    46. A bottle of rosehip oil if your skin has lost its glow. Its antioxidants and fatty acids may help brighten dark spots and restore your skin's plumpness. Use it on your face, nails, and body for scrumdiddlyumptious results.

    Promising review: "This oil is amazing!! It has evened out my skin tone, balanced my oily and dry patches, and cleared up blemishes all in only two weeks of use. This is the best my skin has ever looked. Everyone needs to use this oil!!! This has made such a difference with my skin that friends and coworkers are even noticing. I lather it on generously every night, and again in the morning. The oil does have an orange color but once it is absorbed into the skin you can't notice. My only complaint is that it has left a little orange stain behind on my pillow cases. But if that is what it takes for me to have beautiful skin, I can deal with it!" —Alyssa

    Get it from Amazon for $14.95.

    Me to you when I say Differin works: