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Elle
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
If Glass Skin Is Your Dream, These Korean Skin Care Brands Will Make It a Reality
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Skin care has undergone several changes over the years, from consumers adopting an expansive, multi-step approach to their routine to everyone switching to something uncomplicated yet effective. Why? Well, everyone's obsessed with Korean skin care, and if it's one thing Korea taught us about skin—glass skin, specifically—it's that you don't need a ton of products to achieve the skin you desire. These days, the country's ampoules, serums, and sheet masks have infiltrated everyone's bathrooms in one way or another, partly thanks to TikTok and the educational efforts of Korean retail platforms like Soko Glam and Peach & Lily. 'K-beauty really has become known for pushing the envelope—from their unique textures, advanced and effective ingredient formulations, to their packaging, formats, and affordable price points. K-beauty leaves no stone unturned, and it's why skin care brands are pivoting to formulating and manufacturing their products there, too,' says Charlotte Cho, the founder of Soko Glam. The products are mainstays in our beauty collections because they actually work. 'When you see outsized results, you share with your friends, and you continue to use and love the products, and I've seen Korean skin care take off and sustain itself as a standout category in the U.S. for many years now because of this,' adds Peach & Lily founder Alicia Yoon. Whether you're a Korean beauty devotee or haven't dipped your toe into the world of snail mucin and glass skin quite yet, there's always something new to discover. We drew from our personal experiences as beauty editors and the rich knowledge of our experts to compile this guide to the best Korean skin care brands leading the pack today. For those who prefer the simple things in life, Mixsoon's offerings are as straightforward as they come. However, its most popular range features one star ingredient: fermented soybeans, which are rich in amino acids and help firm and improve the skin's elasticity. Best for: All skin types Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I've yet to find a Korean sunscreen I dislike because the formulations are so elegant and invisible and perfect for someone with a deep complexion like mine. And because I'm acne-prone, I can't indulge in just any formula, which is why I love this one from Mixsoon. With no pore-clogging ingredients and a soft-to-the-touch, non-white finish, this has quickly become my go-to sunscreen.'—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor While several Korean skin care brands aim to help consumers achieve glass skin, Aestura focuses on treating sensitive skin. Because those with sensitive skin can easily aggravate their skin barrier, these salves soothe and calm irritation and improve elasticity. Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'My skin is peppered with dark spots and I rely heavily on the powers of retinol and exfoliants to fade those spots to obscurity. As such, my skin needs repreieve sometimes and I find it in this creamy, lightweight moisturizer. Packed with ceramides and fatty acids, this moisturizer soothes my skin and preps it to withstand another week of heavy-hitters.'—Nerisha Penrose Sulwhasoo is one of those brands that feels like it's been around forever, and it's only grown in popularity. It's a favorite of my grandma's, and she's virtually wrinkle-free. 'The brand is a classic that I love because of their potent use of ginseng, which is a powerful adaptogen that multi-tasks hard for skin, delivering benefits ranging from energizing to increasing glow to brightening to visibly firming. The First Care Activating Serum is timeless and brings instant vitality and glow to the skin,' says Yoon. The serum is also an ELLE First Class Beauty and Future of Beauty Award winner! Sulwhasoo rating: 4.8/5 stars Our expert says: 'Unless I'm testing a product for a story, Sulwhasoo First Activating Serum is my go-to travel serum of choice. I really love to layer serums at home, particularly hyaluronic acid and liquid peptides. However, when I travel, I want to take one anti-aging serum that covers it all, so I have more room for all my outfits. Gingseng, the star ingredient in all Sulwhasoo products, helps fight inflammation, minimizes wrinkles, boosts collagen production, and more. My Aunt Maggie wanted to update her skin care routine, so I suggested this product. This serum is great at preventing signs of aging as well as minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, which are natural to get as we age.' —Danielle James, beauty expert Founded in 2013, right before the K-beauty boom, this brand has since garnered internet and TikTok fame for its simple and affordable skin care solutions. While you may balk at first at applying snail mucin on your face, you'll be a believer as soon as you try this essence. Soko Glam rating: 4.7/5 stars Our expert says: 'I've been using this product on and off for nearly a decade now. There's nothing quite like it to boost moisture in my skin and quench it when I feel particularly dry. It may feel a bit sticky at first, but it absorbs so quickly that I never hesitate to reach for it when I need it.' —Carol Lee, beauty expert Belif's lineup consists of products designed to hydrate all types of skin. Even oily skin can benefit from extra moisture, as excess sebum production can indicate dehydration. The Aqua Bomb Hydrating Sleeping Mask ensures that skin stays plump and free from dry spots while you get your beauty sleep. Best for: Dehydrated skin Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars Our expert says: 'There's a phrase in Korean that basically translates to 'filled with moisture'—that's exactly how my skin feels when I use any product from Belif. My aunt loves this product in particular so much that she uses it as a night cream every single evening.' —Carol Lee Laneige is another brand whose main focus is moisturizing all of the skin on your face. But perhaps no product has helped put the brand on the map quite like the lip sleeping mask, which bursts with nourishing shea butter, murumuru butter, and coconut oil to keep your pout looking its best. Laneige rating: 4.7/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'In my many years of life, I've left no lip balm or gloss unturned. Carmex was my balm of choice until I entered college and wanted something a little more mature, yet still affordable for a college kid's pocket. Then came the MAC obsession. But times changed, and lip masks became a thing, thanks to Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask. Dousing my lips in the mask, whether overnight or throughout the day, leaves them feeling pillow-soft and smooth. Even better, the mask imparts a subtle glow reminiscent of my favorite beauty supply store lip glosses, so really, I'm getting the best of both worlds.' —Nerisha Penrose Dr. Jart+ concentrates on gentle formulas that support the skin barrier and reduce irritation with science-backed ingredients like ceramides and cica. There are too many excellent products to choose from, but this sensitive skin-friendly sheet mask is an ELLE favorite due to its soothing superpowers. Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars Our expert says: 'When my skin is feeling especially irritated or red, I know I can rely on Dr. Jart+ products to calm it down. This mask hydrates and soothes my skin every time I use it. I don't foresee myself giving it up anytime soon.' —Carol Lee We can't talk glass skin without mentioning Hanyul. 'I believe Hanyul is the true leader for glass skin by perfecting the balance of purifying and replenishing our skin with gentle and effective ingredients. The formulas do not contain any artificial fragrances or colorants, but the textures and the fragrances are so unreal that I had to triple-check that was the case. Their Pure Artemesia water pads (toner pads) are extremely popular in Korea.' Koreans often use toner pads before applying their makeup to prep and calm their skin, as moisturized skin means that you'll end up with a smoother and glowier finish. Olive Young rating: 4.8/5 stars An Olive Young reviewer says: 'Helped with my dry itchy neck during the coldest time of year. Redness practically went away overnight. Love how cooling and soothing it is on my skin.' Yoon took Korean skin care knowledge synthesized after curating and learning about the best products on the market to develop formulas that make achieving the smooth, dewy skin of your dreams easier than ever. 'If you're looking for an easy foundational routine to achieve glass skin goals, start with the popular Glass Skin Discovery Kit,' Yoon says. Peach & Lily rating: 4.7/5 stars A Peach & Lily reviewer says: 'This has transformed my skin and my sons as well—I wanted to try on two different ages to ensure efficacy, and was I ever pleased! We both have more hydrated luminous skin without excess oil or irritation! Absolutely amazing routine!' Then I Met You is the culmination of years of trying thousands of Korean skin care products—Cho took that experience and created a line that took inspiration from the innovation she saw. 'The Living Cleansing Balm has won 15 industry and people's choice awards in a matter of a few years and is our bestselling product because of its luxurious, sorbet-soft texture,' Cho says. A Soko Glam reviewer says: 'I've repurchased this cleansing balm countless times and make sure I have an extra and travel size handy. I LOVE it! It takes off all the products and dirt from the day and has an amazing smooth feel. I don't have to keep working to remove it with my cleanser. It doesn't make my vision as blurry as other oil cleansers do. It's also SO satisfying to use every night.' 'This brand has been around for decades, gaining popularity in the U.S. over the last decade for its clean, gentle formulas that always keep the skin barrier in mind. The Essence Toner helps revive and reset skin when it's irritated or tired,' Yoon adds. If you're unfamiliar with the category, a toner should be applied right after cleansing and before the rest of your skin care products. Best for: Sensitive skin An Amazon reviewer says: 'This is an incredible toner/serum product. It's a nice thick watery substance that sinks really nicely into the skin when applied, and it doesn't leave any stickiness or strange texture behind. I also love the slightly tightening feeling you get when it is on the skin.' Korean makeup artist Kowon is highly sought after by A-list celebrities for her ability to enhance natural beauty. One of her philosophies is that makeup starts with the state of your skin and how you're taking care of it, which is why she joined forces with scientists and doctors to formulate this line of deeply nourishing and hydrating products. 'The result? Skin with a next-level dewy glow. The Cellus Aqualane Solution includes fermented squalane for deeper hydration and acacia to focus on aquaporins for amping up hydration," explains Yoon. A Peach & Lily reviewer says: 'A little goes a long way, and it only takes a drop or two to cover your whole face. Didn't irritate my ridiculously sensitive skin, and completely stopped the flakiness I've been dealing with for ages in just a couple days.' Each of this Korean skin care brand's products is clinically tested to ensure efficacy, and the line includes products to address every concern, from acne to wrinkles. When you're using such effective formulas, you want to make sure you're getting the most out of them, which is where this device comes in. After applying your favorite product, use the Age-R Booster H to help push it deeper into the skin. Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'I had been reading about this device for quite a while and finally decided to give it a go. I have to say, it does help the products absorb faster and better. It does have a pulsating mode that feels like you are getting a facial massage. Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase.' Luxury skin care brand OHUI has been around for decades, but it is finally making its foray into the U.S. market. Its products are hailed for their brightening and anti-aging properties, and many of them are geared toward addressing melasma and dark spots. The Miracle Moisture line features ceramides and peptides to plump skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Best for: All skin types, especially mature skin An Amazon reviewer says: 'I can honestly say that, more than any other skincare product I have tried, this has made a huge difference in the texture and hydration of my skin.' Charlotte Cho is the founder of Soko Glam. Alicia Yoon is the founder of Peach & Lily. It's an unequivocal yes from us. 'Korean skin care is great for all ages, skin types and skin tones, and you can certainly mix and match across different brands regardless of origin. In fact, many of your 'non-Korean' skincare products are likely now manufactured in Korea!' says Cho. What actually matters are what's inside the products and their purposes. 'It's more about the specific formulas and ingredients. There are some ingredients, like using too many harsh active ingredients all at once, that shouldn't be mixed whether that's across Korean or non-Korean skin care categories,' Yoon warns. Just make sure to space out your actives and consult a dermatologist if you have any doubts. 'There are over 20,000 Korean Beauty brands! Narrowing down what Korean skin care product is right for you is much like approaching any other skin care decision,' Yoon says. She advises figuring out your skin type and goals first and tracking which ingredients agree with your skin and which ones you should avoid. 'That said, if you're not using an essence, that's a great place to start because it can take your skincare routine to another level as it enhances absorption of other products and drenches skin with hydration—and when skin is well hydrated, so many other skin issues can be improved,' she adds. Meanwhile, Cho recommends experimenting with a double cleanse first—that is, cleansing your skin first with a balm or oil and following up with a regular cleanser to really ensure that you remove all the makeup, SPF, and pollutants on your face. 'Good skin care starts with a clean base, and there is nothing more effective than an oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to remove impurities. That's why we have a whole category for double cleansing on Soko Glam,' she explains. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke with trusted Korean skin care experts about Korean skin care brands. Lee also searched the internet for top-rated Korean skin care products and brands, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
NBC News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC News
Talking Shop with Peach & Lily founder Alicia Yoon
Talking Shop is our series where we talk to interesting people about their most interesting buys. Glass skin — you've either used the phrase yourself, seen TikToks about it or Googled how to achieve it. Rooted in K-beauty culture, 'glass skin' refers to a smooth, clear, practically poreless complexion, and while it's a concept that's been around forever, it wasn't trendy until a few years ago. Alicia Yoon, founder and CEO of Peach & Lily, is partially responsible for that. When the brand's Glass Skin Refining Serum came out in 2018, it sparked what she calls the glass skin movement. 'It went so viral, to the point where I actually had to write an e-book on it,' says Yoon. Just because you're the mastermind behind glass skin doesn't mean you're automatically blessed with it, however — Yoon struggles with eczema, keratosis pilaris and sensitive skin just like the rest of us. I talked to the esthetician-turned-entrepreneur about what products she keeps in her skin care (and hair care) routine at all times, in addition to her go-to Peach & Lily products. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. 'Joanna Vargas is a fellow esthetician, and she was the one person I actually really trusted before my wedding many moons ago to do my skin care,' says Yoon. 'She's very custom in how she does things, and she approaches things in a way that I knew my eczema-prone skin would be safe with her.' Yoon adds Joanna Vargas' The Daily Serum to her skin care routine occasionally, which she says is calming and hydrating since it's made hyaluronic acid. 'Because I have eczema, my body hydration situation is pretty intensive,' says Yoon. 'If it's super humid in Miami, I'll skip some of it, but most of the time, I need to lean into different things for different parts of my body.' She uses a handful of Peach & Lily's moisturizing products, as well as Nécessaire's The Body Lotion. 'It's fragrance-free and no-frills, so I use it head to toe,' says Yoon. 'These days, I've been using Live Tinted's Hueguard, which is a mineral SPF, daily,' says Yoon. 'It's lightweight, matches my skin tone and wears well throughout the day.' The broad-spectrum sunscreen is orange when you dispense it, which prevents it from leaving a white cast. It acts as a moisturizer and primer as well, and makes skin look glowy after application. 'The Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Body Wash is no-frills in the best way, especially when you have eczema' says Yoon. 'It doesn't smell, it doesn't irritate, it's mild, nothing hurts and I feel clean. The body wash has this little oil slip in it, which also helps with shaving. It acts as a two-in-on in that way.' 'When I talk to my friends about Osea's Undaria Algae Body Oil, they say it's too heavy for them, but my body just soaks it up,' says Yoon, who applies it to dry patches as needed in addition to her other favorite lotion. The body oil is infused with seaweed and helps moisturize and improve the look of skin elasticity, according to the brand. 'On beach days, I use the Ultra Violette Future Sunscreen, which is a mineral formula and makes me look glowy,' says Yoon. 'I've layered it over and over and it's quite nice.' The Australian brand's broad-spectrum, lightweight formula (which is one of our team's all-time favorite face sunscreens) is made with zinc, hydrating squalane and calming vitamin E. 'I was honestly a little bit skeptical about this at first because I haven't had great luck with a lot of the waterless shampoos out there, but this one actually leaves my hair very shiny and soft,' says Yoon. 'There's a learning curve because you only need to use a little product at a time, but it's really great, and it's creamy instead of watery. The packaging is sustainable and looks like a little aluminum paint tube, so it doesn't take up much room in your shower and it's easy to travel with.' 'I have naturally wavy hair that gets tangled very easily, and it's fine and brittle,' says Yoon. 'This conditioner is amazing because it gets all my tangles out before I air dry, and it leaves my hair behaving well no matter what the weather is. There's no fragrance in it — it's more like essential oils — so it's very light, airy and beautiful.' 'I've tried so many hair oils and serums because my hair is on the frizzier side, and ever since we moved to Miami last year, it's been out of control,' says Yoon. 'This is one of the most popular hair serums/oils in Korea, and it helps me control my hair without making it look heavy or greasy. The serum has argan, olive, coconut and apricot oils in it, but it doesn't feel oily. It leaves my hair looking shiny, and a little goes a long way. I also don't love heavily fragranced products, and while this has fragrance, it's very light, subtle and doesn't linger.' 'Living in Miami, we go to the beach a lot, and I love how my hair looks after that, so I try to replicate it,' says Yoon. 'When I want to add a little bit more texture to my hair and get that beachy wave, I'll use The Crown Affair Texturing Air Dry Mousse. It doesn't make my hair feel crunchy at all, so I get the look and feel I want.' 'I don't know if it's just me, but when I'm pregnant, my legs will start cramping — I'll literally wake up in the middle of the night because the cramping gets so bad,' says Yoon, who is currently expecting her third child. 'I massage this cream into my calves, which really minimizes cramping since it's made with magnesium chloride, and there's a peppermint version for your feet, too. It's very hydrating, but it's a little oily, so I use bed sheets I don't care about or apply it right before bed to give it time to absorb into my skin.' Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select who writes our Talking Shop series, interviewing people like Dorinda Medley, Jing Gao and Sara and Erin Foster. To write this piece, I interviewed Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach & Lily and Peach Slices, about her favorite skin, hair and body care products.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘That Tariff Bill Definitely Comes': How Top Beauty Players are Rethinking Operations in an Uncertain Landscape
As global economic pressures mount, beauty's most agile players are rethinking how to maintain that status in an increasingly unpredictable business landscape. In conversation with WWD deputy managing editor Evan Clark at the 2025 Beauty CEO Summit, E.l.f. Beauty chief financial officer Mandy Fields, Peach & Lily chief and founder Alicia Yoon and iLabs founder and CEO David Chung talked where they're pivoting — and where they aren't — as they forge their respective paths forward. More from WWD Bath & Body Works Names Daniel Heaf CEO NBA Star Jared McCain Unveils Sally Hansen Nail Polish Collection With Launch Party, Talks Color Inspiration and Lab Experience The 12 Best Sunscreens for Acne-prone Skin, According to Dermatologists 'What we're doing is focusing on what we can control,' said Fields, who primarily serves a price-conscious consumer that, amidst this uncertainty, 'is very much being choiceful,' with how and where they're spending their money, she said. 'The first [impact] we see is a bill — that tariff bill definitely comes,' said Yoon, who operates the number-two prestige skin care brand at Ulta Beauty with Peach & Lily. 'You have to pay that to clear your product; there's been more friction, more paperwork, slightly longer shipping time — so, a little more work for our team.' On the flip side, these shifts have forced the brand to reckon with and rework inefficiencies 'on the top line and on the cost side,' that previously flew under the radar. 'Step one has been reaching out to suppliers and seeing if we can share the burdens of these tariffs and preparing for that…also taking a deeper look at, 'oh, this functional team uses this platform to do project management and this team uses this other one — why do we have two?'' she continued. As a manufacturer, in the weeks since President Donald Trump announced global tariffs, Chung has experienced an uptick in brands 'importing finished-good products to the United States,' as well as inquiries about how to shift their formulation and manufacturing processes to the U.S. 'Truly, for brands to prepare their Plan B — it takes a lot,' he said. 'When you move a formula [process] to the U.S., that's not a simple task. When you think about the components, packaging and raw materials — you will still need to import some of them, but you can still find ways to minimize some costs.' Indeed, it's a balancing act: As much as brands are thinking about how to switch gears, they're mindful of not straying too far from their core. 'The other thing we're doing to navigate the complexity is having 'bright lines' — sacred territory that we don't touch,' said Yoon. For instance, the brand is avoiding swapping ingredients in key products for lower-priced alternatives in an effort to cut costs. 'It's very tempting to say, 'OK — this ingredient, let's swap it out for something that's basically the same, or find a new supplier that's more affordable — but that can impact quality.' E.l.f., meanwhile, is highlighting products' bang for their buck, understanding that's what price-sensitive consumers are looking for. 'We responded to this need from our community with our 'Many-trick Pony' campaign, highlighting our Halo Glow Liquid Filter, which is a $14 multi-benefit product that you can use in multiple ways and get impact,' said Fields. 'Listening to our community, making sure we're offering product that meets them where they are and having a little fun with it…beauty is a category where you can bring a lot of joy to your community,' said Fields, 'and we can't forget that.' Best of WWD The Best Makeup Looks in Golden Globes History A Look Back at Golden Globes Best Makeup on the Red Carpet, From Megan Fox to Sophia Loren [PHOTOS] The Best Hairstyles in Golden Globes History Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘That Tariff Bill Definitely Comes': How Top Beauty Players are Rethinking Operations in an Uncertain Landscape
As global economic pressures mount, beauty's most agile players are rethinking how to maintain that status in an increasingly unpredictable business landscape. In conversation with WWD deputy managing editor Evan Clark at the 2025 Beauty CEO Summit, E.l.f. Beauty chief financial officer Mandy Fields, Peach & Lily chief and founder Alicia Yoon and iLabs founder and CEO David Chung talked where they're pivoting — and where they aren't — as they forge their respective paths forward. More from WWD Bath & Body Works Names Daniel Heaf CEO NBA Star Jared McCain Unveils Sally Hansen Nail Polish Collection With Launch Party, Talks Color Inspiration and Lab Experience The 12 Best Sunscreens for Acne-prone Skin, According to Dermatologists 'What we're doing is focusing on what we can control,' said Fields, who primarily serves a price-conscious consumer that, amidst this uncertainty, 'is very much being choiceful,' with how and where they're spending their money, she said. 'The first [impact] we see is a bill — that tariff bill definitely comes,' said Yoon, who operates the number-two prestige skin care brand at Ulta Beauty with Peach & Lily. 'You have to pay that to clear your product; there's been more friction, more paperwork, slightly longer shipping time — so, a little more work for our team.' On the flip side, these shifts have forced the brand to reckon with and rework inefficiencies 'on the top line and on the cost side,' that previously flew under the radar. 'Step one has been reaching out to suppliers and seeing if we can share the burdens of these tariffs and preparing for that…also taking a deeper look at, 'oh, this functional team uses this platform to do project management and this team uses this other one — why do we have two?'' she continued. As a manufacturer, in the weeks since President Donald Trump announced global tariffs, Chung has experienced an uptick in brands 'importing finished-good products to the United States,' as well as inquiries about how to shift their formulation and manufacturing processes to the U.S. 'Truly, for brands to prepare their Plan B — it takes a lot,' he said. 'When you move a formula [process] to the U.S., that's not a simple task. When you think about the components, packaging and raw materials — you will still need to import some of them, but you can still find ways to minimize some costs.' Indeed, it's a balancing act: As much as brands are thinking about how to switch gears, they're mindful of not straying too far from their core. 'The other thing we're doing to navigate the complexity is having 'bright lines' — sacred territory that we don't touch,' said Yoon. For instance, the brand is avoiding swapping ingredients in key products for lower-priced alternatives in an effort to cut costs. 'It's very tempting to say, 'OK — this ingredient, let's swap it out for something that's basically the same, or find a new supplier that's more affordable — but that can impact quality.' E.l.f., meanwhile, is highlighting products' bang for their buck, understanding that's what price-sensitive consumers are looking for. 'We responded to this need from our community with our 'Many-trick Pony' campaign, highlighting our Halo Glow Liquid Filter, which is a $14 multi-benefit product that you can use in multiple ways and get impact,' said Fields. 'Listening to our community, making sure we're offering product that meets them where they are and having a little fun with it…beauty is a category where you can bring a lot of joy to your community,' said Fields, 'and we can't forget that.' Best of WWD The Best Makeup Looks in Golden Globes History A Look Back at Golden Globes Best Makeup on the Red Carpet, From Megan Fox to Sophia Loren [PHOTOS] The Best Hairstyles in Golden Globes History Sign in to access your portfolio
Buzz Feed
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Yes, These 28 Ulta Beauty Products Are Very Much Worthy Of Their Hype
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Multitasking skincare, quick and efficient haircare, and makeup with gasp-worthy results. Need we say more... 1. First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant decongests pores with a combination of glycolic and lactic acid. It gently exfoliates and renews rough and bumpy skin with pumice buffing beads that don't cause irritation. Promising review: "I have a serious ingrown hair problem and this product basically saved my life! It lifts up the ingrowns, smooths out the skin, and I can even dare [say] it makes it look a little healthier! Love this product and will forever recommend!" — Mandy 2. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer camouflages dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots for long wear, crease-free coverage that never flakes. Because once this stuff is blended, it sticks to its plan of keeping your makeup looking on point. Promising review:"Seriously, this is the best concealer ever, and the ONLY makeup product I've never traded out for any other brand! Amazing for covering cystic acne, acne scars, under eye circles, redness, literally does it all and blends seamlessly and never looks cakey. Great for natural makeup, heavy makeup looks, literally DOES IT ALL." — M 3. Peach & Lily's Glass Skin Refining Serum helps you achieve that tasty "glazed donut" glow TikTokers have been raving about. Admirers note that this concoction of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peach extract is lightweight and non-sticky and leaves them with a visibly brighter appearance with reduced redness. Dull, tired-looking skin has met its match. Peach & Lily See it in action on TikTok! Peach & Lily is an Asian woman-owned small business that specializes in Korean skincare products made of natural and toxin-free ingredients. Promising review:"I bought this about two weeks ago and began seeing results almost immediately! It gives the look of glowy/ glass skin and evens out tone and texture. The consistency is a bit watery, but it absorbs quickly . Easy product to incorporate into your routine." — Spe 4. Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara lifts lashes at such a gasp-worthy price, you won't believe you spent under $13 for the tube. Infused with bamboo extract and fibers, it gives lashes a type of spellbinding hold and volume that won't clump or flake. Promising review: "I have tried all kinds of mascara and keep coming back to this one. It applies well, lasts all day and you can't beat the price." — Doelle 5. Anua Heartleaf + Vitamin E pore-clearing cleansing oil gently cleanses with its lightweight formula but is tough on gunk and heavy-handed on impurities. Reviewers rave about this sebum-reducing hero, noting its ability to yank blackheads out from cheeks and the nose once it emulsifies with water and is massaged into the skin. The result? A clear, glowing complexion that feels soft and soothed. See it in action on TikTok. Promising reviews: "I've been using the Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil for a few weeks, and it's quickly become a favorite. It removes makeup and impurities effortlessly without leaving my skin feeling dry or greasy. The heartleaf extract helps soothe and reduce pore congestion, leaving my skin smoother and softer. It's lightweight, emulsifies well with water, and has a subtle, calming scent. Overall, it's a fantastic cleansing oil that cleanses deeply while improving skin texture and pore appearance." — Katalina 6. Winky Lux Flower Balm cleverly changes color with your skin's pH level. Taking the guesswork out of finding the perfect shade to match your complexion? Done, thanks to this rave-worthy lippy that even has a flower living inside of it 👀. Promising review:"This flower lip balm is so beautiful and moisturizing! It adds hydration to your lips and makes them feel so smooth! After applying, you will notice your lips turning a pretty shade of pink. The shade depends on your pH balance. It adds a pretty flush of color while moisturizing your lips. Perfect for those no makeup-makeup days or to put on at night before bed. The real chrysanthemum floating in the clear balm is so cool and beautiful to look at!! I LOVE it and would highly recommend this flower lip balm!!" — Athena 7. Mighty Patch hydrocolloid pimple patches work to absorb pus and shrink zits ~head on~. Since adult acne is a thing *sigh*, these are great to prevent picking and, according to one of our editors, are an effective treatment to help avoid scarring and hyperpigmentation. Ulta Melanie Aman, an editor on our Shopping team, tried these out and says:" These are hands down the best pimple patches I've ever used. Why? Because they actually work. I've tried some more cutesy patches that were great for Instagram photos but did nothing to shrink my breakouts. And the pimple patches that touted themselves as basically invisible were — but so were any results. While the Hero Cosmetics pimple patches are a little more visible (but really only noticeable if someone was standing really close to my face), the results are clear to see. (And JSYK, they also make an invisible version, but I have not tried it.) IMO they work best on whiteheads, drawing out the pus and preventing me from picking. Once all the fluids are drained (yum!), I plop a patch on what was once home to a very angry whitehead and replace it twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). In my experience, that has been the best treatment for preventing really noticeable hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, which my skin is really prone to after breakouts." 8. Ilia's The Base Face Milk preps and sets your skin up for success when used with or without makeup, thanks to its super lightweight yet nourishing formula. It's designed to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and draw hydration deep into the skin (with notable star ingredients like hyaluronic acid and prickly pear flower extract) to support the renewal process for a smoother complexion. See why it's worth the hype in this TikTok! Ilia's Base Milk has become an essential step in my routine. My skin drinks up the lightweight (but moisturizing) formula, and I can tell the difference in my skin's texture when I forget to apply it prior to my Live Tinted tinted moisturizer or Ilia Complexion Stick. With it, my complexion appears more even in tone, and my products go on smoother and seem to last longer. Cakey-ness and dryness are diminished — plus the glow that's achieved when it's first a word? Luminous. Sometimes, I'll apply it just under some sunscreen when I want to give my skin a bit of breathing room from makeup, and I love the added hydrating benefits it offers without leaving any greasy or sticky residue. Needless to say, the Base Face Milk has quickly become one product that my skin can't live without. Promising review:"This is the best, I've [gone] through 2 bottles now and even though I don't like the price I will repurchase. I have tried several that are supposed to be similar, but I can tell you right now, that nothing has came close." — Ebbystarr 9. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray reduces up to 92% of frizz (!!!) so all you have to do to tackle bedhead is give your hair a nice ~spritz~ and simply comb the product through. It also softens your hair between washes and provides UV protection, all with a lightweight and wearable formula. Promising review:"This is my savior for winter static and flyaways. I have fine, thin hair which I air dry. Followed the suggested uses by spraying a little in my hand and smoothing over the flyaways and voila! Problem solved." — Bex13 10. Benefit Cosmetics Porefessional Super Setter spray secures makeup with a lightweight, waterproof mist that lasts up to 16 hours *with* the added benefit of blurring pores for a satin-soft complexion. Ulta Promising review:"I love this setting spray. My friend suggested it and now I've been using it for a few years and it is just so good. It keeps makeup intact for hours while also giving me a hydrated feel. It's very lightweight and sometimes I just spray it on throughout the day to make my makeup look more glowy." — Iris 11. Chi Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl gifts you with ~swoonworthy~ curls in mere minutes (without the damage, thanks the highly effective heat-conducting material: volcanic lava). Once you insert your chosen strands, this ingenious tool automatically wraps it around the heated rod — and by some kind of wizardry, it'll reveal a perfectly set curl. Ulta Promising review:"WOWZA! This is an A+ product. I have fine hair and this creates beautiful curls that last. This year I tried the Shark Flex style only to return because the curls didn't last. I've also used L'Ange Le Trident, but this Chi Lava Spin and Curl blows them both out of the water. BUY IT." — LinLo09 12. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint fuses our three main loves: skincare, makeup, and sun protection. We adore products with magical, good-for-skin ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, known for softening and plumping. Not to mention the weightless feel, sheer coverage, and SPF what? 40! Swoon. This is silicone-free, fragrance-free, oil-free, noncomedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin. Note that on application, the shade may appear lighter but after 30–60 seconds, it'll adjust to its true color. Because it's silicone-free, natural separation may occur. This is normal and it'll be fixed when applied to skin. Plus, the bottle is recyclable! Learn how to here. Promising review:"GORGEOUS foundation. I have very sensitive and acne-prone skin and this foundation works wonders on my skin! It goes on so smoothly and does not irritate me at all!" — Jessica 13. Stila All Day Liquid Eye Liner produces precise, sharp, and downright majestic cat eyes with its long-wear waterproof formula. Invented with a felt tip that's user-friendly, it's perfect for newbs and pros alike who are looking to enhance their eye shape with a bold or subtle look that'll last. Ulta Promising review:"This is my favorite liquid eyeliner (I've tried a couple of drugstore options, as well as the Too Faced eyeliner). This one isn't too wet and glides on perfectly. This product makes it easy to make lines of any size. Very easy to control! The only con is I wish that the product lasted longer." — Sophie 14. Olaplex No. 3 hair perfector holds the title as one of the best-selling hair products for good reason. This is a star at reducing breakage and treating compromised hair. In as little as 10 minutes, texture is improved and straw-like locks are softened. Ulta Promising reviews:"The Great Bond Treatment is perfect for color-treated 3c curls! It strengthens, hydrates, and enhances vibrancy without weighing hair down. My curls feel softer, less frizzy, and more defined. While a bit pricey, a little goes a long way. H ighly recommend for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls!" — Jazz "I have tried many Olaplex products, and this is by far the best one I have used. I have wavy, frizzy hair. I generally dry it with a round brush, then have to use a flat iron to smooth out the frizz before I consider myself presentable. I put this on before shampooing, and left on for 10 minutes. I then used my regular shampoo and conditioner. After drying it with a round brush like usual, it was so smooth and silky! I am so mad I didn't try this sooner." — Kelly Price: $30 15. E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer grips makeup for all-day wear. Simply sweep the velvety-soft formula (that has 5,000+ positive ratings) over skin pre-foundation to smooth out uneven complexions and minimize the appearance of pores in a flash. Ulta Check it out on TikTok! Promising review:"Of all the primers I have tried, cheap to expensive, this one is my favorite! It really does blur pores and fine lines. I use this on its own sometimes without makeup. Excellent product at the perfect price!" — Mandie Price: $10 16. Live Tinted Hueguard protects your skin year round sans any annoying, ghostly white cast. It's also great if you don't have the patience (or energy) to apply several products in the a.m., since this mineral SPF 30 sunscreen *plus* primer hybrid moisturizes and preps skin for a no-makeup or full-face-makeup day. This works for all skin tones to leave your face with a beautiful, dewy glow! P.S. This is formulated with 18% zinc oxide (a mineral ingredient that works as a skin protectant — and hooray! Is an FDA-approved sunscreen component that reflects harmful UVs). And yes, it's clean, vegan, cruelty- and fragrance-free, *and* it's reef safe! Live Tinted is a South-Asian woman-owned beauty brand founded by beauty blogger and entrepreneur Deepica Mutyala. Her brand is built around diversity and inclusion with phenomenal multitasking products that address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation. Just peep their top-selling color-correcting Huestick. See why this TikToker is choosing Huegard. I've been writing about Live Tinted's products for some time and finally decided to snag some of their goodies for myself. Hueguard injects a literal ray of liquid sunshine into my daily regimen because, gold. And it really, truly, leaves zero white cast on my face — plus, there's no pilling, either! It blends seamlessly with my complexion, feels ultra-hydrating, and is the perfect base layer for makeup. (That's me above after a few hours of wear with Hueguard layered under some Kosas concealer and One/Size foundation and I've got to be honest — as someone who has had a few acne scars residing on their cheeks for some time and struggles with makeup application — I haven't seen my complexion look this smooth in a minute! AND my no-makeup-makeup look stayed put for hours!) I can't recommend Huegard enough if you're looking to try something new! Promising review:"This has now become my favorite daily sunscreen/moisturizer/primer. They really do mean it when they say 'no white cast,' and the product doesn't feel oily/doesn't block my pores. I love the consistency and that you can travel with it — plus, it's a 3-in-1, so it saves me a lot of time. Highly recommend!" — Ulta Customer 17. Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm offers a lightweight curl-enhancing formula that — ta-daaa — gives tresses some oomph without the crunch. Think: frizz control paired with soft definition; best applied to wet, sectioned-off hair that you can wrap and now shape with ease. Ulta Promising review:"I hope they never discontinue this!!! I use this generously under my gel on wash days (on very wet hair), and it smooths and softens my coarse, low-porosity hair like a dream! I also love to use this to dry refresh my curls on days 2-4 and it's amazing at smoothing down my frizz! It's so lightweight and I love that it dries down super soft :-)" — K 18. La Roche-Posay Face Wash Cleanser gets you your money's worth since reviewers say its foaming technology goes a LONG way (and just look at the size of it!). Plus, its gentle formula works wonders to remove makeup, excess oil, and impurities all while leaving your precious sensitive skin with its natural layer. This is now a strip-free zone! / Via @larocheposay, Ulta Promising review: "I've been using this cleanser for about 2 years now, and it's treated me great. It makes my face feel so smooth and it does a good job clearing up my breakouts. I've put several people on to this product and they seem to like it too. I also feel like the price is unbeatable. I've used CeraVe facial washes and all of that and none of them really seemed to do anything for my skin except this one." — BigLian 19. Dyson's Air Wrap Multi-Styler is a splurgeworthy 6-in-1 hair dryer guaranteed to make anyone squeal with joy the very millisecond they realize what's in the mailbox. It comes with a pre- *plus* post-styling dryer, two smoothing brushes, *and* two sizes of curling barrels. Wet hair to smooth, frizz-free locks — and with no damage as far as the eye can see. Dyson Promising reviews:"I have my doubts on buying an expensive hairdryer; however, Dyson exceeded my expectations. My hair is thin, abundant, wavy, and frizzy, and it usually took me approximately 2 hours drying it. With this hairdryer, it took me only 30 minutes! It really impressed me. I do need more practice using the barrels but it´s not hard. Now I understand why is so expensive. You are buying quality. My hair is long, so I bought the XL brush and it is amazing. I do recommend it!" — Maria "Let me start by saying ive owned the Revlon dryer brush, the Dry Bar blow dry brush and wowwww this far exceeded anyone I've ever used [and] cuts time in half. I get beautiful curls with the Air Wrap and no smell of crispy hair. Since I've started using my Dyson Air Wrap, my hair is my holy crown and heads turn and I've gotten compliments on my hair. So worth the money — don't think twice, just spoil yourself you deserve that extra oomph." — Nessy925 20. Kate Somerville +Retinol Firming Eye Cream wakes up your under eyes with a dose of ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of lines around the eye area, plus can hydrate and increase elasticity with hyaluronic acid. Worth the investment, reviewers rave that results are almost immediate and refer to this as a "miracle serum." Since this contains retinol, it is best to use it at night, but the brand gives the ok on morning use as well, followed by SPF. Promising review:"Listen, you get what you pay for! Yes, it's expensive, but if you get quick results, then it's worth it! I have used many other high-end brands and this has given me the best results almost immediately. I recognized a difference in less than 7 days. I am 40 and have neglected my under eye for too long. I also love the same product for my face. I will say that if you are sensitive, this may be too strong to use every day. I can only use it 4 days out of 7 in a week or I start to get red bumps from irritation, but I do not get any burning when using it. Thank you, Ulta for carrying Kate Somerville products!" — SNBoo 21. Or CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream reduces the look of dark circles and feeds your delicate under-eye area with three hydrating ceramides, niacinamide, and caffeine. For a more approachable formula, if the resurfacing qualities of retinol aren't for you, this will leave your skin feeling nourished with no signs of pilling either. Ulta Promising review:" I've been using this eye cream for a year now and I can say this is the best one i've ever tried. It leaves my skin so soft, bright, and non-greasy. I struggle with oily skin and it doesn't leave me oily at all. The tube looks small but it lasts for a long time! Expensive isn't always better. I found this out by using Cerave and almost all my skincare products are theirs." — Whit 22. E.l.f. Cosmetics Glow Reviver Lip Oil drenches lips in a similar look and feel to costlier alternatives like, say, the Dior Lip Oil — but all for a more attractive price. Cracked lips will now be a thing of the past, thanks to its non-sticky, high-gloss formula that's packed with moisturizing jojoba and avocado oils. Ulta Promising review:"This is a really great lip oil! It feels and looks great! It lasts for a long time too! I love the minty scent too! I would definitely recommend!" — Ulta Customer 23. Biolage Color Last Conditioner helps inject shine and softness into color-treated hair, so your locks never look lackluster — even after a dye job. It extends the life of your new vibrant hue (for up to nine weeks!) and locks in moisture with its low pH level, leaving hair looking like you just stepped out of the salon — not just your shower. Ulta Promising review:"Makes my hair soft and shiny. Smells great, too! I love that it protects my color and makes my hair feel so great." — Michele 24. Aquaphor's Healing Stick packs natural skin healers like avocado oil and shea butter into one mess-free applicator that yours truly is actively using to hydrate dry patches and smooth skin creases. But that's not all this wonder balm can do: glide it over skin to prevent chafing and irritation — or toss it in your bag to shield against windburn on the go. Ulta To prevent under-eye dryness throughout the day, the Aquaphor Healing Balm is my MVP. I apply this as a fifth step in my routine (after cleansing, toning, applying snail mucin serum, and sunscreen), and I use it as a priming base for either my tinted eye cream (when I'm going for a no-makeup day) or under my concealer. It gives my skin an instant glow and locks in moisture; it appears to blur lines better than if I were to go without it. I have noticed that my makeup doesn't crease as much when I use it, which is obviously a bonus, but I wouldn't say that it completely prevents cakey-ness. I'm always kicking myself if I forget to apply it, as my skin is noticeably less hydrated, so this will continue to be a mainstay in my routine. Promising reviews:"I'm on my third tube and just ordered another. This is great for lips and dry patches on the face. I also use this as a primer for my concealer. Great product!!" — Lainy "I rub this on my neck and wrists before applying perfume. Makes my fragrance last ALL DAY and project." — Msandy 25. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair Mask quenches the thirst of dehydrated locks with a leave-in formula that gives a juicy dose of nourishment. Expect split ends to be conditioned and breakage significantly reduced — after only two uses. AKA overprocessed, brittle, color-treated hair is no match for this glorious weekly treatment. Briogeo This antioxidant-rich formula contains rosehip oil, B vitamins, and algae extract to restore essential moisture and hydration. It's safe for color-treated, keratin-treated, chemically treated, and relaxed hair. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty free! Briogeo is a Black woman-founded biz, started by Nancy Twine who has had her hand in making homemade beauty products since she was 5. She has now developed a popular haircare line that specializes in texture-specific products: from repair to volume to curl care, you'll find something here to meet your needs. Promising reviews: I had been eyeing this mask for a while and finally tried it out. After using it just once, I could immediately feel my hair was so much more hydrated. It also enhanced my natural waves and curls." — Shirin "I absolutely adore this product! I have coarse, curly hair that can be prone to frizz in the heat, humidity or just on an off day. This deep conditioning mask ALWAYS makes my hair so soft and shiny and the curls CURL. 🤌🏻 It smells great, I love it so much that I use it at least once a week. Lasts a long time and gives real results. I haven't found anything better." — kimberlyh423 26. Olehenriksen's Pout Preserve Hydrating Peptide Lip Treatment drenches lips with a formula of skin-supporting peptides that hydrate and plump. Fans note how this intensely moisturizes and gives lips a fuller, bouncier look and feel. Ulta 28. L'Oreal Age Perfect Midnight Cream renews cells and repairs the skin's natural barrier while you sleep, with its lightweight, antioxidant-infused moisturizer. Reviewers say they've noticed a visible difference in their skin's texture and fine lines after consistent nightly use. Ulta Promising review:"I am on my third jar of this lovely night cream. A jar lasts about 6 weeks with nightly use. It accelerates cell turnover but doesn't beat up my skin's moisture barrier like similar products have in the past. It is weightless but keeps my skin moist and supple through the night. The consistency is pudding-like. The fragrance is pleasant, mild and fades quickly. I'm most pleased that this product doesn't irritate my very sensitive eyes at all. On especially dry days, I dab a tiny bit extra under my eyes and it plumps the area nicely. The price is very reasonable for the quantity and quality of the product. The jar is beautiful and can be repurposed to hold small treasures or be recycled." — Mamaleh Price: $36.99 Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
