What Mad About Skin recommends and skips: 529 products reviewed

Every review.

All 529 products Mad About Skin has reviewed, grouped by product type. Click a product to see the full guru consensus.

All takes Yay takes Nay takes Against the gurus

Type

Serums179 reviews

"Most people reach for Finacea, which is a prescription strength 15% azelaic acid, but there's a global shortage of it so it's really hard to get. It's the same active and concentration as the Geek and Gorgeous All Clear."

~Mixed

75%Guru Score

DRMTLGY Needleless Growth Factor Serum

"Again, a similar price point to Meditate, so it's that mid price. It's not super expensive, but you're getting great results. I'm going to give props to Dermatology as a brand because they spent an absolute fortune on tests around this product which were double-blind, peer-reviewed. So the best, like the highest quality test that you can do into a skincare product. And they found that it performed roughly the same as the Skin Medical one, which is like four hundred dollars and is human-derived."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Regimen Lab Level Serum

"They do a Level Serum which combines basically every single dark spot ingredient all in one. The strongest you're going to get over the counter. And I think that's great if you have, you know, needs for an advanced hyperpigmentation serum, if you have stuff on melasma, things like that. I think the Level Serum is a really good option."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Eucerin Radiant Tone Dual Serum with Thiamidol

"If you kind of disrupt that, it prevents that pigment from forming. It does also have some really promising results when it comes to eradicating pigment a little bit quicker and helping to disperse the pigment we already have a little bit more evenly. [...] Some of these studies show that it's actually the most effective of the commercially available [...] over-the-counter products. The [...] anti-pigment dual serum is probably the best in terms of concentration."

✓Yay

72%Guru Score

Medik8 Oxy-R Peptides

"It needs to be super fresh because that's when you get the best results. So I love the packaging and the way that it works. Honestly, this is the quickest acting of all the hyperpigmentation antioxidants I have ever ever found. You get a month supply in one thing and honestly, you will see such results within that month that you can almost just use it as a way of kickstarting your hyperpigmentation routine and then you can just go into maintenance mode afterwards."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

"I've done a lot of talking about the ordinary 10% niacinamide, which I genuinely don't think anybody needs that strength of niacinamide in their life. The ordinary strength concentration is well in excess of what science says is a reasonable amount for most people, triggering excess side effects and irritation whilst also not necessarily giving you increased benefits. It's not the holy grail everyone made it out to be."

✕Nay

69%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Azelaic & Kojic Advanced Clarifying Serum

"This is a wonderful product because it contains [kojic] acid, which is one of the best brightening ingredients. If you're looking to minimize hyperpigmentation, it really targets stubborn hyperpigmentation. [Kojic] acid is one of the best out there, and it uses a 1% concentration in this alongside the azelaic acid in a 10% concentration and some other great brightening agents."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%

"I think resveratrol is one of the best antioxidants to also use alongside vitamin C because resveratrol is fantastic at minimizing the risk of sun-induced hyperpigmentation. It's got some anti-inflammatory benefits. It's also going to prevent oxidative stress which free radicals, things like certain UV wavelengths of light, particulate matter, hit our skin, stress it out and this can only trigger premature aging but can also trigger inflammation which can then lead to hyperpigmentation."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

"The Ordinary 10% [azelaic] acid suspension is not the most elegant application; it can feel a little grainy and gritty, which is just what traditional [azelaic] acid does. But it will definitely deliver you the results. It's got 10% of that traditional form of [azelaic] acid, and it will really pack a punch."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Naturium Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10%

"Naturium used this derivative form of azelaic acid in a 10% strength all along, but they badged it as pure azelaic acid by omitting the whole derivative narrative in the title or on the front of the bottle. When it comes to regulations around ingredients and transparency, they ticked all the boxes, but they didn't tick the box when it comes to public opinion and what people expect. This is really misleading because it's selling something that the product just does not contain."

✕Nay

81%Guru Score

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

"One of the biggest misses in this category was SkinCeuticals themselves. A lot of the time their CE Ferulic already arrived oxidized. The brand came out and said not to worry, [...] it's not dangerous for the skin and it'll still work, but it won't work as well as people want it to. If you're spending £120 on a vitamin C serum, you better believe that's fresh and free from oxidation the second it lands on your doorstep."

✕Nay

77%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

"La Roche-Posay's vitamin C had the same oxidation issue. They actually added a color into it to disguise the fact it was oxidized rather than working to overcome the issue in the first place. That sort of shady brand behavior just turned people off."

✕Nay

60%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Beta Glucan and Resveratrol Advanced Hydrating Serum

"I think this is the most advanced plumping serum you are ever going to find. If your budget stretches to Allies of Skin, [...] honestly you will get the best results, drenching you in hydration, plumping out wrinkles and just giving you the nicest finish to the skin. It also acts really well as a primer under makeup. [...] I love this, absolutely phenomenal, but not for everyone's budget."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Frankly Closer Pore Reducing Serum

"It also has a great range of amino acids [...] to further enhance that collagen production, and polyhydroxy acids, which are super gentle so you can use them every single day, twice a day if you want. [...] I think it's just leveled up versus the other [...] one. This has made the biggest difference to me."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%

"Something like The Ordinary five percent lactic acid or ten percent are a really great option to reach for. They're super gentle, but they'll still remove some of those dead skin cells a bit quicker so you won't be feeling tight, sensitive, or irritated, and the lactic acid is going to hydrate too, so it offsets some of that dryness."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

NIOD Modulating Glucosides Serum

"I keep it on hand for when I have irritation, shaving rash, or if I've overdone it with an active, and after a couple of nights everything is restored to equilibrium. [...] You can even use it as your moisturizer at the end of your routine. [...] If you don't have sensitive skin you're probably better off going for one of the other ones since they're cheaper and slightly lighter weight, but if you have sensitive skin, honestly, the NIOD Modulating Glucoside is the best that you will try."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Remedy Intense Hydration Multi-Depth Moisture Advanced Hydrating Serum

"The blend of different hydrating agents in here is unmatched. [...] This is quite honestly the nicest serum when it comes to lightweight yet meaningful hydration, it's a gel [...] that leaves the nicest finish, not sticky, not tacky, [...] and you can even keep it in the fridge for extra cooling. [...] I've fallen in love with it."

✓Yay

93%Guru Score

Anua Azelaic Acid 10% Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum (reformulated)

"I won't be using the Anua azelaic acid serum and I won't be shopping with Anua at all, because I think there are deeper issues with the brand rather than just this azelaic acid serum. They used a [...] salt form of azelaic acid at a much higher pH than traditional azelaic acid, and [...] they hid that reformulation until a cosmetic formulator called them out on it, which tells me they didn't actually believe it was a superior product."

✕Nay

59%Guru Score

Medik8 Advanced Pro Collagen Peptide Cream

"I have lost count of how many times I've recommended this on the channel because it is genuinely my favorite moisturizer. It's classed as a moisturizer but it's so much more, it's got peptides, growth factors and anti-glycation agents, so it steps things up in terms of anti-aging. It's the nicest, richest cream you will ever use."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Numbuzin 5+ Vitamin Niacinamide Concentrated Pads

"They're super concentrated, and I love that they come in pad form since it mixes things up from applying serum after serum. Because they contain glutathione, you can stick a pad onto an area of hyperpigmentation, [...] leave it on for ten minutes, [...] then wipe the rest across the face, and that ten minute contact gives you elevated results I don't think you can get from a serum. [...] This is a real stunning product and I don't think I've ever seen anything else like it on the market."

✓Yay

67%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.5 Glutathione Vitamin Concentrated Serum

"I don't use it every day because I feel it works best if you use it for about a month and then move on to maintenance, and it'll tackle [...] your hyperpigmentation within a month if you're consistent with it. [...] It comes with two vials, each lasting two weeks, so a month's worth of product. I use it as a one month [...] flash fix to get on top of things, and I'd say it's the strongest hyperpigmentation serum that exists on the Korean skincare market."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

d'Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum

"This is an oil and traditional toner in one, you need to give this a really good shake, emulsify it, bring it together, spritz that and you'll get that dose of hydration, [...] calm and soothe. [...] I was a skeptic when I first tried it because I don't like a lot of oils in my skincare routine, but that just gets it right, oily without being greasy. [...] Keep it in the fridge for the ultimate cooling. I'd say it's probably best for hydration, and I use this if I need extra hydration."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Remedy Healthy Aging Firming Advanced Serum Stick

"I wouldn't use this in the same routine as a vitamin C serum, an exfoliating acid, or tretinoin, though it can be used alongside Remedy's own vitamin C. I'd definitely say the Remedy one is on a par if not slightly better than The Ordinary copper peptide, [...] bringing a great formulation at an affordable price point. [...] I'm going to award this a solid nine out of ten, almost perfect, just be mindful of how you layer and pair it."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum

"I love the Naturium multi-peptide serum, copper peptides encapsulated alongside other great peptides in a full blend. It's super inexpensive, and the encapsulation makes it really easy to incorporate and layer both in a morning and on an evening."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster

"It's [...] phenomenal and holds a special place in my heart because it led the way as one of the first emulsions on the market. It isn't the cheapest product out there, [...] and there are some other more affordable options on the market."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Theramid 15% Azelaic Acid Treatment

"You get a little more prickling and sensitivity on initial application because it's so bioavailable, but it feels beautiful on the skin, glides on, and spreads almost like butter. It was the true revelation point, proof that azelaic acid can feel good on the skin and apply beautifully."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic Plus Youthful Vitality Serum

"A single bottle lasted four to five months. It does come with a slightly higher price point than previous years' picks, but I [...] see it as a three-in-one serum so that justifies the spend. I've definitely seen plumpness, hydration, increased glow and luminosity, and minimized fine lines and wrinkles. This was an absolute no-brainer for my favorite new serum, and the innovation and technology in it is unparalleled."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Bellflower Ectoin 3% Serum

"A great alternative to the Face Theory ectoin serum is the Bellflower ectoin. It has the same great lightweight finish and the same great concentration of that key ectoin ingredient, and it works just as well. [...] You can really use these two interchangeably depending on what's most accessible wherever you live."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

d'Alba Double Serum All-in-One Multi Balm

"I put this under the eye on an evening and when I wake up my under eye is a lot smoother. [...] You can also use it on dry areas like the corners of the lips or laughter lines, [...] it'll plump them out and minimize the appearance. [...] It's a nice all-rounder, and it's still a balm in this heat, so that's a big tick in the box. [...] I'm not going to say it's a game changer cuz it's not, but it's one of those products I like to have on hand for when I have a little dryness."

✓Yay

Notverified

Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten & Firm Serum

"Allies of Skin Vitamin C 20% uses ethylated ascorbic acid stabilized vitamin C to maximize shelf life. I love this formula because it's one of the quickest acting you will ever find. They've recently reformulated and tweaked it to make it even better, with the new version containing additional brightening ingredients."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

NIOD Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid 30% Network

"Neod Ethylated Ascorbic Acid Network is my personal favorite stabilized form of vitamin C. Neod really led the way when it came to ascorbic acid in stabilized form and was one of the first brands to come out with this form of vitamin C. They genuinely believe it delivers and is best for the consumer."

✓Yay

67%Guru Score

Allies of Skin CE15 Brightening & Firming Oil

"This is one of the quickest acting vitamin Cs you'll ever find. If you're impatient and want the glow up, want to fade hyperpigmentation, and want to boost collagen, this will do it for you. The old formula [...] worked in as little as two weeks to help get on top of hyperpigmentation. The new formula is if anything a little bit quicker and they've used citrus cells additional to the existing formula to boost everything. It is one of the best vitamin Cs you will ever use."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

NIOD Survival 0

"Gives a little bit more moisture and more hydration. And whilst it doesn't have the acid or the niacinamide in it, it does have other beneficial antioxidants. [...] A beautiful, stunning, stunning product that has 15 different antioxidants all blended together to give you like maximum protection. I've loved this for the longest time. It's also really inexpensive. I think it's currently about £20, so one of the cheapest products from Neod and honestly, one of the best."

✓Yay

97%Guru Score

Torriden Vitamin C Cell Amazing Brightening Ampule

"Just opt for this. Genuinely does it all. Five different forms of vitamin C all together in the one serum. It just offers something a little bit different that I haven't seen other brands doing. It'll brighten the skin. It definitely fades hyperpigmentation and it feels beautiful, too. Super affordable. No notes. [...] I just think it delivers."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 7% Ectoin Booster

"The Paula's Choice one is a favorite of mine but it comes with a high price point."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Timeless Coenzyme Q10 Serum

"The Timeless Coenzyme Q10 Serum is great because it's a two-in-one serum. It's super affordable in its own right, but when you think it's replacing two other serums in your routine, that's when it becomes really affordable and effective. It contains coenzyme Q10, the absolute best antioxidant on the market. I would recommend everyone has an antioxidant in their skincare routine because it helps prevent free radical damage and minimize the risk of premature aging."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

Cetaphil Healthy Renew Damage Reversal Serum

"What are we trying to do here? Why are we just trying to over market something that's existed for years? Korean skincare has been doing sericite for decades. Nothing new here. And they're quite expensive these serums. So no Cetaphil. If you're going to offer us something that you're going to attach a load of bold claims to, make sure it's something different, something innovative, and something that we haven't seen before. These wouldn't be groundbreaking 10 years ago."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel

"Neutrogena did this about 10 years ago. Neutrogena actually do it better and they do it cheaper. So it's not really fitting a gap in the market. [...] The Korean skincare market has some phenomenal water creams [...] that are cruelty-free and offer more calming and soothing benefits than this. Neutrogena isn't my favorite brand because they're not a cruelty-free brand, but their product is so much better and cheaper than the CeraVe one. Even the fan girls of CeraVe, even they don't like this."

✕Nay

65%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum

"So if you're new to [azelaic acid or retinal], this is a great option. If like me, you're already established as a user of [azelaic acid and retinal], I think this would be a step back. [...] This is the 0.1% [retinal], so that's the equivalent of like the Geek and Gorgeous AAME 10 if you're doing a rough side-by-side comparison. Mid-strength, I would say. I'm glad I tried it. I think it's wonderful, but I think it's going to be situational as to how it works with you."

~Mixed

Notverified

Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Soothing Serum

"I love this. It's a really nice serum to apply on the skin. Feels great and the packaging is gorgeous. I [...] always like to see something that's visually appealing that I want to reach for and that definitely ticks the box. PDRN, I think if you choose the right product with the right formulation and technology, you can get some really great results from it. But the key thing here is to set your expectations."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Timeless 10% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum

"One of my personal favorites is Timeless. This is the Timeless 10% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum. They do 10, they do a 20. As with the retinoids earlier, I would say start with the 10, work your way up to the 20. Maybe use two bottles of the 10, then buy the 20. That way, your skin can get used to it, minimize side effects and irritation. Vitamin C helps create more collagen, but it's also preventative. It prevents that collagen degradation. So it's a bit of a double whammy."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Nightly Pro Serum

"Dr. Sam always always formulates well and this is just a great great product. Granactive retinoid is a great super gentle but hyper effective option and this is the strongest granactive retinoid you are going to find on the skincare market. If you're breakout prone, please go for this because it will transform your skin in about a month to 6 weeks."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 3:1

"This has been a staple in my routine for years. [...] I think this was one of the first peptide serums I ever used and I've absolutely loved it. It's not the cheapest product out there, but it's definitely an advanced formula that makes sure those peptides get to where they need to be in the skin in order to deliver maximum benefit. Such a great product, such a great formula, and definitely for people that have used peptides for some time and want to kick it up a notch."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Derma E Ultra Lift DMAE Serum

"My favorite, always has been, always will be, is the Derma E Ultra Lift DMAE Serum. They do a serum, they do a cream. Both are amazing. I personally prefer the serum. [...] The dose of DMAE is going to work in a really targeted way in this area to help just tighten, lift, and increase the definition, which all of us, whoever we are, will lose over time. And yeah, I'm never without my DMAE fix."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Stress Less Serum with 0.5% Beta-Glucan and Metacast-Aide

"I could use the Geek & Gorgeous Stress Less Serum, that has Centella in it too. That's another fantastic option."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Nineless A-Control 10% Azelaic Acid Serum

"Easy to get your hands on, doesn't cost the earth, it's really inexpensive and it leaves behind a really nice plumpness to the skin that you know a lot of people are seeking in terms of the outcomes from their results. This is just a really nice place to start with your azelaic acid journey. Nothing groundbreaking here, but just a great way of slotting this active into your routine whilst also keeping, you know, maximum calming and soothing benefit."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

"There is of course the Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum. Very similar price point. And the Ordinary actually have their sale on at the moment, so it's 23% off, which really does bring that price point right down. So it's actually cheaper than the Transparent Lab one, which I'm always in for a sale. And for a quick win when it comes to reducing cost, this actually has that 1% concentration of copper peptides."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Pixi Roll-On Eye Detoxify Serum

"Pixi Roll-On Antioxidant Eye Serum. So good. And this has one of those cooling metal applicators. It rolls on and feels stunning on application. It takes away some of the puffiness with the cooling metal, plus a little massage. People go mad for this. The formula is stunning, packed full of antioxidants, great for hydration, calming, and soothing. If your number one wish from an eye cream is to reduce puffiness and inflammation, this should be your go-to."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid

"[Alpha arbutin] is really difficult to find in a standalone serum. So I would opt for The Ordinary one, 2%, which again studies show is that peak performance percentage that we should all be looking for. 2% of that wonderful [alpha arbutin] to just deliver you those quick wins."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Remedy Healthy Aging Serum

"I really love the Remedy Healthy Aging Serum which has a load of beneficial anti-aging ingredients. One of which is Auroline. It's one of the standout ingredients in this. And this will work really, really well as an all over treatment. It's inexpensive. It can work as a one-and-one because you could literally just cleanse your skin, put this on, use sunscreen if you're applying on a morning or a moisturizer on an evening and you have a robust anti-aging skincare routine in just one product."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Theramid High-Dose Ceramide Treatment

"This is a serum rather than a moisturizer but is an absolute superstar. It's fully transparent and has the best range of different ceramides and the highest concentration you are going to find in the skincare world. I love this Theramid High-Dose Ceramide Treatment. Honestly, it shows big brands like Cerave how it should be done. If you're going to focus all your marketing on ceramides, you need to make sure that they're there in a good dose that's actually going to deliver maximum benefits."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

VEGREEN Vitamin C Ampule 20%

"Love this pure form vitamin C in a high concentration. Good dose of Centella Asiatica. Match made in heaven and an absolutely wonderful formula. Very watery in consistency which is great if you're looking for a lightweight nonsticky vitamin C. You will love this. Now the way that they formulated this with some extra antioxidants will stabilize it. So you'll have a slightly longer shelf life."

✓Yay

Notverified

Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

"It's a gel formula too, so it's super lightweight, perfect for summer. [...] I love the fact that so many people are on board with it. I suspect it's a bestseller because people are using it alongside various devices. [...] You can do that, but honestly, I think in its own right it's great as a moisturizer. My top tip is to apply it fresh out of the shower, because it works best on damp skin. [...] Apply it liberally all over the body and you'll be set for the rest of the day."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Torriden Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum

"I don't know why this is popular. [...] This is just a hyaluronic acid serum. [...] You don't need a lot of hyaluronic acid. It's in everything - it'll be in your cleanser, it'll be in your serums, it'll be in your sunscreens, your moisturizers. You don't need extra hyaluronic acid. You certainly don't need a hyaluronic acid serum like this. It's not super expensive, which is probably why it's super popular. But I just don't think it's needed."

✕Nay

70%Guru Score

Theramid Tetramid C.E.F Intensive Vitamin C Treatment Serum

"This actually uses multiple forms of vitamin C to keep things super fresh, super stable, but also super potent. This does pack a punch. I would say you need to be an established vitamin C user in order to incorporate this. If you're a beginner, go for one of the other options. [...] I find with the Theramid one, it is a little bit higher potency, so it's not going to be suitable for people with super sensitive skin or beginners. But that's okay because not everybody is new to vitamin C."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Bubble Day Dream Vitamin C + Niacinamide Tone & Texture Serum

"So if you've got sensitive skin and you think this one might be a little too much, opt for this one instead. Or if you're somebody in your teens that maybe has some acne marks and scarring, this would really, really help to eradicate that. This would usually leave a dark mark, but if I use this on top of it, it disappears without a trace. It's also really good as a spot treatment, too. This has a vitamin C derivative, tranexamic acid, and alpha arbutin, which is a great pigment corrector."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 7% Ectoin Plus Hyaluronic Acid Milky Hydrating Serum

"It is so calming, soothing, and that tone is going to do wonders for your skin barrier. This really is a great product for people that are wanting to almost go back to basics. You might have overdone it with your actives, you want to strip it back, go for this. Maybe you've got very reactive skin and you just want to use something that you know is going to help with that and not make it worse. Go for this. It's wonderful. It comes in at around £40 here in the UK. I think it's about $45."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Tranexamic Acid & Arbutin Advanced Brightening Serum

"If that's you and you've been on your hyperpigmentation journey for some time, this could be a really good option to use. You can still put a couple of drops of this into your moisturizer or just use it as a standard serum. But this gets you your alpha boost alongside so much else and this will work in about a month's time. So if you don't mind spending a little bit more and you want to cut the time to see those results, this is the product that I would reach for."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Allies of Skin 35% Vitamin C Perfecting Serum

"I really think this is hybrid at its best. Using that pure form, but stabilized vitamin C alongside derivatives together to be a match made in heaven. I love it. It doesn't come with the cheapest price point, though, [...] but if you see this almost like an entire skincare routine in a bottle, that's where I think you can really make some streamlining and cost savings using this versus four other serums that you might be reaching for."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Theramid Clinical Vitamin A Treatment

"This is probably my favorite product from my favorite skincare brand."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

COSRX 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum

"The COSRX 6 Peptide Skin Booster is one of my favorites. [...] You get a lot of product with this, which is what I love. Super inexpensive, and that's key. [...] The COSRX one has six different peptides in each one delivering a different benefit."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

"This isn't for me; it's not in my budget, [...] and I don't want to be investing in this product at the expense of other steps in my routine. It just doesn't align with my individual budget. That doesn't mean it's not great; it is. Because these are actually human-derived growth factors, you're probably going to see some very quick results, and [...] some next-level results when it comes to anti-aging. For me, I just think there are some ethical considerations at least to think about here."

~Mixed

74%Guru Score

KRX Six Peptide Skin Booster Serum

"One of my personal favorites is [...] the KRX Six Peptide Skin Booster Serum. You've got Argireline in here as one of the key peptides, but you've got five others. These peptides have been selected specifically for their ability to plump, hydrate, and boost collagen and elastin. So you gain a little something of everything in here. If you're a fan of Korean skincare, [...] this is a really nice option. Super affordable and you get a lot of product."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot 100 Collagen

"This was the viral Korean skincare sensation of 2024, but its popularity really hasn't followed forward into 2025. It used to be the world's bestselling Korean skincare product, but it's probably not going to be in the top 10 list next year in 2026. Its popularity is on a downward spiral and to be honest I think there are better spicular products out there. [...] I prefer the ones that have added beneficial ingredients such as the PDRN or the vitamin C version."

✕Nay

59%Guru Score

DRMTLGY Needleless Peptide Serum

"Dermatology do a wonderful um growth factors and peptides combo."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Numbuzin Panthenol B5 Active Soothing Serum

"If you are going through some dryness, some sensitivity, some irritation, and you want a simple but hyper effective serum to deal with it, this is great. You can mix this in with your moisturizer to just add some extra soothing and calming to your routine. You can use it on its own. You can keep it in your purse [...] and you can apply it to like hands if you're looking to deal with chapped hands. Put it on the lips. You can refresh the skin midday if you just want to put an extra layer on."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Stratia Rewind DMAE Serum

"The Stratia DMAE Serum is another alternative, similar price point. [...] DMAE is specifically good at targeting firmness around the jawline. So if your primary concern is a loss of firmness, elasticity here, DMAE is what you want to target. You can use it all over the face, that's fine. But really using it here is where that ingredient is going to pay off. I've been using it consistently for the past two years."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Theramid 3% Copper Peptide Serum

"If you like a really rich copper peptide serum, their copper peptide serum is phenomenal. I think it's normally £45 full price. [...] Really good. Really good price, too."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

PSA Skin Visible Improvement Serum

"It kind of just does it all, and it's a one-stop shop. [...] If you're somebody that's new to anti-aging, you're in your 20s, early 30s, you want somewhere to start, this is a really, really nice product to go for. It's not too strong, but it still packs a punch and actually delivers. [...] One of my personal favorites from the brand and I think great place to start if you're looking for comprehensive but gentle anti-aging."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

VEGREEN Nature Mucin Serum

"If you're looking for a snail-free alternative, that one by VEGREEN is really, really good. [...] It goes on [...] like a bit jelly, but you work this into the skin and it's gone. There's no tackiness. There's no stickiness. Doesn't smell like some snail mucin serums can. It's just really, really nice. I love it."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.3 Vitamin Concentrated Serum

"You've got your vitamin C, your glutathione, you've got a plethora of hyperpigmentation fighting ingredients. Got hydratants to hydrate. It's almost like a skin care routine in a bottle, which I really like. Great for streamlining. And it's not super heavy. It doesn't weigh down the skin. I've recommended this so many times on the channel and every time I do I'm flooded with comments of people saying yes I bought it on your recommendation and it really does work."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Anua Azelaic Acid 10% Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum

"Is it a nice serum? Absolutely. Will it calm, soothe, and hydrate? Completely. But I think it's probably more like a 5% actual azelaic acid when it gets onto the skin in terms of the results you're going to get. [...] It's a nice beginner strength. [...] If you're new to azelaic acid, [...] you will love it. If you're an established azelaic acid user like I am, I think this is going to be a step down from other 10% azelaic acids on the market."

~Mixed

67%Guru Score

The INKEY List Redness Relief Super Solutions 10% Azelaic Acid

"I recommend the azelaic acid serum from The INKEY List all the time. This contains 10% azelaic acid. It's one of my absolute favorites. But it also contains carnosine in the required strength to deliver the results. So if you're already using The INKEY List azelaic acid serum, you can stop right now. You've got your carnosine fix in your skincare routine, you don't need to add anything else."

✓Yay

92%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster with 2% Mandelic Acid and Lactic Acid

"And this isn't going to work for everyone. 10% can work for some, but some might find it too sensitizing. If your skin can tolerate a 10% niacinamide and you're already using it, you could always swap whatever product you're reaching for out for this Paula's Choice one. [...] It's going to work for some, but I would say 10% niacinamide can be a lot for certain people, particularly those that are prone to sensitivity."

~Mixed

72%Guru Score

Medicube Liquid Peptide Advanced Serum

"This actually contains that carnosine in the required concentration in order to maximize the amount of protection against glycation. I love it. It also has a great range of other growth factors and peptides. It's like a true anti-aging powerhouse. [...] If you're already using the Medicube Liquid Peptide Advanced Serum, [...] you're covered. [...] It's in both."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Serum

"The vitamin C, it's fine, but it's an ascorbic acid serum that I think could be formulated a little bit better in order to maximize the benefits you're going to get from that vitamin C. There's nothing in here that I think is groundbreaking beyond that peptide. I think there are far better vitamin C serums out there."

✕Nay

70%Guru Score

Theramid Derma Peptides 22% Multi-Peptide Treatment

"It has a 30% concentration of peptides. That is one of the highest that you're going to see on the market. Only reason again it's not slightly higher is it contains dimethylsiloxane which some people don't like because it can mean layering products on top of it is a little bit tricky. Using makeup on top again can be a little bit tricky. So I would say if you want a sky-high dose of peptides, this is the one to go for."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The INKEY List Exosome Hydroglow Complex Serum

"This Exosome one is great. Exosomes, think of them as like communicating devices with the skin. So they'll go into the skin. They'll help transport the ingredients which are present in the product deeper into the skin and help to trigger some anti-aging response. Exosomes are relative newcomers to the skincare space, but they're getting a lot of attention. And I think The INKEY List is the cheapest exosome product I've ever found. It also has a really good dose of those exosomes."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Theramid Lab Smoothing Treatment

"I think for most people, we could reach for something a little bit more potent. Use it a couple of times a week and you'll get better results. If you're somebody that can't tolerate exfoliating acids, this might be a great one. It's got mandelic acid in, which is super gentle. It's got PHAs, which are the most gentle exfoliants. It's great. But I think for beginners, for super sensitive skin folk out there, this is amazing."

~Mixed

75%Guru Score

NIOD RE: Pigment Brightening Serum

"You could of course use it all over the face. But for me, where I think the value of this lies is where you have an area of localized hyperpigmentation. I have some sun damage here, which tends to fade completely in winter, but then reappears in summer like it always does. And I find the NIOD RE: Pigment really keeps it in check all summer long. It works best on those localized areas."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Resurface Serum

"Also has in here lactic acid, and it's got some other peptides, too. This is just trying to do too much. For growth factors, you need to be consistent. Twice a day, every day. Long-term, you will get those results. Because they've decided to put 10% lactic acid in here, you can't use it twice a day. Heck, you can't even use it every day. And so, you're not really going to be getting the benefit of those growth factors. When it comes to growth factors, keep it simple."

✕Nay

75%Guru Score

Prequel Lucent-C Brightening Vitamin C Serum

"The Prequel Vitamin C has a great price point. I love the formulation. Just reading about the ingredients and how it's created, I think this is a standout product. It's [...] the number one most recommended vitamin C in the comment section. [...] If you're in the US and you can get your hands on this, I would think it's worth giving it a go just based on the results that people have said."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Vitamin C NAD+ Serum

"So, if you're somebody that is really struggling to get on top of your hyperpigmentation game, you want something that's going to have a real punch behind it to help supercharge it, I think this is worth every single penny. [...] I would say you only need to reach for this if you have very stubborn hyperpigmentation. If you do absolutely give this a go because I think it'll work so so well for you. This is [...] amazing if fighting hyperpigmentation is your number one concern."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

The INKEY List Vitamin C Serum

"The reason I'm calling this out is because they don't disclose the percentage. There is no point putting a vitamin C on your skin if you don't know what strength it's in. That's because vitamin C is a little bit on the irritating side. You need to know what you're using. If you have a very sensitive skin type, you're going to want to go in for something in a 5 to 10% concentration."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Peptides and Antioxidants Advanced Firming Daily Treatment

"This is the Allies of Skin Peptides and Antioxidants Advanced Firming Daily Treatment. This literally has it all. [...] You're getting a dose of astaxanthin, which is so important, but you're also getting nine other antioxidants, so this is a powerhouse when it comes to protecting the skin. You've got peptides in here, seven which are specifically chosen to firm and lift the skin, so if you want to increase firmness and elasticity this is a wonderful option to go for."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

VT Red Booster Reedle Shot

"The plumping it doubles the size of your lips. [...] If you don't mind like a little bit of spiciness to your life and you want the plump lips this is the best lip plumper you will ever use. It's safe for the lips. It's not going to strip and dry. It's a really nice formulation. If however you don't like that spiciness this isn't going to be for you. I would go for the basic not the expert would be my advice."

~Mixed

74%Guru Score

Medicube Vitamin C Serum

"They actually spent a lot of money testing so yes it absolutely does work"

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

e.l.f. Vitamin C Serum with Ferulic Acid

"For the drugstore hardcore out there, people that really want to experience ethylated ascorbic acid at the most affordable price point, go for the new launch by E.L.F. This is the E.L.F. Bright Icon Serum, ethylated ascorbic acid, antioxidants, a beautiful range of hydrating ingredients. This does it all. [...] Super inexpensive, doesn't break the bank, and shows that in 2025 we can get ethylated ascorbic acid on a budget."

✓Yay

66%Guru Score

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

"I'll be honest, not actually my favorite vitamin C."

~Mixed

64%Guru Score

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum

"And best thing about it, contains collagen too. So it gives like an ultimate plumping experience for the skin. If you want instant plumping plus long-term anti-aging, this is a great option to go for and it really does feel nice on application. That collagen gets to work straight away, plumping out and hydrating the skin alongside that hyaluronic acid. And then that PDRN works in the long term to boost collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, and just help keep the skin in tip-top health."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.3 Skin Softening Serum

"It keeps everything calm. It prevents hyperpigmentation from forming by reducing inflammation, and it hydrates you too. It's just a really nice product. It would work for everyone. If you want a calming and soothing serum in your skincare routine, you can't go wrong with this one."

✓Yay

65%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Great Barrier Relief Serum

"If anyone's ever used this, you'll definitely know it's got tamu oil in it because it has that fragrance that if you've ever used it, you will know. Obviously the scent might not be the sexiest one out there. It's no Chanel number five, but let me tell you, the results from tamu oil are worth it every single time. So I think it's worth looking past the scent and getting your dose of tamu oil in your skincare routine. I think you'll love it."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10%

"I think really it caps out at the 10% Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel. This is a beautiful high strength glycolic acid and this will really deliver quick results and really effective outcomes. I wouldn't push it past 10%. That's the highest I would ever go for. This Naturium one is divine for that purpose. Again use it a couple of times a week and you'll definitely see some results particularly on those hard to treat areas on the body."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

L'Oreal Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Serum

"I've had some good results not sure what's got in it but it seems to be working on the rain the midnight serum section of the L'Oreal so much better than their usual stuff I'm usually like I think L'Oreal formulas are quite lazy"

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Corrector Serum

"The Mela B3 has got a lot of praise online."

✓Yay

67%Guru Score

Timeless Hyaluronic Acid Matrixyl Spray

"This mist is calming, soothing, and plumping. If you're tempted by the PSA one but you're struggling to get a hold of it, this is really easy to get here in the UK but I'm not sure how easy it is in other countries, and you want an alternative, I think this one by Timeless is fantastic. They do a rose version, they also do a lavender. I like all three. I think the Cucumber one is great for calming and soothing, reducing redness."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

PSA Skin GOALS Multi Acids & Probiotics Perfecting Night Serum

"Beautiful formulation, put it on before you go to bed, you'll wake up with smoother skin, those blackheads are diminished, and you'll just notice that your pores are visibly improved."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

The INKEY List Ectoin Hydro Barrier Serum

"Coming in at I think this is like £15 here in the UK, a beautifully affordable ectoin serum that really could deliver calming, soothing and barrier support. [...] I did try [...] it and it is actually lovely. Smooths onto the skin instantly, calms, soothes, hydrates and will support with barrier function in the long term. This is a real win."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Selfless by Hyram Peptide Q10 and Ginger Daily Defense Antioxidant Serum

"They launched that really dodgy serum which was like a Q10 serum that didn't contain Q10. They got around it by saying it contained a peptide that encouraged the body to create Q10, load of nonsense like that. That was a sort of marketing BS that people were really fed up with at this point and it really did nothing for the brand."

✕Nay

72%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Oil La La Serum

"I absolutely love that. [...] It's not oily, it's not greasy, it doesn't feel like you're wearing a facial oil, which I know for those oily skin folk is really really important. [...] If you want to choose an oil that's just focused down on hydration but you want it without any of that oil feeling, this could be your Holy Grail."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Regimen Lab Azelaic Acid Serum

"I think the price is too much for what you're getting. 10% azelaic acid, 10% azelaic acid derivative, and a few extras. I think the price is a bit too much if I'm honest. But I do like the fact that it's got that combination of the two. [...] Formulation-wise, 10 out of 10. [...] The actual product with the price probably knocks it down to an eight out of 10, but still a really good product, really really good product."

~Mixed

76%Guru Score

Naturium Multi-Bright Tranexamic Acid Serum

"For tranexamic acid, you want to look for something in a 5% concentration to really get maximum results, and the Naturium Multi-Bright Tranexamic Acid Serum is honestly the best out there. [...] There are a couple of different ones, but you want the one in the yellow packaging, because that's the right 5% [...] strength to give you the very best results. You don't need to stress over how to layer and pair these. Just use them [...] in the serum stage of your skincare routine."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1

"The NIOD copper peptides are nice but too expensive. Copper peptides used to be unique and commanded a higher price point, but they do not anymore and do not need to."

~Mixed

73%Guru Score

Dr. Idriss Major Fade Hyperpigmentation Serum

"I love the Dr. Idriss Major Fade line, one of my favorite skincare brands, and I love her as a content creator. It is one of the only high dose kojic acid options you can find on the market."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

K-Secret Soul 1988 Liposomal Serum

"The K-Secret Soul 1988 Liposomal Serum is absolute perfection when it comes to retinal, [...] so gentle yet so effective that you can even use it on the neck if you are super sensitive. It is one of my favorite Korean skincare retinals, I love it and have about six."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Hyaluronic Acid Serum

"The Ordinary Multi-Peptide serum pairs beautifully with growth factors. You don't have to use a separate peptide alongside it if you don't want, but I feel like you get extra results and I'm all about that when it comes to anti-aging. [...] The Geek and Gorgeous one is just slightly better, which is why I tend to prefer that, but it's up to you if you want to shop The Ordinary. Their multipeptide pairs beautifully with that."

~Mixed

75%Guru Score

Paula's Choice Niacinamide 20% Treatment

"So why do Paula's Choice have a 20% niacinamide? For the tiny cohort of people that might actually be appropriate and beneficial, there's a whole host of people out there using it believing the stronger is better and actually suffering and experiencing a lot of side effects as a result. Not science backed, not appropriate for the mass market."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

"So I'll shave, I'll put this on and honestly it just makes for the best post shave experience. It's designed to be a caring and soothing serum that you can use all over the skin, and you can absolutely do that. For me, I think some of the other serums that I use in my routine deliver that. This though I save in reserve for when I shave. It's beautiful, it's hydrating, it's calming, it's soothing, and it doesn't have a really funky scent like some calming and soothing serums can do."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

NIOD Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex

"I don't like the multimolecular hyaluronic acid complex. I just don't think we all need that much hyaluronic acid in our lives. For those of you that do really love your dose of hyaluronic acid this is a great one, [...] but for most of us we get our hyaluronic acid fixed as part of the rest of our skincare routine where it features as an ingredient in just about everything, so that's nothing special."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

Timeless Matrixyl Synthe'6 Serum

"I've been using the Timeless Matrixyl Synthe'6 Serum on and off for the past 2 years and it's wonderful. This has fewer peptides in than some of the other formulations that I'm sharing with you today but it has some of the very best plumping and hydrating ingredients you're going to find. If you're someone that wants your peptides with a plumping fix, I think the Timeless Matrixyl Synthe'6 Serum is one of the best on the market."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Garnier Vitamin C 3.5% Anti Dark Spot Serum

"This is garbage. I don't like the formulation. If you are tempted by this one, get the evening one. The evening one has 10% concentration of vitamin C, so much better. This is 3.5%, a blend of different things, it's about 1% vitamin C. It promises results in 6 days. I used it, I got zero results in 2 weeks. [...] This is not a good serum. If you want Garnier and you like this, actually go for the night version and use it in the morning."

✕Nay

52%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Mandelic Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum

"The mandelic acid brightening is actually my second favorite product from Allies of Skin because it really does work with hyperpigmentation. [...] Yes, this comes with a high price point, but if you shop smart at the time of this video being filmed you can get two for the price of one kind of products with that mandelic acid treatment and still get 20% off."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Timeless Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Matrixyl

"I'm personally enjoying a lot at the moment is this Timeless Hyaluronic Acid Serum that has Matrixyl as one of the core components in here. I find with the hyaluronic acid and the Matrixyl together you get that extra plumping. So if you're somebody that kind of wants to dial up the results, get maximum wrinkle reduction, then using this as your Matrixyl slot might be a great option."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

VEGREEN Skin Barrier Repair Serum

"Using this for just a couple of nights you'll already see an improvement. Use it in the long term and your skin barrier will be thanking you and honestly in tiptop health. This will prevent long-term dehydration and it's such a simple serum to slot into your skincare routine. It'll work with anything. If you're here thinking I just want to choose one of these products mentioned today, choose this one. Slot it anywhere in your skincare regime."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%

"It seems simplistic with aloe and niacinamide, there's not a whole lot going on in here, but there doesn't need to be when you formulate with high quality potent actives. You don't need a whole lot of filler and I definitely think this is one of the best recent launches from the ordinary and worthy of that number one position. [...] I've never been without it in the past 12 months in my skincare routine."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

The Ordinary B Oil

"This is one of the best facial oils I have ever used. [...] You can either use it at the end of your skincare routine for some extra hydration or you can [...] mix it in with your favorite moisturizer then apply it. It'll just double down on the benefits of that moisturizer, get you some antioxidant protection, and feels so good. I'm quite lavish with this. I even use it on the body mixed in with my moisturizer because it gives you the softest skin, perfect for summer."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary High Strength Vitamin C in Hyaluronic Acid (Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution)

"So I think it's on the brands to really explain it in more detail. This is great, and I'm really going to miss this one. I tended to use it in the winter when my skin was a little bit more sensitive, but I didn't want to forgo my vitamin C. This was perfect, and so I will definitely stock up with a couple of units, because it's so stable and you'll get a great shelf life on it. My skin just loves this one."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous B-Bomb Niacinamide Serum

"I'm not a fan of their B-Bomb, which is their niacinamide serum. [...] Nothing wrong with it, I just don't think in 2024 we need a niacinamide serum and a separate hyaluronic acid serum. That was very like years ago when everyone was going mad for those two ingredients, and we now realize that hyaluronic acid and niacinamide is in just about every single skincare product. You don't need a separate one. You're already getting these amazing ingredients as part of your other serum."

✕Nay

62%Guru Score

Timeless 100% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

"It could be a three in one, great for streamlining or just a great way of getting some hyaluronic acid and some Matrixyl in your skincare routine and then retain your existing vitamin C. That flexibility is why I love this product. And especially if you're shopping in the US where Timeless is super affordable, it's not that much more in terms of cost than The Ordinary one and I think you're getting a lot more for it. This is my personal favorite when it comes to Matrixyl."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Facetheory Resveratrol F Serum

"The concentration of that resveratrol, sky high dose, is going to really help you to get on top of your hyperpigmentation game and is one of the very best on the market. This is also teamed with other hydrating ingredients so you can use this alongside the rest of your routine to just get some plumpness and some hydration back into the skin. It's also got ferulic acid which is an extra amazing antioxidant to give you like a two for one."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Olay Super Serum

"Overall she'd give it a six out of 10, which I think is quite fair scoring when you look at the price point, the formulation and the results that you've seen. 21 days worth of wear to see a noticeable improvement in your hyperpigmentation and some firming, I think that's pretty good. [...] The formulation [...] is probably the best formulated of all of the Olay products out there. I like those five key actives, the vitamin C is in a stabilized form so it'll have a long shelf life."

~Mixed

70%Guru Score

Q+A Azelaic Acid Balancing Serum

"It's not always about the strength. I think I'd rather people go for a lower strength and use it twice a day every day than go for a high strength and use it a couple of times a week when they remember. That consistency is the key part. This I love again, calming, soothing, and really really helps to just, I think you get a lot more performance than you would traditionally expect for an 8% because of that quality formulation here, and it's super affordable which I absolutely love."

✓Yay

90%Guru Score

Facetheory Exaglow S10 Serum

"If you want a fragrance-free tranexamic acid then the Exaq Glow Serum by Facetheory is phenomenal, absolutely love this. It has multiple different brightening ingredients."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Paula's Choice Resist Antioxidant Concentrated Serum

"This is a really, really nice product. Paula's Choice Resist Antioxidant Concentrated Serum has multiple different antioxidants in it, including vitamin C, so it could be an antioxidant and vitamin C serum all in one. It's [...] slightly higher on the price point, but you're getting more in that formulation, so I don't think that's a bad thing. This is still definitely value for money. They do two sizes: a 5 ml travel size and a 30 ml."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Nzen Vitamin Concentrate Serum

"The Nzen Vitamin Concentrate Serum has a high dose of glutathione alongside three different forms of vitamin C derivative and some other great brightening ingredients such as tranexamic acid. This is going to be like a hero concoction when it comes to fading hyperpigmentation and comes at a really reasonable price point. [...] It's back in my skincare routine and I'm definitely grateful for that."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum

"The Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum is a wonderful serum, a fraction of the cost of the Allies of Skin one, but you have to bear in mind you might need to use this a little bit longer in order to get those results. Have a little patience because the concentrations used here aren't quite as potent. This uses vitamin C alongside glutathione for some great hyperpigmentation work."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid

"They do a 5% and they do a 10%, and I think the 10% works for almost everyone. If you've got very sensitive skin you want to start gentle, the 5% is fine, but I think most of us can start with the 10%. [...] I love this. I use it twice a week. I find that my skin is way glowier from using lactic acid than from using glycolic acid. It's a great switch to make. [...] I think this is a wonderful serum that I recommend to so many people and it just works wonders for me."

✓Yay

95%Guru Score

Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

"But honestly I was just a bit underwhelmed. It's pretty much just a hyaluronic acid serum and it costs £50, which is ridiculously expensive. [...] There's absolutely nothing wrong with this, I just think the price point means that you could honestly be getting the same outcome at a fraction of the cost. [...] I tried the original which was a bit of a fail. This is the Prebiotic one which I think is fractionally better, but still just not worth it."

✕Nay

83%Guru Score

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)

"This is the reformulated The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. It now has ceramides in to boost the barrier function. It's got more caring and soothing ingredients and this actually has more molecular weights of hyaluronic acid than the Vichy, so you're going to get a much more [...] in-depth hydration experience. This is a great fraction of the cost of that one. [...] I think The Ordinary just do it better."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Stratia C+C Serum

"I definitely think their packaging has been elevated to the next level. This is a stunning pump keeping that pure L-ascorbic acid vitamin C as fresh as possible and just really really easy to use. It's budget friendly, its formulation is so well thought through, and for those of you that feel confused about vitamin C versus vitamin C derivatives, don't be. Reach for Stratia and kind of get the best of both worlds."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Indeed Labs Vitamin C24

"This is the Vitamin C24 by Indeed Labs. This is actually quite a high concentration of vitamin C, but because it's in a silicone dimethicone base it doesn't irritate the way the other equivalent strength water-based vitamin C's would. It's also super stable, so this isn't going to oxidize as quick as your water-based serums."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Chia Seed Oil

"I don't think it's a terrible product at all. Chia seed is great, universal, works for everyone but there are other oils I think just offer greater benefits. If you like a bargain and you want to shop this while it's on sale, great. [...] Just drop a few drops of it into your moisturizer, ramp [...] up the hydration levels that you're going to see but again it was a hard sell for The Ordinary. Not surprised it's going."

~Mixed

75%Guru Score

The Ordinary Vitamin C 30% in Silicone

"I'll be better going for a 15% which is kind to my skin and gives me some great long-term benefits. [...] The fact that it often balled up and people didn't have the best user and application experience means just another reason that a lot of people moved on. This definitely is one of their lowest selling vitamin C's. [...] The risk of overdoing with this is far too high versus the benefits you're going to get."

✕Nay

50%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold Pressed Borage Seed Oil

"It's a lovely facial oil if you don't mind the scent, [...] really inexpensive. I would say drop it, buy it while you can, add a couple of drops of it into your moisturizer, great for hydration. I just don't think many people could get over the scent of it, which is why it never caught on. But for £5, if you can get over the scent, this is a real budget-friendly facial oil that is beautifully cold pressed and such a great find."

~Mixed

77%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

"I tried it and my skin adored it. It hydrated like no other oil, it calmed it, soothed it, it just did everything I wanted a facial oil to do. But because it was so vibrantly colored, it stained my pillows and it stained my hairline. [...] The results were unparalleled, but the user experience just wasn't that great."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

PSA Skin Midnight Courage Oil

"I love the PSA Skin Midnight Courage Oil because this is a beautiful blend of facial oils with that dose of puchol. One of the best ways of doing this is just add a couple of drops of this to the palm of your hand, put your favorite moisturizer on top, mix it and apply it to the skin. That way it'll sink in, give you extra hydration, boost your anti-aging."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Brightening Serum

"When people use numbers on the front and in the label you kind of expect that to correlate to what you're getting in terms of concentration, but not in this case. That said, the formulation is pretty good. The use of vitamin C and peptides is hotly contested in skincare, but you can absolutely use peptides alongside vitamin C and they work fine. Some people say you shouldn't because the low pH of vitamin C can impact the function of those peptides, but this has been disproven many times."

~Mixed

72%Guru Score

VT Green Fragrance-Free Nature Mucin Serum

"I've been using the VT Green Fragrance-Free Nature Mucin Serum. This uses wild yam which exhibits a lot of the same properties as snail secretion but without the snail involved. This is a great option if you're vegan and looking to eliminate animal derived ingredients from your skincare, or if like me you're just feeling a little squeamish."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

StriVectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Serum

"The StriVectin peptide plump will give you instant plumping, and it does have some long-term benefits too with that peptide action, so I guess this is probably above some of the quick win options on the market. But you are paying for that."

~Mixed

65%Guru Score

The Ordinary Squalane

"I actually find some of the derivatives kind of work better with acne in my experience than ascorbic acid and they definitely won't make your skin dull. So I use the Squalane Tetraisopalmitate solution from The Ordinary which is one of my absolute favorites that works amazingly with acne because it kind of hydrates with a bit of an oil base but won't clog the pores or exacerbate your acne."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Skin1004 Centella Asiatica Serum

"Unless you just love centella, when it comes to Skin1004, I wouldn't bother with their Centella Asiatica Serum. I'd buy one of the other serums that has squalane as standard."

✕Nay

60%Guru Score

Nip + Fab Illuminate Vitamin C Fix Concentrate

"They use words like 'extreme' in their language in order to hype up the products, and you look at the concentrations and it's like a five percent vitamin C. [...] It's not concentrated. I think often they over promise and under deliver. My guide to Nip + Fab would be: their extreme products are actually just standard concentrations, and their non-extreme ones are actually quite low concentrations, so reset your mind with this brand if you are thinking of trying them."

✕Nay

56%Guru Score

Facetheory Azelaic Acid 15

"If you want to go for a higher strength azelaic acid and your skin can tolerate it, Facetheory do a 15 which I love, and I think is just a good all-rounder. Nice concentration for everyone, and it's like seven pounds, eight pounds, so cheap."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum: Rice + Alpha Arbutin

"You've got niacinamide, and you've also got some other glow-enhancing ingredients too. So yes, it's definitely one of the most gentle brightening serums on the market, but a really, really nice one all the same. You don't get a whole lot of product in this, but I would probably only use a couple of drops, spread evenly over the skin morning and evening. Over time you'll definitely see that boost to radiance and luminosity, and you'll get practically zero sensitivity and irritation."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Depology Matrixyl 3000 Serum

"It was almost like it was dialing up the hydration, then it was just able to maintain it and increase it slightly. I definitely think that bodes well in terms of long-term benefits. Glides on really smoothly, feels really great on the skin. I enjoy the product enough that even after I'd finished it, I put another one on order that's winging its way to me now, and I'm going to be continuing to use it in the long term because I'm already impressed enough with the results that I got."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Purito Wonder Relief Centella Serum Unscented

"Go for the fragrance free one. Same great complex formulation of peptides and centella. It carbs, soothes, hydrates. This is the best-selling product from Purito for a reason and I think it's a really really great peptide and centella combo."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%

"You're not going to get a whole lot more in terms of benefits than with [...] a 15 or 20% strength, but you're going to get an awful lot more sensitivity and irritation. So people reaching for a product like this [...] are going to conclude that vitamin C just isn't for them. They've reached for a product from a trusted brand, and it sensitizes the skin, with the redness, peeling and irritation. So it's not the ingredient that's at fault."

✕Nay

51%Guru Score

Boots Vitamin C Serum with 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

"I would personally recommend the Boots Vitamin C Serum. This comes in at a seven percent concentration of a stabilized form of pure vitamin C. [...] That seven percent concentration is going to give you really good results. That's a robust concentration of vitamin C but it's not sky high, so you're not going to get a whole lot of side effects and sensitivity, especially because this is formulated with some hydrating and calming and soothing ingredients too."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Avène Physiolift Serum

"The Avène Physiolift Serum is a great high potency retinoid that's really easy to access in Europe. If you're a European Union customer looking to make the switch from retinol to retinoid due to these upcoming restrictions, this is a great easily accessible product. [...] They do a fragrance and a fragrance free version, and I would go for the fragrance free because I made the mistake of buying the fragrance and it stinks, it's pretty potent and I don't like it at all."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Nip and Fab Illuminate 15% Vitamin C

"I would actually use both because I think Nip and Fab has so much going on for hyperpigmentation and a touch of vitamin C. [...] If you just want to use one and you're going for brightness, go for Nip and Fab. They are both drugstore affordable. I tend to use the two together and I get really good results."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

The INKEY List Lactic Acid 10%

"They do another Lactic Acid 10% and things on the rooftops how it's going to transform your skin. I'm like it'll be good, but also you can get it cheaper elsewhere."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Neutralizing Azelaic Acid Gel

"This is a spot treatment. [...] You need to include this if you have breakouts. [...] If you do, and I certainly do, you need this in your life. There are loads of spot treatments on the market. None of them, in my experience, actually work with the exception of this. [...] This targets the zit, gets rid of it like that. [...] It also doesn't strip, dry, and irritate the breakout."

✓Yay
Sponsored

91%Guru Score

The Ordinary Caffeine 3% + EGCG 1% Face Serum

"This is the caffeine 3% plus EGCG 1% face serum. Just about every single person that's used it has become hooked and said yeah, this is absolutely it when it comes to firming, lifting, depuffing, and energizing the skin. It's like £8 for that price point, for that amount of benefit. This is an improvement on the original."

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Power Peptides Pro Collagen Multi Peptide Serum

"The Geek and Gorgeous Power Peptides are one of my favorite products, and they really focus on the anti-aging peptides. They're stabilized, which is the equivalent of encapsulation, so you can use them alongside everything else in your skincare routine without stressing about it."

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum

"Timeless decided to go down the airtight packaging route to make sure the vitamin C isn't exposed to oxygen, so it oxidizes at a much slower rate. It has a penetration-enhancing ingredient in it, so it works that little bit quicker than standard vitamin C. [...] It's a bestseller for a reason, and yeah, I love it. It is difficult to get outside of North America because the penetration-enhancing ingredient [...] isn't permitted in the European Union, though it's starting to come to the UK."

✓Yay
Sponsored

70%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous C-Glow 15% Vitamin C Serum

"Geek and Gorgeous has been in this top 10 vitamin Cs list for the past four years, and it's going nowhere because vitamin C is really difficult to get right in its pure form, and with this product Geek and Gorgeous nailed it. It's fresh, made in batches every single week, and if you order direct, [...] they guarantee it's no older than seven days. [...] I've used it so often and it's never oxidized within the three-month period a bottle lasts."

✓Yay
Sponsored

83%Guru Score

Remedy Daily Defense Vitamin C Serum

"This is vitamin C done right. It removes some of the complexity from layering into your skincare routine, boosts its effectiveness with other actives, and it's at a super affordable price point, so that for me is win-win-win."

✓Yay
Sponsored

88%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum: Centella + Vitamin C

"This is the Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum, which combines sentella asiatica and vitamin C together. [...] A recent study showed that using vitamin C and sentella together quadruples the anti-aging benefits of that vitamin C, so if you're using vitamin C, you might as well use sentella asiatica alongside it. It's [...] really inexpensive, great if you're looking for a Korean skincare vitamin C, and yeah, one of my personal favorites."

✓Yay
Sponsored

77%Guru Score

Frankly PDRN Bounce Ball Serum

"It plumps and hydrates and makes skin bouncy. The jury's out on whether it's super effective for long-term anti-aging, [...] but it gives great short-term hydration, bounce and plump, which is what I wanted. It gives the nicest, bounciest, glowiest, dewiest skin, and [...] this is the best PDRN serum I've ever used. Do you need PDRN? No, but [...] I've tried loads and this one just works."

✓Yay
Sponsored

74%Guru Score

Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP+ Serum

"It is one of my favorites, one of my favorite peptide serums, especially if you're looking to get the additionality of the growth factors. Growth factors are fantastic, further boosting collagen and elastin production, and they're [...] a great pairing alongside peptides, and this does it. I think this is probably the most affordable of the high-quality peptide and growth factor combos, as far as I'm aware there isn't a cheaper one on the market."

✓Yay
Sponsored

84%Guru Score

Remedy Copper Peptide Complex Advanced Firming Serum

"This is a beautiful, beautiful serum that combines multiple different peptides alongside the copper peptides, which are doing a lot of the heavy lifting here. Copper peptides are great for boosting collagen and elastin production, and the other peptides support that pro-collagen benefit while also calming and soothing. It's lovely and hydrating, it has some antioxidants in there too, and it's a really clever formula."

✓Yay
Sponsored

78%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous A-Pad Azelaic Acid Serum

"Azelaic acid in its true form at the right percentage to deliver maximum results at a beautifully affordable price point, around £15, and you can't get cheaper than that. The packaging is great, with a pump that lends itself to the formula. Every single box is ticked with this one. I'd say if there's one product from this whole lineup to buy and try this year, it's this one, because it genuinely [...] works and suits everyone's price point."

✓Yay
Sponsored

75%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Multipeptides & Growth Factor Advanced Lifting Serum

"They put these through rigorous testing. [...] I feel that this is the nicest in terms of application, glides on, feels beautiful on the skin. And because you don't need to use a lot of it to get the results, I do find whilst the price point is up there, a little does go a long way. [...] When it comes to the technology, the concentration of growth factors and the form of growth factors used, for me, this is the number one on the market."

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

The Ordinary Growth Factor 15% Solution

"Good news is though, super inexpensive. So if you are on a limited budget and you want to get your growth factor fix without breaking the bank, The Ordinary is definitely the best of the plant-derived growth factors that I found. And honestly, if you've been using this for the past two years, I bet you've seen some great results. For me at least, this is a really really great and super affordable product."

✓Yay
Sponsored

66%Guru Score

The Ordinary Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum with Vitamin C & Ginseng

"This is sensitive skin friendly. It won't cause too much sensitivity and side effects. And that's amazing because it's really one of those ingredients everybody could use. You've got your base routine sorted and then you can complement it, add some additional benefits with something really inexpensive like this. I love the fact that The Ordinary led the way when it came to using antioxidants to fade hyperpigmentation. This serum and others have followed and I really love that."

✓Yay
Sponsored

72%Guru Score

The Ordinary Pycnogenol 5% and Ectoin Micro Emulsion

"I love this, my skin drinks it up, and the ectoin [...] is great at boosting the barrier function of the skin, [...] giving a multi level hydration experience you don't get from thick moisturizers. It's so inexpensive and so innovative, [...] and I think it broke the mold of moisturizers in 2026."

✓Yay
Sponsored

81%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Copper Tripeptide + Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum

"This is the best copper peptide serum on skincare planet earth, no competition. If you want quick results, maximum collagen production and maximum anti-aging, this is the product you need to use. [...] I've gone through six or seven bottles now. I would never pay this price for a product if it didn't work, and [...] if there was an alternative to this I would be on it straight away. There isn't. This is the best copper peptide I have ever used."

✓Yay
Sponsored

81%Guru Score

Remedy Dark Spots Nightly All-in-One Treatment

"It's really inexpensive and it is a one stop shop for hyperpigmentation. I'd say once you have used it for about two months, that is where you will really start to see results, an even skin tone and less hyperpigmentation reoccurring. Take it from me, this is a powerhouse product."

✓Yay
Sponsored

85%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Peptides and Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment

"This is fantastic if your primary focus is streamlining. If you love the idea of aazanthin, but you don't want to have a separate serum, you don't want to be adding something to your skincare routine, get this because this is your peptide serum. It's your antioxidant serum. It's your brightening serum, your hyperpigmentation serum, and your firming serum all-in-one. It's ticking every box. [...] It's doing a lot. It's doing an awful lot in just one serum."

✓Yay
Sponsored

85%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil

"I think the rose hip seed oil by The Ordinary is a really nice alternative. [...] It's already super affordable. [...] The Ordinary one is also super super affordable if you want to use that rose hip seed oil, or you could use it alongside castor oil. It's an oil with a thinner viscosity, which is going to help thin out that castor oil and make for a better application."

✓Yay
Sponsored

83%Guru Score

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

"One of my least favorite products from The Ordinary is their hyaluronic acid serum. It's in everything as an ingredient. It's in everything. You do not need a standalone hyaluronic acid serum. And the fact that this is one of the best sellers from The Ordinary makes me really sad because actually a better product exists in the same collection. [...] Hyaluronic acid is a humectant which draws in moisture."

✕Nay
Sponsored

75%Guru Score

The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics

"You will get a better level of hydration from the Marine Hyaluronics than you will from the hyaluronic acid. It's also less likely to cause dryness because it works in a subtly different way. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant which draws in moisture. And if you're living in quite a dry and arid environment, it can actually end up sucking moisture from the deeper levels of the skin, actually being counterintuitive and dehydrating. You don't get that risk with the Marine Hyaluronics."

✓Yay
Sponsored

87%Guru Score

Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum

"I got this Merit Beauty one, they sent me [...] their Great Skin Instant Glow Serum and their Great Skin Priming Moisturizer. I don't know if anyone's ever tried Merit, I don't know anything about them but I thought I've heard good things so I'll try them."

~Mixed
Sponsored

79%Guru Score

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 2% + Niacinamide 2% Solution

"Let me tell you, these zits that I had, these would have broken out so much more and scarred so much more if I wasn't using this. It's almost like a preventative step. We all break out, we all have reasons, sometimes it's time of the month, sometimes it's as a result of some more sun exposure, in my case it's acne-based. We all will experience hyperpigmentation, and I would recommend including this as like a defense mechanism to prevent it and minimize its overall appearance. Definitely works."

✓Yay
Sponsored

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum

"The Balancing and Clarifying Serum is amazing if like me you're super oily and acne prone. If you get this in your life it'll minimize breakouts, minimize blackhead skin congestion, and even out the oil levels in the skin. I used it all summer long and it was a game changer. I get super greasy in those warm summer months and this saved my skin. I absolutely love it, but I would say it's probably best for people with an oilier skin type, not for everybody."

✓Yay
Sponsored

72%Guru Score

Mad About Skin Skin Perfecting Peptide Serum

"I currently use my own peptide serum, the Mad About Skin Skin Perfecting Peptide Serum, which has a multitude of different peptides from the collagen boosting through to the hydrating and the carrier peptides too."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C Plus Glutathione Clinical Serum

"I honestly think this is a really well formulated, thought through product. [...] This is genuinely a great product and I would recommend it, particularly if you're looking for a sensitive skin friendly version. [...] The price point is up there, I think it's about £45 here in the UK, that is a lot for a vitamin C serum, but I like the fact you've got glutathione."

✓Yay
Sponsored

77%Guru Score

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum

"If you want super gentle but hyper effective when it comes to fading down spots and discoloration um this one by good molecules is great"

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

Facetheory Polypep Collagen Boosting Peptide Serum

"If you want to dial up the amount of collagen in the skin this is a product for you. Beautiful blend of four different peptides each one specifically chosen to have a meaningful impact on the level of collagen production. Use this for a couple of months and you'll definitely notice a diminishing of fine lines and wrinkles, returning your firmness and elasticity to the skin. [...] For the price point I think it's probably like a market leader in terms of those specific peptides."

✓Yay
Sponsored

76%Guru Score

Moisturizers44 reviews

The Ordinary Pink Serum (Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion)

"You can use this actually mil for mill far cheaper than the 10%. Far better formulated. It's in a beautiful rich emulsion which [...] just glides onto the skin and sinks in. It gives you added hydration. It gives you the benefits of that niacinamide and again in a 5% strength, same concentration as the [azelaic] acid product. Genuinely works. I absolutely love this. [...] You can use it all over the body for that brightening and the benefits of niacinamide head to toe."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Ectoin Micro Emulsion

"This is like a serum moisturizer hybrid so good. This will be your moisturizer if you have oily skin. If you've got a more dryness prone skin type, [...] you could just put this on before your standard moisturizer and it'll elevate it up. [...] It's calming. It's soothing. The ectoin in here will boost the barrier function, but it's hydrating you enough that if you've got oily skin, it can be a moisturizer in its own right."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Hydration Station Moisturizer

"The hydration station is much more lightweight and it has a really nice gel finish. You can use the one that's best suits your individual skin's needs, or if you have combination skin, [...] you can [...] use the hydration station on the oilier areas."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Mary&May Spicule Collagen PDRN Cream

"I love the fact that they've used the PDRN, which can struggle to get into the skin, so the spicules are going to help with that. Collagen is a great hydrating agent - this is going to plump and hydrate. I love [...] that you've got panthenol to calm and soothe. The PDRN is actually vegan, so if you're looking for PDRN without the salmon, it's a great option. [...] I think this is like PDRN leveled up. [...] Mary and May [...] knocked it out of the park. I'm impressed."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Numbuzin Panthenol B5 Active Soothing Cream

"Keep it in the fridge and it gives you the most beautiful cooling experience. It actually adds [...] hydration back into the skin to plump it, unlike most gel moisturizers which are useless, and the B5 helps calm and soothe. It's not expensive, and [...] it's never steered me wrong. I'm on my third summer with it and I always have multiples because I'm never going to be without it."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Torriden Cellmazing Firming Cream

"These are from their firming line. Now, lots of brands claim to have firming and lifting products, but in my experience, very few of them actually work. Torriden is the exception. These have genuinely firmed and lifted my skin. So, I'm happy to recommend them. I wouldn't say they're going to be the equivalent of a facelift. Let's set our expectations right."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Skin1004 Probio-Cica Rich Cream

"Love it. They are phasing out the old Madagascar Centella version and replacing it with this, which has Cica in a hyper concentrated form. [...] It delivers the same as the old one, but with added calming and soothing because the Cica is a step up. It's fractionally more expensive, [...] they added about a pound 50 on, [...] but I'm not ridiculously mad because I think you are getting a little extra value from it. [...] It's a really nice moisturizer and it's great for summer."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Cica Cream

"I use it as an add-on rather than a core. So, this is all I need. It's a really nice moisturizer, and it's great for summer. Keeps the skin fresh, calms, soothes."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Happy Barrier Cream

"Great if you have dryness prone skin. It's super inexpensive and packed full of really beneficial ingredients. They put everything on the front which makes it super simple. [...] You've got squalane, you've got lipids. These are all going to be great hydrating and nourishing ingredients that deliver what you expect from a moisturizer without breaking the bank. I have been using these for the past two years. They've never steered me wrong. I love the fact they're a convenient size."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Jordan Samuel Skin Performance Cream

"I love the Jordan Samuel Performance Cream. This is great if you're looking for a peptide moisturizer. You've got your Snap 8 in here, you've got your ceramides, your other barrier boosting ingredients. Absolutely fantastic as a peptide infused moisturizer. It helps to streamline because you can use this in the place of your peptide and your moisturizer all in one. [...] My top tip with this one though is a little goes a long way."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Remedy Barrier Repairing Rich Cream Moisturizer

"This is one of the best moisturizers I have ever ever used. Packed full of ceramides in meaningful concentrations that's actually going to deliver you improvements to barrier health, locking in all that hydration and genuinely delivers. This is a powerhouse. I absolutely love it."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Remedy Barrier Repair Lightweight Gel Moisturizer

"Perfect if you have a more oily or combination oily skin. [...] In summer my skin is only going to need that light version. I think it's really nice that we have two options from the same skincare line that really mean you can choose the one that most aligns to your needs."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Purito Deep Sea Pure Water Cream

"It's a bestseller for a reason. It's genuinely so so good."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Prequel Reactive Skin Solutions 5% Ectoin Cream

"This is amazing. If you've overdone it with any actives, maybe you have [...] that winter skin where everything seems a little bit more sensitive than it usually is, [...] get this. Apply it for like three days and your skin will be transformed. You can use this as your moisturizer. I tend to keep this on hand for when my skin's going through it and I really need some additional TLC. This is when I will drag this one out."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream

"That is enough to do the whole face and neck. Doesn't seem a lot but because this is so rich, it feels like velvet. You're putting this on the skin and it is like a velvet glove. [...] The name Dynasty screams opulence, elegance, next level luxury, and you're kind of getting all of that, but you're not paying for it. It's so inexpensive, which I love. [...] My skin feels so good, and I think this is going to be my treat moisturizer that I take with me all the way through winter."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Phytoceramides

"The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Phytoceramides is amazing because it is beautifully rich yet stupidly affordable."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Medicube Triple Collagen Cream

"That's really what kickstarted my little voyage of discovery into this specific thing that's happening in our skin. Now, I absolutely love this Medicube Triple Collagen Cream. It [...] contains carnosine in the required concentration to maximize the amount of protection against glycation. It also has a great range of other growth factors and peptides. It's a true anti-aging powerhouse."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

"Stripping and drying lotions such as the Mario Badescu drying lotion which I had on screen earlier actually do more harm than good. Increase the risk of scarring and just hyperpigmentation central. Take it from someone that's been using these for years. They don't work. There are better options."

✕Nay

53%Guru Score

Naturium Plant Ceramide Rich Moisture Cream

"This is another great example of multiple different peptides all woven into the same formula to give maximum benefit. Again, you're getting a sky-high concentration here. And this is just a wonderful product to help heal the barrier of the skin, to hydrate, lock in that moisture, and it's really lightweight, too. It's not one of those super heavy, thick, and occlusive moisturizers, which for me at least are a no no during summer. This is really light and just spreads beautifully on the skin."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot PDRN Capsule Cream

"This is the VT Reedle Shot PDRN Capsule Cream, and it's a relative newcomer to my skincare routine. I first used it maybe two weeks ago, fell in love, and it's one of my favorite products now that I use every morning because it just calms, soothes, and really gives like a burst of hydration and peptide action to the skin. PDRN is one of the biggest trends in skincare right now, [...] and it's a great ingredient to boost collagen and elastin production and firm the skin."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

POV Beauty Hydrating Whipped Cream

"Their freshly whipped moisturizer is really nice for acne prone skin, so lightweight and feels so good."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Dr. Alia 345 Relief Cream

"If you want your calming and soothing step in a cream, this is amazing. If you've already got a great calming serum that you're loving, I don't think you need this. But if you're someone that likes the cream texture and some extra hydration over a serum, this is an amazing option. For me, because I've got slightly oilier skin, I find the Geek and Gorgeous Stress Less works better for me as a [...] serum that sinks in without a trace."

~Mixed

68%Guru Score

Stratia Liquid Gold Barrier Cream

"I absolutely love the Stratia Liquid Gold. This has been a favorite of mine for years, it was one of the first products I spoke about here on the channel when I set it up 5 years ago, still going strong. I love this product. A lot of brands will say that niacinamide will boost the barrier function of the skin and help heal the skin, [...] but you need a lot of other ingredients to achieve that, and Stratia have done the work for us."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream

"I personally don't like it as a moisturizer. I think it's overpriced and there's better options out there. [...] If you're looking for an affordable moisturizer and you're currently using La Mer, I'd say switch to any other product out there because the La Mer one, it's not that great to begin with in my humble opinion. There are actually two different versions of this product."

✕Nay

47%Guru Score

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

"I think both of those moisturizers are streets ahead of this and practically the same price, so whilst this used to be an amazing product, I think The Ordinary have kind of made it a little bit redundant with their two new moisturizer launches. I would recommend those moisturizers to everyone. [...] The phyto ceramides, the beta glucans are where it's at. I think the original Natural Moisturizing Factors might see its days numbered."

✕Nay

70%Guru Score

Facetheory Super Gel Oil-Free Moisturizer

"The formulation is still A+ and I love it. [...] It is still one of the best formulations for an oil-free moisturizer that actually hydrates. I am sick of those oil-free moisturizers that you put on and 5 minutes later your skin is as dry as it was before, what is the point? This actually hydrates. So if you're someone with an oily skin type or in summer you get really really hot and you find that almost like it feels like..."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Daily Antioxidant and Peptide Moisturizer

"Thank you for the Allies moisturizer it's amazing"

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Gel

"A really nice product, but I would just say for me this did break me out slightly. Now when it comes to breakouts, everyone's skin is unique, what will work for one person won't work for another and vice versa. This is a great kojic acid serum, but I would say if you're particularly breakout prone, maybe this isn't going to be the best option for you. [...] For everyone else, this is a beautifully affordable kojic acid serum that really does pack a punch using those other actives."

~Mixed

82%Guru Score

The INKEY List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing & Plumping Moisturizer + Barrier Strengthening

"I also love their ceramide treatment"

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan

"The beta glucan one [...] is fantastic if you're looking for a lightweight gel. It hydrates you to the gods with no weight to the skin. It won't break you out, clog the pores. It's calming and soothing. Great, I'd say for oily or combination skin types."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.1 Purple Complex Soothing Moisture Cream

"Both amazing in their own right but if you add a little bit of this powder helps to mattify these two down great for us oily skin folk"

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Oat So Simple Water Cream

"They're a little bit more hydrating than that Face Theory one, however they're not in a gel, they're in a cream. [...] Both super breathable. You put these on the skin and you're getting that dose of hydration but you're not feeling weighed down, which I absolutely love."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5

"When you see people talk about this hack online most of them will recommend using the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5. Whilst this works really well for this hack, [...] I've been doing this consistently for a week and I've already seen some amazing results. After about 3 or 4 days I noticed the sebaceous filaments, they're the light colored like plugs of oil and debris in the skin, they..."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream

"It's a basic moisturizer. There's a few potentially irritating ingredients in there and ingredients that if you're not careful could break you out. I'm not a big fan of the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream. I honestly think it's overrated. I think it's overhyped and it's certainly overpriced."

✕Nay

61%Guru Score

iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream

"This has been on the bestsellers list literally every year for the past three years. [...] It's good, it gives results. If you have super oily and acne prone skin and you want a beautiful lightweight gel moisturizer, this is it. You've got that centella, you've got some tea tree in here. It's going to minimize blemishes, it's going to hydrate the skin, super lightweight."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Heimish All Clean Balm Mandarin Orange Limited Edition

"Yeah, the smell is pretty grim. And it's the same great texture and it works just as well as the original, but I think why would you get this if the smell isn't particularly nice? There's no added benefit to that mandarin. I think go for the original, give this a pass. The original is where it's at. They need to work on the scent of this. I think I expected a really nice, rich sort of mandarin orangey scent to it. I just got chemicals. Not great."

✕Nay

71%Guru Score

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

"If you are sad that the La Roche-Posay is gone and you want like an equivalent to the original formulation, you can reach for this, the Avène Cicalfate+. Very similar ingredient profile to the original, same texture and same finish, just as good at repairing the barrier function. I would say buy this instead. The Avène Cicalfate+ works just as well as the original, so it's definitely easy to just make that switch."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Moisturizer

"I actually don't use this in summer on my skin type because it's too much. I'll use it in the cooler winter months. But in summer, if you're struggling to get on top of your dryness, this could work really well. You could put layer after layer on top of it if that's your preference. It comes in a pump, so if this is your style of packaging that you prefer, the pump is really nice for just dispensing the right amount of product."

~Mixed

78%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.3 Gold 3D Firming Cream

"Single-handedly the best skin care product of 2026. It's affordable and effective, rivaling all of those bougie firming and lifting creams out there at a fraction of the cost. I paid £12 when I repurchased it. It has their unique peptide blend, which I love. It's rich and hydrating, so it's great for the cooler winter months, [...] but it doesn't sit on the skin leaving a film, so I could still use it in the summer."

✓Yay
Sponsored

84%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm

"The Allies of Skin Molecular Barrier Recovery Cream Balm works amazingly. I've been using it for the past 5 years in winter to offset retinoid dryness. It's a really great cost-effective alternative to the Dr. Sam's mask, and it's a third of the price and you get double the product."

✓Yay
Sponsored

79%Guru Score

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

"The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, or the remedy for moisturizing as I call it, is a fantastic lightweight moisturizer that I absolutely love. They do a standard version for dry skin and a lightweight version for oily skin—either one works fine, just match it to your individual skin type. I'd recommend this to layer with the PDRN eye cream since it's lightweight but still has nice hydrating components."

✓Yay
Sponsored

80%Guru Score

PSA Skin Silver Lining Treatment Moisturizer

"This is a good dupe. [...] You get more product than in the original, and it's slightly cheaper, [...] so per mil it's a really nice dupe. It has the same acid in it that's doing the heavy lifting alongside some other great clarifying ingredients, so it's great if you're looking to minimize breakouts, fade acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. This works really, really well. It has a nice feel on the skin and is a real pleasure to use."

✓Yay
Sponsored

79%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Moisturiser Intense

"One of my personal favorites. And trust me, when my skin goes through it in winter and I feel that sensitivity rising, this is the product I reach for like that disappeared. Honestly, takes away sensitivity, irritation in a flash. And the reason it works so well is because it doesn't just rely on ceramides of which there are multiple in good concentrations in this product. But it also has NAD which boosts skin barrier function and also brightens the skin too."

✓Yay
Sponsored

87%Guru Score

K-Secret Collagen Vita Secret Multi Balm

"The product that I've decided is the one I genuinely couldn't live without is this, the K-Secret Collagen Vita Secret Multi Balm. It's [...] a collagen-based beauty balm, but it's the flexibility that just works for me. Balms are great, and having a great balm in your skincare routine is a great way of getting multiple different uses from one product, and this does all of that. I'll use this under the eye to boost the radiance and luminosity, to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles."

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

Other44 reviews

The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%

"It works best on dynamic wrinkles like laugh lines, crow's feet, and expression lines, but it will have a marginal impact everywhere else because it's naturally plumping too. [...] It's really sensitive skin friendly and compatible with almost all skin types. It costs around £9 here in the UK, so about $11, which is super budget friendly, and it's been a staple in my skincare routine for years for good reason. It's worked really well for me for years."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Indeed Labs Snoxin 2

"Thanks to the update in formulation, the reduction in price, and the studies that Indeed Labs have done to prove how effective it is, I actually think at this point it's a no-brainer to go for the Indeed Labs Sonoxin 2. As long as you're happy with the form of application and you know you can't use multiple eye creams on top of it and you're happy to wait 30 minutes for its action to take effect, you're going to get so much additional benefits without actually having to spend any more money."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Prequel Skincare

"Prequel is another fantastic dermatologist skincare brand."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Tazerotene 0.1%

"I then switched to this. This is tzaritine. So tazeritine is also a super high strength retid. Some dermatologists actually suggest that tazeritine is stronger than tininoine, but it's better tolerated on the skin. So I get fewer side effects, less irritation, but I get all of the benefits. This for me has been a gamechanger. Absolutely amazing."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Medik8 C-Tetra Advance

"This is a beautiful vitamin C derivative that's high performance. So, it will definitely help fade hyperpigmentation, but will do so in a much more gentler way. [...] The reason I've gone for the derivative is I think using that hydroquinone, I don't want to use too many potent actives alongside it. I also think I get the results that I want from that vitamin C derivative. I don't feel like I need to push it further. And for me, it just works to perfection."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA

"The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA works in the long term to boost collagen production and give long-term anti-aging, [...] so you get the long-term payoff and plumping. Together with the Argireline it just makes sense to use these two, and even five years on you can still get this potent anti-aging duo for around twenty dollars, one of the most potent anti-aging combos you're going to find."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Ultrasun Extreme 50

"Ultrasun is [...] one of my favorite sunscreen brands, they do the extreme wear products really well, and it ticks so many boxes. It's not the cheapest product out there, but for specific circumstances like skiing or hiking where you don't need to reapply as often, I think it's a really, really good option that delivers that longwear extreme protection without feeling super heavy on the skin."

✓Yay

67%Guru Score

Dr.Melaxin Calcium Stick

"Take Dr. Melaxin for example, a fantastic Korean skincare brand. Their Calcium Stick went viral and I would say it's probably my least favorite of all their products. The one that delivers the least in terms of results."

✕Nay

62%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous A-Game range

"I love a product like this that really suits all levels of sensitivity. If you have super sensitive skin but you want to use retinal, go for the 5, it will work so well for you and it won't give you a whole lot of redness, peeling, and sensitivity. If you have relatively resilient skin but you're a beginner, start with the 10, that will deliver phenomenal results in a really short space of time."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Sachi Skin States of Skin Complexion Clarifying Accelerator

"Is this the best exfoliator ever? Yes. It's a beautiful blend of gentle acids and manuka honey, it does everything an exfoliator should, gives a little tingle but nothing too intense, and you wake up with the most gorgeous glowing skin. [...] The drawback is it's got one of those pump things that looks grimy even when clean, because the [...] manuka honey is sticky, [...] I would have preferred it in a standard pump. [...] But it works, so I will repurchase it."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Remedy For Pore Size

"The pore size serum I love because it's one of the few products that actually works. Many brands claim to help shrink [...] pores but none of them ever do. This actually did work for me. You do have to be consistent, using it twice a day morning and evening for a couple of months, and that's when you'll see results but they will come."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Calm Down

"This is stunning. You get a lot of product in this. So one will last me like six months and it's super budget and affordable. I really like this because it uses a low dose polyhydroxy acid which is super gentle alongside just a touch of salicylic acid too. That salicylic acid is great because it's going to go into the pores, flush out the dirt, the debris, blackheads, sebaceous filaments which people can experience a buildup of, particularly in the early stages of their retinoid use."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

The Ordinary EUK 134 0.1%

"And I think it's a really easy one to slot into your skincare routine to just dial up the results that you see. [...] I would recommend this every day of the year. Such a great product to include. And at the moment, [...] The Ordinary have their 23% off sale, which brings this down to about £7 here in the UK. So super inexpensive way of just getting a little extra firming and lifting action going in your skincare routine."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

RNW Ceramide Plus Concentrate

"If you want a high dose ceramide treatment, this RNW is really cheap, really effective high dose ceramides. [...] If you're on a ceramide hunt in 2026, get this one."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution

"This is one of those products just everybody should have in their skincare routine. It hydrates, it plumps, it nourishes, but most importantly, it turbocharges your hyperpigmentation routine. If you're somebody that's already using hyperpigmentation actives such as maybe vitamin C, tranexamic acid, alpha, all the good stuff, use this to just turbocharge it. It's super gentle, so even the most sensitive skin can absolutely use it."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Lipid 1%

"They work absolutely fantastically, but when there's a sale on, I treat myself to this because I just love the feel of this product on my skin. This is a copper peptide in a lipid format, which is fairly unique and fairly rare. You don't see it a lot on the market, but those lipids will just help those copper peptides penetrate a little bit deeper. I find you get slightly quicker results with a lipid based copper peptide. [...] It gives you the nicest, smoothest skin. It's super hydrating."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

The Ordinary Volufiline 92% + Palmitoyl Isoleucine 1%

"On the lips, I love it. [...] The applicator actually lends itself to a lip application quite well, because you can whizz it around. Just make sure you clean it afterwards, but you can whizz it around, and that works really well for an easy lip application. It gives a nice plumping, and it'll help remove any lines people might have around the lips. You can then top it off with a really nice balm, and that locks everything in and gives you maximum hydration and a little plumping to the pout too."

✓Yay

61%Guru Score

NIOD Neck Elasticity Catalyst

"It also contains some firming ingredients, some smoothing, and ones that are going to help soften any pre-existing lines that you have. This works really well for me. I would say that my overall neck firmness and the reduction in wrinkles is around 25%. Having used the NIOD Neck Elasticity Catalyst for the past year, that to me is a really good result. [...] If you want a guaranteed win when it comes to the neck, I would personally invest in the NIOD Neck Elasticity Catalyst."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Medik8 Super C Ferulic

"You could absolutely go for the Medik8 Super C Ferulic. This is designed to be a like for like dupe for the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic but half the price. You've got your pure form vitamin C here in a formula which helps to keep it stable so it's not going to oxidize too quickly. You've got your ferulic acid, which is great in terms of providing antioxidant protection, but also further stabilizing that vitamin C. This is great for those that love their pure form vitamin C. Medik8 do it best."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F

"If you want a more affordable option, you could use The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F. [...] This is also a really inexpensive derivative that you could slot into your evening skincare routine and it would work the same. [...] The Ordinary one is also super amazing."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot 300

"The 300 is slightly more potent in terms of the spicules that are in here. So spicules are little they're almost like micro darts that push the product deeper into the skin so you get better results. You get quicker results too. And this works in a flash. Now those spicules I don't think work on sensitive skin. If you're somebody that has quite a resilient skin type that maybe you're not getting the results you want to see from other vitamin C's, give this a go."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

The Ordinary Amino Acids + B5

"If you're somebody that has very dryness prone skin, particularly in the cooler winter months, get this because it's the surefire way to supercharge your moisturizer. Get you whatever moisturizer works for you. But if you feel that it needs a little bit of extra hydration in the winter months, just add a couple of drops of The Ordinary Amino Acids to it. I'll put some moisturizer in the palm of my hand. Two drops of The Ordinary Amino Acids. Mix it together and apply it to the skin."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

VT Color Reedle Shot

"If you want to get like the original and the authentic when it comes to spicules, then the VT Reedle Shot line is amazing. This is their vitamin C one. [...] Stunning. One of the fastest acting vitamin C's."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Stratia Interface

"It's an amazing option with growth factors and peptides together. This comes at a fraction of the cost of other recommendations, but just know that the type of growth factors used in this isn't quite as advanced as either of the other two. So you are compromising slightly, but for that price point, honestly, I think this is wonderful."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

VT Garlic Reedle Shot

"This is a Garlic Reedle Shot. I am very blemish prone, particularly in the warmer weather. I find that I get more breakouts in warm weather. It's been very hot here in the UK, so I have been using this. It genuinely works. You use this as your evening moisturizer. When you wake up in the morning, your zits will be like half the size. It takes away redness. It takes away inflammation. This is a holy grail, like a superstar."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

VT Seeker Line

"I also really love this, which is the VT Seeker Line mask cleanser. Again, a great calming and soothing cleanser that you can leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing away. You get a mask and a cleanser all in one. I do quite like this idea as a dual-purpose product because it can help you streamline, get some additional benefit from your products."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot Series

"We have the VT Reedle Shot masks, we've got all the different ones here, some are retinoid infused, some are hyaluronic acid. [...] These are like three-hour treatment masks, I think you get five in each one, so they're really good. I know so many people love them."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Medicube Zero Pore Pad

"These are gentle, but I don't feel that we really need all these pads in our life. I think it's a little bit much. I think the marketing on here is a bit suspect because this isn't going to give you zero pores. It might help at the margins. I just don't think it's worth the price point. [...] If you're looking for an exfoliating pad and you set your expectations right, this is okay, but it's nothing groundbreaking if you ask me."

✕Nay

57%Guru Score

VT PDRN Reedle Shot

"This is great because it takes that PDRN in a really good concentration, mix it with [Centella] asiatica, other calming, soothing, and anti-inflammatory ingredients, and it uses it alongside their spicule technology."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

Neostrata Survival Zero

"This also has over 12 different antioxidants, some of the more tried and tested ones too. [...] I use this in conjunction with those to increase the protection of the skin, get some extra hydration, calm and soothe, and in the long term get a little radiance boost and some extra luminosity. [...] You can actually use this because it contains a vitamin C derivative [...] on a morning or on an evening or both."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 (reformulated)

"They took out a lot of the hydrating ingredients and replaced them with more matte equivalents. They also kind of cheapened the product by taking out some of the more expensive ingredients and replacing them with cheaper alternatives. That's great for your profit margins but it's really not great for us the consumer. [...] What used to be a beautiful nourishing hydrating barrier supporting serum just doesn't work the same."

✕Nay

64%Guru Score

Neostrata Copper Amino Isolate Lipid

"It's in a lipid form so if you have super dryness prone skin this is going to be a dream, hydrates you to the gods. It'll help boost your skin barrier function and you're getting that dose of copper peptides too. [...] Not the cheapest product out there but it's the only complete lipid based copper peptide that I can find, perfect for dry skin people out there. The [...] technology in here is so advanced that they trademarked it and I am living for that."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Products

"La Roche-Posay is definitely guilty of using niacinamide as a way of just hyping up the product and what it could achieve. They put a dose of niacinamide in something and can claim it's an anti-acne formulation, but niacinamide is super cheap to formulate with. It's okay as an antioxidant and for balancing oil levels and reducing acne, but it's not amazing at any of these things."

✕Nay

68%Guru Score

The Ordinary Arginine Solution

"I love the results that I got particularly targeting dynamic fine lines and wrinkles those caused by movement, so if you're worried about the crows feet, the laughter lines, all the 11s, The Ordinary Arginine Solution is a really inexpensive yet effective way to target them. My favorite way of using this is to combine it with another peptide from The Ordinary known as Matrixyl for that like double whammy."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot Black Truffle

"I love this. It uses the spicule technology that VT is famous for, which really helped to push the product deeper into the skin, but this contains black truffle which just gives the nicest smoothness to the skin. It plumps it, hydrates, and it just has a real luxury feeling. I just bought this bottle and I think I paid £22, so it's really not break the bank pricing when you think of the quality of the formulation and what it's delivering."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Nivea Creme

"It's a fairly decent if basic moisturizer, but with everyone hyping it online to be a fabulous dupe for bougie skin care and a great one-stop shop for your whole routine needs, [...] there are quite a few cons to [...] balance out that hype. The biggest con for me is that Nivea aren't a cruelty-free brand. I made a commitment to go entirely cruelty-free in my skincare routine around three years ago and I've stuck to that ever since."

~Mixed

74%Guru Score

Timeless HA Matrixyl 3000 Rose Spray

"The rose one is just great for nourishing and hydrating. [...] If you spray some of this, particularly the rose one, onto the skin and then put a serum on top of it, the plumpest skin you will ever have. [...] It's like an instant wrinkle erase set because it plumps itself out and everything will just seem smoother and plumper. [...] I really love the packaging, I love the ingredients. Each one of these has added peptides in so it's like a peptide and a face mist all in one."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Skin Glow

"If you want to keep it super affordable drugstore and really fresh, then my good old friend Geek & Gorgeous just comes through. They have their Skin Glow which is made fresh every single week, so when you get it it's going to have the maximum shelf life. I love the Geek & Gorgeous Skin Glow, it's one of my personal favorites."

✓Yay

92%Guru Score

VT Cica Reedle Shot 700

"This is the VT Cica Reedle Shot 700. It's got centella asiatica in it, but so does the original, and so do the other ones. [...] I don't know that this is adding an awful lot more versus what you can get with the other ones, so for me this was a bit of a pass. It was nice, but you can get the same benefits with one of the others plus some more, so I didn't really see the benefit of it."

✕Nay

65%Guru Score

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex

"Do I think it works? Absolutely. I think everyone online saying oh my God this is the best thing that ever existed, no, but I did like it. So I think it's expensive for what it is, but if you're getting it as a treat for your birthday, absolutely fine, it's nice, it's a nice serum. I think people online saying it's the only serum you need, it's the best thing that's ever happened, are overhyping it, but it's a really nice serum, so I've always enjoyed it when I've used it in the past."

~Mixed

64%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot 100

"With the VT Reedle Shot, you've got one with collagen, one with PDRN, one vitamin C, so choose one based on what your number one skin concern is and then you'll have some great great results. I would say personally I prefer the VT, I think it's better."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

NIOD Hydration Vaccine

"The Hydration Vaccine I think is a genuine game changer. This is a really nice serum cream which will help dial up the rate of hydration in the skin and just lock it all in for winter. So if like me you're super dryness prone in those cooler winter months, this Hydration Vaccine can be a great way of just kind of preventing some of that dryness. [...] I like the term vaccine because that implies that you're almost protecting against something."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

"The Drunk Elephant one translates as a little bit orangey on the skin, not my favorite, and of course that will depend on the tonality of it will depend on your individual skin tone to begin with, but for me it comes across quite orange. I don't like the fact that they say it's an antioxidant product when there's not a whole lot of antioxidant action going on in there. I certainly wouldn't swap out your antioxidant serum for it."

✕Nay

59%Guru Score

Drunk Elephant Skincare line

"I think Drunk Elephant caused a lot of the issues themselves. [...] Their products [...] were good, but they were always very overpriced for what they were in my opinion, so I don't think anything is really lost by Drunk Elephant exiting the market."

✕Nay
Sponsored

60%Guru Score

Cleansers42 reviews

Pixi Clarity Collection Cleanser

"This is their clarity cleanser. This is their salicylic acid one, which I love because salicylic acid cleansers usually stink. They have a very chemical scent. This one doesn't. It smells because they have that added fragrance. It smells so nice. It's just a really nice way of adding a little touch of the sensorial to your skincare routine without risking too much sensitivity."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Regimen Lab Tabula Cleanser

"They also have a really nice cleanser that is amazing if you have really dry skin. You need to cleanse, but you're kind of worried about trying anything because you're worried about stripping and drying. This is probably the best of the sensitive skin cleansers that I have tried. It's fantastic."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Remedy Rich Cream to Foam Cleanser

"The rich gives that extra layer of hydration for people that need it. If you've got a dryness prone skin type, I genuinely love both. They're so rich, they're so thick and occlusive, particularly the rich one. A little goes a long way, so use less than you think you need and then you can always put a little bit more on. They're [...] super inexpensive to start with, and because a little goes a long way, you'll find that the product just lasts you a lot longer than others."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm

"A couple of weeks in it started separating again and feeling grainy again. I'll give them a bit of grace on the separation because of the [...] heat wave, oil based cleansers aren't designed to stabilize against that kind of heat, [...] but the grittiness is a fundamental stability problem they didn't really address the first time around. I'm not personally that livid about it, but I just won't repurchase it because I don't like the graininess."

~Mixed

75%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser

"This is the silkiest, richest, most luxurious cleanser you have ever tried, and it's the cheapest product from Allies of Skin. So if you're looking to try the brand but you don't want to splurge too hard, this is the product I would recommend."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Numbuzin Glutathione Cica Facial Spa Cleanser

"This has been my absolute holy grail cleanser for the past three years. [...] It's a beautiful oil, great for facial massage, and it emulsifies into a beautiful milk when you add water and rinses away without a trace, so it's the nicest cleansing experience you'll ever have. The glutathione helps at the margins with hyperpigmentation, and the scent brings the spa into your home without a luxury price point."

✓Yay

72%Guru Score

Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser

"The packaging is eye catching, it's a pop of color, which I personally really enjoy, but the formulas are really, really good. This cleanser comes in at like £13 and you get a lot of cleanser in it. I think this is a really nice budget friendly option that doesn't strip or dry but delivers an effective cleanse. [...] It wouldn't be fair to not mention it in this video, it's just a wonderful, really accessible price point too, which I love."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Cleansing Water

"Most micellar waters struggle to take off SPF, particularly multiple layers of quite stubborn SPF. This just works, melts everything away really, really effectively. You can use it all over the face as a standard cleanser, I would probably use it as the first step in a double cleanse. [...] I generally won't bother with it in winter where I'm not using as much SPF, [...] but during summer it's my absolute go-to."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Remedy Derm Dissolve Cleansing Balm

"If you're constantly dropping smooth bottles in the shower you don't have that problem with this. You can actually hold it great. [...] Little touches like that where they've clearly thought about usability and accessibility matter. They actually worked with content creators who have mobility issues to make sure the hand cream and their products are user friendly for the widest number of people in terms of accessibility."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

The Ordinary Glycolipid Cream Cleanser

"Super inexpensive, really nice in terms of getting the job done, but not stripping and drying. And this is something I'd really encourage everyone to take a look at. [...] Go for something like this that actually adds hydration back into the skin. You'll see such great results and it's super inexpensive. [...] This is a universal, super affordable, and budget friendly cleanser that I honestly recommend to everyone. Just a great place to start your routine."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous 101 Mighty Melt Cleansing Balm

"This is the best cleansing balm you will ever, ever use. Just take it from me. It costs, it's under $20. I think it's somewhere in the region of about $12 and [...] you get a lot of product. Like this is the latest one that I bought and you can see how much you're getting in there. It's like a full pan of cleansing balm and you only need a little. [...] So good for summer because we wear multiple layers of SPF. Often we'll have gone for a water resistant SPF, really difficult to shift."

✓Yay

95%Guru Score

Remedy Gel-to-Foam Cleanser with Salicylic Acid

"This is [...] their salicylic acid one. I absolutely love it. [...] Super inexpensive. Feels gorgeous on the skin. Doesn't strip and dry. I'll use this maybe three or four mornings a week. That's all the exfoliation I need. I was really using my tretinoin previously to try and increase cell turnover, smooth everything out. And I never achieved that because I just ended up getting a whole lot of irritation and my skin somehow felt rougher as a result. This doesn't leave any of the roughness."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Arencia Rice Mucin Cleanser

"It's just a beautiful, beautiful product. Great for winter if you're looking for something a little bit more on the hydrating side in terms of your cleanser. You get a vat of product. This will last me, I've just bought two, [...] I'm about halfway through one, so I've got two and that'll see me through another 12 months because I use such a little amount of this and it works. It [...] has the rice that's anti-inflammatory, it's calming and soothing. It's just so so good."

✓Yay

58%Guru Score

Pixi Oil Cleanser

"Now, today in the shower, I actually went in with this. This is the Pixi Oil Cleanser. I actually love this. I picked this up at the drugstore because I'm going through a bit of a Pixi resurgence. I used to love this brand. It completely fell off my radar, and I've been trying some of their new launches. I like this. This is a cost-effective cleansing oil. It works really nicely on the skin. It feels luxurious without that luxury price tag, which I'm all about. And yeah, it's great."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Prequel Gentle Cleanser

"Their cleanser is actually a glycerin-based cleanser, which is pretty rare to find. Lots of cleansers have quite stripping and drying surfactants in them, which is why it leaves us tight and dry. This actually doesn't. It really does work, but it uses that glycerin to break apart some of the dirt, debris, and makeup whilst also hydrating and nourishing. It's a really clever formulation. It's a really affordable price point for the quality, and it's just nice to see."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Tower 28 Daily Balancing Gel Cleanser

"It takes away that excess oil that as someone who's super oily, I definitely produce all day long. And you can use this on a morning, you can use it on an evening. It's one of those products that just genuinely works no matter what you need from your cleanser. It's not stripping. It's not drying. And I just love the look. I think it's super fun. This would be a great option if there's a teen in your life looking to get into skin care for the first time."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Numbuzin Easy Peasy Cleansing Oil

"Not only does it smell so uplifting and spa-like, but it genuinely packs a punch when it comes to melting away anything that's sitting on the skin and giving you a little glow up in the process. If you work this into the skin for, say, 60 seconds as part of facial massage, the glutathione in here is really going to get to work to help lift any excess pigment and also help to just brighten and glow up the skin. I love the way it feels."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

PSA Skin Reset Cleanser with AAI and Manuka Honey

"Try the PSA Reset Cleanser. This is phenomenal. It's packed full of Manuka honey, which is really going to hydrate, nourish, calm, and soothe, and so many other hydrators. This is one of those cleansers that actually leaves your skin feeling more hydrated after you've washed it than before. That's almost unheard of in the cleanser market. And so, if you have a more dryness prone skin type and you want to have an effective gel cleanser, then the PSA reset any anytime. It feels luxurious."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Jelly Joker Low pH Cleanser

"If you've got a more [...] dryness prone skin type, maybe reach for something like the Geek and Gorgeous Jelly Joker cleanser that I think just has a little bit more hydration to it."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

April Skin Niacinamide 99 Deep Cleanser

"I think this is wonderful if there's someone in your life that's experimented with skincare, they want to buy their first skincare product but you don't want to go for something that's going to trash their skin. Super gentle yet actually effective and visually appealing. This ticks every box. I love it. Super inexpensive too. I'm going to experiment a lot more with April Skin because I just love love love this product and I think this is going to be my summer go-to when it comes to cleansers."

✓Yay

65%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser

"This is the Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser. It used to be an oldie and a favorite of mine years ago, and I [...] recently [...] rediscovered my love of it. It's beautiful, super lightweight, really refreshing. It doesn't have any artificial fragrance in it but it does have a light pick-me-up scent which I absolutely love. It doesn't strip or dry but gets the job done. I'd say this is a perfect morning cleanser for people that are wearing multiple layers of SPF."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

"The Squalane Cleanser, again a really nice affordable gentle cleanser, but the newer versions, which is their foaming cleanser and their glycolipid cleanser, just work a little bit better. The glycolipid one great for super dry skin, the foaming cleanser great if you want that gentle but foaming cleansing action, great again for us oily folk. Those two are amazing, rendering the Squalane Cleanser again a little bit redundant."

✕Nay

82%Guru Score

Dr. Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm

"It's not bad but it's not great either. It's a good quality mid-range cleansing balm with some nice packaging. Personally I still prefer other cleansing balms which [...] just work better. So for me I would rather have better quality balm and less fancy packaging. But if you're someone that hates scooping out cleansing balm and you want something like this, it's a nice product, it's innovative in terms of its packaging and it's a nice one that you might want to try."

~Mixed

74%Guru Score

Dr. Jart+ Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm

"As cleansing balms go, this one I really really enjoy, particularly for doing a facial massage, which is a great way to start an anti-aging skincare routine. It's great for people that don't like sticking their fingers in the cleansing balms. This is a nice easy to dispense way of doing it and it does a great facial massage. [...] For facial massage, I found this was easy, convenient, and definitely did the job."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

"If you're someone that wants a strictly gel cleanser that's super effective like a one and one, then this is the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel. Now this is slightly more expensive than the other two but it works, works so well and you get a lot of product. This will last you a long time because you only need the smallest amount. A great gel version of a product that again is just almost like a double cleanse in one."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

"So inexpensive. This cleanser, it's just a really nice cleansing oil. I mean, it's nothing spectacular, it's nothing groundbreaking, it's just a nice affordable cleansing oil. And I think the reason I say it's a must-have is I'm tired of overpaying for cleansing oils and cleansing balms. You don't need to. Something inexpensive like this, you get a lot of product because a little goes a long way is all you need. I think I've been using this up for the past year and it's still going strong."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Harborist Hyper Gentle Skin Care Balm to Gel Cleanser

"I'd only just discovered it like a week before filming that and loved it. [...] I absolutely love it. This [...] goes on like a beautiful gel balm consistency, glides onto the skin, and there are so few ingredients in here, I think it's like eight ingredients, so it's sensitive skin friendly. And let me tell you, if you're struggling to shift your mineral sunscreen, this is the best to get rid of mineral sunscreen you will ever discover."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm

"I love the Radiance Cleansing Balm because it disappears without a trace, gets all of that makeup, dirt, debris, and SPF off the skin, but it doesn't leave a film, it doesn't strip, it doesn't dry. It's just really well formulated. You look at the ingredients on here, it's not packed full of filler ingredients, it's just a beautiful blend of oils needed to kind of do everything for your cleanse."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Foam

"It can just be a little bit intense on the skin so a tiny amount will do everything you need and one of these will last me a whole winter season. I actually bought this as part of a double cleanse kit that Skin1004 do. [...] The kit was like £20 I think so this is somewhere in the region of £10, super affordable as a cleanser. Honestly one of the least stripping and drying I've ever found, perfect cleanser for dry skin."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser

"This is by far and away the most gentle foaming cleanser I've ever found. It just works: it takes off all the makeup, SPF, everything, gone like that, and yet doesn't leave you stripped, dried, or your skin feeling tight. So if you're somebody that likes a little foaming action in your skincare routine but you need something that's so, so kind and gentle for your sensitive skin, I think this is a really great option."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Facetheory Vitamin C Cream Cleanser

"Every time, it feels luxurious, it feels bougie, and really just like a next-level experience from a cleanser, but doesn't cost a whole lot. This is £13, which I think is a really great price point for the formulation that you're getting. A good dose of that vitamin C to add to your skincare routine. I love the fact that it comes in a fragrance and a fragrance-free option, so if you like a little Mandarin zesty scent, go for the Mandarin option."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Cleanser

"I've always been a fan of this, the Dr Sam's Flawless [...] Cleanser. The cap on this is so good that you can just dispense a small amount out. [...] If you don't mind having something bulky on your vanity, you really don't actually need the refill container; you can just use this as your cleanser. It is so much cheaper and it allows you to disperse the right amount."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

"Revolution skincare do a far better version, and I also love the Face Fact ceramide version which is basically better than this and a fraction of the cost. There are better options out there."

✕Nay

85%Guru Score

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

"The one product from CeraVe that I think a lot of people say is next level and unparalleled is their salicylic acid [...] cleanser. [...] It's just a standard 2% salicylic acid, but for a lot of people, and I know a lot of people that follow this channel say it just works so much better than any other salicylic acid wash. I kind of do understand that. I think their formulation in that particular product is really good."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser

"This is by far and away the most gentle of the foaming cleansers on the market and this is really important for someone like me that has super oily and acne prone skin. We want a cleanser that's going to remove some of that excess oil but we don't want something that's going to leave us tight, stripped and dried. This ticks that box. In fact it ticks every box. It's calming, it's soothing, it's hydrating but also removes the excess oil. It's like a miracle workout."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Makeup Rewind Transforming Jelly Oil Cleanser

"It's actually a gel which then turns into an oil on the skin, so it doesn't have that oiliness that oil cleansers have. And it's also easier to use because it's not dripping all down your arm getting all over your clothes, and yet you still get that great oil cleanse. [...] It's less runny in terms of its oil and it just works really, really well. I absolutely adore this, and this is probably the one product that's converted me to regular oil cleansing."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Face Facts Ceramide Infused Cleanser

"Face Facts is so affordable with amazing products and some really game-changing formulations. [...] You can get their Ceramide Infused Cleanser for like £3.99. [...] I think face facts are really showing that you can absolutely do amazingly good skincare at rock bottom prices."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

"If you want to go super affordable, the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water is great. I used to use that so, so long, so so good. In terms of cleansing, it will work just as well."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Kylie Skin Foaming Face Wash

"I tried the cleanser and I tried one of the masks and they were fine but there was nothing there that made me want to buy it again. The formulations were average, the price point was above average. There's nothing there to make you want to repurchase it."

✕Nay

55%Guru Score

The INKEY List 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser

"I love that product so much, it's one of my summer staples."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Cleansing Gel

"This is the only gel cleanser on the market that doesn't strip, doesn't dry, and actually adds hydration back into the skin. I know, unheard of, genuinely unique. [...] This is the only one that I actually trust with my skin because it doesn't strip, it doesn't dry, it doesn't irritate, and it actually removes everything you want it to remove. This is wizardry."

✓Yay
Sponsored

83%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Vitamin C & Omegas Cleansing Balm

"This vitamin C and omegas cleansing balm is fantastic because you can use it as a mask and a cleansing balm. Put a slightly thicker layer on, leave it on for ten minutes, rinse it off, it's a mask and a cleanser. It's vitamin C enriched, so it's going to calm, soothe and fade hyperpigmentation, but it's also a really great cleanser. I love it."

✓Yay
Sponsored

Notverified

Sunscreen41 reviews

Geek & Gorgeous 101 Zero Feel SPF 50 Day Cream

"You can get that next level protection without having to worry about irritation, prickling, watery eyes. It's just amazing. It's also dead matte, which I love. If you're somebody that wants matte, you don't want any dewiness, you don't want any gloss to the skin, you want a sunscreen that is dead matte, this is the closest to zero like shine you will ever ever get. Stunning."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Allies of Skin One SPF 50 Invisible Sunscreen Gel

"This one by Allies of Skin, hands down the best I have ever, ever tried."

✓Yay

66%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++

"It doesn't have any white cast to it, which is really rare for a mineral sunscreen. A lot of the times they have quite a visible cast to them, which puts people off, particularly if you have a deeper, darker, and richer skin tone. Mineral sunscreens often don't work. This one doesn't. It actually works beautifully on skin. [...] It takes a little bit longer to rub in than a chemical sunscreen. That's normal. That's just mineral sunscreens for you. The finish is invisible."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation

"This I absolutely love. If you want a mineral sunscreen, this is the one that I would go for. [...] They've got a great shade range. [...] This is really really nice. [...] You get 30 mil, so it's not the biggest bottle but that's pretty standard for tinted sunscreens. I just love how this pairs on the skin. It's got a really nice applicator. [...] It's not ashy."

✓Yay

63%Guru Score

Altruist SPF 50

"Altruist is a stunning, absolutely amazing European high protection brand. Super affordable. Their ethos is bringing high quality sun protection to the masses. [...] They have so many great formulations and there's really just something there for everybody. What I love about them is they put the PPD, which is the UVA protection, front and center on their boxes. [...] The SPF figure shows the level of protection against UVB rays."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.3 Pure-full Calming Water Sunscreen SPF 50+

"It's great. New generation sun protection. Great if you're looking to cool the skin. If you're somebody that gets very redness in summer, this is a great option because it contains ingredients that actually lower the temperature of the skin. Great at fading hyperpigmentation because increasing temperatures of the skin in summer can actually trigger hyperpigmentation. So if you're looking to counter that, this is a great product to do it with. And it does come off."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV Sunscreen SPF50 Clear

"I'm back using it and it's just really, really nice. If you like the Allies of Skin Invisible Sun Gel, which is a true invisible gel that doesn't distort the skin at all, [...] but you don't like to pay that price point, this is a great dupe for it. Truly invisible. Feels great on the skin. It gives like a really nice silky finish to the skin. I absolutely love it. [...] Definitely one that I would recommend in terms of sunscreen if you want impossibly invisible for summer."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Protective Mist SPF 50

"And this is great for a reapplication over makeup. [...] What I would do is spray it and then still rub it in to make sure you're getting that coverage. I personally spray in my hand and then apply just to make sure I'm getting that full dispersal and coverage, which you don't get if you spray. It's a bit patchy, but reapplication over makeup, just use this. It doesn't budge your makeup. Doesn't distort things. It is just stunning and it dries down to perfection."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30

"It's greasy. It's shiny. It's really expensive for what you're getting. And in comparison to the ordinary product pricing in general, you get 60 mil and it's like £16. Way overpriced for what you're getting. And it uses old style filters. I know why they do that. It's for the US market because of the outdated regulations from the FDA. I get that. But for anyone watching this from outside the US, we don't need this in our lives. We have so many better options on the market, we don't need this."

✕Nay

56%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++ (Korean formula)

"This is their Relief Sun, Rice, and Prebiotic Sunscreen. This went viral because it had the best finish of any sunscreen you will ever use. It was elegant. It was lightweight. It was everything we wanted a sunscreen to be. And this was the first truly viral Korean sunscreen."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF 40

"You put this on and you look in the mirror and think, 'Yeah, it was giving distortion, white cast. It was giving like almost a blotchy appearance to the skin, too.' People hated how thick the formula was and you couldn't reapply on top of itself. So when it came to reapplication, people just said, 'Well, it wasn't possible.' Everything that could go wrong with the sunscreen launch went wrong with this product. [...] There was nothing good or salvageable from that launch."

✕Nay

61%Guru Score

Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF 50+ HD Fine Moisturizer

"This is medicate, one of my favorite skincare brands, but their advanced day ultimate protect moisturizer. This is a moisturizer and sunscreen. You get 50 mil in here, so it's not a lot of product. It costs a high price point and you're going to need to use a lot of this to get the SPF 50 that the brand advertise. So, you're going to get through it really quickly. it's going to become really expensive. I don't think you need to opt for a moisturizer with SPF."

✕Nay

63%Guru Score

The Ordinary Sunscreen

"The sunscreen, I agree, it's nothing special. It's not a particularly great formulation. It hasn't got a great finish on the skin, and it's also not that affordable. When you look at the amount of product you're getting, it's actually not that cheap when it comes to sunscreens. I would say to people, don't rush out and buy it. I don't think there's anything special there. [...] It felt rushed."

✕Nay

55%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++

"It's hydrating, it's lightweight, it works on all skin types, and it's just a nice allrounder. If you like to get a little Centella asiatica in your sunscreen, this is great. It calms, soothes, and also will have some antioxidant benefits too. If you want something that's really lightweight and doesn't weigh the skin down at all, this is an amazing option to go for. I'd say this is probably one of the most lightweight of all the ones we're talking about today and has a natural skin finish."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++

"And it's really, really nice. This is great for people that are looking for [...] a nice natural finish to the skin. It's not too dewy. It's not too matte. It's just something in between. And I personally really appreciate that. This is a nice formulation which [...] blends in without any issue. It's a chemical sunscreen, so there is zero white cast. And honestly, I'd say this is more on the hydrating side than some others. [...] This is for people who want a natural skin finish."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.9 NAD Peptide Dewy Sun Essence SPF 50

"It is stunning. It does come with a glowy finish. To be fair to Numbuzin, they say that on the product: it's a glow enhancing sunscreen. So if you want matte, please stay clear of this. If you want a little glow, if you want plumpness overload, if you want the juiciest, glowing skin of your dreams, get the Numbuzin No.9 sunscreen. It's got all that peptide, PDRN, and NAD action going in, so it's great for long-term anti-aging."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

K-Secret Collagen Boosting Secret Sun Lotion SPF 50+

"I mention this all the time. It's still my favorite and it just does everything I want it to do. [...] You've got everything in here to make a comprehensive skincare routine. You could cleanse the skin, put this on, and you would get great results. It's broadspectrum and I think this is great for [...] people that are prone to fine lines and wrinkles and want a sunscreen that won't grab onto them, won't sit in them and make them more noticeable. This plumps everything out."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Neutrogena Collagen Bank SPF 30 Facial Moisturizer

"The sunscreen is a US sunscreen. Uses old style filters, so it can be sold in US retail stores. And I just don't like US old style filters. I don't think they give a really nice finish on the skin. They sting your eyes. They irritate the skin. I don't, my skin doesn't deal well with old style US filters. I think there's new technology that works far better, gives better protection and a better experience."

✕Nay

69%Guru Score

Ultra Violette Mineral Sunscreen

"If a sunscreen claims to be SPF 50 plus and tests as an SPF 4, that's not good. There's no amount of well, it was decanted for a brief period of time that really makes that amount of difference, and that was the same for all of the sunscreens and it didn't impact any of the other sunscreens to that extent. There was clearly a problem. Now it might be a problem with that batch, it might be a problem with the whole formula."

✕Nay

57%Guru Score

Ultra Violette Lean Screen Mattifying SPF 50 Zinc Sunscreen

"The lowest product, one from Ultra Violette, was their Lean Screen mineral sunscreen. I actually tested it at SPF 4. That is alarming, especially because the same company that did this testing actually retested a different batch of this product at a different lab and it resulted in an SPF of 5. So this isn't just a one-off error. [...] This is actually something that's been retested, different batch, different lab, and came out with broadly the same result."

✕Nay

57%Guru Score

Larash Pose Antheio UV Air SPF 50 PA+++

"The Larash Pose sunscreen far exceeded what the brand were claiming it would deliver."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Altruist Face Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50

"I love this because it gives a really nice level of hydration. It plumps out the skin and just gives that juicy look to the complexion, but it doesn't add any weight either, which is why it's so amazing. They use a 5% concentration of hyaluronic acid, which is perfect. A lot of brands use just too much hyaluronic acid, which actually can dry out the skin. If you overdo it with hyaluronic acid, it has the opposite result to what you think it's going to. It's going to strip and it's going to dry."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Sunless Tan SPF 50 Daily Self-Tanner

"The key reason I think this is special though is it's an SPF 50. So it's a sunscreen and a sunless tanner all in one. I would recommend using this as your sunscreen for 3 or 4 days till you build up that coloration that you want and then switch back to a regular sunscreen. You get such a nice natural glow with this. [...] I think it's just really nice to have a self-tanner that actually has an SPF 50. None of that SPF 6 car oil stuff that we used to apply."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

"COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is super popular, and they've also announced that they'll be phasing out sales [...] of that product in the US, which I know will come as a shock to a lot of people who have loved it for the longest time."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Purito Deep Sea Pure Watery Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

"Purito I think came in for most of the heat because their SPF 50 plus actually tested at an average of SPF 19 in independent laboratory testing. That is a huge huge discrepancy between what they're actually delivering versus what they were claiming to deliver."

✕Nay

81%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50+ PA++++

"This is amazing. It's designed to be the sister to the original Beauty of Joseon sunscreen, which was also viral, but this one is more lightweight. It has a gel base, so it works perfectly on oily and acne-prone skin, and it actually has a lot more hydrators. So if you're looking for a sunscreen that can act as a moisturizer and a sunscreen in one, this is a great option."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Jumiso All Day Airy Fit Sunscreen SPF 50

"It has a beautiful finish on the skin, this is so lightweight, one of my favorite if not my favorite Korean sunscreens. [...] This also allows itself to be reapplied on top of itself without peeling, which is a huge benefit. It's [...] scent free, there's no artificial fragrance in there but there's also no chemically after scent which some sunscreens can have. It's just genuinely neutral, which is fantastic. There'll be no scent lingering around all day."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30

"This is a firm favorite for so many people. I think it's great if you've got very redness prone skin and you want something to take it down, to use as a primer before makeup. When it comes to the ingredients list, it's fine, it's got a lot of nice calming and soothing ingredients, but for me it does also have quite a lot of fragrance to it."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ (Korean formula)

"I expected a lot, I put it on my skin and it wasn't really doing it for me. I have really oily and acne prone skin and so in the summer I like to use a sunscreen that is hydrating enough that it's a moisturizer and a sunscreen in one. I was led to believe and almost promised that this would be the case with this Round Lab one. It wasn't. There was just no hydration to it. [...] For me I don't see why people are going mad for this. It's average."

✕Nay

85%Guru Score

Then I Met You Light Essence Broad Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 50

"The Then I Met You one is a bit like a primer and like the best under makeup. [...] It definitely from the appearances of people trying it on has a nice gripping texture, so great if you want to put foundation over the top of it. However, I think those old style filters for $36, that's too much. That is way, way, way too much."

✕Nay

69%Guru Score

K-Secret Soul 1988 Pine Tree and Ceramide Sun Cream

"I think K Secret is so trustworthy, such a great transparent brand. I love them, they are one of my absolute Korean skincare favorites. If you want ceramides in your sunscreen instead of reaching for the Purito one, reach for this one. The K Secret Soul, pine tree and ceramide, it's calming, soothing, ceramide. It's just better and the brand's better. I, yes, this over Purito anytime. I really like it and I just love the brand."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airy Fit Daily Sunscreen SPF 50

"So if you're a mineral sunscreen fan then I think the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airy Fit Daily Sunscreen SPF 50 should be your summer savior, just such such a nice product."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

COSRX Suncut Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50

"This is the Altruist Dermatology sunscreen SPF 50, so let's continue with the amazing summer sunscreens."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

"The reason I love this is it has a real invisible finish. A lot of mineral sunscreens look quite white and cakey on the skin, not a look we're going for, this doesn't. It has some extra hydration because mineral sunscreens can be a little drying. [...] This is nice and hydrating and it comes at an affordable price point. [...] Finding a good broad spectrum mineral sunscreen SPF of 30 is absolutely fine and this I think is a great option that balances the finish alongside the level of protection."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Skin1004 Helika Sun Stick SPF 50 PA++++

"They've always left me feeling like I don't know what the point of them is. Some people like to use them for reapplication over makeup, but I've tried that and I still think it budges around and moves your makeup anyway. I [...] also saw a video by Lab Muffin that said the amount of sunstick you actually have to apply to get a meaningful reapplication is ridiculous, so you're probably not going to be getting the great coverage that you think you're getting."

✕Nay

66%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Beat the Sun SPF 40

"This is one that you could definitely definitely try it's not the cheapest on the market but a great one if you want to order from the US"

✓Yay

66%Guru Score

Skin1004 Highly Seeker Sunscreen

"I also use this as much as possible because it has a slightly higher UVA and protection level than [...] the other one, a 23.5 PPD score. It's super lightweight. [...] On the days where I just need it to feel like I've got nothing on the skin and I really need that cooling, I'll reach for this. It takes down some of the redness and just gives you that glow. It works so well."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

"It also has drying alcohol in it, which a lot of people like to avoid. I think in sunscreens in small quantities it's fine, but it's quite high up the ingredients list, which makes me a bit worried. The [...] first couple of uses felt great, alcohol in sunscreens helps it [...] feel more lightweight on the skin because it absorbs, it evaporates off the skin and helps it sink in quicker, and I loved it, I was like this sunscreen is everything, it's amazing."

✕Nay

77%Guru Score

The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF 30

"I tried their sunscreen, it's like SPF 30 which is fine, I mean SPF 30 is fine, but it's just basically greasy. And I got my skin, my friend with a dry skin type to try because I thought maybe it's just not translating well, but she was like, oh this is gross, terrible sunscreen."

✕Nay

67%Guru Score

Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

"When we talk about tinted sunscreens, the Australian Gold tinted is a really good one. [...] I do love that one."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Bondi Sands Daily Moisturizing Face SPF 50+

"I hated the Bondi Sands SPF 50 moisturizer and so I've been really reluctant to try anything else from Bondi Sands. I'm sure some of their products are good, I don't want to be shady and say all their products are garbage, but I just really wasn't a fan of that one. It's kind of put me off actually trying any of their other products."

✕Nay

65%Guru Score

Retinoids35 reviews

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24

"My personal favorite is the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24. This is actually 20% stronger than the previous strongest retinal, so this really has stepped it up in terms of results, and you're going to get some next-level anti-aging, skin smoothing and pro-collagen benefits from this one. I absolutely love it. If [...] you want the ease of over-the-counter, the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24 is absolute perfection."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Revive Firming Moisturizer: Ginseng + Retinol

"I do think [...] they should have added a caveat to that 20% claim, but [...] for the price, the ingredients, and the chance to try [...] fermented retinol, this is a brilliant addition to the skincare market. [...] I'm giving it [...] a solid eight out of ten, genuinely impressed, and I came into this as a skeptic."

✓Yay

72%Guru Score

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

"They really led the way, which will always have my heart. They do 10 different strengths, starting at a 1, working your way up to a 24. The Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24 is the world's strongest over-the-counter retinoid, doesn't get stronger than this, and whilst it comes in a slightly higher price point, if you're wanting maximum anti-aging, this is where it's at. But again, you could start with one of the lower strengths and work your way up."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion

"Most brands have [...] switched to retinal, which is still permissible and not covered by this ban, and launched new products containing it, such as The Ordinary Retinal, which is one of my personal favorites."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Skin Rocks Retinoid 3

"And I thought this is the future of anti-aging. Not just taking a standard retinoid and increasing the strength because we've been doing that for years, but actually looking at how we can do that alongside minimizing side effects and irritation and using complimentary actives to really dial up the results that you're going to see. This kind of has it all."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Krave Beauty 24 Karat Retinol

"This is the Krave Beauty 24 Karat Retinol. I bought it, tried it, fell in love. [...] I've been really impressed with this. This is actually my third bottle now. [...] This is a really nice midstrength retinol. I love the packaging. I love how uplifting it is. I love the fact that every component in Krave Beauty is recyclable. That's a big step forward. Brands need to do more when it comes to recycling. And I love to see indie brands like Krave Beauty leading the way. Beautiful product."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

e.l.f. Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum

"So if you are super breakout prone, then this e.l.f. one will be a wondrous addition to your skincare routine. If you're not breakout prone, it's still a great option if you're looking for something super gentle, but that genuinely delivers a punch when it comes to anti-aging. I absolutely love this one. And of course, in keeping with all of the e.l.f. products, this is super drugstore and affordable."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Retinol 0.05% & Peptides Repair Night Cream

"This is an entire skincare routine in a bottle. You've got your peptides, you've got your antioxidant, you've got your brightening ingredients, you've got your anti-aging retinoids, and you've got your hydrators and humectants. Everything in here."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.10%

"Brands like Nurium make this super easy because they have two strengths. You start with the lowest one, use a couple of tubes of that, then graduate onto the higher strength one. This way, it'll allow your skin to adapt, maximizing the results, minimizing the side effects and irritation. [...] These are actually encapsulated retinoids. So they use an encapsulation to further minimize the risk of side effects and irritation."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

"Really, really good if you got breakouts and acne. Still great for anti-aging. [...] My skin at the moment is needing a little help when it comes to fighting acne. Differin is the best for that. But Differin is also great for anti-aging. So don't feel like you're missing out on anti-aging because you're using Differin, it's not just acne fighting and [...] it's a lot less irritating on the skin than other retinoids of a similar strength. So that's also really good for my winter skin sensitivity."

✓Yay

92%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Multi-Acid and Retinoid Brightening Sleeping Facial

"I probably tried it for the first time three years ago and I've used it ever since and it's just a quick fix and I love a quick fix. [...] If you think of the price of this product and then what you would pay for like an Inspar facial, this is a lot more affordable and a lot cheaper than that. And I think you get the same or better results. It's a once or twice weekly facial that you can do at home."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

"The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is great because that emulsion adds to the hydration of the serum. So this is great if you have very dryness prone skin and it's just a more affordable option. [...] Such a wonderful product and definitely one that I think could be a great budget friendly place to start with granactive retinoid."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 5 Retinal Serum (0.05%)

"I love the Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 5 Retinal Serum. This comes in three strengths. The 5 is the low strength, the 10 is the mid-strength, and the 20 is the high strength. This is a great option. It's super affordable and cruelty-free, [...] and it's just a really, really nice product to incorporate. It comes in pump packaging, keeping it super fresh. And yeah, this is one of my absolute favorites."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer

"They don't disclose the percentage. You have literally no idea what you're putting on your skin. Now, thanks to a little bit of investigative work, we now know that the strength of this is actually a 0.2% retinol, which is ridiculously low."

✕Nay

74%Guru Score

La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum

"This little red bottled number has an undisclosed dose of retinol. If you really badger the company, they will tell you the strength, but it's not apparent from just looking at the product or on their website, making it easy for us to make an informed decision. You have to email them. It's a lot of work. But not only do they not fully transparent on the percentage, they also pair what is already quite a sensitizing ingredient, retinol, alongside other drying ingredients and fragrance."

✕Nay

60%Guru Score

The INKEY List Super Solutions 1% Retinol Serum

"You could actually go for the theid clinical vitamin A serum. This I love. One of my favorite brands. This is one of my favorite products from them. This actually has three different types of retinoids. So you got retinol, retinol, and granactive retinoid."

✓Yay

72%Guru Score

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

"I just think the whole collection of the ordinary retinols is doomed. The formulations are greasy, they're not great, and of course we've now had the European Union retinol ban. [...] That ban restricts the use of retinol in over-the-counter products to 0.3%, and 0.3% retinol is going to do next to nothing unless you're a beginner or have super sensitive skin."

✕Nay

62%Guru Score

VT Reedle Shot 100 Retinol

"They have the retinoid version which again it's fine but I think retinoids with the spicules increasing the penetration rate just opens the skin up to excess sensitivity for me."

✕Nay

69%Guru Score

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum

"I always think if brands aren't been transparent they're hiding something and it probably means that they have a super low dose of retinoid in their product it's probably not going to deliver a whole lot. CeraVe with their Skin Renewing Retinol Serum is one of two brands that I want to call out for being particularly secretive."

✕Nay

74%Guru Score

The INKEY List Retinal and Novaretin Scar, Mark and Wrinkle Solution

"I always go for retinal because that's my perfect, I feel that just works best for me. [...] This has retinal which is great, it's also got granactive retinoid which is the favorite of my over-the-counter retinoids. It's just a really nice blend. [...] Because this is super gentle I can actually use this under the eye as well. On my tretinoin nights [...] I would use a separate eye cream, but on the non-tretinoin nights I'll use this everywhere."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10

"This is the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10, the same strength as the Geek and Gorgeous one I referenced earlier but way more hydrating, super nourishing. It's encapsulated so you're going to get a lot less irritation, perfect for sensitive skin or dryness-prone skin types. I love this one. Yes, slightly more money than the Geek and Gorgeous, but I think the technology that they employ in this really justifies that."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Olay Retinol Correction Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream

"This is the alyer skin retinol and peptides repair night cream this is a skincare routine in a bottle"

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.5%

"If you want a cheaper option in terms of encapsulated [retinal], reach for Naturium with their Retinaldehyde Serum. This is great and they now do two strengths which is wonderful. The 0.05% again best for beginners, the 0.1% kind of suitable for everyone. An affordable, budget-friendly encapsulated retinaldehyde that I would recommend all the time."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Maelove Moonlight Retinaldehyde Serum 0.1%

"It has that very rich coloration you would expect from a high strength retinal and this is really rich and creamy, has much more of an emulsion-like texture. [...] I love this Maelove one. I think it's absolutely fabulous. It has a very unique texture and is beautifully well formulated. [...] These are the sort of strengths you want to begin with if you don't have too sensitive skin. They're going to be hydrating which is nice and you can still use them alongside your moisturizer."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3

"So so good, absolutely love it. This works beautifully well under the eye to minimize crow feet and is super hydrating. Retinal, like with that other skin oil I just shared, is more gentle, less irritating than tretinoin. I'd [...] recommend if you're using tretinoin to maybe consider having another gentle retinoid for under the eye and on the neck. I think that works best."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

"If you've got a high potency retinoid, which Drunk Elephant do with their A-Passioni Retinol Cream, you really need to be pitching that at the late 30s, 40s, and 50s market. There's a lot of people that are going to benefit from this product, probably do actually need it in terms of their skincare routine."

✕Nay

55%Guru Score

Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream

"The Good Molecules Gentle Retinol is probably [...] the cheapest of all the products on this list and is stunning. It is so gentle. If you've started a retinoid in the past and thought no, my skin can't handle it, and you've kind of written them off, actually take a second look and go for this Good Molecules product. Really gentle, beautifully lightweight, has a touch of hydration too, so it's great for dryer or combination dry skin types. [...] It's a low dose, so a great place to start."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane

"I don't use it anymore because I switched to the Indeed Labs Synoxin, [...] but this is still a great option. You apply it to your dynamic fine lines and wrinkles like the crow's feet, the elevenses, the laughter lines, and it over time it'll just lessen the appearance and depth of any of those wrinkles that you have. It gives an immediate plumping but long-term benefit too, and a study actually showed 17% reduction on average in the depth of wrinkles. That's really good for the price point."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Dermatica Custom Blended Prescription Retinoid

"I'm planning on trying it in the new year I want to get this year out the way first"

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 0.3% Retinol

"Paula's Choice have come up with a really great formula here which is going to deliver you that retinol hit, boost the efficacy of it with some [bakuchiol]. Now because [bakuchiol] is also anti-inflammatory, it's going to help to minimize any side effects you could get from that retinol itself. This I think is a standout product. I love it so much."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

"The Ordinary retinols in squalane, there's 0.5 and the one percent, will be gone again because it reaches that 0.3 concentration."

✕Nay

84%Guru Score

Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

"The Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment, which is a one percent strength, has also disappeared from the market. I know it's a firm favorite with so many people out there."

✕Nay

67%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 10 Retinal Serum (0.1%)

"This is basically the same as the Medicate Crystal Retinyl range, but at a fraction of the cost. It also makes retinol so simple. [...] They now have three strengths with the introduction of this, the A-Game 20. [...] I use the five, which is the lowest strength on the neck and under the eye. I use the 20, which is the highest strength on the face. It allows you to customize your skincare routine in a way that no other brands really do."

✓Yay
Sponsored

90%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 20 Retinal Serum (0.2%)

"This is a super high strength retinal, and I can't use tazarotene or tretinoin on my neck. It would be screaming, but I can use retinal, no problem at all. Never forget the neck, always such an important thing."

✓Yay
Sponsored

83%Guru Score

Paula's Choice Pro Retinal Serum

"Paula's Choice is a great dual retinoid that I think is going to deliver you next-level results, whilst again maintaining a lower sensitivity profile than you might naturally expect."

✓Yay
Sponsored

71%Guru Score

Mists & Essences29 reviews

Skin1004 Pore Perfecting Centella Ampoule

"These peptides minimize the appearance of the pores by gently increasing the amount of collagen in these areas and also helping to unclog them, removing some of the blackheads and sebaceous filaments that can make them appear more enlarged in the first place. This works really, really well and I've been using this for the past 4 years, but in the last 6 months I've actually switched to a different pore serum because I think its formula is just better."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.9 NAD+ Bio-Lifting Silk Essence

"This is phenomenal. It has 50 different peptides all focused on different benefits, some plump the skin, others hydrate, some even out the skin tone, and a lot of them [...] boost collagen and elastin for anti-aging. It's got NAD in there too, which helps fade hyperpigmentation and boosts collagen at the margins. [...] This plumps, it hydrates, it gives you that bouncy glass skin that we all crave, and it's super lightweight so it doesn't weigh you down."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

"When I'm done at the gym [...] I will generally shower and then do another spritz again because it just keeps all your breakouts in check. [...] If you haven't tried hypochlorous acid, this is the best one, doesn't strip, doesn't dry. [...] This is more affordable, which is why I'm gravitating towards this more. [...] I would encourage everyone to get a toner with a purpose, and hypochlorous acid has a key purpose, particularly in these warmer summer months."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule

"Good if you have a lot of hyperpigmentation linked to breakouts or sun exposure. [...] Really inexpensive, paid around £15 for the 100ml, equivalent to about £5 for a standard 30ml. Gentle enough to use alongside or in place of [...] the Beauty of Joseon serum, used twice a day. [...] The only thing that would be changed is the packaging, which is a boring gray, not very eye-catching, but forgivable given how effective the formula is."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule

"I really like the one by Skin1004. That's a great option."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

NIOD Superoxide Dismutase Saccharide Mist

"Neod do this, which is a super oxide dismutase mist. This is a mist that you spritz on after cleansing, lock in all that antioxidant protection. [...] These are like next level antioxidants that work so well alongside your sunscreen for just protecting your skin no matter what the world throws at it."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence

"Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence. I declared this to be my all-time favorite Korean skincare product. [...] Absolutely love it. [...] If you want hydration, if you want plumping, if you want great hyperpigmentation boosting, this is the toner for you. It's inexpensive. It costs like £10 versus it's the dupe for the SK2 essence which is like £100. Same product. I like the rose one. They do a plain one as well. Absolutely love this."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Rejuran Healer Dual Effect Ampoule

"It lifts and tightens. Not like a face lift kind of but just lifts and tightens. It's the sort of product that takes like two or three years off the skin without trying, and I think it's for 20 pounds, so I can get on board with that. It definitely gives you that glow. It lifts and it tightens instantly and it's got some long-term anti-aging benefits. Honestly, I was prepared to hate this because of the packaging. I love it and I've been using it ever since. So, yeah, absolute holy grail."

✓Yay

72%Guru Score

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Mist

"This Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Mist is fine, but the PDRN is actually quite low down on the ingredients list, so you're not getting a super high concentration. Hyaluronic acid you don't need as a standalone ingredient. It's in everything else in your skincare routine. I think the reason this is so popular is it has the bubbles, little capsules within them, which makes it very viral looking and great for Instagram."

✕Nay

63%Guru Score

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

"That is up there with some of the strongest of the Western brands. So this packs a punch. [...] You generally wouldn't see this strength of vitamin C in a Korean skincare product. [...] If you want strength, go for this option. Because it's stabilized, you won't have that risk of oxidation. [...] Ethylated ascorbic acid is less sensitizing than ascorbic acid, so it won't be quite as sensitizing as an equivalent 23% ascorbic acid."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Mixsoon Bean Essence

"Now I have. I think it's definitely worthy of a place in the Korean skincare top 10 best sellers. It's just a nice all-round serum. I don't think you need to use it if you're already using snail mucin; I think it's an either-or situation. But if you don't like the idea of snail mucin and you want a vegan alternative, I think the MIXSOON Bean Essence is honestly stunning, and I would certainly recommend it."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

VT PDRN Essence 100

"This is the VT PDRN Essence 100. This is fantastic because it actually helps that PDRN get to where it needs to be using the spicule technology in here. Spicules were a huge trend in 2025 as was PDRN both contained in this. And I think this is a really great advanced anti-aging product. It definitely worked quicker than other PDRN treatments because you've got those spicules. It instantly plumps and hydrates and in the long term you get some great anti-aging benefit."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Molecular Saviour Probiotics Treatment Mist

"If your primary reason for using niacinamide is boosting the barrier function of the skin, healing and repairing the skin barrier, [...] maybe opt for this: the Allies of Skin Molecular Saviour Probiotics Treatment Mist with 5% niacinamide, fantastic again, the perfect strength. You've also got silver in here which is antimicrobial, so it's going to reduce the risk of any breakouts and help minimize acne scarring. It's a fantastic ingredient."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence

"This is the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence. This has been around for years and [...] has been on many a top 10 list and for good reason. I love it. Everyone else seems to love it. [...] It comes in a glass bottle, which I like. It's not super expensive, but it feels bougie. [...] It will work for all skin types. [...] It just adds a nice little lift to the skin, a bit of plumpness, a little anti-aging, calming and soothing. It's just a nice allrounder."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule

"Anything skin1004 touch turns to gold in my view they haven't got a bad product all of them are amazing and the probiose line is so so good"

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

VT PDRN Essence Stick Balm

"The VT PDRN Essence Stick Balm, love the packaging. It's been making my skin glow. [...] The price point's really good as well."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Timeless Matrixyl 3000 Facial Mist - Cucumber

"The Cucumber one is great, kept in the fridge. Instantly cooling in those warm summer months, this is amazing."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Purito Galacto Niacinamide 97 Power Essence

"Purito is hit and miss, but I really like their galactomyces ferment, that is a yay."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Jumiso Snail Mucin 95 Plus Peptide Facial Essence

"One of my favorites is the Jumiso Snail Mucin 95 Plus Peptide Essence. This has that high dose of snail mucin plus peptides. This is going to give you that collagen boost, it's going to give you that anti-aging alongside the benefits of snail mucin. It's a two-in-one and that way you can elevate your anti-aging skincare routine without giving up your snail mucin at all."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

"SK2 are super popular and semi viral Japanese skin care brand. [...] They're most famous for their galactomyces based Essence which honestly I got some great results with. Whilst still a little bit more than I personally would pay for skincare when I tried it, it definitely helps to fade hyperpigmentation, boost hydration, and I know a lot of you guys that follow the channel do also really really enjoy that product."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

"You guys know I love this product this is the Tatcha solid in lip Essence one of my favorites"

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Topicals Faded Brightening and Clearing Mist

"If you're looking to fade hyperpigmentation and glow up the body, one of my favorite products is the Topicals Faded Mist. This mist is great because you can spray it on the back, on the chest, anywhere where you might have breakouts, great on the tops of the arms if you have any discoloration there. And this combines just about everything for fading hyperpigmentation and getting that even skin tone: you've got tranexamic acid, kojic acid, alpha-arbutin, and a super high dose of glutathione."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Neon Superoxide Dismutase Saccharide Mist

"This just sprits everything up. I think it gives a little hydration and kind of gives you your antioxidants, which alongside the vitamin C later is all you need. The reason antioxidants are important in what I call an ultimate anti-aging skincare routine is they protect the skin against free radicals. It's not enough to just have sunscreen; you need sunscreen and antioxidants because that'll just lock in that protection and cover everything."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

I'm From Mugwort Essence

"I'm From Mugwort Essence I'm less sold on. First of all I just don't like the name mugwort, it's like the least sexy name in skincare, and I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but there's nothing that appeals to me about mugwort as a name."

~Mixed

70%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Botanical 2GF Ampoule

"It also has some really nice ferments in there too. That fermented rice is going to help increase the hydration levels of the skin and will actually help with hyperpigmentation. [...] I personally really enjoy that. [...] This is a really great option if you kind of think yeah, I don't want to miss out, I want to try growth factors, I want to see what the hype is, but I don't want to go straight in with a super scientific beautifully formulated but bougie option."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

K-Secret Collagen Boosting Secret Ampoule

"This is the Collagen Boosting Secret Ampoule and it has over 50% collagen as that key ingredient to plump out the skin, giving you just that gorgeous bouncy juicy complexion and has some great anti-aging benefits too."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Skin1004 Hada Seeker Cloudy Mist

"I think their Hada Seeker range is probably my favorite from the brand and this mist is beautiful. It's got a great spray on it. [...] This is a little freshening up mist you can use it after you've applied makeup if you want. If you think that your makeup is looking a little chalky, quick sprits of this I'll fix all of that. It's just a great hydrating, calming and soothing spray."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Founders Essence Advanced Treatment

"It's [...] a comprehensive product: you could cleanse, put this on, put your sunscreen on, and have a fantastic routine. It improves glow and luminosity, helps with anti-aging, calms, soothes, hydrates, supports the microbiome and barrier, and leaves skin [...] plump and glowy. [...] It's not the cheapest, but it's like an 8-in-1."

✓Yay
Sponsored

Notverified

The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence

"This is just a really nice toner that works to elevate the rest of your skincare routine. Whatever brands you're using, whatever actives you're incorporating, just slapping a little of this on the skin before you start your serums will help them penetrate into the skin, giving enhanced results. For the best part of like £12, which is what this costs, you can really elevate the rest of your skincare routine without spending any more coin. It also works as a hydrating toner, too."

✓Yay
Sponsored

59%Guru Score

Masks & Peels26 reviews

Dr Sam's Revival Mask

"Genuinely the best winter moisturizer you will ever use. You can either put this on for like 10 minutes and then rinse it off, or you can leave it as an overnight sleeping mask. I use it for a 10-minute hydration treatment because my skin is generally a little more on the oily side, and that works really well for me. If you're super dryness prone, leave this on all overnight. It will give you honestly the best level of hydration you have ever found."

✓Yay

90%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask

"It doesn't strip, it doesn't dry, it doesn't turn into like a crust like some masks can. If your mask is drying down completely, chances are it's stripping moisture from the deeper layers of your skin. [...] You want something that still has some malleability after you've applied it. This does. The honey is antimicrobial. Great if you've got rosacea, if you've got breakout-prone skin, acne, this will treat it. The rice enzymes will give a gentle exfoliation, but nothing too harsh."

✓Yay

97%Guru Score

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

"The enzymes in here need to be activated. So put some in the palm of your hand and really get some water, turn it into almost like a lathery paste, then use it. I absolutely love it. [...] This is not a new launch, but sometimes not everything has to be new and innovative. Sometimes reaching for things that have worked for others for years is a good thing to do. I absolutely love this one. Really glad I tried it."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

PSA Skin Follow the Light Multi-Acids and Vitamin C Peel

"This is a mask that has some great brightening ingredients, exfoliating treatments, and that great ethylated ascorbic acid, too. This is like our one-stop shop instant glow up facial. So twice a week, put a thin layer of this on, leave it on for 10 minutes, rinse it off, and you'll be glowing to the gods, getting your vitamin C dose alongside all those other great benefits. And this is a vitamin C and exfoliator all in one. So that's just nice in terms of streamlining."

✓Yay

91%Guru Score

Medicube Zero Pore Mask

"This is the most hydrating combo you will ever find. I would say it's the most hydrating product I have ever tried, ever. For those days where you need maximum turbocharged hydration, this is it. If you're somebody that has persistently dry skin that you're struggling to get on top of, this will work for you. If you're somebody like me that tends to get dry skin when you incorporate a new active, I started Tazarotene recently and that definitely caused some dryness in my skin. This fixed it."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

NIOD Flavanone Mud Mask

"It's the quickest way to cheat that glow up that I have ever found. Because you need so little of it, a bottle will last like a full year. [...] It's quite a rich terracotta color, which is part of some of the ingredients that form the basis of this, but you should definitely be able to see skin through it after you've applied. That way, you know you've used a thin enough layer to really get the benefits. This is phenomenal. [...] It will not steer you wrong."

✓Yay

82%Guru Score

Tatcha Rice Polish

"This is great. Not the cheapest product out there. It's about I think I paid £50 for it, but I would say based on how much I've used, one pot of it will last me a year because I use it once a week just to get my exfoliation on point and just smooth out the skin. If you see it like that, it's a year's investment. I don't mind that price point. [...] This uses rice enzymes, which you see a lot in Japanese skincare, the use of enzymatic exfoliation."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

Dr. Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution Hydrating Sheet Mask

"This is a powerhouse formula, which honestly is almost like an entire skincare routine in a bottle when you look at the activives that it contains."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

"I wouldn't recommend anyone reach for that red peel unless they're already using it and getting the results they want. It's not very beginner friendly. It's also there's a high risk of misusing it."

✕Nay

58%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.9 NAD+ Bio-Lifting Sill Full Face Sheet Mask

"I love love love this. I use it once a week as a treat. [...] If you are somebody that likes a sheet mask, you like an instant win, you want things lifted, you want to look your best before you're out on the town with the girls or you've got a photo shoot, [...] this works really, really well. Instant, put it on for like 30 minutes. You can wear it for longer. They encourage you to wear it for longer, but even if you just put it on for 30 minutes, snatched to the gods and fabulous."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

Round Lab Camellia Deep Collagen Firming Gel Mask

"These are the ones that you sleep in overnight wake up and your skin's glowing to the gods."

✓Yay

90%Guru Score

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Mask

"I promise you in like 3 or four months you'll definitely notice the difference when it comes to your pore if you use this every single day I love it"

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Skin1004 Zombie Beauty Cocoon Soap Mask

"The Skin1004 Zombie Beauty Cocoon Soap Mask is such a gimmicky unnecessary product but one that I absolutely love. It's great, it's so good."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The INKEY List AHA Serum

"If I had to choose a single product from them I'd probably go for the AHA acid serum. The smoothest, nicest to apply AHA acid I have ever ever tried."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

"Their skin perfecting liquid exfoliate however in the last 12 months things have really taken a turn"

~Mixed

88%Guru Score

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

"After 3 hours, yeah, I feel great. The skin definitely feels a little firmer, definitely feels plumper, and I can definitely notice the glow. I am very, very impressed. [...] There was still some product left to go, so if you leave this on for 4 hours I think you're going to get some next level results. Really, really impressed. [...] I don't think you could actually sleep in them, I think they're too delicate, I think by the time you wake up it'll be all over the place."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Refreshing Pore Mask

"It will very gently just lift those sebaceous filaments and take away some of those blackheads. Use it once or twice a week for the best results. It comes with a little spatula, and a little will go a long way. You can use it all over the face as a face pack or mud mask, or you can use it on the areas where you have congestion, which for me is on my nose and chin [...] in a more targeted way. Either way, you get an absolute ton of product and it will last forever."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Centella Asiatica Calming Mask

"I don't use these all the time because I do find the individual wrapping a little bit wasteful, but on those days where I just want to calm, soothe, and hydrate the skin I'll tear one of these open, slap it on, and your skin just feels instantly soothed. High dose of Centella Asiatica, it's also got some other calming components to it. These are amazing, they're super affordable."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

VT PDRN Hydro Gel Mask

"It uses VT's RF shot technology to really get that collagen into the skin where it needs to be. It helps exfoliate, smooths everything out, and plumps you right up. It's a great option, and it's so much better than those other ones that you see going viral. So I would say get ahead of the curve, ignore the viral ones, and go for this one instead. Like I said, I'll link this. I really like this. I've used it about three times now, and it's definitely one of the best sheet masks I've ever found."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

VT Hydrogel Masks

"This is like a guaranteed good skin day. Before a big event, slap one of these on. If you just want to look your best again, apply one of these. I love it. And whilst it doesn't have that viral hit of having it go on milky and it's almost like your skin is absorbing that as you sleep, you don't get that effect. I just think this is more user friendly and certainly is a soft product I would use as opposed to a 12-hour leave-on mask. This is gorgeous."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-Yaha AHA/BHA Exfoliant

"So I find this to be a lot more gentle than that Ordinary one. But again because it's a lower strength you might just have to wait a little bit longer for those results. All comes down to matching your individual skin type with the products that you use. But glycolic acid is a great way of boosting the levels of collagen in your skin if you use it consistently but sparingly, couple of times a week maximum. Great exfoliation, great collagen boost."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel

"I've used this, it's like a very traditional peeling gel. You kind of work it into the skin, it balls up on itself, feels very satisfying. It does allow you to take away some of the dead skin cells, but I just think peeling gels have had their day. They were all the rage a couple of years ago, but I don't see the hype about them as much now. [...] Beauty of Joseon as a Korean skincare brand is amazing, but this is my least favorite product from them."

✕Nay

67%Guru Score

K-Secret Collagen Boosting Secret Sleeping Mask

"In here you've got collagen, panthenol, vitamin E, and a little retinoid which will over time naturally increase collagen, plus niacinamide too, so it's quite a nice comprehensive formulation. You use this as a rich moisturizer in your evening skincare routine, you put this on the skin and you'll wake up with the juiciest bouncy skin of your life, which I love. [...] If you look at the ingredients, collagen is sky high on it, which is why I think it works so well."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Perfectly Clear 2% BHA Serum

"This is the Geek & Gorgeous Perfectly Clear salicylic acid. It's great because it'll just smooth out everything. Great if you've got a more acne-prone oily skin type. Salicylic acid can be a game changer, but this also has amino acids in here which are going to help regulate oil levels in the skin, and it's packed full of calming and soothing ingredients too. So this next exfoliator and a soothing serum all in one. It's drugstore, it's amazing."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Dr Sam's Flawless Revival Mask

"This is Dr. Sam's Flawless Revival Mask, my favorite hydrating mask. A little goes a long [...] way. One of these will last me all winter. It prevents any dryness, any sensitivity, any flaking that you might get from any of your high strength actives, this just solves it. It's not [...] too bad [...] on price. It's got calming and soothing ingredients in it, and it kind of just works while you sleep."

✓Yay
Sponsored

87%Guru Score

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment

"I like lactic acid, it's my favorite exfoliator."

~Mixed
Sponsored

65%Guru Score

Eye Care22 reviews

Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye Cream

"I have tried just about every retinoid eye cream out there. There are some really good ones but none, in my opinion, have matched to this, which is why I do tell myself I tend to find myself reaching for it time and time again."

✓Yay

87%Guru Score

Mary&May Tranexamic Acid + Glutathione Eye Cream

"One of my favorite eye creams is the Mary and May one, it's great for dark circles, but it's fragranced, so I have to be very careful with the application and I can't use it too often."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

"It was always too strong for me and I know a lot of other people feel the same. It's also oil based, meaning it's greasy and doesn't layer well with other products. Between the [...] two caffeine products from The Ordinary I would choose the 3% every single time, [...] higher percentage doesn't always mean higher performance, and this one delivered less for me than the 3% ever managed to."

✕Nay

73%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal

"For an eye cream that's going to last six months, that's a gamechanging price. [...] It's a really good dupe for the Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye that I love but has a much higher price point, [...] and I actually like that this has ginseng in it, I think that kicks it up a notch. [...] I think where Medik8 led, Beauty of Joseon have followed and just done it cheaper, and I'm cheap, so that was music to my ears."

✓Yay

94%Guru Score

Torriden Cellmazing Collagen Eye Cream

"This is the best firming eye cream I have ever found, it actually works. There are lots of brands that promise firming and none of them deliver, this does. And it's really inexpensive, [...] about fifteen pounds. I would use this as my go-to eye cream, the only reason I don't is I like to be consistent and it's hard to be consistent when something's in and out of stock all the time. [...] If you do see it, snag it, because it's really, really good."

✓Yay

78%Guru Score

Allies of Skin Peptides & Omegas Firming Eye Cream

"This does what it says it firms. [...] If you want firming, if you want lifting, this is probably the best product I've ever tried that will achieve that. The only reason this isn't in the top three comes down to that price point, which isn't going to be accessible for everyone. I do though have a discount code for Allies of Skin [...] which will take 20% off. [...] One caveat I'm going to throw out with this one is it does contain a high dose of niacinamide."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

K-Secret Advanced Regenerating Eye Gel Patches

"The best I've ever used. They're packed full of really beneficial skin care as well. So they act as your eye cream and your under eye treatment all in one. And this will get your under eye perfected in the shortest amount of time. You can also use these on other areas of the skin. They come in two sizes in this one box. The small ones I used in a targeted way. The larger ones you can put on the laughter lines, the 11s, wherever you have some wrinkles that you just want to even and iron out."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

NIOD Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate

"The NIOD Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate [...] is really nice and [...] works in a similar way to other all-encompassing skincare routines for the under eye. However, [...] this is a cream whereas some alternatives are oil-based serums. So it really comes down to what texture you prefer in terms of application. If [...] you're somebody that likes a more serum-based approach, then you could absolutely go for the NIOD Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Marian May Tranexamic Acid and Glutathione Eye Cream

"Tranexamic acid reduces inflammation, can help fade some dark circles. Glutathione will brighten the under eye, and it's also got some really great anti-aging benefits too, to just sort of lift. Be consistent twice a day, every day. That's when you're going to get the best results from this. [...] If you're on a budget and you want to dip your toe into Korean skincare so you feel like you're not missing out, this is the product that I would recommend. I love it."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Eye Serum

"I also do really like their peptide eye serum. The peptide eye serum is a really inexpensive eye serum. I love it so so much."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Stratia Lipid Gold Eye Cream

"It is good. Everything Stratia do is good. Another brand that is very US-centric, that's all. It's really difficult to get here in the UK, which is a shame. It might change, but it's hard to get hold of. That is my only criticism when it comes to Stratia. I do love the brand."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

K-Secret Soul 1988 Eye Cream Retinal Liposome 4% and Fermented Bean

"This is a high potency eye cream that's going to snatch the under eye, minimize fine lines and wrinkles and smooth everything out. I adore it. What I think is great is if you're someone that's using a lower potency retinol eye cream but you want a higher potency option, go for this in the 4%. This is double the strength, and so definitely packs a punch. I like the fact that we now have different strengths when it comes to eye products."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Naturium Vitamin K Brightening Eye Cream

"Naturium's Vitamin K Brightening Eye Cream is stunning. It actually contains a good amount of vitamin K which is fantastic at reducing inflammation and puffiness and discoloration under the eye. It's a phenomenal product, and the reason I'm including this is not only because it's like $14 so super affordable, but also it has some pigment correcting qualities to it so it gives instant results and long-term payoff too."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Face Facts Ceramide Eye Cream

"They have a beautiful Ceramide Eye Cream as well which is one of my personal favorites. [...] The eye cream is the standout. [...] I use it day in day out and they never steer me wrong."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

Paula's Choice C15 Super Boost Eye Cream

"The Paula's Choice eye cream at actually is garbage. It wasn't even a good well formulated eye cream that they could say yeah this is more than a moisturizer. It really was just a moisturizer."

✕Nay

64%Guru Score

Facetheory OcuWake Eye Cream Pro

"In here you've got lactic acid and urea working together to gently exfoliate the under eye. Milia are little keratin plugs that sit underneath the skin and you need to exfoliate them out. If you've already got them, using this every single day will help minimize them over time, gradually exfoliate them away. However, once you've done that, still continue to use this because it acts as almost maintenance, it reduces the risk of milia recurring."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C Eye Contour Cream

"I love this, I think it's a treat for the under eye. [...] You can put concealer on top of this, this is important if you want to do any concealer work, it won't budge or pill. It's so cheap. Garnier also went cruelty-free as a brand 18 months ago now and I'm happy to support the good guys in the skincare world, those brands that see the light, think you know what, animal testing we don't need that anymore. I applaud Garnier for doing what the likes of [CeraVe], L'Oreal, Ponds haven't done."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Facetheory Ocu Eye Cream by Face Theory

"If you're prone to those, use this on an evening and honestly it'll just help eradicate the ones you have and prevent them reoccurring. It's got a very gentle exfoliator in here which helps, and also over time it will help minimize any discoloration that you have in the under eye area and give some great anti-aging benefit too. My eyes are pretty puffy at the moment and I have a lot of discoloration due to allergies, so this definitely is helping."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel

"It's got some really great innovative ingredients in here which do help to combat that puffiness both in the short term and long term and just give an overall brightness to the under eye. The price point is what sold it for me originally and [...] for me there's something really special about this product and it does leave me thinking how do they make this so cheap for a product that delivers so so well."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

The Ordinary Lacto-PDRN 4% + B9 Eye Cream

"This is a great firming and lifting under eye product, and it's the best eye cream you are going to try for £8. It's a key product, and knowing how to use it is the key to getting maximum results, which is covered in a separate tutorial video. It sold an estimated 1.2 million units and is currently out of stock, which I'm not surprised by."

✓Yay
Sponsored

79%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.9 NAD+ Retinol Volumetox Eye Cream

"They listened to feedback and brought it back in tube packaging, which is so easy to use. They've also upgraded it from retinol to retinal, which gives extra anti-aging and is [...] gentler on the skin. Now the packaging's improved, it's gone from an 8.5 out of 10 to a 10 out of 10, and I absolutely love it. It's a gentle retinal you can use all over the face, and it's a really good option."

✓Yay
Sponsored

85%Guru Score

Remedy Super Stacked Under Eye Dark Circle and Depuffing Treatment

"You've got kojic acid, which is going to fade under eye discoloration and any hyperpigmentation, caffeine to turbocharge blood flow and lymphatic drainage, taking away puffiness, inflammation and dark circles, a marine algae complex which is anti-aging, and metatricxol, my personal favorite peptide blend for boosting collagen and elastin. Anti-aging, reducing puffiness and inflammation, eradicating dark circles, all in one. No notes, nothing to say about that, I just love it."

✓Yay
Sponsored

73%Guru Score

Toners18 reviews

Pixi Glow Tonic

"The thing about Pixie is if you're somebody that likes fragrance in your skincare, Pixie are a great line. I think in 2026 we can take a second look at them. [...] If you're looking for fragrance-free skincare, Pixie is not going to be the brand for you. [...] But I think in 2026, we can all take a bit of perspective and say, you know what, fragrance isn't the devil in skincare. It depends on personal preference and your individual skin type."

✓Yay

66%Guru Score

Numbuzin No.5+ Vitamin Boosting Toner

"They also do a toner version in the same line. It has the NAD, the 50 peptides, and a little touch of PDRN, which is another pro collagen ingredient, and it has a light luminosity to it. It's going to really help you cheat a good skin day, give you that glow up in the immediate term, and give you all that anti-aging in the long term. If you want the glow up, get the toner."

✓Yay

88%Guru Score

PSA Skin Heroine Toner 5% Niacinamide

"Do I want lactic acid? Get them both together in one product. I absolutely love this and I've been raving about this product for years here on the channel. Unfortunately, this is actually sold out at the moment at the time of filming, but keep your eye out for it because when it comes back in stock, it sells out like that. It's worth getting your hands on if you can because this is a great example of fusion exfoliants using and harnessing the multiple benefits of different exfoliating acids."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

"That's going to be quite intense for a lot of people. If you have a resilient skin type, then you could go for The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%. This would be a good option, but a lot of people can't actually tolerate that daily, which is when you have to use it in order to get the best results for pro collagen benefits. So, I personally would stick to using acids as exfoliators, not as collagen boosters."

✕Nay

73%Guru Score

Geek & Gorgeous Liquid Hydration 5% Panthenol and Natural Moisturizing Factors Toner

"This is actually the Geek and Gorgeous liquid hydration. One of the best like freshening mists, hydrating mists. I love it."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Tirtir Milk Skin Toner

"Just about every celebrity, content creator, and influencer is using it and raving about it. I like it. What I will say is they do two viscosities, or two formulas: a light and the traditional. The traditional is great if you have a dryness-prone skin type. The light is great if you have a more oily skin type and need that lighter weight and finish. The key to success with this product is choosing the one that aligns with your individual skin's needs."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

Paula's Choice 2% Salicylic Acid Toner

"I also love Paula's Choice toner, but that one is a lot more expensive, so it's not really a dupe."

✓Yay

89%Guru Score

BYOMA Milky Toner

"Total game changer when it comes to hydration. Sometimes simple is effective. If you have somebody that's looking to get into skincare, maybe there's a teen in your life that's wanted to experiment with a Milky Toner cuz they've seen it online, I would say this is probably the product I would recommend. Really simplistic. It's not going to damage your skin. There's no risk of overusing it or overdoing it. Very easy to use and I think it's eye-catching and a great price point. So many benefits."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Coats Gentle hydrating toning milk

"So this is really focusing down on smoothing out the skin, brightening, and boosting the barrier function. You can use this alongside your favorite vitamin C serum if you want because this uses a derivative and a low dose form. [...] If you're feeling super lazy or you just want a really quick skincare routine, you could cleanse the skin, use this, put your sunscreen on, and you're good to go because it's got a lot in here. I love the consistency of this. The price point is great."

✓Yay

73%Guru Score

Nineless Control Targeted Acne-Prone Skin Toner (Azelaic Acid)

"Personally, I don't think you need an azelaic acid toner that has alpha hydroxy acids, has tea tree in it. I think it's just too much and really makes it only applicable to people with very oily, acne prone skin. [...] There's nothing wrong with the toner. I think it's just a bit more situational and it depends on your skin type as to whether it's going to work for you."

~Mixed

76%Guru Score

The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner

"The first is their Saccharomyces Ferment Milky Toner. This is great to give a light gentle exfoliation. That Saccharomyces will gently just smooth out and exfoliate the skin without being too harsh. It's also hydrating. The milky qualities of this will just hydrate you to the gods and your skin will feel beautiful after. This is a great option for people that want a smoother skin, want to tackle some hyperpigmentation, want that gentle daily exfoliant. This is the one to go for."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Equalberry Swimming Pool Daily Facial Toner

"But it's not just hydrating you to the gods. It is always overtime smoothing everything out and evening the skin tone at the same time. I think for people that crave real gentle exfoliation this could be an absolute win. I love how it feels on the skin. It's bouncy, it's juicy. And the packaging is really lovely too. [...] I can confirm this drenches the skin. Hydrates you like no other toner I have ever used."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner

"This is the Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk. It uses enzyme exfoliation to smooth out the skin and minimize the appearance of pores, but in a super gentle way. I absolutely love this. It's amazing, absolutely amazing at smoothing out the skin and refining the pores, super gentle. And it also has ceramides, so it's all around hydrating and exfoliating toner. You can use this daily, it's gentle enough to do that. I absolutely love it."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

Caudalie Gentle Hydrating Toning Milk

"This is like a one-and-one toner. In fact, I'd say this is so good. If you are feeling super streamlined and wanted a real easy skincare routine, cleanse the skin, use this, put your sunscreen on, and honestly you'll have a pretty comprehensive skincare routine. This is [...] a full skincare routine in a bottle in a toner. This is a [...] 10 out of 10, Holy Grail. [...] If you're someone that's turned your back on toners recently, look for something like this."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

VEGREEN Alcohol-Free Nature Mucin Toner

"This is the VEGREEN Alcohol-Free Nature Mucin Toner. If you don't like snail mucin, the snail secretion like the one by KRX, or you're vegan so you want to avoid it for that reason, get this. This is wild yam derived, works the same way, plumps out the skin, hydrates, nourishes, but has never been near a snail. So you're snail-free but still delivering."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

COSRX Hydrium Watery Toner

"This stands apart as one of the best options when it comes to those of us that need a little anti-aging boost and need a little extra hydration. [...] You've got that coverage in this style of product. It finishes not dewy, not glossy or greasy, it's just a guaranteed good skin day, and I love that. [...] If you like guaranteed good skin with some extra hydration and a dose of peptides, this is the one."

✓Yay

74%Guru Score

Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner

"It smells of nothing which is great because some of them I think as a kid of the '90s often those chemically astringent smells they don't do it for me. This is great and it's super super gentle. [...] I'm now on bottle two of this and the first one lasted me such a long time. I use it twice a week and my skin absolutely loves it and has made a real noticeable difference to the blackheads particularly on my nose."

✓Yay

79%Guru Score

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner

"If you feel your skin needs that dose of ingredient, reach for this. It's really nice, it feels gorgeous on the skin. It's got a slightly thicker texture, [...] a bit more gel like, [...] and it feels just as nice. The fragrance isn't overpowering, it's there but it's not too much. [...] My skin doesn't tolerate a lot of hyaluronic acid but I've gotten really really well with this, and I think if you like that ingredient, this is probably the one that I would personally recommend."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Lip14 reviews

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm

"The Ordinary's squalane and amino acids lip balm is really inexpensive and has a great blend of ingredients that aren't going to do any harm to the lips but will help promote lip health in the long term. It's a really nice option. The thing I would say about this is I don't like the packaging. The packaging can be quite hard. If you have any limitations in terms of motor function or strength in your hands, it can be difficult to get the product."

✓Yay

60%Guru Score

Carmex Classic Lip Balm

"Carmex is being called out for the ingredients they use and their formulations that ultimately damage our lips and then sell us further products to correct them. The more lip balm you use, the more you have to use. Once you stop, your lips become more dried and chapped than ever before. You then reach for the lip balm again and start applying it."

✕Nay

52%Guru Score

Torriden Solid-In Ceramide Lip Essence

"This Torriden Solid-In lip treatment is stunning. Really inexpensive, locks in all that hydration, and is one of the best lip balms I've ever tried. I don't think for the price point you can ask for much more than that. Doesn't overpromise, but it genuinely delivers. And if you're somebody that has a lot of sensitivity and irritation in the lip area, maybe there's other areas of the face where you're having a little flaking or sensitivity, you can just dab this on and it'll just help solve that."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

CNP Laboratory Propolis Lip Serum

"You're buying for the formula. And that's what I would say about this one. I would just say best lip balm. Best lip balm of the year. I know there's nothing exciting about lip balms and I know that it's not something you can really get super enthusiastic about, but if your lips have gone through it this winter and you want a really nice lip balm that is really inexpensive and actually works, it's a favorite for a reason. Just delivers."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

The Ordinary PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum

"I just love it. Twice a week. This is my top tip for you with this product. Only use it twice a week because it's potent, but it will give you the smoothest, softest lips. What I like to do is put some of this on and then I'll leave it to do its magic for like 5 minutes. Then I'll put a lip balm on top. You'll wake up with the softest pout of your dreams. I've heard some people online say they use this every day. Please don't do that. [...] This is quite potent."

✓Yay

65%Guru Score

Remedy Lip Balm

"Their Lip Balm is gorgeous."

✓Yay

70%Guru Score

The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm

"The Plumping lip balm, they did side by side pictures which I could tell was in different lighting, it wasn't like an equal side by side comparison and that was quite obvious to people. It also wasn't the sort of product that was really ever going to plump massively in the long term, so they overinflated the claims and as a result people were disappointed."

✕Nay

56%Guru Score

Vaseline Lip Therapy Original

"There is nothing wrong with Vaseline. [...] I don't think I have any issues with how it's [...] formulated or what it's actually doing. I just don't think it's the be all and end all when it comes to lip care."

~Mixed

80%Guru Score

Naturium Phyto-Glow Lip Balm

"These are packed full of nourishing ingredients and a wonderful blend of oils which are going to deeply nourish, hydrate, and actually prevent irritation. The clear is completely transparent and it dries down to such a nice finish. It's not dead pan matte so you definitely have a touch of gloss from this, but that's what a lot of people do enjoy. This will last you all day. Apply it in the morning, apply it in an evening, and pretty much that's all you need."

✓Yay

71%Guru Score

NIOD Lip Biolipid Concentrate

"They do like a bio lip oil which is really great if you want like a natural flush to the lips and like super hydrating. [...] Really really good."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Paula's Choice Lip SPF

"Paula's Choice lip balm SPF combo is also amazing. It's a relatively affordable price. I know the price of Paula's Choice has gone up a lot recently, but this is actually quite affordable and one I would definitely recommend if you're shopping from outside of the UK and you can't get your hands on that SOS lip balm."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

"I think as a brand they over promise and they under deliver. It's said to be like an overnight sensation for the lips and I actually woke up with quite dry lips when I tried this so clearly it wasn't really doing a whole lot. [...] I'm not the biggest fan of the level of hydration it gives and there are so many different scents and flavors to them. I think a lot of the colorants and the fragrances and the scents that they put in them could potentially irritate the lips further."

✕Nay

73%Guru Score

Dr. Reju-All Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Lip Serum

"It has a great little applicator and is a beautiful lip balm that doesn't leave a super glossy, sticky finish, which I can't stand in lip balms. [...] It's just hydration. Put it on in the morning and it lasts all day, and it's small enough [...] to pop in your purse. [...] If you're reapplying lip balm too often, it's the lip balm causing the problem, and [...] this is one of the good guys."

✓Yay
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Allies of Skin Peptide & Ceramide Repair Lip Balm

"Is it the cheapest product? It's not. But you know what, it's probably the highest performance lip balm I have ever ever tried. Here in the UK it's £22, but I do have a 20% off discount code that you can use [...] which brings that price point down to something in the region of about £17, which honestly I think for the quality of the formulation is amazing. [...] It comes in that lipstick bullet that you can just put it on. It looks bougie. It feels fabulous. And it ticks every single box."

✓Yay
Sponsored

83%Guru Score

Body & Tan10 reviews

Chemist at Play Salicylic Acid Body Wash

"This is the Chemist at Play Salicylic Acid Body Wash, a fragranced Salicylic Acid Body Wash, and if you want something that smells genuinely lovely, this is really nice, it's just a fun fragrance, [...] like watermelon. [...] I paid eight pounds for it, really inexpensive, 1% salicylic acid, which is what you want. [...] It's a really nice gentle cleanser with the salicylic acid to do the work."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

Remedy For Body Bumps

"The Remedy For Body Bumps [...] is going to be the best smoothing body [...] moisturizer [...] you have ever used. I'm somebody that suffered with a lot of texture on the body and these two products used together have just sorted that. You could use both together or one or the other. It's really up to you. But [...] if you have a lot of texture, you might have bumps, you might have breakouts, I always recommend this to everyone."

✓Yay

90%Guru Score

Remedy KP Exfoliating Body Scrub

"The remedy KP scrub is a little revelation. It's basically a huge amount of sucralose alongside glycerin which smooths everything out but also has like a slightly grainy texture to give a manual exfoliation. It's also got exfoliating acids in so a couple of times a week in the shower, this will just take away all of that KP, the chicken skin, razor bumps, all gone."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

Naturium Smoother Glycolic Acid Body Wash

"I would recommend my favorite is the Naturium. They do two. They do a glycolic acid and salicylic acid. I love both. I think the glycolic acid is more heavy duty. Definitely recommend it. It is so nice. [...] You can get it in Target. You can buy it from Naturium Space and K here in the UK and you get it on the website. So good. So good."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Q&A Vitamin A C and E Cleansing Shower Oil

"If you can get your hands on it, buy a couple because it'll last, and it is just the richest shower oil and you will smell divine. I take it to the gym as my treat after a workout when I'm hot, sweaty and bothered. I go in the shower and suddenly the world is right again because that shower oil is so good. I recommended it about a year ago to quite a few people. They all absolutely raved about it and said yes, never going back."

✓Yay

68%Guru Score

Naturium Salicylic Acid Body Wash

"I love the Naturium Salicylic Acid Body Wash, it is amazing and one of my absolute favorites. It gently exfoliates over the day and I use it every day."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum

"I've been using this on the chest and on the back, just minimizes any breakouts, prevents any blackheads that might form in those areas, smooths everything out for me. [...] You get so much, you get 240 ml, you can use this all over the body head to toe for that great exfoliation, get rid of that dead skin cells, get the skin and the body smooth. Great on the hands if you've got quite rough hands, particularly in winter."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Good Molecules B5 Hydrating Body Serum

"This is the B5 Hydrating Body Serum. If you're somebody that likes to take your serums for the face onto the body but you kind of think oh I don't know I just feel like I'm spending a lot on serums for the face and then using a lot of it to cover the body, don't worry just get this. This is so good, hydrating, even out the skin tone on the body. It's even slightly exfoliating, which means if you've got the old KP, the chicken skin on the backs of the arms, this could really work for you."

✓Yay

80%Guru Score

Naturium Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash

"I think you'll be impressed and I would say start with the body washes they're great"

✓Yay

90%Guru Score

CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough and Bumpy Skin

"There's a big difference between CeraVe and the Inkey List salicylic acid. I personally prefer the Inkey List salicylic acid, but I think in certain countries CeraVe is better value for money. So go with the one that fits your budget. They're both very similar in terms of their active ingredients. The Inkey List is cruelty-free as a brand, so I would always go sit in the Inkey List, but if you can't get it, CeraVe is absolutely fine."

~Mixed

77%Guru Score

Acne5 reviews

Lion Pair Acne Cream

"It also has some pain relieving elements to it, which will help lessen any discomfort that you have. [...] I'm somebody that can just get a little cystic bump now and then, put this on, it disappears in half the time it normally takes. Takes away the pain, takes away the redness, the inflammation, just genuinely a game changer. If you've got acne, have this on hand because for those days you need it, [...] you will really love it."

✓Yay

86%Guru Score

Dr.G R.E.D Blemish Clear Soothing Cream

"This is one of the most innovative vitamin C's to come out of the Korean skincare market and it's a bestseller for a reason. It's genuinely so so good."

✓Yay

77%Guru Score

The INKEY List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment

"There was a lot of talk about The INKEY List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment, with people saying this was just bad marketing. This product relies on sulfur to deliver the spot-fighting benefit, but sulfur isn't sexy. So, oh, it's succinic acid, let's make that front and center to sell the product. A lot of people called them out on it and said it's fancy marketing over actual quality formulations."

✕Nay

70%Guru Score

AXIS-Y Spot the Difference Blemish Treatment

"The ingredients look nice and this is badged as being a super gentle blemish treatment so it's not going to cause any redness, sensitivity, or irritation, but over time it'll minimize any breakouts and congestion that you have in the skin."

~Mixed

73%Guru Score

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution

"Salicylic acid is actually oil soluble. So it binds to oil and it goes into the pores. It flushes out dirt, debris, excess sebum, blackheads, sebaceous filaments, all gone. It just makes sense to have salicylic acid in an oil-based formula. And so it baffles me that no other brands seem to be doing this. There are a couple on the market, but they come with quite bougie price points. The Ordinary are, to my knowledge, the only affordable drugstore priced oil-based salicylic acid."

✓Yay
Sponsored

88%Guru Score

Powder & Setting5 reviews

The Ordinary Sulfur 10% Powder to Cream Concentrate

"This isn't a universal product. I would say you need this if you have breakout-prone skin, rosacea or very sensitive redness prone skin. This actually goes on as a powder but works into a beautiful cream. And you can either use it on areas where you have redness and sensitivity. It works so so well to just calm and soothe. Sulfur is the best ingredient for doing that. Or you can use it on areas where you have a breakout."

✓Yay

75%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% Niacinamide Powder

"The biggest issue was the scoop. The Ordinary recommended you use a quarter of the scoop that they provided. Why not just provide a scoop that was a quarter of the size? [...] Why are we having to measure and eyeball it, which is never really a good thing when you're talking skincare? People didn't really know what strength they were using. It was a bit of a hot mess."

✕Nay

50%Guru Score

The Ordinary 100% L-Ascorbic Acid Powder

"The ordinary powders the ascorbic acid powder and the niacinamide powder um these went mad people went mad for them when they launched they were new they were innovative they were different and then quite quickly people realized yeah they're just very complicated"

✕Nay

65%Guru Score

Pixi H2O Skin Veil Translucent Powder

"This one by Pixi is my current obsession, which I love. This will just help mattify it down. [...] A nice powder like this is great if you've got combination skin, particularly around areas where you are a little bit more dry. You just need a couple of extra tools in your kit."

✓Yay
Sponsored

86%Guru Score

Numbuzin Pantothenic B5 Active Drying Powder

"This is the Numbuzin Pantothenic B5 Active Drying Powder. I love this powder. You can either mix it with a soothing serum and just pop it on that offending pimple. It's a great pimple reducing and inflammation reducing application. You can mix a little in with your favorite serum, only a tiny amount, and apply it to the skin to give some additional calming and soothing. You can put this over sunscreen which will mattify it down."

✓Yay
Sponsored

82%Guru Score

Balms & Ointments3 reviews

Vaseline Original Healing Jelly

"Vaseline is fine on the lips. However, Vaseline is an occlusive. It seals things in. So it will give relief. It won't damage the skin, but it doesn't have many beneficial skincare ingredients that could actually help promote the health of the lip and restore things in the long term. I'd see it almost like a plaster, a band-aid that fixes the problem in the immediate and is a really effective thing for doing that, but in the long term, it doesn't have anything additional."

~Mixed

86%Guru Score

Prequel 1% Colloidal Oatmeal and Alanine Multi-Ceramides Adenosine Barrier Therapy Rich Skin Protectant Cream

"The Prequel Barrier Therapy Rich is a really good dupe. It's not quite as hydrating. I still think if I was going to say the Allies of Skin one is like 10 out of 10, I'd say the Prequel one is like 8.75 out of 10. It's really good, but it's $20. There's a huge price differential between these two. So I think it's really nice to have two super high performance moisturizers that kind of fit every budget."

~Mixed

80%Guru Score

Lano Lips 101 Ointment

"It delivers, it feels great and it just gives a really nice finish. I tend to use this one on an evening before I go to bed because it is a little on the glossy side, but you wake up with the softest lips you've ever experienced. You can use this on other areas where you have dry skin so the elbows, the knees, you can use it on the feet. I tend to put a little bit through the brows just to help keep everything fresh and shape them a little bit."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Primer3 reviews

Pixi Flawless & Poreless Primer

"You just put a tiny amount of this. And I mean that is enough. Work it on the top of your sunscreen like that. And look, there is zero shine in that area. I put it in it. It just works. It's a great way of mattifying a sunscreen that might be just a tad on the dewy side for your taste or in certain areas might just be a bit shiny. This will just mattify it down. Absolute perfection."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

The Ordinary High Spreadability Fluid Primer

"They just weren't that easy to use I also found and maybe it's because both of them have quite a lot of dimethicone and silicons in them that they broke me out"

✕Nay

56%Guru Score

The Ordinary High Adherence Silicone Primer

"I don't think I used either of them more than a couple of times because they just didn't work that well. They tend to peel on the skin, they balled up. They did have a certain grip and tackiness to them so great for making sure your makeup really sticks, but beyond that they just weren't that easy to use. I also found that because both of them have quite a lot of dimethicone and silicones in them, they broke me out."

✕Nay

56%Guru Score

Eye Makeup2 reviews

The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher

"It left people a bit bemused as to what the point of it was. This sort of product already exists on the market. I don't think this is new, innovative or anything beyond what you already get. And so for me it's a bit of a pass. [...] If The Ordinary were going to do this properly, they would have come out with a product that actually was packed full of beneficial skincare ingredients that were going to extend the lash growth cycle, that was going to increase volume and density."

✕Nay

67%Guru Score

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum

"It's peptide based. It's perfectly safe to use around the eye, which can't always be said for some other lash and brow serums, unfortunately. This one's ophthalmology tested. It's perfectly safe and it genuinely works. You have to be consistent. It's not something that's just going to work overnight. [...] I've used it for the past 2 years and with the exception of this little break that I've taken because I ran out, [...] I don't think I've ever been without it."

✓Yay

69%Guru Score

Supplements2 reviews

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (US formula)

"The viral Beauty of Joseon rice relief sunscreen, an absolute A-plus Korean sunscreen which now has a US counterpart. [...] This doesn't actually have the same SPF protection. The US one is SPF 40 versus SPF 50 plus in the Korean version. It has completely different filters and a completely different base profile. It is a completely different sunscreen but in very similar packaging designed to look the same."

✓Yay

76%Guru Score

Pacifica Vegan Collagen

"It's slightly more expensive than some of the others but if you're living a plant-based lifestyle and you want to avoid animal-derived ingredients this is a really great option. Like everything Pacifica, it's really nice, it feels beautiful on the skin and you'll get the same results as the other products. Animal or plant-derived, it really doesn't matter, you'll get very similar outcomes and results, it comes to personal preference and of course budget."

✓Yay

83%Guru Score

Blush & Bronzer1 review

Indeed Labs Nano Bronze Bronzing Drops

"This is the Indeed Labs Nano Bronze Bronzing Drops that also have antioxidants and skincare in it. If you want to look Oompa Loompa, absolutely this is the vibe. But it doesn't matter how much you put on. If you put a tiny amount on and try and shear it out, you still look really, really orangey. It's just like no, it's no, just no, absolutely not."

✕Nay

74%Guru Score

Foundation1 review

The Ordinary Serum Foundation

"They also launched or relaunched their serum foundations this year. I'm going to put this in the M tier. Some people like them and I know some people were so thrilled to see the serum foundations back, but they've actually had a bit of a reformulation and people saying it's not quite as good as the original serum foundations from two years ago. So the people that loved it and were really excited for it to come back have been left a bit like, maybe it's still fine, but it's not as good."

~Mixed

60%Guru Score

Haircare1 review

Remedy Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

"They do an Anti-Dandruff Shampoo which is amazing. I'm not somebody that gets a lot of dandruff, but I do find I get product buildup and sometimes, particularly in winter, my scalp gets a little flaky. Nothing's ever worked. Most of the dandruff shampoos I've used before just strip and dry, kind of make the whole thing worse. This actually delivers. Doesn't strip, doesn't dry. Your hair still feels lovely after using it. It's phenomenal."

✓Yay

84%Guru Score

Ingredients1 review

Retin-A Tretinoin

"It's fantastic when it comes to minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, boosting collagen and elastin production. It's a favorite with skincare nerds, dermatologists, and the wider community."

✓Yay

85%Guru Score

Tech1 review

Qure Micro Infusion System

"Have you tried the micro infusion systems like Qure? I have tried the Qure one, [...] and really really liked it. I'm still not a big fan of like microneedling, it's not my number one favorite thing to do, but I would say that is probably the best one that I've used. I like that it's easy to apply. It's not going to risk too much damage to the skin. I think it's probably the best of that style of system."

✓Yay

81%Guru Score

Mad About Skin.

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Mad About Skin.

Mad About Skin's top picks.

Mad About Skin's picks, backed by the experts.

Share this page.

Mad About Skin, in short.

What does Mad About Skin recommend?

Which serums does Mad About Skin recommend?

Which moisturizers does Mad About Skin recommend?

Which cleansers does Mad About Skin recommend?

Which sunscreens does Mad About Skin recommend?

What does Mad About Skin say no to?

What does Mad About Skin recommend for each skin type?

What he reviews most.

Mad About Skin's hot takes.

Every review.