1. A Laneige lip mask with thousands of 5-star reviews for a reason — it'll take care of your dried lips and it feels like a splurge-worthy gloss. Apply to your lips before bed and when you wake up in the morning, they'll be super soft and hydrated, just like magic.✨

amazon.com, amazon.com

Upon the recommendation of a friend, I tried this product, and after the first use, I wasn't blown away, but as I continued to use this, I fell in love with this product. So much so that I quite literally chased down the gift set in 2021, and I am so glad I did. At home, I think I have at least five different flavors of these, and I use them EVERY SINGLE DAY. I never thought a lip mask would actually change my life, but this one did and I cannot live without it.

Promising review: "I was kinda skeptical, as I am with anything that blows up on TikTok because you never know who is getting paid for a review. But I’m dead serious, this stuff works. I have the driest, chapped lips and I have anxiety so I’m always biting my lips and I’ve only used this for three days and my lips are already so soft and healed. It seems expensive but looks like it will last me for months." —Caitlin

Price: $24+ (available in seven flavors and in sets)

2. A ~fancy~ face serum to boost your already incredible skin. If you're looking for some serious hydrating and plumping action, this product is def worth adding to your routine.

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I tried this product a few years back, and it did a great job of actually plumping my skin, and I loved how light it was. I don't recall much of a wrinkle difference since I was in my twenties when I tried it, but reviewers love it for that, too.

Promising review: "Originally received as a sample from the cosmetics counter. Quietly used it without telling anyone. I received compliments from coworkers telling me I have beautiful skin. Sealed the deal for me, so I purchased a large bottle. I find it removes/lessens redness from cheeks, and smoothes and tightens skin. Decreases pore size as well. Just what this almost 60-year-old was looking for." —Jen

Price: $60+ (available in four sizes and a set)

3. A tube of a celebrity-beloved moisturizer to replace a bunch of products in your skincare routine. I love a multi-use moment, and this works as a face cream, makeup primer, and face mask. I call that a slay!

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Promising review: "I'm 77, not really looking for a miracle cream to get rid of wrinkles, but I do love healthy looking and feeling skin, and this moisturizer is delivering. I start with a vitamin C serum then apply the Embryolisse moisturizing cream. My skin feels wonderful all day. It goes on beautifully, has a very pleasant scent, and makeup goes on smoothly over it. I have only been using it a couple of weeks, but I will definitely order it again. I'm really enjoying the feel and look of my skin." —Roslyn

Price: $17+ (available in two sizes)

4. A lightweight SPF 50 sunscreen that ~actually~ blends into your skin effortlessly — trust me on this one! This product looks and feels incredible; it might actually inspire you to wear sunscreen every single day (it certainly inspired me and now I'm an SPF stan.)

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This is one of my favorite sunscreens of all time and one of the few I actually finished the entire bottle. The formula is very lightweight and feels almost like a serum when you apply it. It also acts as a great base for any makeup and it feel so light and nice. It's not too thick and it's not too thin, it's just *chefs kiss.*

Promising review: "This is the best tinted sunscreen I have ever tried. It comes out of the bottle in a dark tan, but it somehow manages to blend into many skin tones (I’m very pale). It makes me look as if I have no visible makeup or sunscreen on, but it evens out my skin tone so perfectly that it’s no-makeup quality acts like the best makeup. I will sometimes throw a little bronzer on top, but that isn’t wholly necessary." —Dr. R.

Price: $39.99 (available in five shades and sets)

5. A bottle of the famous Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C & Turmeric Face Oil because your skin deserves to shine as bright as the sun. Think of this product as cold-pressed juice for your complexion and let your skin drink it up.

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Promising review: "This is hands-down the best face oil I've ever used. It makes my skin glowy and foundation goes over it like a dream. The fragrance — I love how it smells, but I can see how some people might be put off by it. I will always buy this oil. I have to hide it from my boyfriend because he also likes to put it on his beard." —Sarah

Price: $40+ (available in two sizes)

6. An exfoliating cleanser that self-foams to give you a spa day-at-home kind of vibe. Not only will it cleanse your skin, but it will also help remove oil and dead skin cells, which you probably need after a long day outside.

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Promising review: "OBSESSED with this cleanser!!! It foams up like a shaving cream on your face, and it’s magical! Leaves your face squeaky (literally) clean!"—Jordyn Bailey

Price: $24+ (available in two sizes and multi packs)

7. A serum with hyaluronic acid in it to rehydrate your skin after a long day in the sun. With thousands of 5-star reviews, this fast-absorbing, lightweight, gel-like serum can help plump and moisturize your skin.

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Promising review: "I’ve only used this serum for a few days, but like other positive reviews have stated, I already see and feel a difference in my skin. It’s much smoother and softer. I use this under both my daytime and nighttime moisturizer, and one small drop is sufficient. So far, so good!" —Susan Jarvis

Price: $19.99+ (available in three sizes and a two-pack)

8. A lightweight moisturizer that'll feel light as a cloud on your face. One of the main ingredients in this is hyaluronic acid, but it has not one, not two, but three molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid in it. This trio will help keep your face looking and feeling hydrated.

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Promising review: "I don’t typically write skincare reviews because we are all so different, but I just can’t help doing this one. I am in my forties with fine lines and sun damage, yet I break out whenever I use moisturizers of any kind. Worse, I’m in a beach climate, so I really need something hydrating. It’s made using anti-aging products frustrating and a waste of money. I was thrilled to find this one. I wake up with noticeably hydrated skin, and my wrinkles are smoother. Best of all, it doesn’t feel heavy. I know it’s tough trying new products, but this one is special. (And basically unscented, if that stuff bothers you)."  —Erin R

Price: $23+ (available in two sizes)

9. A vitamin C and antioxidant-rich serum that'll help re-texturize and brighten your complexion. In addition to vitamin C, other key ingredients include collagen, sodium hyaluronate, and lavender oil, all of which will help your skin look super luminous and glowy.

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Promising review: "I ordered this product after a colleague had recommended it. I had developed some acne and scarring from wearing a face mask. Most of the acne was around my cheek area. Once masks weren’t required anymore, I was a bit embarrassed of my skin’s condition. I’ve only ever used face wash and didn’t know the importance of moisturizing. This has helped clear up my skin and even it out. I’ve been using it for about four months now and only have very minimal scarring left. The price is worth it. I have actually been using it daily and use about 3–4 drops a day. Still have over half the bottle left. Definitely a good investment. It has a light fragrance and will help your skin look dewy without feeling oily." —Lupita Luna

Price: $45

10. A Jojoba face oil to give your skin a post-facial glow without actually having to get a facial. If you're like me and practice your Vogue "get ready with me" on the daily, this would be a great addition to your self-care routine because it does a little bit of everything for your skin; it hydrates, absorbs oil, and it just feels so freaking luxurious.

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Promising review: "I've been using this product for a week and I can see a difference in terms of the texture and clarity of my skin. I have combo skin that is (relatively) acne-prone and my past experiences with oils on my face have been disastrous. But my skin loves this product: it drinks it right up and leaves my skin soft and supple. Sometimes I mix a few drops with my fave moisturizer but if my skin is really dry, I'll apply it after my moisturizer sets in, dabbing it on the drier patches of my skin. I know it's only been a week but judging by the fast results I imagine that my skin will continue to improve." —Zizou

Price: $88

11. A skincare starter kit for those who need help setting up a regimen. It comes with a gel cleanser, serum, and hydrating cream that'll help brighten and smooth your face. It's glowy skin season, and there's no one I trust more for glowy skin than the Queen of Glow herself, J.Lo.

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Promising review: "I usually don't order skin products from celebrities, I happened to come across a review from a makeup artist who raved about this product. I decided to give it a try. These products are great. Leaves your skin soft and hydrated with a nice glow. Not greasy looking or shiny. I have applied foundation after applying and it does not affect the foundation. Great product." —christine

Price: $201.60

12. An eye tightener so you look like you had a full night's sleep even though you were awake all night watching a true crime documentary ~again.~ Magic isn't real, but this certainly comes close; it uses temporary skin tighteners and a trio of peptides to give your eyes a firm and smooth look.

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Promising review: "I've bought expensive ones to remove eyebags, starting with the most popular, and everyone that actually removes them leaves a white residue. This one DOES NOT! I put it on at night, and I don’t wake up with any bags. I put it on in the morning, and I haven’t had an issue with white residue! I will be buying this product again!" —nAFCNEpatriots

Price: $30.40

13. A Colorescience SPF 50 formula for you to wear in place of foundation this season. If you don't like heavy face makeup but still prefer a bit of coverage, this tinted skincare essential is going to be your new best friend.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "I was so skeptical after seeing this product on TikTok, but I took the chance because this comes out white and changes to the formulated color once rubbed onto the skin. I am in LOVE! I needed something that is high SPF, but gives color because I self-tan and I never tan my face since I am acne-prone. So, I wanted something to blend with the 'no makeup' look I was going for. This product has delivered! No pore clogging ingredients, very lightweight, blends out perfectly, and I have no breakouts from this new product. TRY THIS OUT! IT IS WORTH THE MONEY!" —Natasha Hanners

Price: $58 (available in six adaptable shades)

14. Or an illuminating serum with SPF 30 that will give you that glow-from-within look to fool people into thinking your skin is really that good. Just watch as the compliments come rolling in, and when people ask you what you use, you can simply say, "magic in a bottle."

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Promising review: "I am a long time fan of Coola products and this is no exception!!! This one in particular is SO beautiful and the perfect amount of 'glow.' Products I’ve used from other brands for a 'glow/dewy finish' don’t have SPF, so this is absolutely perfect. It’s great to wear alone, great with makeup and fantastic for mature skin. And it smells nice. COOLA — please don’t change or discontinue this one! It’s perfection!" —Amazon Customer

Price: $42+ (available in two styles)

15. A Dermalogica hydrating toner because your complexion may need it as we enter the warmer months. If you want your skin to look as even as your bangs do after a salon trip, this gem can help you out. It can also help optimize absorption, which makes it a wonderful item to use before your favorite serums.

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Promising review: "This is the best toner I’ve ever used for my oily yet dehydrated skin. It does exactly what it says and helps the moisturizer sink in. I follow up with serum then moisturizer. Finally ending with sunscreen. You can feel your face soaking up the moisture — it’s hard to explain but TRUST it." —Amber

Price: $14+ (also available in a larger size)

16. A set of under-eye gels that use caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen to help you get rid of those under-eye circles caused by staying up rewatching your favorite movie again. Throw these on as part of your routine the day of the big event because no one will know you didn't sleep the night before.

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The package comes with five pairs of under-eye gels. 

Promising review: "I purchased these ahead of a girl's weekend in Miami, expecting some late boozy nights. HOLY COW, were these a lifesaver! They feel like cool and moist jellies on your tired eyes. They felt AMAZING. As far as results, I could definitely tell the difference in puffiness. Really helped wake up my tired eyes and feel like I was doing good for my skin. I will be purchasing more; these are great for travel/goody bags, as opposed to a whole pot of them." —Alyssa

Price: $12 

17. A jar of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30 because you've already heard amazing things about it. This investment will have your skin thanking you because it's truly a workhorse that helps with combatting sun exposure, hydrating thirsty skin, and improving elasticity.

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Promising review: "I have used this product for over 10 years, and it is worth the price. It is so rich and moisturizing. It definitely keeps my face hydrated. I just started using the version with SPF 30, thank you for that addition! I keep the standard version as well for use at night. Very mild scent and makes my skin so gentle and soft. People always ask me what products I use on my face!" —T.M.H.

Price: $52+ (available in two sizes) 

18. A nourishing face oil that'll help you master the "clean" look. It's lightweight, nongreasy, and will easily absorb into your skin, what else could you want from a face oil?

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Promising review: "I've tried so many face oils and this one takes the cake! It absorbs so well without leaving greasy residue, lays well under makeup, and has really helped to balance out my skin to get rid of hormonal breakouts. I'm almost finished with my second bottle and will definitely be purchasing again!" —Katie Davis

Price: $69 

19. A resurfacing cleanser that'll make your skin as clear as a front-facing camera. 😜 Removing your skin's dirt, impurities, and pollutants all while exfoliating your face? Sign me up!

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Promising review: "I’m in my thirties and my Clarisonic finally kicked the bucket. I have been washing my face with my hands while I figure out which facial brush to get, so my skin got dull and desperately needed exfoliating. I bought this on Prime Day on a whim and I have seen a big change in my skin. It gets rid of the gunk and buildup on my face due to my oily skin. People have commented on the 'glow' I seem to have now. I have far fewer blemishes, and even the monthly hormonal pimples are reduced in appearance and number. Best of all, I’m still just using my hands to wash my face. A little goes a long way, as I literally use just a drop to wash my face. I will admit it is pricey, but this bottle could easily last me four months or more." —JeweldMe

Price: $12+ (available in two styles)

20. A package of resurfacing facial pads because it has all the things millennials need in it, except for the avocado toast and enough money to buy a house. Lol. To use, all you need to do is rub the texture-sided pads all over your face and watch as dark spots, pores, and uneven skin texture fade away. Besides doing all that witchcraft, these also help lift away dead skin cells and exfoliate your skin.

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Promising review: "This product is amazing. Ever since I started using this, my friends at the gym have been complimenting me on how bright my face looks. 10/10 would def buy again" —Sabina

Price: $25+ (available in two sizes) 

21. A pore-cleansing foam that exfoliates while also soothing and calming your skin. I love that it uses gentle salicylic acid to slough off dead skin while also controlling sebum. BTW, it has a triple dose of hyaluronic acid, so your skin stays extra hydrated, too!

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I've been getting breakouts recently, and this is one of the few products that has helped me conquer them. It feels so gentle and also makes my skin look and feel clean.

Promising review: "I have to tell you, this foam cleanser really draws out impurities. So, I’ve been breaking out around my chin/jawline area. After I remove makeup and sunscreen with an oil cleanser, I lather up this foam cleanser onto a silicone brush and massage my face for a good minute or two. I wash it off with water nicely and pat dry with a towel. It doesn’t strip away any moisture from your skin and leaves it hydrated. I noticed my skin was less inflamed and calmer after using it. The magic is that it speeds up the pimple cycle to the end stages. It 'ripens' your whiteheads and blackheads to an extractable state. Even the tiny stubborn milia become extractable. They never come out, so I just thought you had to live with it. But it's coming out and feels like a grain of salt when you extract it. The product definitely has an effect on the oil and impurities under the skin. Seriously magic!" —Amazon Customer

Price: $13

22. A popular face serum to rehydrate your very dry skin. Not only does it hydrate with hyaluronic acid, but it also has vitamin C, which will leave your skin nice and glowy. 

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Promising review: "I was very skeptical of this as I've tried so many products to help my skin and they never work. This was the last one before I would be forced to accept that I look 10 years older than I am. After about two weeks of using this regularly, as directed, my skin is so much smoother and less oily. The lines and dark bags under my eyes have significantly lessened. I've started receiving compliments on how I'm 'glowing' and how my skin tone is even. For the price, it’s definitely worth it, especially when combined with the other products in the line." —Sheryce

Price: $21.25+ (available in two sizes)

23. A gentle facial exfoliator that will give your skin an epic makeover. Designed to combat redness, enlarged pores, and blackheads, this gem will also help unclog and minimize pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and even out skin tone. It's what my hopes and dreams are made of.

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Promising review: "I have every skin issue you can think of. Rosacea, acne (hormonal, cystic, whiteheads, blackheads), dehydration, excessive oiliness, redness, all of it. I’ve spent probably thousands on a multitude of different products, trying to find one that would at least make a dent. I’ve had many procedures and many trips to the dermatologist. Nothing I’ve ever used or done has made such a profound difference in the appearance of my skin. Having rosacea, my face often felt hot, bumpy, and burned. While my complexion is naturally fair and pink, this has seriously covered all my bases in a gentle and effective way. I’ve been trying to turn my skin around for YEARS!! this was the product that did it. If I could give it 100 stars, I would. It has seriously changed my life!!!" —hc

Price: $15+ (available in two sizes and in multi-packs)

24. An under-eye cream that'll trick people into thinking you got a full eight hours of sleep. This formula utilizes caffeine to de-puff your eyes and peptides to help keep you looking refreshed.

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Promising review: "I've been using this cream for several months and think it works well. It seems to help with dark circles under my eyes, though you have to continue to use for results. For the price it was worth it! I have tried much more expensive creams and didn't see results, even after several months. It did not irritate my eyes or cause redness. I will continue ordering this and think it would be a great gift for someone just trying out eye cream." —abigail morrow

Price: $11+ (also available in pack of two)

25. A bottle of The Ordinary's viral blood-red exfoliating peeling solution that'll make you feel a little like a vampire. For under $10, this does a lot! It can help you with blemishes, improve your skin texture, and keep your skin glowy.

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Promising review: "I was reading reviews on this and at first I had my doubts because most products are not what they present to be. However, I was actually quite surprised by the results of my skin being more glowy and radiant. I've used this for over a month now and I'm happy that I did!" —Lady_Em91

Price: $9.50+ (also available in pack of two) 

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