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.
1. A cult-favorite facial serum that's earned over 15,000 5-star rave reviews. This multipurpose serum features hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for a powerhouse of a skincare product to help brighten your skin tone, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and even soften skin.
Promising review: "This serum works wonders on my skin. I had slight hyperpigmentation on my face and I do have acne scars, my skin looked dull and lacked moisture, after I applied this serum everyday in the morning my skin looks so much better than before. My pigmentation is reduced, my skin looks fresh and moisturized. I am very happy with my purchase and I highly recommend this to buy." âKavita
Get it from Amazon for $33.62Â (currently only available in 2-oz.).
2. A pack of Mighty Patches designed to practically disappear your pus-filled blemishes and pimples with barely any effort. Whether you wear them to sleep or throughout the day, these circular patches work their magic over the course of a few hours, aka right before your eyes.
Promising review: "I purchased these for my son, who suffers from cystic acne. He puts them on the pimples at night and in the morning, the pimples are dramatically reduced in size and his skin is 'flat' in his words. I highly recommend these to anyone who suffers from any type of acne. They were recommended by another mom on my son's basketball team. Her son was using them and I am so thankful that she shared how great the Mighty Patches are!" âSlade Salisbury
Get a 36-pack from Amazon for $12.99.
3. Or these larger Mighty Patches, which can tackle several pus-filled pimples or zits at once in larger areas (like your jawline, back or neck). Get at those blemishes in harder to reach areas and worry less as the hydrocolloid works overnight, and even if you move around in your sleep, these sticky strips won't budge!
Each strip is 2 inches long and can be cut into smaller sizes if necessary.
Promising review: "Amazing! I was using multiple little patches on large areas and they just didnât work that well. I put this patch on my chin and left it over night and was extremely pleased with the results. I had two little pimples and a bunch of hard-to-get blackheads. My chin has never been more clear. It basically feels like those clear waterproof Band-Aids so it did not slide off during the night. I was so surprised and a little grossed out that so much gunk was in my chin. I highly recommend these patches!"Â âErin Brown
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $17.99.
4. Blotting papers to absorb and help remove excess oil from your T-zone. If you're a combination-oily person like me, these deserve a dedicated place in your purse, toiletry bag, etc.
Promising review: "I have been using these for over one year, and they are by far the best oil blotting sheets I have ever used. The biggest plus is that they do not smudge my makeup at all, so no touch-ups are needed after using. They are super absorbent, and I can blot my entire face with one sheet. I have them on a monthly subscription, and they are worth every penny. Highly recommend!" âMagnolia2380
Get a 100-sheet pack from Amazon for $6.95 (available in three styles).
5. Glossier's Milky Jelly Cleanser for anyone who wants a daily cleanser that truly does it all. This popular cleanser is gentle on the skin thanks to its conditioning, pH-balanced formula.
This jelly cleanser is vegan, cruelty-free, and non-comedogenic. It's also created without fragrances, but a little rose water in the formula gives it a delicate scent.
Promising review: "I have normal skin and I normally don't break out unless I'm stressed or have my period. Recently, I noticed texture and small bumps on my forehead that would not go away. After using this cleanser, I noticed that after a week, my skin became really smooth and the bumps went away after few days. Adding this to my skin care routine has become A STAPLE and I highly recommend it to people with small bumps or are looking for a way to cleanse their face. It's the best way to start off the day because it makes your face feel really smooth and fresh every morning!" âGlossier Customer
Get it from Glossier for $10+ (available in two sizes).
6. A foot file in case you don't have any time to book a pedicure, but seriously need to give your feet some TLC. A cheese grater-like design helps remove dead skin and crust, so your feet are ready to be shown off in your favorite sandal, heel, or even barefoot on the 'gram.
Promising review: "OK, yes, it looks like a cheese grater and, yes, it is darn sharp...so I was a little nervous about it. But I gotta say, this is a great foot rasp. I'm one of those people who runs around barefoot as much as possible and my feet get pretty dry and callused as a result. This rasp worked like a charm to remove all the dead skin and have my feet looking and feeling better in no time. Follow the directions and don't push too hard, let the rasp do the work, then there are no worries about cutting yourself or removing too many layers. I would highly recommend this rasp." âKindle Customer
Get it from Amazon for $10.95.
7. A box of hydrating face masks because temporarily looking like you're auditioning for The Walking Dead is absolutely worth the results of this top-rated sheet mask. It'll help tighten pores and clear minor breakouts, all while leaving you with a moisturized face after you wash it off. With over 7,000 5-star ratings, the amount of happy customers could actually make up a cast of extras on TWD...
Promising review: "I was absolutely amazed after using this mask! It made my skin so soft! My pores were barely there, this mask tightened my skin and left it baby smooth! This was only after one use! My makeup went on beautifully and lasted longer. After several uses I can say the tightening effect has really left my skin firmer. The mask made my skin feel slightly itchy as it tightened. However, it did subside and it didnât irritate my face. I am loving how soft my skin is. And yes it is still making my pores look none existent! Love it, would highly recommend. đđ" âSarah
Get a box of eight masks from Amazon for $19.78.
8. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub â it's designed specifically for users with Keratosis Pilaris (aka KP) to help buff away dead skin and unclog pores to help reduce the appearance of bumps. A combination of lactic and glycolic acid offers gentle exfoliation and pumice buffing beads help clear dead skin and dirt away and down the drain.
Promising review: "My forearms have always been rough and red. I used this for the first time tonight, just my hand rubbing it over my arms in the shower. I asked my teenage daughter to touch my arms and she asked me if I shaved them. That's how smooth they are. I highly recommend for the fact that it made my arms smooth for the first time in like 30 years." âAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $12+Â (available in four sizes).
9. A reviewer-loved CeraVe Moisturizing Cream that's earned over 105,000 5-star ratings for its hydrating, fragrance-free formula that can be used on your face and body. Just FYI, the amount of 5-star rating reviewers is more than the entire population South Bend, Indiana...
Promising review: "This is by far superior to anything I have tried thus far! I have purchased several lotions but this is my fav! First of all, it's whipped lotion that is thick at the same time but glides onto your skin... and my skin drinks it right up. It does not feel sticky or leave any stickiness which I like! It leaves my skin feeling soft and it does not irritate my skin! Love this and I highly recommend!" âAmazon Customer
Get a 19-ounce jar from Amazon for $17.78.
10. Top-rated Bio-Oil, which is designed with a non-greasy and moisturizing formula to help users reduce the appearance of stretch marks or scars (including acne scars), and even help with hyperpigmentation. You can also use it as a daily moisturizer for your face and body, so this product really worked to earn those 4.7 stars from reviewers.
Promising review: "I love Bio-Oil and I was so glad to see it in such a big bottle. This product is amazing for reducing scars and stretch marks â not just fading them. They actually are reducing the depth of some of my deeper stretch marks, they are almost completely even with the surrounding skin. I would highly recommend this product." âJessica Herren
Get it from Amazon for $24.49 (available in three sizes).
11. Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment for anyone with acne-prone skin that wants to put an end to breakouts. This top-rated skincare product is designed to target and treat clogged pores and blemishes, all while preventing more acne from happening.
BuzzFeed editor Melanie Aman uses this product and here's what she has to say: "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. I especially love pairing it with The Ordinary squalane oil to keep my skin soft and supple."
Promising review: "I have been searching for years and spent too much money to find an effective acne treatment. Using this gel every other day has completely cleared me up. I no longer experience under the skin pimples or tiny white heads. I also noticed my skin looks healthier. I am experiencing dryness more than usual, but adding in a daily moisturizer with SPF has helped. I highly recommend given the cost and how well it has worked on my skin!" âDanielle Brindisi
Get a 30-day supply from Amazon for $14.97.
12. Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence â whoever thought about adopting a snail's skincare "secret" might actually be a genius? This top-rated serum helps hydrate and restore dry, dull skin on your face, leaving you with a moisturized, glowing complexion.
Promising review: "This is holy grail for me! It's unscented, which I love, and goes on so smooth. I'm a little backwards with my application being that after toner or exfoliation I put on a few drops of jojoba oil, and then the essence. I found that by doing this, the products absorb better. Since using this in combination with the Korean skin care method, my face has completely cleared up, with only the occasional zit. Honestly, it's my favorite product and soothes my skin, especially after exfoliating. Highly recommended!" âAnjelic
Get it from Amazon for $12.50.
13. A set of gold under-eye masks, so you can passively work on reducing any puffiness, bags, or dark circles even as you stay up late scrolling through and sending TikTok videos to everyone you know. It's called working smarter, not harder.
Former BuzzFeed editor Jasmin Sandal loves these masks and said: "I decided to put these golden gems to the test after coming off of a red-eye flight with practically no sleep. After cooling them off in the fridge (which is what was suggested on the packet), I applied them to my purpley, puffy eyes, and...w-o-w. Not only did I feel like I was receiving some kind of royal treatment (because, gold), but after 20 minutes, my under-eyes appeared brighter and any fine lines that were once lingering had vanished! After wearing these I didn't feel compelled to apply concealer either, which is usually my go-to to disguise dark circles â and I even felt confident enough to go bare-faced for the rest of the day."
Promising review: "This product is amazing! As a nurse that works the night shift, this product has been a lifesaver. I used to have dark, baggy circles under my eyes and this product has left me looking rejuvenated. Friends have complimented how the skin around and under my eyes appears smooth, hydrated, and less puffy. The product itself also feels refreshing. I'm a fan of this product and I highly recommend it!" âJason
Get 15 pairs from Amazon for $17.95.
14. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant â it boasts over 66,000 5-star ratings with 4,000 reviews (and counting!) of customers who are obsessed with the effectiveness of this must-have treatment. Simply add it to your skincare routine to help get rid of blackheads and dead skin, minimize pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
BTW, this exfoliant is also a top skincare pick on TikTok!Â
Promising review: "I had seen several reviews on TikTok about this product and I decided to try it for myself and see how good it was as they said. I had pores and pimples around my cheeks, I've tried different products but none worked as good as this one. Every night before going to bed, I apply it to my face along with a moisturizer. And wow, I am not kidding, the next day you can already see how the redness is fading away and any recent pimples start to get smaller, as well as my pores on my cheek area! I had not seen a difference that fast with other popular products, but this one did. I highly recommend, it really does improves your skin and it looks more healthy and glowing. In my opinion 10/10 :)" âMariel Garza
Get it from Amazon for $13+ (available in two sizes).
15. A 3-in-1 treatment created to help even your skintone, brighten your complexion, and reduce the appearance of dark spots. This top-rated product can be used as a daily cleanser, a face mask, or even an exfoliator!
Each jar includes the cleanser and a convenient exfoliating sponge to use.
Promising review: "Very easy to wash your face with and then tuck back into the little soap canister for tomorrow. I will order another one to travel with this. The pad it comes with feels like it really rubs the makeup off and exfoliates. I love how my skin feels after using this. Highly recommend." âErin M
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in two sizes).
16. Bolden Skincare's SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer, so you can frolic in the sun whenever you want to and worry less about dark spots and sunburn. This multipurpose moisturizer protects your skin from UV damage and leaves you with a glowing complexion!
Like with most sunscreens, if you're going to be outside all day, you'll want to reapply every two hours. And if you're going to be sweating or swimming, you'll want a water-resistant sunscreen...which this is not!
Promising review: "I love this moisturizer. Being a dark-skin African American, often times sunscreen leaves a residue. This is the first sunscreen I've ever used that doesn't leave any weird discoloration, feels great on my skin, and it aids in reducing hyperpigmentation. I even have sensitive skin and haven't had any breakouts while using Bolden's sunscreen. A pump and a half is all I need for my face and neck. I highly recommend it and will be buying more for my family." âMissy D.
Get it from Amazon for $27.43.
Bolden is a Black-owned business specializing in skincare products, including acne treatments and cleansers, that'll help streamline your daily routine.
17. The Stila One-Step Color-Correcting Facial Serum, which is designed to help you color-correct and brighten your complexion by combatting redness and dark spots with a nourishing blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
The reviewer above used this facial serum to cover up a bad sunburn!
Promising review: "I think this is a wonderful product and I highly recommend it to anyone who fights facial redness. I sometimes wear it alone, but under cream foundation and light powder it works even better. I was totally amazed at how much it evened out my skin tone! And honestly I didn't think it could be done." âUGdg
Get it from Amazon for $36.
18. Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color-Correcting Treatment because we stan a 2-in-1 skincare product, and this one is no exception. This go-to treatment helps neutralizes redness in your complexion, but is also created with SPF 30 to help keep your skin protected from the sun! Not to mention, it's designed for use by all skin types, so you can count on this little jar of magic daily.
After cleansing and moisturizing, warm a dime-size drop between your hands and gently blend it into your face. The cream will change colors from green to beige as you apply it, resulting in reduced redness and the appearance of a more even skin tone.
Promising review: "I love this product, itâs perfect for my skin type! I have easily irritated skin that is often red, even just putting water on it. So this is the perfect thing to use in place of foundation! Not only did it color correct my skin, but it also kept me from breaking out, which normally happens anytime I wear any type of foundation. I highly recommend this product!"Â âSephora Customer
BuzzFeed editor Elizabeth Lilly also swears by this color-correcting skincare treatment. Check out her Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color-Correcting Treatment review for more details (it's #1).
Get it from Sephora for $21+Â (available in two sizes).
19. The Skinergy Skin BHavior Resurfacing Essence, which boasts an acne-fighting formulaic blend of retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and salicylic acid for results you can actually see. Use this treatment to help reduce the appearance of darks spots and blemishes, as well as preventing breakouts. Getting a glowing complexion without an expensive trip to the aesthetician? Yes please!
Promising review: "WOW! Not even prescription acne medication has been able to control my acne and scarring the way this has. In addition, my skin looks brighter and smoother and almost glows! HIGHLY recommend this product!" âMaurylyne
Get it from Skinergy Beauty for $54.99.
Skinergy Beauty is a Latine-owned small business that specializes in creating inclusive skincare and beauty products for all skin types.
20. Handmade Heroes Vegan Coconut Lip Scrub â don't you agree your lips deserve some TLC, too? This pocket-sized powerhouse is designed to exfoliate dry skin on your lips and leave them with a moisturized, rejuvenated appearance thanks to a blend of avocado oil, jojoba oil, and sweet almond oil.
Promising review: "I absolutely love my scrub. It did exactly what it is supposed to, exfoliate my lips. It is unscented, except from the natural coconut from the oil. I highly recommend this. The packaging is super cute too. A bit larger than I was expecting, so bonus. đ" âAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
21. Glossier's Futuredew, so you can effortlessly achieve and show off a glowing complexion thanks to a nourishing blend of grape seed, jojoba, rosehip, and evening primrose oils with other botanical extracts. Add it to your skincare regimen if you favor a dewy look!
Promising review: "This serum does so many things at once: moisturizes, adds glow, softens, and smells so delicious. Highly, highly recommend to anyone who wants a dewy look that lasts, but doesn't leave your face feeling oily." âGlossier Customer
Get it from Glossier for $26.
22. Acure's Seriously Soothing Blue Tansy Night Oil for anyone who that wants to get some *real* beauty sleep. This lightweight treatment works overnight to help reduce redness, irritation, and breakouts, so you can wake up feeling like a literal Disney Princess who #wokeuplikethis.
Promising review: "The blue tansy night oil is a blue oil, it has low viscosity and thus spreads beautifully on my skin and my skin absorbs most of it. I can't stand oils which sit on top of my skin, I get a claustrophobic feeling as if it is suffocating my skin. But not this one, it is light but strong on effect. I have rosacea and it calms my skin wonderfully. Highly recommend." âzsuzsa
Get it from Amazon for $12.
23. A Honeyskin Ultimate Face and Body Cream that's created with a blend of ingredients to help hydrate and moisturize all skin types, like aloe vera, which is super soothing for skin, and cocoa butter, which can help improve your skin tone and texture!
Like with most products that go on your skin, if you have any concerns about sensitivity, be sure to do a test patch on your arm before use!
Promising review: "I ordered this cream with high expectations and it has even surpassed them! I have very sensitive skin and have yet to find anything I could use without causing stinging and irritation until Honey Skin. I am using it on my face (mild rosacea) and all over for moisturizing. It is non-greasy, dries soft to the touch, and works fantastic under my mineral powder. It has a light scent that reminds me of 'beer' and is likely the honey. The scent leaves quick and doesn't linger. Can't say enough about it, obviously I highly recommend trying it." âGina
Get it from Amazon for $15.97+ (available in three sizes).
24. A Luna Mini 2 by FOREO if you want to take your skincare routine up a notch and stop washing your face with your hands. đĽ˛Â This sonic cleanser will deliver a deep clean you thought you could only get from a professional and remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil in literally one minute.
BuzzFeed editor Maitland Quitmeyer tried this skincare gadget and loved how it made her skin clearer and smoother. She said, "It removes up to 99.5% of dirt and oil â and leaves your face free of ANY makeup residue. I wear a full face every day, and I am consistently amazed by the results of this tool." See her full FOREO Luna Mini 2 review.
Promising review: "I had a Clarisonic and never used it. It was cumbersome, too large to travel with, and I kept having to replace the brushes. I also felt that it was a little too harsh on my skin and I could only use it every other day. The Luna I am really loving. It's tiny, simple to use, clean and pack, and I've noticed a difference in the few weeks that I've been using it â my pores look smaller, my skin is clearer, and the tone on my skin is also improved. I would highly recommend." âNataliaF
Get it from Amazon for $99+Â (available in five colors).
25. The Blume Meltdown Acne Oil, so you can start on your skincare journey the right way and work on preventing breakouts while still keeping your skin nourished and hydrated. Thousands of reviewers have used this oil to help reduce the appearance of acne scars and keep their acne-prone skin glowing and fabulous.
This oil works as a spot treatment or you can mix it with your go-to moisturizer to tackle larger areas like your cheeks, chin, or forehead.
Promising review: "Been using this oil while on Accutane. I have super sensitive skin, so the ingredients keep my face moisturized with no irritation. The smell is potent but more spa like than anything. I apply morning and night. Would recommend to anyone with sensitive skin!" âBlume Customer
Get it from Blume for $28+ (available in two sizes and save 20% when you subscribe).
Blume is a woman-founded small biz popular for their line of eco-friendly period- and skincare products.
26. The top-rated Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen designed with a vegan formula packed with vitamin E, so you can stay moisturized *and* protected from the sun during your favorite outdoor activities, be it biking, hiking, or...brunching!
We're serious about the working up a sweat, this sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes!
Promising review: "I have tried so many different types of sunscreen for my daughter but they all leave such a thick and greasy residue and have such a strong smell. I happened to stumble across Sun Bum and after reading the positive reviews, decided it was worth a shot. I will never use anything else now! It soaks in the skin so nicely, doesn't leave that greasy shine, and it smells AMAZING. Highly recommend!" âLisa Harshbarger
Get it from Amazon for $18.49.Â
27. Fresh's Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner, which if you don't already have a toner on your skincare regimen, you won't regret starting with this one. An alcohol-free formula helps keep your complexion glowing by reducing dryness, dull skin, and the appearance of pores. Next step, moisturizer!
Promising review: "At first I was worried about this product when I first purchased it because I thought the price was too expensive and wouldnât work on my dry skin. I bought the mini size one to test it out and so far this toner has been very hydrating to my dry skin. Best purchase I ever made, as it doesnât dry out my face or make me break out. It leaves my face feeling smooth. Highly recommend getting this product." âSephora Customer
Get it from Sephora for $27+ (available in two sizes).
28. This Ancient Greek Remedy Moisturizer to help anyone with acne-prone skin clear up their complexion with its hydrating formula. Plus, you can also use it to give a moisturizing boost to your body, hair, and hands!
Promising review: "So I've only been using this for six days, and my mind is absolutely blown! I've been using it on my face, body, and hair. My hair has been super soft, it's helped clear up some eczema, rashes, and razor burn, and my acne has started to clear up as well! I would 100% recommend this to everyone! It smells fantastic and absorbs in very quickly so you don't feel oily all day or night." âRachel
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
29. The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter, so you don't have to rub your face raw every time you remove your makeup. A supple cream boasting camomile extract and vegan ingredients builds a pampering lather that gently cleanses you skin.
Promising review: "I stopped using foaming face washes a long time ago, when I realized most just dried my skin out and made it reactive. This Body Shop Cleansing Butter is amazing! A little goes a long way, it deep cleans and wipes away easily with a hot or warm wash cloth. This removes sunscreen and tinted moisturizer and leaves my skin soft, clean, fresh, and smooth. Highly recommended!" âHJ
Get it from Amazon for $19.
30. And Sol by Jergens' Deeper by the Drop Self Tanning Drops, which you can combine with your favorite moisturizer for a subtle, sun-kissed glow. A lightweight, oil-free formula offers less mess in your bathroom during use and effortless application.
Promising review: "This stuff works great! I am very fair-skinned and have always had problems with sunless tanners looking too orange on me. I applied in the afternoon and didnât notice any change in color. I was becoming a bit skeptical as it says within hours. The next morning however I woke up to a perfect tan glow. Not too dark, not orange, but just right for a fair skinned person looking to have a little bit of color without having to spend hours in the sun. I can not comment on how long the color lasts as this is my first application, but I am very happy with my results and highly recommend." âStephanie
Get it from Amazon for $13.47.
Skincare? More like self-care. đđđ
