Introducing Skincare+ on Amazon: Shop derm-approved brands in one place
I've been knee-deep in skincare for years now: testing beauty products, digging into ingredient lists like I'm studying for finals and talking with dermatologists any chance I get. It started as curiosity and turned into a full-on obsession.
I've tried the buzzy stuff, the clinical stuff and everything in between. And after all that, I can confidently say: finding the right skincare routine takes work. So, when I stumbled across Amazon's new Skincare+ feature, I was honestly impressed. It actually makes things easier — and smarter — for anyone trying to figure out what works for their face.
Let me break it down: Skincare+ is kind of like Amazon's skincare brainchild. It's part quiz, part personalized shop and part dermatologist-approved product lineup. You answer a few quick questions about your skin: the breakdown of your skin type, what you're dealing with (acne, dryness, sensitivity, whatever) and what you want from your routine. Then, Amazon gives you customized suggestions that aren't just based on what's trending, but what *actually* makes sense for your skin.
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It's a small thing, but honestly? That quiz is gold. I've spent hours over the years scrolling through skincare Reddit, beauty blogs, YouTube videos and ingredient masterclasses trying to figure out what to use next. This takes, like, two minutes and doesn't feel like a gimmick. It points you toward products from brands that derms actually recommend (think: CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, Bioderma and more). Not influencer picks with sparkly packaging. Actual solid skincare.
Here's a breakdown of what Skincare+ recommended for my combination, sensitive and fair skin — focusing on reducing pore size and upping hydration levels:
I've tried most of these products and I can attest that these recommendations are certainly expert-driven, tested and effective for my skin concerns. I've raved about the medicube Pore Pads (seriously, it's a Korean beauty essential you need), and have used the CeraVe cleanser more times than I can count. Plus, you can't beat a good exfoliant in your routine, especially when brands Anua and The Ordinary are tossed into the mix.
And let's talk about that Derma Store. This part of the Skincare+ setup is super curated, full of products that dermatologists actually back — not only the drugstore basics (though those are great), but also science-forward picks from brands like ISDIN, RoC and The Ordinary. You can tell it's built for people who want results without needing to decode a 15-step routine or get a degree in cosmetic chemistry.
Some of the questions the Skincare+ quiz asked, straight from the Amazon app.
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Better yet, you'll also have access to Amazon One Medical healthcare professionals. Consider it your convenient FaceTime call with your derm.
What I really appreciate as someone who's tried so many products is how much time this whole setup saves. I used to spend days comparing formulas and reading every single review like my life depended on it. With Skincare+, it feels like you've got your own mini skin consultant on standby, but without the pressure or the price tag of an in-person visit.
One thing I've learned from dermatologists is that 'personalized' isn't just a buzzword; it actually matters. Your skin's needs change based on your environment, your age, even your stress levels. What's cool about this Amazon tool is that it doesn't just lump you into 'dry' or 'oily' skin categories. It asks real questions, gives targeted recommendations and helps you build a routine that actually makes sense. It's not trying to sell you ten serums you'll never use.
Now, full transparency: I still double-check everything. I patch test. I read the fine print on ingredients. But nine times out of ten, the stuff Skincare+ recommends matches what I'd pick out after a full-on chat with a derm. And if you're someone who's just starting your skincare journey? This is an amazing launchpad. You won't waste your money or your face.
There's also peace of mind in knowing the products are legit. Amazon's had a bit of a rep in the past for third-party sellers, but the Skincare+ and Derma Store setup directs you to official listings. So you're way less likely to accidentally buy some sketchy knockoff of your favorite SPF.
For me, this whole Skincare+ thing is the kind of innovation I wish had existed when I was first starting out. It doesn't replace dermatologists or your own research, but it bridges the gap for people who want smarter skincare without the hassle. And even if you are a seasoned beauty nerd, it still saves time and helps you discover new stuff without the stress.
At the end of the day, skincare should feel like self-care — not a second job. Skincare+ makes it feel a little easier, a little more personalized and a lot more doable. Whether you're dealing with breakouts, sensitivity, aging, or just overwhelmed by options, this tool gets it. And for me? That's the kind of beauty innovation that actually sticks.
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Whether you're a newbie or you've been shaving your swimsuit line for a long time, you know it can be a challenge to get through the process without skin irritation, razor burn, or itchy bumps. It's the collateral damage from wanting hairless lady parts. Indeed, removing the hair around your swimsuit bottom and pubic region can be time-consuming, painful, and even dangerous for your skin if it's not done properly. "This area features very delicate, sensitive skin," adds Debra Jaliman, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. "You really have to shave everything meticulously." Meet the experts: Debra Jaliman, MD, is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. 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But if you do choose to shave your swimsuit line, there are some risks to keep in mind. The pubic region grows hair that is 'thicker, coarser, and more curly," compared to most hair on the rest of the body, explains Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a dermatologist and an editor for the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. That means if the hairs in that area aren't removed properly, they're more likely to grow back into the skin and cause razor bumps, also known as ingrown hairs. And once you develop an ingrown hair, the skin often gets red and itchy as a result. You might also experience razor burn when landscaping your swimsuit line, which is a type of skin irritation that happens when a razor is used on the same area of skin over and over again while shaving, Dr. Jaliman says. Razor burn can result in inflamed skin and small, red bumps, as well as itchiness and even a burning sensation. 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Another crucial point: "Choosing a firm, sturdy razor with soothing strips will make a huge difference," adds Eileen Bischoff, an aesthetician and hair-removal specialist at Eve Salon in New York City. But you can also consider a razor that you're comfortable with and know how to control, Dr. Jaliman adds. She personally likes to use the same type of razor she would use to get rid of peach fuzz on the face. But if you're in a pinch and don't have time to diligently shop for your next razor, you can try the one-use throwaway kind, too. Keep in mind that they can get the job done, but they're labeled "disposable" for a reason, Bischoff says. So make sure not to use them more than a few times at the very most to avoid injuring your skin with a dull, dirty blade. "They're not meant to be used for a month," Bischoff Silk TrimStyle Moisturizing Razor with swimsuit Trimmer This trimmer-razor combo may help prevent pubic irritation. It also has four customizable length settings for a comfortable trim. $18.87 at Smooth Colors Disposable Razors This disposable option comes with three precision blades for a closer, smoother shave. It also includes a moisture strip to offer lubrication and help prevent irritation. $9.92 at For Pubic Hair & Skin Designed to target trickier areas like the swimsuit line, this razor has a small head and a precision trimmer on the back of the blades. $14.97 at Prepare your skin for shaving. If you know you'll be shaving your swimsuit line in advance, stop using body lotions that contain retinol a few days ahead of time, Dr. Jaliman says. This category of ingredient can make the skin more irritable and sensitive, and make your skin less likely to tolerate hair removal without running into discomfort. And even though ingrown hairs are a very real risk when it comes to shaving your nether regions, it's not inevitable. One thing that helps is exfoliation, Dr. Jaliman says, who recommends using a soft body scrub or a wet washcloth to gently buff the area before shaving. If you omit exfoliating, you risk your razor driving dead skin and gunk into your pores, says Gina Charles, DO, a family physician and the owner of Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness. "Then it's harder to shave because you're going to be peeling off dead skin with your razor instead of the hair," Dr. Jaliman adds. But that's not all. It's also important to use warm water to hydrate and soften the skin and hairs before using your razor, Dr. Jaliman says. Spend about 10 minutes in warm water before you go to town on your swimsuit line. This will help soften the outer layer of your skin, make it easier to remove hair, and lessen your chances of getting razor burn, ingrown hairs, and other forms of irritation, says Fumi Ozaki, an aesthetician and electrologist in Redondo Beach, California. "After the 10 minutes are up, pat the skin to remove any excess water," she says. But make sure your skin is still damp when once you begin removing hair—dry shaving raises the risk of Exfoliating Body Polish This body scrub is crafted exfoliates the skin using coconut powder, but keeps it hydrated as well with ingredients such as jojoba oil, and black rice water. $14.00 at Thermale Avène Gentle Body Scrub. This exfoliating body scrub is abrasive. It also contains soothing ingredients such as jojoba oil. $30.00 at Buffer This pre-shave exfoliating bar preps the skin for a close, smooth shave without making it feel dry. It contains nourishing ingredients such as shea butter and aloe. $10.25 at Don't skip shaving cream. Always try to shave with a shaving gel, lotion or run-of-the-mill cream. You might think this is just a feel- and smell-good component to the process, but it's way more than that. "When you shave, you're shaving your skin, too," says Bischoff. "If you don't use enough shaving cream to create enough slip, you'll lightly abrade your skin, leaving it irritated." Ouch. Look out for tried-and-true moisturizing ingredients on product labels, such as shea butter, olive oil, and coconut oil, Dr. Engelman says. "These types of bases will give a proper buffer for your razor," she adds. You'll want to avoid shaving creams with fragrances as well, Dr. Jaliman says. Fragrances are often made using alcohol, she adds, which is often irritating to the skin. And try not to use soap as a replacement for shaving cream. Soap is often drying, which is particularly unhelpful when shaving an area of the body that's already sensitive and more prone to irritation, Dr. Jaliman adds. Once you've picked out a good shaving cream or gel, apply a thin layer to the area you're targeting. It should be thin enough that you can see the skin and hair shaft underneath so that you're provided enough lubrication while still reducing the need to make multiple passes on the same area of skin to fully remove the hair, says Intimate Grooming 2 in1 Cleanser and Shave Gel This translucent, fragrance-free formula lets you see what you're doing while shaving delicate areas. This will help you identify your direction of hair growth and prevent irritation. $9.79 at Cloud Luxury Shave Butter This shaving butter comes in a smooth whipped texture, and its infused with coconut milk, mango seed butter, and argan oil to soften skin and provide soothing lubrication for hair removal. $32.00 at and Rich Shaving Cream This cream may be used on all skin types and offers a neutral, ckean scent without added fragrances. $7.20 at Pay attention to your shaving direction. While it's true that shaving against the direction of hair growth often yields a closer shave, Dr. Jaliman recommends shaving in the direction of growth to minimize friction and reduce the chance of developing irritation, ingrown hairs or cuts. You'll also want to trim the hair down there before attempting to shave with a razor, Dr. Jaliman adds. "You can use scissors, you can even use an electric trimmer to shorten the longer hairs," she says. But if the hair is long and "all curled up, you won't be able to see which direction it's growing." Once you've trimmed the hair and determined your direction of growth, glide your razor gently along the swimsuit line without adding too much pressure. "One pass should be fine, especially if you're using a razor that has many blades," Ozaki says. Clean your razor when you're done. Blades can easily harbor bacteria, which can lead to infection when used on the skin. Ensure your razor is clean by thoroughly washing it after every use. Focus on rinsing away shaving cream or hairs trapped in the blade, Dr. Jaliman says, and soak the blade in hot water or even rubbing alcohol for good measure. And if your razor looks rusty after you've been using it for a while, toss it. A good rule of thumb is to replace your razor after five to seven shaves, Dr. Engelman says. Calm your skin after shaving. Wash off the remaining shaving cream and loose hairs from your skin once you put your razor down, and hold a cold compress to the area for 10 minutes to prevent irritation and calm inflammation, says Ozaki. "You could even use a little ice" wrapped in paper towel, Dr. Jaliman adds. You can also apply a fragrance-free, anti-redness serum to further reduce your chances of experiencing razor burn, and try topping it all off with a moisturizing body lotion or cream to help prevent shaving-induced dryness. Aim to regularly moisturize the swimsuit line for the first couple days following your shave, Dr. Jaliman says. Similar to your shaving cream, you're going to want to look out for specific ingredients in your moisturizer to ensure it both soothes and hydrates the skin. Bischoff suggests using moisturizers containing aloe vera, as well as jojoba oil and vitamin E. Once your skin is soothed, make sure it stays that way by wearing looser clothes that won't rub up against the swimsuit line, Dr. Jaliman says. Form-fitting clothes can exacerbate irritation from shaving by adding a lot of friction against the skin, she explains. "I wouldn't shave and then go to the gym and put on really tight leggings," she says.2-in-1 Shave Oil & Moisturizer This product can help protect soften skin, and may also be used as an after shave oil for long-lasting moisturization. $6.99 at Moisturizing Body Lotion This lotion is non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for daily use. Consider lathering some on after shaving to avoid dryness. $8.98 at Thermale Avène Xera Calm AD Lipid Replenishing Cream This lotion helps repair the skin barrier and calms itching & visible redness, all issues that can be exacerbated by shaving the swimsuit line. Apply some after removing hair to seal in moisture. $30.60 at Soothe any ingrown hairs and irritation. So, you took your best shot at shaving your swimsuit line, and those itchy, red bumps appeared anyway. Don't worry, there are still many ways you can minimize the discomfort. For one, Dr. Charles recommends looking to that oh-so-soothing aloe vera gel or moisturizer again. Try applying it to the swimsuit line and leaving it there for 30 minutes, she says. This can help reduce any redness, inflammation, and itchiness caused by shaving. If that doesn't do the trick, try using a tea tree oil, Dr. Engelman says. This type of product is an antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it kills bacteria and helps reduce the chances of infection and irritation, she explains. "If you've really caused some irritation, stronger creams like topical steroids, can be prescribed by a doctor to help reduce inflammation as well," Dr. Engelman adds. If you find yourself struggling with ingrown hairs after shaving your swimsuit line, a warm compress could help loosen up the ingrown from your skin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. So could a warm bath with Epsom salt, Dr. Zubritsky adds. Though in general, "ingrown hairs self-resolve and last anywhere from a few days to a week or so," says Dr. Zubritsky. But for those who want to be extra proactive, you can also consider a chemical exfoliator containing alpha hydroxy acids like lactic or glycolic acid to help break down the congested hair follicle, Dr. Charles explains. And acne treatments that target bacteria can also help prevent ingrowns from getting infected, Dr. Jaliman says. Consider using a low-concentration benzoyl peroxide product, for instance. You can find products in concentrations as high as 10 percent, Dr. Jaliman says, but in this case you'll want something closer to 2.5 percent to avoid irritation. Ingrown hairs can often resemble a pimple when inflamed or infected, but resist the urge to 'pick, pull, or pop at your ingrown hair,' Dr. Zubritsky says. 'This may result in permanent scarring or infection.' If you're feeling particularly dexterous, you can also try cleaning the ingrown hair with rubbing alcohol, and then carefully extracting the hair using a sterile, fine-pointed tweezer, Dr. Jaliman says. However, don't attempt to do this yourself if the ingrown looks infected or has grown deeply into the skin, she says. When ingrown hairs are improperly treated or get infected, they can progress into a pocket of pus (called an abscess) or leave behind a scar, Dr. Charles says. So in these cases, it's best to visit a dermatologist for treatment, Dr. Jaliman adds. In the meantime, don't shave again until the irritation has subsided and your ingrown hairs have healed, Dr. Jaliman Duo+M Multi-Target Acne Treatment Salicylic acid can be helpful for treating and preventing future ingrown hairs since it is a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin. Apply this treatment to ingrown hairs to help prevent further irritation. $18.74 at Hair Pads With BHA & AHA These single-use exfoliating pads slough away dead skin cells that trap hairs, helping to prevent razor bumps and painful ingrown hairs from forming or getting worse on the swimsuit line. It's formulated with chemical exfoliants such as glycolic and salicylic acids. $20.00 at Acne Treatment This 2.5% benzoyl peroxide acne treatment can kill the bacteria that can lead to an infect ingrown hair. Apply some to any ingrowns on your swimsuit line to nip the risk of infection in the bud. $8.27 at If shaving bothers your skin, consider other options. Look, shaving isn't for everyone. If you still prefer to be smooth down there but want to sidestep all the pitfalls that come with trying to shave your swimsuit line yourself, consider waxing the region instead, Dr. Jaliman says. You can either visit a professional or take advantage of an at-home wax kit. And regardless of your preference, the good news about waxing is that it removes the hair from the root, which means the results last longer, and you're less likely to experience a bacterial infection. And for an even longer-term option for sensitive skin or the shaving-adverse, laser hair removal can negate the need to shave or wax altogether. But if you do decide to wax yourself at home, be careful, Dr. Jaliman says. If done incorrectly, you run the risk of burning yourself or irritating the skin. "I would go to a trained professional," she says. "Somebody who uses clean tools and high-quality wax." You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
