28 Skincare Products For Anyone Who Doesn’t Even Know Where To Start

"Успех — это способность идти от поражения к поражению, не теряя оптимизма." Уинстон Черчилль

As Troy and Gabriella sang, 🎵I feel in my heart / the start of something new 🎵

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.

1.

First things first, you have to start properly washing your face every day. Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser *oh so gently* removes all of the dirt and makeup off your face in one go. It actually swaps 1/4 of its H20 content for rosewater, which is super soothing (and smells amazing!) for your skin. Along with Poloxamer (which is an effective yet mild cleansing agent also used in contact lens solution), this stuff leaves your skin clean and soft as heck.


Glossier

Promising review: “I was a skeptic when it came to Glossier products all around, but I am so in love with this face wash. It makes my face feel clean without all the fake stuff that the ‘lathered’ face washes give you, and it is so gentle on my face! I suffered forever from hormonal breakouts (from birth control and PCOS) and this face wash calmed down all of that during ALL times of the month (if you catch my drift). Because of my lash extensions (gotta stay oil free), this cleanser is my end-all-be-all of face cleansers. I highly recommend it to everyone I meet!!!” —Liz

Get it from Glossier for $9+ (available in two sizes). And for any ~waterproof makeup formulas~, start with their Milky Oil.

2.

Don’t pick at your pimples! Slap on a Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patch to eliminate any outside infection and bacteria (which is the reason they form in the first place!), absorb gunk from blackheads and whiteheads, and help flatten/heal your zits faster. No dryness afterwards either. Just make sure you’re applying them on *cleaned* blemishes!


Soko Glam

They’re already not very noticeable (for daytime wear), but now that you’re stuck at home all day, it’s even easier to stick ’em on and treat your acne at first sight!

Promising review: “I’ve tried so many products, including products prescribed by dermatologists, and none of them work as fast as the acne pimple master patch. My pimples are resolved quickly. —Anamaria W.

Get a pack of 24 from Soko Glam for $5. Also available in Clear Fit and AC Collection (slightly larger, oval-shaped patches infused with soothing centella asiatica extract) versions.

3.

Wear sunscreen — and I cannot stress this enough — every day, no matter the weather, time of year, or if you’re indoors all day! The sun will find you and damage your skin! Flesh Beauty Sheer Flesh Hydrating SPF Serum is *so* lightweight, fast-absorbing, and easy to put on that you won’t be able to understand why your friends ever complained about their sunscreen woes — this one doesn’t leave behind a single bit of white cast or residue. You’ve got 99 problems, but SPF isn’t one of them!


@fleshbeauty / Via instagram.com, @fleshbeauty / Via instagram.com

Again, even if you’re inside all day, you still need to wear SPF — sun rays can still penetrate your skin through windows!!

This SPF has definitely stolen my heart. In my past sunscreen reviews, it’s no surprise that I love chemical formulas and my skin handles them very well — but as always, do a patch test first if you’re not sure! This SPF contains 10% homosalate, 5% octisalate, and 3% avobenzone — note that there’s no oxybenzone or octinoxate, which has been in the news re: ocean preservation and the Hawaii ban. It’s also super hydrating (hence the “serum” part), thanks to ingredients like glycerin, which attracts water to your skin. Don’t fret about the white-ish color ’cause it instantly applies clear on skin. My skin doesn’t feel tacky afterwards, but it definitely grips onto makeup super well.

Get it from Flesh Beauty for $32.

4.

Or if you prefer a multitasking product, CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM SPF 30 is a staple for so many people, including my coworker! It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic (so it won’t clog pores), fragrance-free, absorbs quickly, and contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to boot — I’m not sure how more dependable it gets!


Rebecca O’ Connell / BuzzFeed

Promising review: “Truly surprised how much I like this moisturizer w/ SPF! I have acne-prone oily skin and usually have trouble with products like this…but not this one! Goes on thick, giving excellent coverage, but doesn’t leave me feeling like I have a heavy mask on my face. It seems to absorb quickly over my other skincare products and does not give me oily shine. Love that’s it’s fragrance-free and doesn’t sting upon application.” —Geo55

Get it from Target for $13.49.

Read my coworker’s full review of this CeraVe SPF to find out why it works wonders on her “diva-level” skin!

5.

If your skin is sensitive and prone to redness, centella asiatica (also known as cica) will be your best friend! Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Gel Cream is unbelievably lightweight and smooths away any lingering redness you have on your face (due to diet, lack of sleep, stress, etc.), so it appears visibly soothed, hydrated, and ready to tackle the day.


Sephora, Sarah Han / BuzzFeed

I actually prefer this over the cult-fave Color Correcting Treatment (see below), mostly texture-wise since it’s lighter. I find that this gel cream also blurs any redness I have without feeling heavy, sticky, or taking a long time to absorb. I get redness around my nose and sometimes scattered on my cheeks, so this is a quick fix — and since it’s a lot lighter than the treatment and hydrating enough for my skin type, I’ve been applying it day *and* night.

Promising review: “I haven’t really found something that calms redness but also doesn’t make me break out from being too heavy, and then I got a sample of this with an order and was pretty happy with it. My skin was super soft, stayed clear, and looked slightly less red. Then, I went on vacation to New Hampshire. I spent four and a half hours hiking in 20 degree windy weather with snow and ice blowing in my face. My skin was bright red and stung from windburn. I put some of this on after I showered, and then a little more before I went to bed. After the first time I put it on my face, it no longer stung, and by morning, my skin wasn’t red at all. Normally I would be red for a few days and then peeling afterwards. I am definitely going to purchase a full size of this, and I think it will be really helpful for the New England winter and beyond.” —cayjay

Get it from Sephora for $48.

6.

And for more coverage, Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment instantly calms down rogue redness with color-changing capsules that blend into your skin tone, protect against UV light (SPF 30) and environmental aggressors, and boost fatigued-looking skin. Consider this your one-and-done product!


@drjart / Via instagram.com

If you feel like going sans makeup, you can simply wear this alone! Since it minimizes blemishes, scars, and redness, it’s a great alternative to BB cream or foundation.

Promising review: “My face is pretty much always red for some reason. I also have some acne scars that are healing ever since I started seeing a dermatologist. This stuff is AMAZING. It really does neutralize all of my redness and scars. I haven’t really worn makeup since I started using this stuff. Makes your skin hydrated and flawless!” —kt1709

Get it from Sephora for $52.

7.

Let’s talk exfoliation. It’s super important (hello, sweeping away dead skin cells!), but can seem a little intimidating. But not when it comes to First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, which tackle breakouts with just a few swipes of its resurfacing abilities, made up of gentle glycolic and lactic acids, brightening lemon peel, tone-evening Indian gooseberry, and antioxidant boosters. They’re so easy and mess-free, so you can say “seeya” to acne and acne scars faster! 👋


Sephora

Promising review: “I highly recommend these pads to anyone who wants to address textural issues and dullness, and are looking for speedy results. They definitely work faster than my favorite $8 glycolic acid toner from that infamously cheap but chic skincare line. I noticed a difference within just three days of using nightly. I would definitely buy again.” —nomakeupmenogo

Get them from Sephora for $17 (28 pads) or $34 (60 pads).

8.

Speaking of gentle exfoliation, Then I Met You Skin Birch Milk Refining Toner proves that acid-containing products can absolutely be hydrating and gentle. I’m all for exfoliating away the bad stuff, but only if it also *locks in the good stuff (think: high levels of hydrations and moisture retention) at the same time — and this toner does just that and restores my post-cleanser skin!


Soko Glam

I personally use this toner and the texture is my favorite part. It’s hard to describe, but I can tell it’s not just *sitting on top* of my skin — it’s penetrating deeper to refine my skin texture. And to be more specific, this product contains 76% birch juice, which helps skin retain moisture, on top of squalane, marshmallow root extract, and a 1% concentration of AHAs and PHAs — so it’s definitely safe for everyday use!

Promising review: “TBH I’ve never gotten the hype around toners, although I use them religiously. This one, though, has brought my skin an internal glow that wasn’t there before. 100% repurchasing, and telling everyone and their dog about this and how well it handles my hormonal acne.” —Elizabeth C.

Get it from Soko Glam for $32. It was made to be used in conjunction with The Giving Essence.

9.

Hyaluronic acid is a must-know skincare ingredient, no if or buts. It’s naturally found in our skin and retains water to keep skin plump — and it absorbs a thousand times its weight in water. Enter The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, which gives you no-nonsense (read: sensitive skin-friendly) hydration that leaves your skin looking visibly smoother and softer.


Megan Paolone / BuzzFeed / Via zmeinogorsk.ru

Not to mention it has a pH of 6.50-7.50 and is vegan, alcohol-free, and cruelty-free!

Promising review: “Dry, oily, dehydrated, or normal — your skin will appreciate this little bottle of wonderful. I started on this about a month ago and I instantly noticed a huge difference — and by instantly I mean the day after. I’ve actually never seen such fast results from a product. I apply this twice a day, a.m. and p.m., all over my face, neck, and underneath my eyes and for instant plumping and dewy, dreamy skin. So worth it.” —Zeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Get it from Sephora for $6.80.

10.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is a fan favorite in terms of lightweight, everyday moisturizers. It drenches your skin in hydration (thanks to hyaluronic acid and olive extract) so your skin stays soft and taut — even underneath a big ol’ glob of foundation — instead of dry and flaky. And since it’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, it’s especially perfect for combination skin!


@neutrogena / Via instagram.com

Promising review: “I’ve been using this for about two months now and I’m completely in love with everything about it! Having horribly acne-prone skin that’s sensitive to any sort of change, this moisturizer has completely changed my relationship with my skin. It doesn’t leave behind a greasy feel or a stinging feeling, like acne moisturizers tend to. I’ve noticed that my skin is a lot more hydrated and refreshed, and my acne and the overall texture of my skin has gotten better since using this. It will DEFINITELY stay on my list of things I grab daily!” —Tschuschkes

Get it from Target for $16.89.

11.

Sheet masks are not only a great way to ~unwind~, but they deliver an intense burst of hydration for your skin that seeps well beyond the surface. Try out the e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Water Sheet doused in purified water, aloe, and hyaluronic acid for a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. After 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll emerge relaxed and armed with silky-soft skin, ahhh.


elf Cosmetics

Promising review: “OMG! This is the first mask I found that fit my face! I didn’t have a lot of extra hanging off, the eye, nose, and mouth holes actually lines up! And after I took the mask off my skin was so moisturized and soft!!! Hands down need to keep this in stock!” —Desischu

Get it from e.l.f. Cosmetics for $3.

12.

If you’ve ever been curious about the “glass skin” concept*, Peach & Lily Glass Skin Serum is what you need to try. It’s basically a K-beauty “super juice” in a bottle — aka, its powerful formula of peach extract, niacinamide, Asian mountain yam extract, hyaluronic acid complex, and peptide complex leaves your skin looking like a plump, poreless dream — while penetrating skin cells deep within for the *long-term* health of your skin.


@peachandlily / Via instagram.com

*aka your skin looks so smooth to the point of seeming ~pore-less~, which I’d like to clarify isn’t actually possible — pores do important jobs for us and are here to stay, but we can help tighten ’em and minimize their appearance!

Promising review: “I am fully obsessed with this serum and it has totally changed my skin game. I had a lot of problems before with random small whiteheads, pigmentation, and texturized skin. I also have dry skin but this serum has really turned it around for me! My skin is evening out, I have no breakouts, and it looks suuuuper hydrated. Please never stop making or stocking this!!!” —Chloe

Get it from Ulta for $39.

13.

The skin around your eyes is the most delicate and thin area, so you gotta give it extra care and love. Cosrx Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream, with continued use, visibly brightens your under-eye areas, diminishes puffiness, and douses any dry patches with much-needed moisture, thanks to a formula of 72% snail secretion filtrate, five types of peptides, and niacinamide. It’s the perfect wake-up call for your tired peepers.


@cosrx / Via instagram.com

This winter was the first time I experienced a drier-than-usual eyelid (yes, just one). It was all patchy and I’d even wake up to a slightly discolored/pink eyelid, but I swear this reformulated snail eye cream helped my patchy eyelid heal just as well as the prescription cream I got from the dermatologist — and it was much gentler and didn’t sting at all during the first application. It seems thick, but absorbs super quickly. It’s a dream!

Get it from Dermstore for $28.

14.

If you’re ready to hop on the double-cleansing train (as we all should!) and make sure you get **everything** off each night, start off with Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm and let it melt your sunscreen (yes, that needs to be washed off) and makeup (even stubborn waterproof mascara!) away with a gentle, ultra-soothing blend of sunflower and ginger root oils, turmeric and moringa extracts, and papaya enzymes (for natural pore exfoliation). And applying the balm-to-silky-oil formula feels like a mini massage. ✨


@farmacybeauty / Via instagram.com

Promising review: “This stuff is an absolute MIRACLE. I’ve always had issues with makeup removers, namely that they almost never work for me. Not only does it get all of my makeup off with ease, it also leaves my skin looking and feeling amazing. Will never use anything else again!!” —KateCLieb

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

15.

Or, if you’d prefer a straight-up oil formula (which, despite popular belief, works very well with oily skin types), Hanskin PHA Pore Cleansing Oil is such a gentle option and also melts away every bit of makeup and dirt that your skin has accumulated throughout the day, and it also does double duty as a gentle exfoliator that nips blackheads and rough texture in the bud.


@hanskin_official / Via instagram.com

Like the name suggests, it contains PHAs (polyhydroxy acids), which are even gentler than their AHA and BHA cousins and can definitely be used every day for a nice dose of exfoliation without stripping the skin. If you’re not impressed yet, it also contains tea tree leaf oil to help fight breakouts, while jojoba oil hydrates.

Promising review: “Perfect way to end my day. Cleans the impurities from my day while restoring moisture. I use it daily and would highly recommend this as an evening cleanser.” —Jewel S.

Get it from Soko Glam for $25.

16.

And you’re not done yet! Double cleansing means following up your oil-based cleanser with a water-based cleanser like the oh-so-gentle Belif Aqua Bomb Cleanser to seal the deal. Because you need a clean slate in order for the rest of your skincare products to do their jobs.


@belifusa / Via instagram.com

The whole lathering process from jelly to foam is very pleasant and kinda feels like a facial bubble bath! No matter how much I can’t resist trying a million different cleansers, I feel good knowing I can always depend on and go back to this cleanser to calm my skin down, because it truly helps clear up my face with consistent use — plus it always leaves my skin feeling super soothed and hydrated, even after the oil cleanse!

Promising review: “After using Cetaphil facial cleanser for about three years, I started to wonder if it was stopping the tiny, pesky closed comedones on my forehead from going away. Cetaphil was always my ‘safe’ cleanser, but I read that it has can be pore-clogging for some. I got a sample of the Belif cleanser with some points, and instantly fell in love! I have sensitive skin and this doesn’t irritate it at all. My face feels so soft and clean, AND my forehead looks a lot better. The sample lasted me a while (using it every day at night), but I recently bought the full size. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a new cleanser!” —sriiiii

Get it from Sephora for $28.

P.S. I also like using the cleanser in conjunction with its complementary toner, Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner.

17.

A lil’ dollop of Bliss Jelly Glow Peel physically exfoliates and lifts away dead (and dry/peeling!) skin cells, so your skin feels so freakin’ soft and smooth (I’m not exaggerating) and your skincare products — including that expensive serum — absorb more deeply and work more effectively. And it’s not abrasive at all, because it goes right on top of ~damp~ skin, so you can apply and wash off right in the shower!


Sarah Han / BuzzFeed / Via zmeinogorsk.ru

How does it work its magic? Papaya and pineapple enzymes help loosen dead skin cells in preparation for removal, and then soft plant-based fibers act like ~micro-lint rollers~ to capture and roll away dirt and dry, flaky skin.

Promising review: “Let me tell you! I’ve tried EVERYTHING, including Proactive and Rodan & Fields, and nothing has helped my skin in the way that this (and the cleansing collection) have! My skin is combination that reacts to EVERYTHING, but after two days of using this, my redness, peeling, and oily patches were GONE! I can’t get over how much I love this! I actually enjoy taking care of my skin now because I can see almost immediately and feel how much of a difference this has made!” —Anonymous

Get it from Target for $10.99 or Bliss for $12.99.

Read my full review of the Bliss Jelly Glow Peel (#7) for more info!

18.

Missha Time Revolution Essence contains an unlikely hero ingredient: 90% fermented yeast extract. Yep, this magical stuff harvested from Himalayan purple barley plumps skin, refines texture, and reduces pigmentation. It might seem like a hefty investment, but you only need a few drops for your whole face, and it’s the perfect and necessary primer step before your serums and moisturizers.


Soko Glam

Plus, people have said *for ages* that it’s a great dupe for the way more expensive but cult-fave SK-II essence.

Promising review: “I didn’t realize how important this essence was until I ran out of it. I started breaking out in places I had never broken out before when I stopped using this product. After I started using this essence again, my skin went back to normal! It hydrates, plumps, and subtly brightens my skin. It’s the one skincare product I’d recommend to anyone and everyone!” —Ashley

Get it from Soko Glam for $52.

19.

Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Essence Mist can be used in place of a heavier essence, as a midday TLC pickup (because our skin needs constant hydration!), and as a makeup setting spray — basically, you’ll need one stationed at your desk *and* in your purse for mist o’ clock anytime.


Sarah Han

It doesn’t contain your average ingredients either, but rather proven nourishing and brightening ingredients like saccharomyces ferment filtrate, bamboo water, algae extract, licorice root extract, centella asiatica leaf water — and absolutely no alcohol, parabens, or artificial fragrance.

Promising review: “This essence is brilliant. The mist is so fine and it’s so quick to use in the morning when I’m in a rush. Leaves my face feeling fresh and hydrated, and I feel like my skin has been producing way less oil than it usually does.” —Alice B.

Get it from Soko Glam for $24.

P.S. This product was created as a result of the Acwell pH balancing toner’s popularity/effectiveness, which is obviously great as well if you’d like to pair the two!

20.

Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream does exactly what its name implies — gives your skin that coveted dewy glow. Japanese purple rice, an algae blend, and hyaluronic acid plumps up your skin to its fullest potential. Slather your dry skin in this now!


@tatcha / Via instagram.com

Basically this bb replenishes your skin’s natural moisture reservoir and protects it from future moisture loss, so you look like a dewy dumpling now until forever!

Promising review: “I never write reviews but I base my purchases heavily on them. I bought this cream at my local Sephora store and this is literally the most amazing cream I have ever tried. I have spent/wasted so much money over the last couple of years trying to find a cream that was moisturizing, doesn’t break out my sensitive skin, and doesn’t make my face look oily. I was hesitant to buy it with the price tag, but it is so worth the money and will be buying more Tatcha products in the future.” —Makeupp4Lyss

Get it from Sephora for $68.

21.

Glossier Solution is truly the ~solution~ (you knew it was coming) to your endless battles with acne- and dark spot–causing pores — we could wax poetic about the whole formula, but glycolic acid is the hero brightening and tone-improving AHA that breaks apart water bonds that attach dead cells to your skin. Your face = ✨✨✨.


Glossier

Promising review: “I am 47 and have some age spots/discoloration, as well as splotchiness and some monthly hormonal acne. This stuff is fantastic! From the first use I noticed a difference in my skin. My pores were tighter, my face was smoother, and makeup went on better. You do have to wear an SPF because of the exfoliation, but I wear one every day anyway. After a month of use, my skin is brighter, the discoloration has lightened, and even my hormonal acne decreased. If anyone has used the expensive and hard to find Recherche Biologique 1970 toner, Glossier solution works a lot like that, without the hefty price tag. I recommend this to anyone looking to achieve brighter, clearer, and healthier skin!” —KStern119

Get it from Glossier for $24.

Check out our full writeup (and reviews!) on Glossier Solution for more deets!

22.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream sinks into your skin and lasts all day without needing reapplication — it truly keeps your parched skin hydrated with glacial glycoprotein and olive-derived squalane. Plus, the formula is now totally paraben-free!


@kiehls / Via instagram.com

Promising review: “I have been using this moisturizer for years. Does just what it says it will: completely hydrates your skin in one application without feeling greasy. It absorbs quickly and is a great basic moisturizer. Regardless of what I use, I always seem to come back to this one moisturizer! Definitely a keeper in your skincare regime!” —Yellow323

Get it from Kiehl’s or Sephora for $18+ (available in three sizes).

23.

Acure Brightening Facial Scrub draws out impurities, removes dead skin cells, treats breakouts, and leaves skin feeling smooth, supple, and bright (as its name implies). It’s straightforward and a great bang for your buck. Glow, bb, glow!


@acurebeauty / Via instagram.com

This vegan, cruelty-free option is chalk-ful of nourishing ingredients like French green clay, chlorella (which supports the skin’s building blocks), lemon peel, clarifying sage, and antioxidant-rich blackberry.

Promising review: “I use this scrub twice a week. My skin has noticeably improved. My milia is gone, whiteheads are rare, and my skin glows! My skin also definitely feels smoother after each use. As for the ‘brightening’ part, my acne scars (weren’t too serious) have faded quicker than they normally would have.” —Johanna

Get it from Ulta for $9.99.

24.

Cosrx Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask serves as an overnight mask, wash-off mask, or daily moisturizer, depending on what skin type you have! It’s made up of 87.26% propolis extract and natural beeswax, which is a natural and highly effective ingredient for soothing irritated skin and reducing redness.


Dermstore

I loooooove their honey/propolis line. So, so soothing and nourishing from start (squeezing into hands) to finish (tapping into skin).

Promising review: “I love this sleeping mask, and I usually can’t use sleeping masks because most are too heavy and silicone-y. This one is hydrating, soothing, and leaves my skin soft and glowy. Can be a bit sticky, so I only use it at night. Helps with redness and I find it heals breakouts faster.” —SO

Get it from Dermstore for $18.

25.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant helps shed built-up layers of dead skin without any mess (you don’t rinse it!) without feeling overly abrasive (it has a pH range of 3.5–3.9) and promotes firmer, clearer, and glowing skin (hello, chamomile and green tea!).


@paulaschoice / Via instagram.com

Promising review: “Every time I think I can go without this product for a while, I realize how much it does for my skin. Not only does it make my skin smoother and more radiant, but I am much less likely to break out when I am using it. I have repurchased it several times and use it daily.” —FabNewMom

Get it from Nordstrom for $29.50.

26.

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is like adding a protein shot to your skincare smoothie concoction — it seriously works when it comes to improving the tone, texture, and firmness of your skin so it always stays lookin’ fresh (and less like it’s taken a detour into high stress and little sleep territory).


Drunk Elephant / Via youtube.com

Promising review: “I’m a huge skincare junkie. I’m all about anti-aging and want to start young, and Protini just took the cake. I have normal to dry skin with breakouts. The contour of my cheekbones are extremely dark and it always made me insecure. When I put this on, it erased any darkness in the contours, firmed and plumped my skin, and made it look more alive and clarified. I don’t know how a moisturizer can make your skin look like it is ‘clarified’ but it’s insane what this moisturizer does. It has a gel-like texture that soaks right into the skin. I would compare it to Belif Aqua Bomb, but less ‘gel’ like and absorbs way better. If you have dry or combination skin, I can see this working on both sides of the spectrum. It is just SO good. The price point is high, but for what it does, I’m all for it. One pump is just enough for the face and I also do half a pump for my neck. It has no scent to it whatsoever and just feels nice and cooling once applied on the skin.” —melody1738

Get it from Sephora for $68.

27.

If you’re curious about retinol and diminishing fine lines (or like me, simple trying to delay the inevitable) but are freaked out about irritating your skin, start off with The Inkey List Retinol Serum manages to pack powerful retinol (specifically RetiStar stabilised Retinol 1% and Granactive Retinoid 0.5%) that’s released slowly over time, so you experience less irritation (s/o to hydrating squalane for the helping hand), but a more radiant, smoother complexion over time. And all of this for $10 a pop — sign me up!


Sephora

Promising review: “AMAZING! I am a lifelong Sunday Riley customer, but I HAD to try this when it was time to reorder my A+ Retinol Serum, and YES, I did put the Inkey List retinol contents in my A+ jar, and it’s literally as if I’m continuing using the same exact product‼️” —TattedFITbeauty

Get it from Sephora for $10.

28.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel is an OG product that deserves a spot in your skincare shelf — it provides lightweight, all-day hydration for all skin types (there are various versions!) and is comprised of all vegan ingredients, so you know you’re treating your skin to the best of the best! So good that you’ll trust it for decades.


@clinique / Via instagram.com

Promising review (for the moisturizing gel): “I’ve come full circle! When I started using moisturizers, Clinique was what I started with. Why I thought I needed to switch, beyond me. But for 30 years (yes, 30!), I did. I’ve easily tried 50 brands, from brands close in price to others more than double. Recently, while looking for skincare products for my daughter, I spoke to a rep at Sephora about Clinique and decided to buy her various Clinique products for Christmas (she loved them all!), and I also purchased this product for myself as a night moisturizer. The price is so reasonable, I had nothing to lose. With the first use of this moisturizer, I was blown away. My combination/sensitive skin loved this non-greasy, quick-absorbing, light, and beautiful product! Today I tried it under makeup, the true test. Well Clinique, I’m back and this time I won’t stray!!” —iamDiana

Get it from Sephora for $5+ in original Lotion (combination/oily), Lotion+ (dry/combination), and Cream (very dry) versions — each kind is available in four sizes.

You with all of this skincare knowledge, right here and now:


DreamWorks Pictures

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


Allison Krausman / BuzzFeed

Need more for your skin? Check out Korean skincare products you need to know, cheap skincare products that are even better than luxury brands, products for an even skin tone or to deal with acne scars, or check out all of our beauty content for even more great stuff for your hair, skin, and more.



"

Жизнь — мираж. Тем не менее — радостным будь. В страсти и опьянении — радостным будь. Ты мгновения жил — и тебя уже нету. Но хотя бы мгновение — радостным будь!
Омар Хайям
"