March 19, 2024

48 Beauty Products People Swear Actually Improved Their Skin

36 min read

Table of Contents

Your skin will be glowing.

We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, BuzzFeed may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.


amazon.com, amazon.com

This mask has changed my life. Which I know sounds so dramatic but it’s true and it’s why I put it at number one. It has a very creamy and cooling consistency which I apply with a face mask brush (but it comes with a small applicator), I let it sit for about 20 minutes and then remove with a face sponge soaked in warm water. The difference in my skin — my sensitive, acne-prone skin — is astonishing after just one use. My pores shrunk down so much! I went from having what looked like a strawberry for a nose to just a regular, smooth nose! I haven’t shut up about it since I started using it. Now I apply it every three days, it’s honestly my new religion. I wish it came in a bigger jar so I could cover my entire body in it. I’m not even joking. I love it so hard. I will never stop using this mask. NEVER.

Promising review: “This product goes on nicely with the little application paddle that comes included. Kept it on for about 10 minutes and washed off with warm water. I was very impressed with how smooth my face felt afterward. My pores seemed to be much smaller and I was really impressed with the results. Great product!” —Dazza

Get it from Amazon for $12.49.


2.

A stainless-steel Skin Spatula which helps you deal with your decades of skin woes by using high-frequency vibration to clean blackheads, whiteheads, grease, and dead skin — just make sure and use it on wet skin.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “This worked better than a hydra facial! I still had blackheads after the $100 facial and this tool got them out so much better. I would suggest using a soapy/frothy cleanser vs. water because the glide is smoother — and don’t be too aggressive because you can get carried away, remember it’s a metal spatula. I use a rotating facial brush every other day with a frothy cleanser, this tool weekly, a mattifying toner every day, and I feel like I just left the spa.” —mom bod

Get it from Amazon for $13.71.


3.

A bottle of Tend Skin solution that, when applied after shaving and waxing, can effectively reduce the appearance of razor bumps, burns, and redness — bye-bye bumps.


amazon.com

Promising review: “I have sensitive skin and this has helped tremendously! I’m a woman who unfortunately started shaving my chin 20 years ago to get rid of peach fuzz. I’ve had stubble ever since and have to shave every day. I get rashes on my chin due to shaving. My skin is now less sensitive and my rash is almost gone!” —Angela

Get it from Amazon for $24.99.

4.

A pack of hydrocolloid, tea tree, calendula oil, and CICA-infused acne patches which easily blend into your skin while they spot treat your pimples.


amazon.com

Promising review: “The amount of gunk this took out of my pores AFTER washing and exfoliating my face is literally crazy!! I have very oily skin and acne (cystic and ‘normal’ acne). Also works great on popped pimples. Sucks all the crap out!!” —Amanda

Get a pack of 40 patches from Amazon for $8.49 (available in small and extra large sizes).


amazon.com

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 $4.99.


6.

A microplane foot file to easily (and instantly) remove that dry cracked skin from your feet.


amazon.com, amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “After comparing foot files and reading the reviews, I decided to order this foot file. Living with chronic pain conditions has made it almost impossible to get out and go to the nail salon on a regular basis. I needed a way that I could ‘maintain’ my feet in between pedicure appointments, and purchasing this foot file was definitely a great decision. I couldn’t believe how well and easily it removed the dead skin from the bottom of my feet. The only other product that I used was a tiny amount of callus remover to help remove the unwanted dry skin. I couldn’t believe how well it worked and my feet felt so much better. I would highly recommend using caution when it comes to the amount of skin that you slough off. Otherwise, you could remove too many layers of skin, leaving your feet sensitive to touch or painful when walking on them. If you are looking for a way to maintain your feet on your own then look no further! The price is competitive, the quality is top-notch, and it couldn’t be any easier to use.” —Amy

Get it from Amazon for $9.95.


7.

And while we’re on our feet, a pack of exfoliating foot masks to help heal your dry, cracked feet — and even calluses. Just wear the booties for about an hour, and watch over the next few weeks as your dead skin literally sheds away and leaves you with the smooth, soft feet of your dreams.


amazon.com

Promising review: “I can’t believe I’m posting a picture of my foot to Amazon, but there’s a first time for everything I guess. Being a New Yorker, I’m used to walking A LOT, and as a result, my feet were dry, callused, and just plain disgusting. I wouldn’t even touch my feet and was embarrassed to wear sandals. I didn’t want to pay for a pedicure, so I tried this, and I’m so glad I did. I couldn’t believe all the skin that peeled off my feet. I felt like a shedding snake. As crazy as it sounds, my new beautiful feet have given me a boost of self-confidence. I can’t wait to wear sandals again.”—AmazonCustomer

Get a box of two sets from Amazon for $27.95.


8.

A titanium 540 .25″ microneedle derma roller designed to help reduce the size of pores, fine lines, acne scars, and wrinkles — just gently roll it across the skin to help stimulate rejuvenation and exfoliate.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “My before and after photo is exactly 24 hours apart. I can’t believe the difference. I used a highly rated, mostly organic Vitamin C serum after rolling, and then followed that with a good facial moisturizer. I’m shocked at the difference. The small bumps on my forehead nearly disappeared.” —Rebecca

Get it from Amazon for $15.97.


9.

A super effective Zombie Pack — a 15-minute face mask that’ll help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, visibly lift up the skin, clear small breakouts, tighten enlarged pores, hydrate skin, improve texture by gently removing dead cells, and brighten your complexion — all while making them look like an extra from The Walking Dead.


amazon.com

Promising review: “I’ll be honest. I don’t write reviews very often. Today was especially a hard day working from home, not sleeping last night, an 18-month-old and a 3-year-old. I was feeling beat! My 40-year-old skin was sure showing the stress. I had LOW expectations — no way this could make me feel better but I decided to treat myself at least a little. Well, was I in for a BIG surprise! I was FaceTiming my mom, also my BFF, during the tightening. I sure was scared, we both thought this would be perfect for a Halloween night! Lol! But as soon as I rinsed it off… WOW! My mom was asking all about it! She will try it too! Lol! I will surely continue using it! Please leave this awesome product at this awesome price! Greatly appreciated by tired mommies like me!! Gracias!!” —TAYD3

Get a set of eight masks from Amazon for $22.80+ (available in three varieties).

10.

A tube of Embryolisse Concentrated Lait Cream, a super-rich and nourishing lotion that can be used as a primer, moisturizer, and makeup remover.


instagram.com

Promising review: “BEST moisturizer. I’ve tried $80 moisturizers that didn’t work as well. I’m on my second tube so I’ll be a returning customer. I also bought the smaller size for stocking stuffers this past Christmas and they were a big hit with all the ladies in the family. I bought a small size for travel this summer. Glad I stumbled across this mentioned in a blog from an American woman trying French beauty products.” —Diana B

Get it from Amazon for $16+ (available in two sizes).

11.

A bottle of Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil which is clinically proven to work against scars (once they’re fully healed) while helping with uneven skin tone, dryness, and aging skin.


amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: “I swear by this product. Very effective on discolored skin due to scarring. I had shingles on my face brought about by stress because we were moving. It ravaged the lower right side of my face and I was pretty sure it was going to leave hideous scarring. I bought this and started applying it when I started scabbing and still haven’t stopped using it until now. I had my shingles in April and it’s August now. Check the before and after pics. It works.” —twitch

Get it from Amazon for $8.92+ (available in three sizes).


12.

TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum, a topical facial serum made of hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. It can help brighten your skin and lighten dark spots and sunspots.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “I have spent a lot of money at Sephora and Ulta looking for a miracle serum to get rid of my dark spots. In the last three years, something changed and I started breaking out with mild adult acne that later turned into a stress-picking ordeal which left me with nasty dark spots. I’ve also spent lots of money buying concealers to hide and not feel judged by anyone talking to me face to face. I haven’t really changed anything in my diet really except eating papaya. LOL! I wash my face three times a week with Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser and then use this serum. I shake the bottle and massage in a few drops all over. I do wear a mild face sunblock too. Like I said, I don’t use it often or every night but it’s doing something and I’m super excited to keep seeing results. I’ve also used it on my husband once and his skin was baby soft 😍. The picture on the left (pink shirt) is from today, the picture on the right is from two months ago. The sides of my face were very bad.” —Bonaria Bustamante

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two sizes).


13.

A light and silky Touch in Sol No Poreblem primer so you can smooth out your skin before you apply your favorite foundation — they’ve even tested it out on these good looking oranges to show you how effective it is (no oranges or animals were harmed during the testing of this primer, it’s 100% cruelty-free and vegan).


instagram.com, Amazon

Promising review: “I’m 44 and for the past four years my skin has been throwing a hissy fit. No matter what I tried my pores were screaming through my makeup. You know what I mean? Makeup sinking into the pores will turn any good foundation into a pool party on your face. Finally, a month ago I found this and it really works. I have combo-dry skin, weather depending and it doesn’t make my skin oily. My foundation sets nicely over it (no sinking) and stays on for about eight hours before needing a touchup. And of course my pores…barely visible!!!! I’m happy!” —KPak

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (cruelty-free and vegan).


14.

A double-sided silicone lip brush to get rid of any excess skin and make your lips totally matte lipstick-ready.


Amazon

Promising review: “I admit I was skeptical about this product but my desperation to regain my soft lips made me click the BUY button. I just had a baby and between all the milk I was pumping for the baby and caffeine drinking my body was dried out and dehydrated. My lips took a hit and were dried, cracked, and even bleeding — very painful. Even my tried and true expensive-as-heck lip moisturizer I use couldn’t help. Having this lip brush did the trick and made all the difference. The exfoliation must have allowed my lip moisturizer to get better absorbed. I was able to see results in just a couple of days. Now I have soft and supple lips again. I tried using a toothbrush and I would not recommend it. First, the toothbrush doesn’t feel as good and second, it will waste whatever product you are using with it because the product will settle deep in the bristles so you have to use a lot more of it, and third it’s also hard to clean. This silicone lip brush feels so good and since the ‘bristles’ or ‘bumps’ are shallow, I just needed to use a little bit of my expensive lip moisturizer and it was so easy to clean the brush afterward. Where has this thing been all my life? I don’t think I can live without it now.” —Double-J

Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three colors). And you might want to consider pairing it with this effective little lip scrub, if you’re in the market.

15.

A bottle of Mario Badescu’s A.H.A. Botanical Body Soap designed in a fragrant gel made of botanical extracts like sesame oil and carnation oil that’ll help soften dry skin and herbal and seaweed extracts which will help nourish and revitalize your skin.


Amazon

Promising review: “Smells and feels amazing!! Leaves you feeling very clean and with no residue. Works as a bubble bath and shower gel. Huge Mario Badescu fan and this did not disappoint!! Love it!” —Ashley von Eschenbach

Get it from Amazon for $10+ (available in two sizes).

16.

A bottle of Moon Juice Acid Potion, a resurfacing exfoliator that can deeply nourish while actively resurfacing the skin with five acids and botanical support — which also help with natural cell turnover and to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines.


Moon Juice

Promising review: “Heaven sent!! I use this morning and night, and it has improved the texture of my skin times a million! Dark spots are decreasing and my skin is softer and brighter. I get compliments all the time. I’ve been using this product for almost a month, I purchased it to heal and recover my acne-damaged skin from scars to dark spots. II will be using this product for as long as possible.💕” —Detron N.

Get it from Moon Juice for $42. Vegan and cruelty-free.

17.

A jar of nourishing and conditioning Hard As Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream designed to help prevent splits, chips, peels, and cracks while helping them grow by using ingredients like calcium, vitamins, and hydrogenated jojoba oil.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “This product is amazing!! As a lifelong nail-biter, I decided on my birthday this year to finally kick the habit. I bought this, as well as two no-bite polishes (Mavala Stop and No-Bite Pro-Growth). I started using this cream every night on my nails. With some will power and some horrible tasting nail polish, this healed my destroyed, chewed, split nails and allowed them to finally grow. I have never been able to grow them without cracks and splits that kept them short and weak. I’ve tried other creams, polishes, acrylics, gels, meditation, the rubber band on the wrist, you name it. My nails are now strong and growing fast! This is my first real manicure on my natural nails! I now have a jar of this for home and one for work. I love it!!!” —HL1985

Get it from Amazon for $7.94.


18.

An alcohol-free witch hazel and aloe vera Thayers Facial Toner that’ll help soothe your sensitive skin.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Check out our full review of Thayer’s Witch Hazel Facial Toner.

Promising review: “I’ve been using this every day for about nine months as a toner in my skincare routine and I’ve seen a tremendous difference. My dark marks and acne have gone away tremendously. I also dealt with fine bumps and textured skin and it greatly reduced that as well. My skin is almost clear. I’m almost on my third bottle of this. I’m never letting this go. I also use it after I shave my legs and ‘down there’ (not inside of it just pat it on the perimeter) and it prevents any bumps or irritation that may occur. No complaints whatsoever. If you want an all-natural, multi-purpose, affordable toner product this is for you.” —Sue Craig

Get it from Amazon for $8.99. They also come in a very handy pad version.


19.

A canister of SoftSheen-Carson Magic Skin Shaving Powder which was formulated to remove hair without ever having to use a razor — meaning no razor bumps. Just mix the powder with water, lather, and apply. Five to seven minutes later, remove with a damp cloth and bam. Done.


Amazon

Promising review: “Alright, so I hate shaving. EFFING hate it and am always looking for alternatives. Saw some chick post about this cheap shaving powder and figured I’d give it a shot. YOU GUYS. It smells like every rotten egg in the universe has joined together to revolt against the world, but it works like magic. No razor burn, no irritation, NO INGROWNS. No bumps — period! You can use it EVERYWHERE 😺😺😺😺 if you catch my drift. I made a thin paste and slathered that s**t on for 10 minutes. Make sure you take it off with a damp washcloth. Before some Karen comes at me yelling for promoting a product that isn’t made of only organic dirt and essential oil — adults can read labels and make decisions for themselves :).” —LizzieChambers

Get it from Amazon for $1.74+ (available in four varieties).

20.

A bottle of Radha Beauty Rosehip Oil, an organic solution for dealing with blemishes, discoloration, and dry skin. It’s filled with antioxidants and fatty acids for help brightening your skin.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “After having my baby I suffered from a horrible bout of acne and then scars! I went from perfect skin to disaster and my self-esteem was on the line. I even looked into the hundred-dollar face peels from the dermatologist! I found an article on Rosehip Oil randomly and gave it a try. Holy grail! Left photo is during when the scars were pretty dark and the right is now. I used to pile on the makeup, not anymore. This is about a four-month difference. The bottle lasts forever and I’m forever a customer.” —Audrey

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.


21.

A pack of blotting papers, because when they say you can cook an egg on it, they’re not talking about your oily skin — they’re probably talking about hot concrete floors.


amazon.com

Promising review: “I’ve had oily skin my whole life and used countless types of oil blotting sheets because they’re lifesavers. THESE ARE AMAZING. Great deal, big sheets, and they pull out one at a time so easily. Give these a try — completely worth it. They work well and are easy to use.” —Kelsey

Get a 100-sheet pack from Amazon for $6.95.


22.

A bar of African Black Soap, a natural formula that can help reduce dark spots, eczema flare-ups, dry skin, psoriasis, and even dandruff.


amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: “I never write reviews on products but let me just say this soap CHANGED MY LIFE! I have struggled with acne ever since I was in middle school. (I’m 17 now.) I’ve been to so many dermatologists, all they did was prescribe me benzoyl peroxide, which did control it for a while but then stopped working. I’ve tried so many acne treatments that would work for a while and then stop! I’ve come to the point where I was so embarrassed by my skin I would cake on loads of foundation because there was nothing I could find that would actually clear up my skin! Until one day I came across African Black Soap. It said it was good for acne and all natural so I decided to give it a try and I’m happy I did! I’ve had this soap for almost two weeks and all I gotta say is that I’m very impressed! I can’t wait to see what my skin will look like in a month. I use this soap morning and night and use a toner after each use.” —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.


23.

A pack of collagen-infused eye masks to help combat your lack-of-sleep look and any other general under-eye puffiness that tends to add to your bad day.


amazon.com

Promising review: “This product is a MUST for anyone who struggles with puffy/dark under eyes! I have horrible under-eye bags thanks to poor genetics and wearing eyeglasses my entire life. At some point, I’m going to have plastic surgery but I will be using these eye masks every day until I can afford the time and money for the surgery. I’ve enclosed an ugly (but very honest) picture of the before and after results from using this product this morning. I woke up and immediately applied the eye mask. I then wore it for about 25 minutes under my eyeglasses while I went about my household chores until the pads completely dried. When I removed the mask, my under-eye area was looking way less puffy and much brighter than when I woke up. I love this product so much that I’m ordering five more packages today so I have a supply handy.” —Mrs L

Get two packs of 30 from Amazon for $2.98.

24.

A delicious smelling jar of Touch Radiance mango body butter that’ll help give your skin that silky smooth feeling without any greasiness.


Touch Radiance

Touch Radiance is a Black-owned business based in Canada.

Promising review: “I love this product! It definitely moisturizes my skin, it’s smooth, and the smell is amazing. Great for people with dry skin and a great way to keep your skin glowing!” —Shakira

Get it from Touch Radiance for $25.

25.

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, formulated in a lightweight azelaic acid cream-gel which can brighten your complexion, even out skin texture, and reduce the appearance of blemishes.


Sephora

Promising review: “This suspension works miracles. I’m super pale, so redness and scarring are really apparent on my skin. This product helps tone down both, as well as prevent future breakouts from occurring. It doesn’t play well with makeup, so I only use it in the p.m., or on days when I’m not wearing makeup at all. My only complaint is the silicone texture and slight scent that it has. The phenomenal results definitely outweigh that though.” —KatrinaMG

Get it from Sephora for $7.90+ (available in two sizes).


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “I wish I discovered this product earlier. It took me six months of suffering from severe dandruff and white spots on my face. I was a week away from a visit to the dermatologist. After trying a lot of products and creams that didn’t work, I decided to give it a try. And with just one wash, my life was changed. This is my only shampoo now. Been using it for almost a year now and no more white spots on my face (itchy, flaky, and terrible) or the worst, thick itchy dandruff.” —Beverly Ramirez

Get it from Amazon for $14.84.


27.

A rechargeable POPPYO blackhead remover which uses suction to remove blackheads, whiteheads, dead skin, grease, and makeup residue.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “A must-have for large pores! Great product! I have used this on me and my husband. It works great for both and we have very different skin types. The suction it provides is impressive and you can see the amount of gunk that it removes. Also, the different heads that are provided are great.” —megan williams

Get it from Amazon for $20.58 (available in six options).


28.

A bottle of Maracuja Oil which can help firm, brighten, and create smoother-looking skin thanks to its vitamin C and essential fatty acids filled formula — on a personal note, this stuff was a freakin’ miracle worker for my acne-prone skin. It’s my absolute favorite face oil.


Tarte

Promising review: “I have oily skin on my T-zone but normal to dry on my cheeks. I apply this Maracuja Oil at night and it definitely makes my skin feel super hydrated and soft, it is in fact lightweight and it doesn’t leave a greasy aspect on the skin. I have the travel size but I only apply two drops on my face and it covers pretty much everything.” —Jordana

Get it from Tarte for $48. Cruelty-free.


29.

A bottle of Ambi Skincare Fade Cream, made with hydroquinone, vitamin E, and alpha hydroxy acid to gradually fade dark spots — plus it has SPF to help prevent dark spots from getting darker.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “I have purchased this product over eight times. I love it!!! I noticed results after about two weeks of putting it on once a day. Every time I get a new pimple, I put this on after the pimple heals and it gets rid of the scar. I use it on my face, arms, back, and chest. Recently I started using it on my bikini area as well to get rid of ingrown hair scars. I recommend this product to everyone I know who has acne scars.” —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $4.97.


30.

A bottle of Lip Bar Skin Serum Foundation, formulated with ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid to help your skin appear smoother with every application.


Lip Bar

Lip Bar is a Black-owned, woman-owned business and all of its products are vegan, cruelty-free, and use no unnecessary chemicals.

Promising review: “The first foundation that doesn’t break my face out! Felt very light on, the coverage is amazing, and it matches my complexion perfectly.” —Sharra J.

Get it from Lip Bar for $28 (available in 26 shades). Cruelty-free and vegan.


31.

A jar of Puriya’s Mother of all Creams, a non-comedogenic (which means that it is formulated not to block pores and not cause breakouts) and soothing formula to help you deal with the harsh winter weather. It’s made with things like honey, shea butter, aloe vera, and other nongreasy ingredients that can be easily absorbed by your skin — a little goes a long way too, you just need a dime-sized amount.


amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: “I wish I could post a meme here but, since I can’t I’ll just say, ‘I don’t always have eczema flair-ups but, when I do, from now on, I will only use this cream’. I have suffered my whole life with itchy, then bloody, then blistering flare-ups especially in the winter. All creams and lotions did a little but NOTHING worked like this has…in ONLY the TWO DAYS since it was delivered. A very little goes a long way and it just flat-out WORKS.” —Lloyd

Get it from Amazon for $30.97.



amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: “This primer is amazing. I have extremely oily skin and alopecia, so both drawing on my eyebrows and keeping them on can be a challenge. Most primers basically get chunky-looking and melt off my face. But not this one. I bought my first tube about two years ago. The tube lasted OVER A YEAR. That is freaking crazy. I do my makeup/use this primer daily, and it lasted a year! I bought my second bottle ‘too early’ and ended up not opening it for about four months. It works wonderfully as an eyelid primer and a brow primer. It makes my eyebrows go from lasting about two to three hours to lasting 24–28 hours without any shine or accidental rubbing off. I joke that it’s magic in a bottle — but in all honesty, it’s not really a joke. The photo provided is after about 20–22 hours of wearing the primer (on both eyelids and brows). I would highly recommend giving this a shot. Especially if you have oily skin like mine!” —Kennedi Grace

Get it from Amazon for $13.48 (cruelty-free).


33.

A bottle of Glossier’s Solution, a gentle blend made of 10% skincare acids like Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), and Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) to help “scrub” away dead skin without the harsh irritation caused by most traditional exfoliants.


Glossier

Promising review: “I love it! Has cleared up my bumpy skin and minimized my pores. You need to start slowly — once a week or less until you get used to it. I now use it every morning and my skin is looking great. Really love it!” —Maisie

Get it from Glossier for $24.


34.

A jar of Aztec Secret, a deep pore-cleansing mask that uses calcium bentonite clay to get deep into pores and remove any impurities.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “Great product. I mix Bragg Raw Apple Cider Vinegar with my Aztec Secret Indian Bentonite Healing Clay for my facial masks (instead of mixing water with the clay). After the facial, my pores are totally clean, and they seem to disappear. My skin also tightens and takes on a youthful glow. The results last for about a week or a little longer.” —Gloria

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.


35.

A bottle of TruSkin Vitamin C Daily Moisturizer – it harnesses the powers of multiple antioxidants to help fight acne and signs of aging while it maintains hydrated skin — even through the often dry skin-inducing temperatures.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “This stuff is EXCELLENT. I am very happy with the moisturizer, and I think the C serum underneath it also really helps. This is the first winter in many years that my skin hasn’t started to peel off in the cold, and amazingly dry, Santa Fe winter weather (50% humidity is high here, even right after it snows). It’s a month and a half, and this moisturizer is really great. It keeps my skin breathing and flexible over the C serum and somehow works with the serum to really protect against the freeze-dry peeling effect I used to get here in the winters. The price is more than reasonable and the ingredients are a lot nicer than moisturizers I used to pay twice as much for. I’m totally sticking with this stuff!” —Rebekah M. Levy

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in three sizes).


36.

A jar of Puriya Wonder Balm which uses beeswax, tea tree, and eucalyptus essential oils to help create a defense layer, especially in sensitive areas where moisture and sweat get trapped. It’s also great to use as a lip balm for that painful winter pout — it’s important to note that it has a thicker, waxier consistency that needs to be gently rubbed in to help with the absorption.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “After months of purchasing different moisturizers for a problem area of dry, flaky skin around my mouth, I purchased this because of the reviews. Every other product I purchased offered little to no relief, and I definitely didn’t see any end in sight. Within a day, I could already notice a major improvement and two weeks later the problem area is almost completely healed. Highly recommend this stuff for anyone with a problematic skin condition — I don’t know what caused my symptoms, but this stuff definitely worked!” —Amazonian

Get it from Amazon for $35.97.


37.

A Pink Moon Over the Moon Duo complete with their Gua Sha Facial Oil and rose quartz tool to help you massage your skin in a way that encourages lymphatic drainage and helps calm puffiness.


Pink Moon

Pink Moon is an Asian Woman-owned small business.

Promising review: “I can’t recommend this set highly enough — the oil is light but intensely hydrating and has a delicate floral scent, like I would imagine a rose garden on the moon would smell like. I use it all the time on its own, and it leaves my skin glowing without feeling or looking oily at all! Then the stone is such great quality and really beautiful, genuinely wonderful. It is worth the purchase price, 100%. This whole set has eased my recurring stress/sinus headaches, improved my skincare routine, and overall made me look and feel so much better and happier. This was my first purchase from Pink Moon, and it honestly got me hooked!” —Gabrielle t.

Get the duo from Pink Moon for $80.

38.

A bottle of NYX Matte Finish spray for makeup that’ll last all day — like, 12 hours, through snow, fire, and emergency response teams all day.


amazon.com

Promising review: “I’ve been using this for a while, but finally needed to write a review. This morning, I put my makeup on and did some generous sprays of this setting spray. Then, I went into the 100-plus-degree heat and demonstrated a short workout at an outdoor event. Despite drinking as much water as I could handle, I overheated quickly and EMS had to come to my rescue. Between my boyfriend and EMS, there was a small crowd around me literally pouring ice water on me, mopping my face and neck with cold towels, and pressing ice packs on me. This continued for a while and I was sure that my makeup was gone, but this spray kept my face mostly intact! If this spray can keep my makeup on through an encounter with EMS and being essentially submerged in ice water, it can keep yours on through your (hopefully less eventful) day!” —Bugaboo

Get it from Amazon for $8.47+ (available in two formulas).

39.

A peel-off charcoal face mask made with organic bamboo charcoal that’s great for sensitive skin while providing a pain-free way to get rid of blackheads.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “The gel helps to open pores and the mask does its job. I have oily skin and big pores on my nose area. The mask cleaned the pores on my face very well. It was comfortable to remove. After the first use, I got rid of the visible blackheads. It was amazing to see them left on the pulled mask! Also, the packaging is very nice and stylish. I am thinking about buying it for my girlfriend as a present.” —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $11.99.


40.

A pack of FaceTory’s Moon Velvet sheet masks filled with Jojoba Seed Oil (which will help moisturize while treating acne, fighting wrinkles, and soothing skin) and ceramides (which protects the skin from environmental stressors) to leave you with a perfect and refreshing glow.


Amazon

Promising review: “I had my doubts about this brand, but then I tried the MOON VELVET sheet mask… AAAAMAZING! It’s like a sheet mask covered in a serum night cream. I washed/exfoliated my face, applied my retinoid, and then threw this bad boy on. I left it on for about 40 minutes, and when I tell you it felt like I had poured an expensive moisturizer on my face, girl… As I said, amazing. I didn’t need to apply my usual night cream after this mask because it felt like it had sealed in all my serums for me. I’m definitely repurchasing.” —constance trujillo

Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $13.21+ (available in 13 options).


41.

A jar of Biossance’s Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer for a moisturizer that’s straight from the future! Biossance found a plant-based way to produce squalane, which totally mimics the natural hydration of squalene and can give our skin a level of moisture we just didn’t think we’d ever get back. The combination of squalane and probiotics help calm and soothe skin with any visible redness — even skin with rosacea.


Biossance

Our bodies (specifically our sebaceous gland) naturally produce squalene to help keep our skin super hydrated and protected, but as we get older we make less. Back in the day, cosmetic companies would pull squalene from shark livers (which is terrible tbqh).

Promising review: “I will never use another moisturizer again! This hydrated so well, but is SO light. It leaves my skin glowing and helps even out the redness in my skin!” —DANIELLE D.

Get it from Biossance for $16+ (available in two sizes). Cruelty-free.



amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “For me, the orange is an absolute necessity. Only one other product has ever been able to effectively hide my dark circles but the texture was too thick. So when I heard about this on YouTube I had to give it a try. Nearly six months later, I haven’t turned back. In terms of under eyes, I always start with an eye cream to reduce creasing, then I apply primer, and then the orange corrector. I do my best to focus just on the DARKEST areas, and not the entire under-eye area. I find it helps to wipe a concealer brush against the applicator brush so that you can have more control over how much and where it is placed. After it’s dry, I apply a light coat of foundation and lastly a light-colored concealer. I posted some unfiltered pictures of the before and after. The last was taken six hours after application. Also, I did not use any filter because I want to be able to show exactly what it looks like before and after.” —Sam

Get the pack of three from Amazon for $9.25.



amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “My heels have been in awful shape for years and I felt like I had tried everything but low and behold O’Keeffe’s did the trick. I apply the cream two times a day: after I shower and before bed and it’s made such a difference. My feet still need a little work but I see a huge improvement in just the three weeks I’ve been using the cream. There is a week between each picture.” —CV

Get it from Amazon for $6.41.


44.

A bottle of Glossier’s Futuredew oil serum hybrid designed using nourishing oils (that don’t feel greasy) and powerful plant-based extracts to give you an instant glow that lasts up to 12 hours.


Glossier

Promising review: “I love this so much. It instantly made my skin look so dewy. The glow was very natural.” —h

Get it from Glossier for $24. Vegan and cruelty-free.


45.

A bottle of Humane Acne Body & Face Wash, designed with maximum strength 10% benzoyl peroxide that’ll kill acne-causing bacteria and help treat the result of a bad breakout. As a warning tho, this cleanser is not for anyone with sensitive skin.


amazon.com, amazon.com

Promising review: “You’d think at 38 I’d be done with acne, but after going off the pill it has been awful. I tried so many products, spent hundreds of dollars, with no real results. Until now. I started using this facewash along with the Amara Aloe Vera Gel as a moisturizer on Thursday — the pic speaks for itself! Thursday to Sunday.” —Jodi

Get it from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in 5% and 10% benzoyl peroxide). Cruelty-free.


46.

A tube of Weleda Skin Food designed to be used on your face and body and is designed specifically to treat dry, flaky, and in-need-of-extra-care skin — basically, winter skin. It’s important to note that it is a really rich formula, so if you have acne-prone skin use it sparingly on your face or just use it to spot treat.


amazon.com

Promising review: “Quite thick, but I have very dry skin and extra help is needed, especially in the winter. It has a very strong herbal smell, but that dissipates soon enough. Some residue seems to remain after hand washing, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing (I use this mainly as a hand lotion). I wash my hands frequently so I really need a very emollient hand cream and this really fits the bill. The tube is metal, and for whatever reason, I like that. Small enough to fit in my purse, but still a quantity that will last a long time. You only need a small amount.” —Stella Burton

Get it from Amazon for $12.60. Cruelty-free.

47.

A bottle of super gentle Cetaphil baby wash and shampoo — don’t let the name fool you, it’s not just for babies (at least not of the infant variety), it’s great for anyone with sensitive skin.


Amazon

Promising review: “This soap is great for anyone with sensitive skin. I use it for both myself and my son. A little goes a long way, but the amount that comes out even with soft squeeze is too much.” —Chris

Get it from Amazon for $4.97.

48.

A Yuni Active Calm Firming Facial Skin Moisturizer designed to quickly absorb into your skin and leave you with restorative hydration. It uses active edelweiss plant stem cells to give your skin nutrient-rich antioxidants and fatty acids which helps in the appearance of firmer and smoother skin.


Glory Skincare

Glory Skincare is a WOC-owned business that sells products formulated without the “Toxic 20,” aka the 20 most questionable/harmful products commonly found in skincare (think parabens, phthalates, and even formaldehyde). They source their products from women- and minority-owned skincare brands, including new launches from established brands and lesser-known items from smaller businesses.

Promising review: “I have dry, sensitive skin and this moisturizer does the job without feeling greasy or heavy or irritating my skin. It has a pleasant light scent and a little goes a long way!” —Tracy P.

Get it from Glory Skincare for $24.

Here’s to finding the perfect combination of products to help your skin thrive!


HBO

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.

Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!


Allison Krausman / BuzzFeed

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