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3 days ago
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Just 33 Popular Skincare Products That Won't Cost An Arm And A Leg
A Some by Mi Miracle toner, which is one of the most popular exfoliating treatments in the K-beauty game. This features a blend of chemical exfoliants, which sounds kind of scary but is actually super effective for gently sloughing away dead skin cells and clearing out excess oil. There's also some tea tree oil to help reduce the appearance of breakouts, so this is basically a reset button for congested skin. Bio-Collagen's Real Deep sheet mask that works overnight to refresh your skin. No, really, it's designed to be worn while you sleep — it's transfer-resistant, so it won't leave a mess on your pillow! It's infused with hyaluronic acid to hydrate, collagen to maximize absorption and minimize the appearance of pores, and probiotics to strengthen the skin's barrier. Best of all, it turns transparent when your skin is done absorbing the serum, so you'll know when it's ready to take off. Cerave's Resurfacing Retinol Serum — a super gentle and beginner-friendly way to finally add retinol to your skincare routine. What does retinol do? The work is mysterious and important. Just kidding, it's not mysterious at all: retinol helps speed up your skin's cell turnover process, which will help reveal plumper, smoother-looking skin while refining your pores and fading dark spots. Also, dermatologists are obsessed with it. A dark-spot correcting serum from K-beauty brand Axis-Y that'll help you achieve a more even, glowy complexion while hydrating. The 5% niacinamide will help strengthen your skin's barrier and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, while rice bran extract gives you glow. Gold Bond's firming neck and chest cream, because your décolletage also deserves some special skincare attention. It contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, while glycerin and aloe add some extra hydration. A SeoulCeuticals toner mist with aloe, cucumber, and green tea — yes, it's as soothing and rejuvenating as those ingredients suggest! Apply a few spritzes of this after your cleanser, and it'll plump, hydrate, and give you a ~glowy, dewy~ look with continued use. You can also spray it throughout the day if your complexion or makeup could use a quick hydrating boost. A tube of La Roche Posay's Cicaplast Balm — a heavy-duty do-it-all magic potion you'll want to slather on all your dry spots. It's formulated with shea butter and vitamin B5 to help soothe and moisturize irritated skin. If you like Aquaphor's Healing Ointment but want a lighter alternative that absorbs faster, this is for you!! A Torriden hyaluronic acid serum in a watery, gel-like formula so you can pack on an extra layer of moisture without feeling like you have 1,000 products on your face. It contains five (!) types of HA molecules (the most iconic fivesome since the Spice Girls) and allantoin to attract moisture to your skin and have you looking smooth and moisturized all day. A lightweight gel-cream from Nivea that uses the magic of an incredible called ~Q10~ to help firm and moisturize your skin — and it's racked up more than 17,000 rave ratings. Reviewers say it takes consistent use over a few weeks to see results, but those who stuck with it have seen improvements in the smoothness of their neck, thighs, and more. Or a retinol body lotion, because the magic of retinol is not just for your face! This retinol in the creamy formula helps promote skin cell turnover, while the ferulic acid firms skin for a tighter appearance. Reviewers also note that this works wonders on rough, bumpy skin on their upper arms and legs after consistent use. A creamy, oil-based Juno & Co cleansing balm reviewers swear by for removing every trace of makeup, even stubborn waterproof formulas. (Seriously, take those makeup wipes out of your cart right now!!!) It's made with only 10 ingredients, including Japanese pearl barley to hydrate and brighten. Or an Anua pore-clearing cleansing oil specifically designed to help regulate your sebum production and break down blackheads, making it a great cleanser for all my fellow oily-skinned peeps. It also helps break down makeup, so you can finally stop wasting money on makeup-removing wipes! A tub of Vanicream for when you're craving a no-nonsense, fragrance-free, and super gentle moisturizer — because sometimes your skin needs to reset and get back to the basics. Dermatologists love this brand since it's made without common irritants, so almost everyone can feel safe slathering this on their skin from head to toe. A hydrating Cosrx repairing essence with 96% snail secretion filtrate, which provides a gentle dose of moisture that won't overwhelm skincare newbies. Reviewers mention seeing a reduction in dark spots and acne. with consistent use, and even people with oily skin find that it absorbs quickly and doesn't clog their pores. Who knew snails had the secret to glassy, glowy skin this whole time?! And pair it with the popular snail repair cream from K-beauty brand Seoul Ceuticals — your skin will look so refreshed that you'll personally thank every snail you come across from here on out. The formula contains a 97.5% concentration of snail mucin filtrate, which is rich in elastin and collagen to help smooth and plump the skin. An exfoliating glove with immediate results you can actually see. Seriously, the dead skin just clumps up and rolls right off of your body. It's somehow satisfying and gross at the same time. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel that's basically like a latte for your face. It uses the power of yerba mate to soothe the delicate skin under your eyes, and also contains three forms of hyaluronic acid to moisturize. I did not know there were several types of hyaluronic acid, but I would now like to collect all of them like Pokémon. And Grace and Stella under-eye masks — they're bound to become a staple in your skincare routine. They're infused with retinol, which is known to help increase skin cell production and help with elasticity. If you're looking to smooth dry under-eyes, this will be your new best friend. Or!!! An adorable polar bear hydrating eye stick, which is basically a venti iced coffee for your under-eye area. It features Iceland glacier water to help relieve the appearance of puffiness, and the niacinamide in the formula can provide a brightening effect to lessen the severity of dark circles. Also, reviewers love putting this lil' cutie in the fridge for an extra cooling sensation! I mean, it is a polar bear, after all — it only makes sense to keep it cold. Cerave's Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser so effective at exfoliating and minimizing breakouts, you'll wonder how you were able to order this online instead of procuring it from a witch's hut in the middle of a forest. Reviewers have had luck using it on face and body acne, with many saying it reduces rough skin, bumps, and pimples with consistent use. Or CeraVe's Hydrating Facial Cleanser for anyone with dry and sensitive skin. It's packed with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to cleanse while adding moisture at the same time. Say goodbye to that overly tight, way-too-squeaky-clean feeling most cleansers leave behind. O'Keeffe's overnight lip repair cream — yes, it's from the brand behind the iconic Working Hands cream that thousands of reviewers swear by! Its blend of beeswax, shea butter, and almond oil works while you sleep to soften dead skin and add a nice dose of hydration. Prepare to get rid of your car, bedroom, bathroom, and purse lip balms — this one is all you need. And an exfoliating lip scrub because applying your favorite lip balm on top of dead skin is basically pointless. The sugar granules will help buff away any crusty flakes, and the kukui oil will leave behind a touch of moisture. A Briotech spray infused with hypochlorous acid, an ingredient that plays a disappearing trick on inflammation, irritation, and acne, all while helping to strengthen the skin barrier. Plus, reviewers say it's similar to the more expensive Tower 28 Daily Rescue spray, so your wallet will be so relieved that you can remove it from your Sephora cart. First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant, which has become a holy grail for people dealing with keratosis pilaris and all other bumpy skin-related issues. The mix of chemical and physical exfoliators will slough away dead skin and have you feeling silky smooth in just a few uses. A tub of dual-textured toner pads from K-beauty brand Medicube — it uses the power of lactic and salicylic acid to wipe away dead skin cells and help reduce the appearance of pores and blackheads. After cleansing, use the textured side for a deep exfoliation, then flip to the smooth side to soothe and mop up any excess oil. A bottle of Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil to help moisturize and reduce the appearance of scars thanks to a special blend of vitamin A, chamomile, sunflower, lavender, and vitamin E oils. A brightening facial scrub for anyone who craves physical exfoliation but doesn't want anything too harsh. The sea kelp will keep things soft and smooth while the French green clay and lemon peel lightly buff away dead skin. You'll be glowing before you even rinse it down the drain! The iconic Black Girl Sunscreen — a face and body SPF 30 moisturizer designed to blend in seamlessly and not leave a white cast on deeper skin tones. Unlike most similarly-priced sunscreens, this formula actually has moisturizing ingredients like jojoba and avocado oils. Reviewers say it sinks in super quickly and is a perfect base for makeup — which is a rare find in the SPF department. A pack of star-shaped pimple patches so cute you won't mind wearing them out and about. They're made of a wound-healing gel called hydrocolloid that can help drain fluids from any open pimples and cover any that are already on the surface, and they also contain salicylic acid to help dissolve excess sebum. L'Oréal Paris Collagen Daily Face Moisturizer that might just give Charlotte Tilbury and her magic cream a run for their money 👀. Its star ingredient is collagen, which is meant to help plump the skin and smooth fine lines with continued use. Your wallet called me and asked me to personally recommend this to you. And ask that you step away from your Sephora cart. A tube of the celebrity-beloved Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré that has so many uses. You can slather it on as a moisturizer, use it as a smoothing makeup primer, or apply it as a nourishing face mask when your skin needs an extra dose of its protective beeswax and softening shea butter. Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Hydrating Multi-Balm — the "Wrinkle Bounce" formula is especially loved by reviewers since it helps smooth fine lines and provides a glowy glass-skin look thanks to the salmon complex and collagen. The stick applicator also makes it ideal for targeting specific areas like under-eyes and eyelids. Happy swiping!
Buzz Feed
03-07-2025
- Buzz Feed
25 Target Travel Essentials For Easy Carry-On Packing
An expandable hard-shell carry-on suitcase with four spinner wheels and a built-in lock to bring your luggage firmly into adulthood with you. RIP, soccer camp duffel bag. You will not be forgotten. Promising review: "We have had two of these bags for the last 10 years. It's a great bag. Perfect as a carry-on and fits at least two weeks' worth of clothing in it. We are an airline family; therefore, we fly standby, so checking in bags gets tricky. My older son's bag is now showing some signs of wear. I have been looking at new bags, but I can't find anything that will accommodate as much as this one." —MPrice: $89.99 (available in six colors) *OR* a duffel-adjacent weekender bag if you're not quite willing to give up that duffel life. It has a trolly sleeve to make it easy to carry along with a roller bag, and it's small enough to count as a "personal item" on most planes, ensuring you have the perfect carry-on-only setup with as much room as possible. Promising review: "Perfect carry-on bag. Hooks to roller luggage as well. Super roomy, and I love all of the pockets. Holds a ton!" —JbPrice: $79.99 (available in two colors) A travel throw blanket so you can stay toasty warm even if your seat neighbor is blasting the air. Plane naps are so much better when you're the right temp. And when you're not using it it folds down into a plush bag and doubles as a pillow. Promising review: "This blanket set is soft and cozy, perfect for long flights or car rides. The pillow provides great support and comfort. I love that it comes in a compact bag with pockets, making it easy to carry and store. This set is a must-have for any traveler and makes a great gift too." —AmandatwilightPrice: $19.99 (available in three colors) Some classic Apple EarPods that are minuscule to store when you're not using them, don't require charging, and don't break the bank. I'm a believer that these classics are underrated, especially when it comes to traveling light. Promising review: "After going through too many wireless earbuds to name, costing me so much money, I decided to follow the trend of the tried and true wired buds. The sound quality is great and the price even better." —ajPrice: $19.99 A small bottle of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream so you can leave the enormous tub it usually comes in at home while still enjoying it's cult-status effectiveness. That's gonna be especially key after a long, drying flight! Promising review: "I have very dry ski,n and this cream is my holy grail. I put it on at night, and it's not sticky or greasy. It doesn't make my clothes feel like they're sticking to me, and it also hydrates my skin the whole next day. I haven't found any other cream that measures up to Cerave." —Target ShopperPrice: $7.69 A ruled hardcover Moleskine notebook to use as a travel journal. I love writing small daily entries whenever I'm on a trip but hate lugging around enormous journals. This one is slim, easy to carry, high-quality and is always in my carry-on. Promising review: "I've been looking for something to put all my writing in, and this book is awesome! The quality of the paper and the lines aren't that close, and it allows you so much room per page. Will buy again!" —KimbePrice: $24.99 (available in six colors and three page styles) A reliable external battery so you're never stuck without directions somewhere new. The amount of times an external battery has saved my tuchas is astonishing. Promising review: "It stalled me all day at an amusement park, and I could charge my phone and my mini fan to keep me cool. At the end of the day, it was at 60%, and I used it constantly for about 12 hours. Didn't overheat at all, which surprised me since the weather was around 90 degrees when I used it the most. It does only come with two ports, one to charge the battery itself and one USB port to charge other devices." —anaPrice: $49.99 A seven-piece set of packing cubes to keep your items as compact and organized as possible. I used to be skeptical of packing cubes at first but can conform they help even the most disorganized of travelers (me) maintain some semblance of order. Promising review: "These are a game changer. They kept my suitcase organized for travel, and spared me from the digging to find 'that one shirt' on vacation! I got multiple colors, one for me and each of my kids for maximum organization. Highly recommend." —EmPrice: $29.99 (available in two colors) A travel-size Evian facial spray so you can keep your face hydrated even as the plane tries its hardest to dry you out. Its mini size makes it super simple to tuck into a bag, but you'll feel so luxurious using it. Promising review: "This is my favorite facial mist to apply before serums. I've tried many expensive ones and always returned to this one. It doesn't have any harsh ingredients, is all-natural, is truly for all skin types, and is affordable. I highly recommend it!" —KTPrice: $10.39+ (available in three sizes) A couple of tiny bottles of SheaMoisture shampoo and conditioner, because your curls have been subjected to subpar hotel products way too many times. Let's fix that while still keeping your toiletry bag a manageable size. The products are paraben-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free. Promising review: "Great product. I don't use shampoo daily, so this small size is perfect and lasts a while. Cleans my hair good and keeps it curled and shined." —DdanielPrice: $3.89 for the shampoo and $3.89 for the conditioner An itty-bitty Venus razor with a carrying case so if you're planning on shaving on your trip you don't need to bring your big ol' razor and try to find a way to store it safely. Promising review: "Love this compact razor for traveling. Very convenient size and the razor itself works very well. Smooth shave result. Would purchase again." —ChanningPrice: $12.59 A mini bottle of Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 face mist so you can keep your skin protected on the go. While checking a bag to lug your usual tub of SPF around could be worth it to some, this handy-dandy spray makes it easy to fly and reapply. Promising review: "I love it! It's easy to apply. I used it as a first application, but I like it for reapplying even over other sunscreens. It's not sticky, tight, or oily, and I've had no breakouts. So convenient because reapplying a cream sunscreen can cause gross buildup and feel heavy. Plus, it smells great when applied! I could see this potentially irritating someone with really sensitive skin, so maybe test it before putting it on your face." —tk104Price: $8.79 A TSA-friendly travel makeup bag kit with a transparent design and matching to-go bag, so you don't have to think, "Did I pack my fave cleanser, moisturizer, and night cream?" as you rush to the airport. This set includes three refillable travel bottles, a refillable jar, a funnel, and a spray review: "These worked great for my recent trip to New Orleans. I needed something to hold all of my makeup removers, lotions, etc." —TaylorPrice: $9 Or an eight-piece toiletry bottle set so it's easy as can be to decant literally all of your favorite toiletries into small, manageable, TSA-approved bottles — yes, even sprays! The set includes two bottles with sprayers, two silicone bottles, two rolling bottles, two jars, and a zip-top pouch. Promising review: "I packed these with my daily toiletries, too, for going overseas, and they are so fun and cute. I will buy these again!!" —TashalaPrice: $12.99 A laptop backpack with a trolly sleeve if you're in search of the most versatile personal item out there. It'll come in handy both as a piece of luggage and as a bag you can use in your everyday life, and is obviously extra fitting for anyone who's working while on the go. Promising review: "I got this bag as my new travel backpack/carry-on. It's good quality, very cute, and has good pockets for organizing my things and securing my laptop/tablet. Would definitely recommend it!" —Jill CPrice: $48.49 (available in four colors) Or a 35-liter travel backpack if you want to forego the suitcase altogether and pack everything hands-free. It opens suitcase-style so clothes are as easy to access as a more traditional bag. It also has a trolly sleeve!Promising reviews: "Great size. No trouble fitting it on airlines under the seat or in the bin. A good size for traveling. Love the handle at the top and on the side for carrying options. Straps are comfy and thick. I love this bag." —Am"Used this for traveling to NY, and it held everything I needed for three days. Great purchase." —Travel backpackPrice: $49.99 (available in five colors) A Takeya water bottle with a fold-down straw whose small 18-ounce size is perfect for tossing in a carry-on. It's not gonna take up too much space or be too heavy, but you will have a nice serving of water to dip into whenever you need it. Balance, people! Promising review: "My husband and I received these as a gift for our wedding. I was hesitant at first because I'm picky about water bottles. BUT...I now use mine almost every day. I took my daughter to pick out a new water bottle for school, and she picked the Takeya with a straw. She was nervous it would be hard to suck through, but it's not! We all love ours from the handle to the grip bottom!" —TarynPrice: $28.99 A simple and useful zippered pouch that is meant for makeup but can be used for almost any travel paraphernalia. Makeup, other toiletries, small electronics, cords, jewelry, travel name it, and it can tuck away nicely and neatly here! Price: $23.45 (available in 12 colors) A folding travel toothbrush ensures you don't have to size up your toiletry bag just to fit your regular toothbrush. Promising review: "This is the PERFECT toothbrush for a trip because it does not require an extra cover or a toothbrush case. It just folds up. I'm obsessed with it." —Cohdey21Price: $0.99 An RFID-blocking waist pouch you can keep int he seat back pouch in front of you so you always have your eyes on your most important essentials. Promising review: "I bought this for a Europe trip, and it was perfect. Slim enough I could wear it under shirts and still big enough to store passports and cash." —MtmamaPrice: $14.99 An adjustable cushioned sleep mask that'll help you get some serious shuteye and be totally worth the room in your personal item bag. Arriving to your destination well-rested is such a gift. Promising review: "This eye mask is amazing. It blocks out light SO well and doesn't hurt your face. Five stars!" —ChelsPrice: $8.59 A five-piece compression bag set that don't require a vacuum to squish down nice and small and maximize space. All you need to do is roll the air out, throw them in your bag, and be on your merry way with a whole wardrobe in tow. This includes one small, two medium, and two large airtight waterproof review: "The BEST and only storage bags you should buy. I could pack two weeks of wardrobe into one suitcase for the plane. You do not need a vacuum to seal! Love these bags, and will only buy these from now on." —BrookePrice: $19.99 A compact pill organizer so you can bring the correct amount of medication and supplements that you need for your travels without lugging around full bottles. Promising review: "I like having the separate morning and evening sections so that I take my pills at the correct time. Also, it will be so handy to be able to just take the days which are needed out of the holder when traveling." —Shelley RetterPrice: $14.49 (originally $27.99; available in five colors) A small pack of disinfecting wipes to give you peace of mind when using high-touch surfaces away from home. Nothing worse than discovering your airplane tray is mysteriously sticky. Promising review: "These are perfect for travel! I buy a few before traveling and use them on the plane and in the hotel. Perfect size for a backpack/purse, so I don't have to bring a giant Clorox container!" —R19Price: $1.29 for a nine-pack And a mini bottle of The Honest Company hand sanitizer spray to get your hands squeaky clean before you dive into those tasty plane snacks you brought. Promising review: "The smell is AWESOME! I love the scent; it's not overwhelming, my kiddo loves it, and the spray makes it easy to take on the go and keep in our bags. We will be bringing these everywhere to keep hands clean when we can't wash them!" —SamPrice: $4.89
Elle
02-07-2025
- Health
- Elle
The 12 Best Hydrating Toners for Skin That Feels Like Silk
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Some shocking news: toners aren't all that necessary. Still, that doesn't mean they're not a good supplementary treatment to have in your skincare regimen, especially if you have chronically dry, dehydrated skin. Since toners are an optional step, if you do choose to use a toner, it should at least check off a few boxes, but one, in particular, is of the most importance: hydration. But what is a toner, anyway? 'A toner is a solution that typically contains actives and is designed to be used after cleansing and before moisturizing. Toners can balance pH, remove impurities, exfoliate, and hydrate. They are not necessary, but they can provide great benefits,' says Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a board-certified dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. For those with dry skin, 'the benefits of a toner depend on the specific formulation and the ingredients it contains. Many toners contain exfoliating actives that help to improve tone and texture, reduce dullness, diminish hyperpigmentation, and bring a glow to the skin,' she adds. Toners made specifically for dry skin can 'hydrate, balance pH, and remove residual oils.' While your TikTok and Instagram bookmark tab is likely chock-full of toners on your wishlist, we did the hard work for you by combing through dozens of online customer reviews and our personal stash to find the 12 best toners for dry skin. We also polled Dr. Murphy-Rose for her tips and derm-approved picks. Supple skin is on its way! Key ingredients: Heartleaf extract, Size: 8.45 fl oz Perfect for sensitive skin, this toner feels like a spa retreat for stressed, irritated skin. Heartleaf extract is the star of the show, providing calming and anti-inflammatory properties to prep your skin for subsequent steps. It's also super hydrating and helps restore the skin's barrier. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'Not going to lie, TikTok put this toner on my radar. It seems as if I'm prone to stress, and my skin is the first place my worries rear its head, but this toner has helped calm my skin down at its worst times. After cleansing (with the Quercetinol Cleanser, of course), this toner seeps into my skin and leaves it feeling refreshed and soothed.'—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides Size: 6.8 oz Those who have heavy actives in their regimen will love this soothing toner by Cerave. Your skin will drink up all its goodness, from the bursting freshness of hyaluronic acid to barrier-strengthening ceramides. Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars Our expert says: 'Cerave Alcohol-Free Hydrating Face Toner hydrates and calms dry skin with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. It is also fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.'—Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, board-certified cosmetic at Laser & Skin NY Key ingredients: mandelic acid, lactic acid, yarrow extract Size: 3 oz I know what you're thinking—did the OG Paula's Choice exfoliant get a new look? No, but a new formula has been added to the brand's exfoliant family. This iteration was made especially for those with sensitive skin looking for a gentler approach to skin renewal and luminosity. Plus, with an active-heavy formula, the yarrow extract helps to cushion the skin barrier. Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'Since I'm already a retinol gal, adding any new product to my routine can send my skin into panic mode. I thoroughly enjoyed how easily my skin adjusted to this toner, how smooth my skin felt after just a few days of use, and how clusters of acne breakouts flattened over time.'—Nerisha Penrose Key ingredients: Miracle Broth, marine ferment Size: 6.7 oz Couple your Creme de La Mer with this calming, soothing toner that blankets the skin with moisture and hydration via La Mer's signature Miracle Broth formula, marine ferment, and more. Sephora rating: 5/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Love this so worth the money 3 buy already. so refreshing!!!!!!!!' Key ingredients: salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid Size: 50 pads Skincare Junkie's toner pads get cut to the chase with an exfoliant-rich formula that unveils fresh, brighter, and less-congested skin. Salicylic acid is the star here, but it doesn't work alone; fruit enzymes and PHAs are added to the mix to improve tone and texture, while hyaluronic boosts hydration. Amazon rating: 5/5 stars Our expert says: 'Pore Therapy Daily Toner Pads minimize the appearance of pores while preventing breakouts. They are new-generation toners that are hydrating rather than alcohol-based and drying. In addition to salicylic acid, these toner pads contain gluconolactone to hydrate while gently exfoliating. Hyaluronic acid in seven molecular weights attracts water at multiple skin levels. Skin-soothing aloe calms dry, sensitive skin. They are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.'—Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose Key ingredients: niacinamide, exfolactive Size: 1 oz We've all scrolled on Charlotte Tilbury's Instagram page, coveting all the models' dewy, smooth visage. Spoiler alert: it's likely all credit goes to this solution. The Glow Toner couples niacinamide to improve the appearance of pores, and exfolactive, which uses extracts culled from prickly pear to address fine lines and wrinkles. Nordstrom rating: 4.4/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer said: 'Indulge in the luxurious experience of Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner and treat yourself to radiant, glowing skin. This toner has completely transformed my skincare routine. With just a few swipes, it effortlessly revitalizes and brightens my complexion, leaving it looking refreshed and rejuvenated. The delicate floral scent is an added bonus that makes every application feel like a spa-like experience. Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner truly deserves a spot in your daily self-care ritual - it's the ultimate treat for your skin!' Key ingredients: antioxidants, amino acids Size: 7.3 oz As the name suggests, EltaMD's toner is essentially rehab for irritated or damaged skin. This solution uses antioxidants and amino acids to restore the skin's pH balance and strengthen the barrier, perfect for post-peel care or in between retinol days. An ELLE editor says: 'EltaMD makes more than your favorite sunscreen. Try this toner! It soothes my skin and leaves it hydrated. Try it after using your facial cleanser; you will not be disappointed.' —Danielle James, digital beauty director Key ingredients: niacinamide, acerola, Australian lemon myrtle Size: 5 oz Skin prep makes all the difference ahead of makeup application. To achieve a Rihanna-esque flawless beat, go in with the Fat Water toner. This is a lightweight formula that brightens, controls oil, and refines pores so your skin appears smoother, dark spots and pores less visible. Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Love love love this product! My skin is so soft, it has never looked better. My skin has been so dry and this stuff has definitely fixed that. I definitely recommend it!' Key ingredients: ceramides, panthenol Size: 5.07 oz Whether sensitive or not, skin can easily be compromised when too many actives or strong retinols come into play. Dr. Jart+ has the remedy: ceramides. The Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner fights the skin's battles so you don't have to; nourishing ceramides arm the skin barrier to build up a defense and prevent further damage. Sephora rating: 4.6/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Obsessed!! 10 out of 10!!! My skin has been suffering in this winter weather and my regular winter routine was not doing it for me but I tried this and instantly hydrating & nourishing! I almost cried!! lol This will be a staple!' Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, rose fruit extract, angelica leaf extract Size: 8.4 oz Few toners have a cult following quite like the Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner. Gorgeous rose petal packaging aside, this toner is supercharged with hydrating ingredients that reverse dryness, seal in moisture, and improve the look of pores. Plus, the faint rose scent is an added bonus. Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I'm obsessed with the entire Rose line from Fresh. As someone who hates scented skin care, this one is faint and doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. I palm a bit of the solution in my hands and massage into my face for an early morning pick-me-up; the hydrating formula feels like a parched skin's dream.'—Nerisha Penrose Key ingredients: ceramides, peptides, white tea leaf Size: 1.6 oz Hydration is the purpose of every product Laneige offers. This milky, lightweight liquid doubles as a toner and a moisturizer, imparting nourishment via ceramides and peptides. An Amazon reviewer said: 'This product has done wonders for my dry, dull winter skin. I receive compliments on the glowiness of my face daily after applying at night, in the morning and periodically throughout the day when my skin feels dry.' Key ingredients: colloidal oat, hyaluronic acid, honey Size: 6 oz When your skin sends out an SOS, this is the toner to help restore balance. The MVP of this recipe is colloidal oat, a soothing, calming ingredient that cushions agitated skin; hyaluronic acid and honey offer a surge of moisture and plumpness. Our expert says: 'First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner contains colloidal oatmeal, honey, and hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate. Honey has inherent anti-inflammatory properties and is a natural humectant, attracting moisture.'—Dr. Murphy-Rose Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist specializing in facial rejuvenation at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. Toners aren't always necessary, but they do have great benefits for those with dry, dull skin. It's all in the formula. 'Hydrating toners often contain humectants that attract moisture to the skin's surface to hydrate,' Dr. Murphy-Rose states. If your skin is parched, look for toners with hydrating properties over exfoliating ones. Hydrating ingredients will yield the results you're looking for. 'Look for humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, and certain hydroxy acids, especially gentle polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) like gluconolactone,' Dr. Murphy-Rose adds. 'It really comes down to what ingredients are in the toner. Some are designed for dry skin or oily and combination skin and can be used daily, while others are too strong to be used that frequently,' she explains. Carefully examine the ingredients to see what makes sense for your skin type. Hydrating toners can be used more frequently than those packed with AHAs or enzymes. 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 commerce editor Nerisha Penrose personally tested toners and poured over customer reviews to find the best ones for dry skin. She also spoke to a dermatologist to learn about its benefits and purpose. The Best Glycolic Acid Toners for Smoother, Brighter Skin The Best Face Exfoliators for a Soft, Smooth Complexion The Best Wrinkle Creams That Are Better Than Botox
NBC News
02-07-2025
- Business
- NBC News
Our 100 most essential, all-time best buys from Amazon
Ask anyone you know and they probably have something to say about Amazon. Maybe they'll mention the fast shipping. Maybe it's the streaming platform or Prime Day sales. Maybe they swear by the Kindle, or maybe they just love to hate the retail giant and its practices. It's far from perfect, but one thing's hard to argue with — whether you're a Prime member or not — and that's the sheer size of Amazon's marketplace. You could spend forever browsing the site: home essentials, gifts, pet supplies, basics (so many basics), every kind of electronic imaginable, small business finds — it's all there. Ahead of Prime Day 2025 (which starts July 8 and runs for four full days this year), we rounded up our 100 most essential, all-time best Amazon buys. Some are trusted picks from well-known brands we tend to buy from Amazon for the convenience, pricing or availability. Others are those random 'oh I found it on Amazon' gems — the kind we stumbled on, vetted and now can't live without. Use this list to inspire your wish list, or bookmark it the next time you need a rec. We have standout favorites across every major category. (PS: We've added all 100 of our picks to our Amazon storefront, too.) I had been using the same Clean & Clear face wash since I was a teenager, and finally decided to switch after basically the entire NBC Select team recommended Cerave. This foaming face wash is everything I could ask for: it's gentle yet effective, and it's a good price. It also comes in four sizes, including a three-ounce travel bottle and a 16-ounce value size. — Harry Rabinowitz, reporter I've been using these viral sheet masks for over a year and I'm now completely hooked — there's at least one in my house at all times. It's so satisfying to wake up in the morning and see how the mask has gone from opaque to translucent. When I first apply it to my skin it feels so refreshing and instantly hydrating and when I take it off the next morning my skin looks dewy and taut. - I spent years using the hand towel next to my bathroom sink to dry off my face after washing it… and I didn't swap it out for days. I admit that's disgusting and my dermatologist was disturbed by this habit, especially because I have acne-prone skin. She recommended swapping my nasty fabric hand towel for Clean Skin Club's single-use towels instead. After using them once, I was hooked. They're the perfect size, feel soft and gentle against my skin, absorb water in seconds and come in a compact box. I also appreciate that the towels are dual-sided — one is smooth and one is textured for a little extra exfoliation if you want it. Do I feel bad about tossing a towel every time I remove my makeup? Kind of, but my skin looks and feels fantastic, so I've gotten over it. — Zoe Malin, reporter Listen, I'm no stranger to K-beauty products — I've been trying products for years, both personally and professionally. Even so, Round Lab's Birch Juice sunscreen still blew me away. It's lightweight, hydrating, and leaves the perfect dewy finish (glowy, but not too greasy) for summertime and vacation days at the beach. It now seriously feels almost as essential to my vacations as my passport. For a long time, my only gripe with this sunscreen was that I could only get it in K-beauty specialty stores but these days, I love that I can easily grab a fresh tube on Amazon. - Ashley Morris, associate reporter While studying abroad in Paris, I left my favorite cleansing balm behind to save space, assuming I could find a good alternative there. Parisian pharmacies are known for exceptional skin care, and that's where I discovered this micellar water. As someone who prefers to use an oil-free cleanser in the summer to avoid clogged pores, I was immediately impressed. I found it on Amazon (in a two-pack) three years ago — and I still have some left. Unlike generic micellar waters or makeup wipes, this one removes waterproof eye makeup without smudging or excessive rubbing. It doesn't sting, dry out my skin, or have that harsh, astringent smell. Plus, the bottles are huge — you'll be using them for a long time. - Jem Alabi, editorial operations associate I'm very pale, so stocking up on self tanner is a non-negotiable for me, especially in the winter. I've tried more than a dozen self tanning mousses, lotions and drops over the past year, but few come close to the convenience of Dr. Dennis Gross' self tanner pads. They're towelettes, so I just swipe them across my face and body and let it develop for about four hours. The tan is noticeable but not super intense, so it looks natural for someone who's as pale as I am. Plus, the tan gets me compliments almost every time I use these pads. I also don't feel gross or sticky after I use them like I do with many other self tanners, and the scent is very mild compared to others I've tried (the chemical smell is one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to regular tanners). - Mili Godio, updates editor Voted our #1 best moisturizer out of more than 100 formulas, this Cetaphil option is just one of those skin care products I'm probably going to always make sure I have on hand. The cream is thick and completely unscented and nonirritating; it constantly saves my skin whenever I feel like I'm on the verge of a breakout and it's a formula I constantly find myself returning to. It's truly one of those drugstore products that just really work. - , commerce editor Where do I even begin? If it's not Dr. Dan's Cortibalm, I won't use it. As someone with lip eczema, I take lip care seriously. Most lip balms just coat your lips in shine without real moisture, creating a cycle of constant reapplication. I refuse to spend my day reapplying lip balm every 15 minutes. This one is different. It's a simple blend of beeswax, petroleum jelly, and 1% hydrocortisone, making it both moisturizing and soothing. I always keep one at home, one in my purse, and a backup just in case. I also layer it under other lip products, and it works beautifully as a base. - Alabi Tech I handed the Polaroid Now to friends during my wedding celebration and it allowed me to look back at the night from the perspective of different guests. I've had it for a few years now and it's great for capturing those fun moments with a physical photo instead of a digital image that lives on a screen. If you enjoy photography or don't have much experience this is such a simple tool, you plug in the film and press the shutter button. It's almost impossible to mess up. - Jordan Bowman, commerce editor One of life's best little luxuries is not having to get out of bed to turn the lights off at night. And for me, that's made fully possible by these smart bulbs. I put them in every lamp I own and I literally never have to touch a light switch again. Using the Wiz app, I set up schedules so my lights turn on when the sun sets, which means I can leave them off for the majority of the day to save energy, but I know they'll turn on once it gets dark for my pets if I'm still at the office. I can also adjust the color, brightness and temperature via the app, letting me set up mood lighting depending on the situation. I always dim the lights and turn them to an amber color when I'm watching a movie, and I'll use fun colors like pinks, reds and purples for dinner parties with friends. The bulbs also respond to Amazon Alexa voice commands — I say 'Alexa, turn on living room lights' a million times a week and feel like the most techy person on Earth every time I do so. - Malin Best. Portable charger. Ever. My number one gripe with portable chargers is how bulky and heavy they always are. This one's no wider than a business card and plugs right into the bottom of my phone. It fits in every purse or pocket and I don't even have to carry around an additional wire. I don't even notice it in my bag. The unit itself charges quickly and charges my device quickly, and it's easy to text, talk on the phone, take photos with the power bank still plugged into the bottom. I bought this for my honeymoon in Portugal and took it with me walking around every day. - Rosalie Sparaco, senior manager, community engagement The Sonos Ace are the pair of over-ear headphones I always go back to when I'm not testing out new ones for NBC Select. They're exceedingly comfortable on my head and my ears, and have some of the best on-ear controls on the market. They sound excellent, making movies, TV shows and music pop with detail and clarity. — Rabinowitz 2025 will be my sixth year covering Amazon Prime Day, and I can almost guarantee you two things about the sale: this Amazon Smart Plug will be deeply discounted and it will be a bestseller among NBC Select readers. I never understood how so many people could buy a smart plug every single year, but then I bought one and quickly figured it out — once you automate one thing in your home with a smart plug, you realize how many other things you can automate and suddenly need a dozen more. I've connected them to devices like lamps I can't use smart bulbs for, fans, air purifiers and Christmas lights on my tree, and I find it so simple to set up schedules, routines and timers for each item in the app. - Malin Cleaning Imagine not having your life flash before your eyes when you spill red wine on white jean shorts, or drip coffee on a white button-up. That's me because I carry Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray everywhere I go. It was a Prime Day impulse purchase, and involved a little peer pressure — my co-workers said I'd be dumb not to buy it, especially on sale, since I'm accident prone but I've never found a stain remover I can rely on. This is the most effective and fastest working option I've ever used, and it's the least likely to damage fabric, in my experience. I currently own two bottles: one stays at home, and I put the other in whatever bag I'm carrying during the day just in case. - Malin I've had this vacuum for nearly a decade, and it's still one of the main workhorses of my apartment. I have two cats, which means that litter and hair are practically everywhere — my Dyson removes those and more with just one to two passes over the area I'm cleaning. Plus, it doesn't feel like a chore to use: it's lightweight, cordless and comes with a range of attachments that I use to reach tight corners, underneath my bed and inside the creases of my couch and armchair. I make sure to clean this regularly (about once per month) to keep it looking and working like brand new. It's worth the splurge. - Nikki Brown, SEO editor I like to invest in shoes and bags and there's nothing I'm motivated to take care of more than those investments. I bought this spray to protect against rain, grime and moisture after seeing reviews online and it's been my go-to for all the leather and suede items in my closet. Anytime I get a new piece I care about protecting from the weather I prime it in this and let it sit for 24 hours. It doesn't leave weird stains or smells, and I truly notice a difference in how well my favorite pieces hold up over time because of it. - Schneider I bought these dryer balls last year, and they've since been a staple in my laundry routine. Since I have sensitive skin, I tend to avoid any overly fragranced softener, so these unscented dryer balls help me avoid that entirely. Plus, they're reusable, so it's a step toward helping me reduce waste with single-use dryer sheets. - Godio I remember when I first learned about Bar Keeper's Friend Powder Cleanser — I was in high school doing the dishes and my Dad took it out and told me that if I care about my pots and pans I should always have this in my house. I've been using this miracle cleanser since. It makes cleaning tough cooking stains easy without scratching the bottom of my pans and leaves them looking shiny and brand new. - Rodriguez Getting deodorant on a dark-colored top is one of my biggest frustrations while getting dressed. The white marks are so noticeable, and I don't care what anyone says, the DIY hacks don't work. This little sponge does. I'm honestly not sure what it's made from, and I never question why or how it works. All I know is that if I firmly hold the sponge on the deodorant mark and rub it back and forth a couple times, it's gone in less than a minute like magic. That's why I bought at least five of them and put one in every bag, keep one in my bathroom at home and have one in my desk drawer at the office. You can't just have one of these sponges because you end up using them that much. - Malin This mop and bucket are worth the space they take up in my very small kitchen. The built-in wringer doesn't feel too loose or tight whenever I press down on it, so I can get really specific about how much water I want to wring out, depending on the area I'm cleaning. I love, love, love that the mop head is machine-washable. I've gone three to four months between replacements. I would say it provides a deeper clean than a Swiffer, too. - Brown My introduction to this toothpaste was when I tested it for our Wellness Awards and it's since become an all-time favorite of mine. Using it has made such a stark difference in the whiteness of my teeth after only a few weeks. I'm amazed by how effective it is and how it makes me look like I just got back from the dentist. It has a refreshing, mild minty flavor that isn't overwhelming and the scent lasts for hours after brushing with it. - , commerce editor Food and Beverage This is the only protein powder I'll use or buy, full stop. It checks all my boxes: low-sugar, gluten-free, vegan, available in tons of flavors, no aftertaste, no gritty texture, insanely creamy and, overall, absolutely delicious and filling. It seamlessly blends into smoothies, which is what I most often put it in, but I also mix it into oatmeal and have added it to muffin batter. According to my Amazon order history, I've bought the vanilla bean flavor nine times and the creamy chocolate fudge flavor 10 times. You can count on those numbers only increasing from here. - Malin I love cooking and experimenting with new flavors and cuisines and when a recipe calls for an ingredient I don't have I don't look for a substitute (I try to find the exact thing it calls for). That's how I discovered Shaoxing cooking wine. I came across it three years ago when making a fried rice recipe and I've had a bottle in the fridge ever since. It makes for a great marinade and helps tenderize meat, but I also use it to deglaze my wok or enhance the flavor of a stir-fry dish. - Rodriguez Health and Wellness I suffer from chronic migraines, which means I'm almost always testing ways to get rid of them. My neck and shoulders suffer most whenever I'm in the throes of one, so I need something that forces me to stop looking down at my phone and stretch those muscles/joints for relief. I don't use this everyday but once a week for 20 minutes usually does the trick. My posture has also improved; an unexpected side benefit. - Brown This deodorant is one of my few Subscribe and Save subscriptions on Amazon, and it has been for two years. Before I got married in September of 2023, I was on a mission to find deodorant that would combat my sweat in a giant ball gown, and I am a very sweaty person. I tried around four and this one was the absolute best. It always keeps me physically dry without smelling all day long, and will even last until the next morning. It really does stay effective that long. I recommend it to anyone for their wedding day, for the summer, or even if they just sweat a lot. - Sparaco I tend to fall into trends pretty easily, but I never thought I'd be buying a buzzy hand sanitizer. But Touchland makes a menial, everyday essential actually exciting to use. Not only does it smell incredible (the mist I have is rose and lychee scented), but it's also super easy to use — I can spray it using one hand, and I don't have to battle with opening a cap or deal with messy gels. Plus, this hand sanitizer doesn't dry out my hands like others do. I also love the packaging; it's cute enough to clip it on my purse or backpack, and compact enough to slip into my travel bag without taking up too much space. - Godio Pets I never thought I'd be loyal to a specific brand of dog poop bags, but here I am. When I adopted my puppy this year, I bought a pack because I saw so many people using them on the streets of New York City. Now that I've used them for about three months, I can confidently identify why they're so popular. First, they're thick and durable, so I never worry about tears or explosions mid-walk. Second, they're perfectly perforated, so I can easily and quickly rip off a bag whenever I need one. Third, there's a little sticker on the third to last bag telling me that I only have a few left, reminding me to replace the roll so I don't get stuck without one at the worst possible time. And finally, they're made with recycled plastic, which makes me feel less guilty about my constant disposable plastic use. Oh, and they come in a lavender scent to help mask gross smells. I am a fangirl for these poop bags, which sounds crazy, but you'll understand once you use them. - Malin I'm pretty sure my cat thinks of me as 'the treat lady' because of these. Ever since I introduced him to them, he's been obsessed. Every morning, our (maybe) 10-year-old Bombay yells at us as we walk past the treat jar until we give him a small pinch. They've become part of our routine — and they actually help with his digestion, too. He's very, very regular. - Lauren Swanson, editorial director Travel This handheld fan has truly saved me from overheating many a time and as someone who is always (I mean always) hot, that's saying a lot. The battery lasts an unbelievably long time — an eight hour charge lasts me for weeks. It also has a built-in flashlight on the end, which is helpful if I'm trying to find my keys or if I drop something on the ground when it's dark out. I love that it collapses and isn't bulky, too. - Fernandez When I went to Europe for the first time a few years ago, I brought four different plug adapters for four different countries. It was a waste of space in my carry-on and a headache trying to figure out which one was which. When I went back, I bought this $20 universal travel adapter — and now, I'll never use another one again. This has virtually every plug you'll ever need, plus four USB ports and one USC-C port, so I can charge my phone, airpods and portable charger all at the same time. Having dead devices in a foreign country is probably my worst nightmare, so I'll never travel without this universal adapter again. - Caitlin Cusack, associate social media editor I hate wearing most neck pillows on long haul flights. A few years ago I bought this Trtl Travel Pillow before a 12-hour flight to Japan and it was a complete game changer. I often wear noise-canceling headphones and they tend to bump against traditional neck pillows but I can easily adjust this so it doesn't nudge my headphones while I lean in my plane seat. It's also easy to pack up and throw into my travel bag. It takes up less space than I expected and it comes with a useful travel case. It has a Velcro fastening and an internal support so you can lean against the pillow at your preferred angle. I refuse to take long flights without it. - Bowman When I was traveling back and forth from NYC to Florida for my wedding a few years back, I kept this toiletry bag on hand and ready to go at all times. It's large enough to fit all of my travel skin care, hair care and makeup, yet it folds into itself so it's not too bulky and doesn't take up too much space. I love that the compartments are transparent because I can see exactly what's in each part, which makes it so much easier to find all of my essentials (and see what I'm missing while packing). The soft sides also make it easy to pack into my suitcase since it's moldable. - Godio Kitchen I can't stand traditional ice trays that you have to whack on the counter to pop the cubes out. I was searching for a more convenient alternative on Amazon and this tool popped up. I was immediately sold. It comes with two stackable silicone trays you fill with water, and once they're frozen, you flip them over on top of the included storage bin and use the spikey lid to press the cubes out of their molds. That means no more whacking the trays on countertops, and the ice makes the most satisfying sound ever when it comes out. The storage bin holds enough ice for multiple days, plus the whole contraption fits in my teeny tiny freezer. I swear I sell one of these every time I show someone it. - Malin Silicone Pasta Strainer Clip-On 40,084 Amazon Reviews $12.99 $27.99 Amazon Now 54% off $13.99 Walmart Pasta is one of my favorite foods — I probably cook it at least once or twice a week. It wasn't until I bought this $13 clip-on pasta strainer that I realized how inefficient my pasta-making process was. You clip this little gadget on to the side of your pot and it catches the pasta as you pour out the water — so you don't have to struggle to pour with one hand and hold your colander with the other. The silicone material is heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe, making it super easy to clean. For under $13, I've saved a ton of space and effort. - Cusack Weck Tulip Jars 3,676 Amazon Reviews $29.71 $34.98 Amazon Now 15% off I'm on an apartment-steading journey — basically homesteading, but scaled down to my 750-square-foot apartment. Part of that includes making my own yogurt from scratch. (My team is probably tired of hearing about how 'easy' it is — even though it takes forever.) I bought these Weck jars to store my yogurt, and I'm a little embarrassed by how much I love them. - Swanson Small Glass Meal Prep Containers 2,651 Amazon Reviews $29.99 Amazon See: apartment-steading, continued. I use these small glass containers to store a few tablespoons of yogurt starter for my next batch. But I've also started using them for lemon juice, homemade sauces — basically anything my fridge needs to hold. They're small, simple and genuinely useful. - Swanson More of our favorite kitchen finds on Amazon: AeroPress Original Coffee Press Zulay Apple Corer Kitchen Mama Automatic Electric Can Opener OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Peeler Set Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven Fitness DripDrop Hydration Packets 17,899 Amazon Reviews $30.99 $35.99 Amazon Now 14% off $35.99 DripDrop I buy these electrolyte powder packs regularly on Amazon. They help keep me hydrated on long bike rides, which is my biggest concern anytime I'm cycling for more than an hour. I love how slim each individual packet is because it makes it easy to put one in a pocket or bike bag. I'm partial to this variety pack because I love the lemon, orange and watermelon flavors (sorry grape). — Rabinowitz ProStretch The Original Calf Stretcher 8,588 Amazon Reviews $23.49 Amazon $23.99 $31.99 Medi-Dyne Now 25% off $23.49 Walmart Between a decade of running and over a decade of dancing before that, my legs have been through it. I do what I can to take care of my muscles and joints, but continuously putting them under stress (plus natural aging) means an injury pops up from time to time. Most recently, I had severe achilles tendonitis — I stopped running for about two months to recover, which led to this life-changing purchase. ProStetch's calf stretcher helps release tension from my achilles, calves, feet, heels and hamstrings when I simply stand on it in the right position. I feel my whole body breathing a sign of relief while I use it, and I make all my friends and family try it when they visit my apartment — you really can't understand how phenomenal it feels (or how tight you are) until you take it for a spin. The calf stretcher has become one of those things that I don't put away because I religiously use it pre- and post-workout. - Malin More of our favorite fitness finds on Amazon: Blenderbottle Classic V2 Shaker Currex RunPro Insoles for Running Shoes Games, Leisure and Hobbies Exploding Kittens Party Pack 115,233 Amazon Reviews $24.99 $29.99 Amazon Now 17% off $24.99 Target $27.94 Walmart Exploding Kittens is a card game that incorporates bits of strategy and random chance. It's an incredibly quick game that can be over in about 10 to 15 mins and it often feels like anyone has a chance to win. If you want a light game that isn't overly complicated or difficult this is one of my favorites. The party pack addition lets you play with larger groups, which increases the chance of chaos and fun, too. - Bowman Lego Botanicals Orchid 19,895 Amazon Reviews $39.99 $49.99 Amazon Now 20% off $39.99 Target $49.99 Lego I gave my husband this orchid Lego set as a Valentine's Day gift that we could do together, and now it's my favorite gift to give my loved ones. There are so many varieties, including a bonsai tree, chrysanthemum and a tiny plant set, that it'll delight most people on my shopping list (especially if they're prone to accidentally killing their real plants). Building the orchid was fairly simple and straightforward, though complex enough to take a few hours for my husband and I. We had so much fun watching it all come together, and it still sits proudly on my bookshelf over a year later. - Godio Game That Song 2,192 Amazon Reviews $19.99 Amazon I can't remember the last time I had this much fun playing a card game. I discovered this one in our music lovers gift guide and immediately added it to my shopping list. Here's how it works: One person draws a card, and everyone else has to play a song that aligns with the prompt on the card — the trick is picking a song that suits the cardholder's personal taste since they choose the winner. I come from a family of musicians with wildly different preferences, so you can imagine the vast range of songs played in a single round. It's a great way to discover new music, rediscover old favorites, and stir up nostalgia with loved ones. - Brown More of our favorite leisure finds on Amazon: Oversized Lightweight Beach Blanket Jenga Clever Fox Daily Planner Wavelength Home TubShroom Bath Tub Drain Protector 61,249 Amazon Reviews $12.99 $15.99 Amazon Now 19% off $12.99 Walmart $13.99 $24.99 Target Now 44% off I was skeptical of the TubShroom at first, because it sits in the drain rather than on top of it. Thankfully, I bought it, and now I cannot imagine life without this little hair catcher in my tub. I have long, thick hair that's constantly shedding, and the Tubshroom catches all of it while still allowing my shower water to drain. It's super easy to install and even easier to clean, which is imperative since cleaning the drain gives me the ick. - Cusack ComfiLife Orthopedic Knee + Leg Pillow 30,633 Amazon Reviews $24.95 $29.95 Amazon Now 17% off $25.95 $37.99 ComfiLife Now 32% off The payoff for this pillow was almost immediate; I woke up the next morning with a right hip that didn't feel as tight and sore as it usually does. It keeps everything aligned and has a little strap to hold it in place no matter what position I move into. It's firm but not rock hard. The shape is still intact and the removable pillow case is machine-washable. As someone who sleeps on her side a lot, this little gem has been a godsend. At this point, I can't sleep without it. — Brown Utopia Bedding Mattress Protector 84,939 Amazon Reviews $15.75 $18.99 Amazon Now 17% off $24.99 Walmart I've had this mattress protector for a few years and it's still in excellent condition. (It doesn't have any tears in it and isn't worn out or discolored). It's easy to take off when I have to do laundry and the closures on the sides make it easy to secure it to my mattress. Best of all: It doesn't feel wrinkly or cheap when I put a sheet over it, which is a problem I've had with protectors in the past. - Fernandez Mystic Home White Sheer Curtains 18,119 Amazon Reviews $14.69 Amazon After almost a decade in my apartment, my landlord surprised me with some major upgrades: new living room and kitchen flooring, plus a fresh paint job throughout the entire space. I went into makeover mode and replaced a lot of my decor items, except for these curtains that I've used for years. They're lightweight, sheer and give the room a luxe, elevated feel when layered with heavier curtains. Because the fabric is delicate, I recommend hand-washing, air drying and using a steamer to remove wrinkles instead of throwing them in the washing machine. With the proper care, you'll only need to buy a batch of these once, especially if you go with a neutral shade. - Brown More of our favorite home finds on Amazon: GreFusion Compostable Bags for Compost Bin Fayleeko Heavy Duty Hangers Homesure Large Strong Moving Bags Hair Care Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair 16,544 Amazon Reviews $24.00 Amazon $24.00 Ulta $24.00 Sephora I have very curly hair that I only wear naturally, so I've tried my fair share of gels, sprays, creams and mousses to help tame it. For the last two years, Color Wow's Dream Coat for Curly Hair has been a key part of my two-step post-shower routine — I've re-bought it six times on Amazon and use every bottle till the last drop. I think of the spray as a seal of sorts. After applying a gel, I spritz Dream Coat on my whole head and scrunch my curls. It locks the definition in, helps get rid of excess frizz, adds shine and boosts volume without leaving behind a sticky or crunchy feel. I notice an obvious difference in how my curls look if I don't apply this spray, and anyone who asks me about my hair care routine gets a speech about how incredible this product is. - Malin Dosso Beauty Hypoallergenic Pre-Stretched Braiding Hair 201 Amazon Reviews $31.99 Amazon $30.00 Dosso Beauty Gone are the days of heavy and itchy box braids in the summer heat, thanks to Dosso. This hair is hypoallergenic, light as a feather and affordable; a trifecta of benefits I didn't think I would ever get from braiding hair. Ever since I discovered it years ago, I haven't bought my hair anywhere else. I've recommended this to friends more than I have anything else and have yet to hear anyone complain. - Brown Tangle Teezer Hairbrush 7,550 Amazon Reviews $19.99 Amazon $20.99 Nordstorm $19.99 Ulta I love this hairbrush so much, I bought it twice. Why two of the exact same one? Because my husband decided it was his favorite, too — and let's just say he's not great at keeping track of things. I can't risk being without it, even for a day, so I got a backup. It's that essential. It glides through my fine, processed hair without pulling or breaking, and somehow gets every last tangle out without making a scene. Gentle, effective and now shared property. - Swanson Learn more: How to properly clean hairbrushes and combs, according to experts More of our favorite hair care finds on Amazon: Nutrafol Women's Balance Hair Growth Supplements L'Oreal Ever Pure Bond Repair Conditioner 2-Piece Hair Claw Banana Clips Apparel and Jewelry PAVOI 14K Yellow Gold Plated Lightweight Chunky Open Hoops 48,357 Amazon Reviews $13.95 $15.77 Amazon Now 12% off $13.95 Pavoi I've lost one too many pairs of expensive solid gold jewelry while traveling that I forced myself to find cheap hoops that I could bear losing before my next trip (if it came to that). I settled on these about a year ago and haven't looked back. They come in around $15 and look strikingly similar to pairs that I have that cost more than $200. Since they're chunky I was expecting them to be heavy on the ear, but they're light as can be and they've shockingly held up well despite not really caring for them at all. I've worn them in the ocean, in the shower, in heavily chlorinated pools — without a care in the world — and they haven't turned green or warped dramatically. I've accidentally coated them in sunscreen and leave-in conditioner mists, and they still look pretty great. They, of course, don't rival real 14K gold jewelry but they're excellent for travel or if you just want a cheap, on-trend pair of hoops that you don't have to stress about. - Schneider Mcool Mary Womens Socks 6,941 Amazon Reviews $14.99 Amazon I'm picky about my socks and these tick all my boxes: they're on the thin side so I never feel like my feet and toes are overheating, the vertical ribbing is comfortable and slimming (weird, I know, but it's true) and the price is just right. I love the scalloped edge at the top — they offset the edginess of a chunky loafer so nicely, but also look great with a pair of sneakers. I've bought many packs over the years and also love how stretchy they are. They're the opposite of constricting. - Schneider More of our favorite apparel and jewelry finds on Amazon: Orolay Women's Cropped Puffer Jacket Casio A158WA Watch Series Related select We ranked the 100 best spoons (yes, really) Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. Why trust NBC Select? The NBC Select editorial team has been covering Amazon in its entirety — whether it be for daily sales coverage, its membership or its annual Prime Day deal events — since our brand's inception in 2019. We're also just regular people at the end of the day who also frequently shop at Amazon. Lindsay Schneider is an editor for NBC Select who oversees our Select 100 packages (including our ranking of the 100 best face moisturizers and 100 best face sunscreens.) Catch up on NBC Select's in-depth coverage of tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
Forbes
13-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 10 Best Baby Shampoos Parents And Experts Love
There aren't many things better than a clean, snuggly baby. The best baby shampoo is gentle on their skin, which is often achieved by leaving out irritating ingredients and incorporating moisturizing, soothing elements. Our top pick, Cerave Baby Wash And Shampoo, is free from harsh ingredients like parabens, sulfates and synthetic fragrance, and includes gentle cleansing agents like coco-betaine and sodium cocoyl glycinate. The best baby shampoos cleanse while being gentle on their hair and skin. Other factors to consider when shopping for baby shampoo include allergens and whether the shampoo is tear-free. 'Their top skin layer, called the stratum corneum, is still developing. That makes it more susceptible to issues such as dryness, rashes or irritation from things such as chemicals or harsh soaps,' says dermatologist Dr. David Johnson. Many baby shampoos double as body washes, making it even more important to find something gentle on their skin. Since different babies have different needs, I spoke to four dermatologists and drew upon my own experience as a mom of three to curate a list of the best baby shampoos for every kind of baby skin. Amazon I've tested many baby shampoos, and Cerave stands out as a top pick because it's so clean and gentle. It doesn't contain any parabens, sulfates or fragrance. It also has gentle cleansing ingredients, including coco-betaine and sodium cocoyl glycinate, which pediatric dermatologist Dr. Daniela Russi recommends, along with three ceramides, which can help protect your baby's sensitive skin barrier. I can attest that the tear-free claim is true for this shampoo—it has never bothered my kids' eyes. This is also a good pick for babies with eczema, as it's accepted by the National Eczema Association (NEA). Amazon Baby Dove was the first shampoo I used with my first baby, and it never irritated her eczema-prone skin. It's fragrance-free, and I really like that the back of the bottle breaks down each ingredient along with its purporse so you know you're not putting unnecessary ingredients on your baby's skin. It's free from sulfates, phthalates and parabens and it's also accepted by the NEA. After using this shampoo, my baby's hair was always super soft and clean. Amazon I often hear Eucerin recommended by pediatricians and dermatologists as a top choice, particularly for kids with sensitive skin. This shampoo contains Vitamin B5 and shea butter, both of which are known to help moisturize and even repair and soothe damaged skin. It's fragrance-, dye- and tear-free. These factors make it a great choice to try for babies who have extra sensitive skin or who may not have reacted well to other baby shampoos with artificial dyes or fragrances in them. Amazon Another baby shampoo I use with my kids in heavy rotation, Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Gentle Bath Wash And Shampoo leaves their hair super soft and doesn't irritate their sensitive skin. The oat extract is a great addition, helping to moisturize and relieve the itchiness that often accompanies dry skin. The tear-free formula has never bothered my kids' eyes. The shampoo is free from parabens, sulfates and phthalates. It's worth noting that it is lightly scented—so if you're looking for something completely fragrance-free, check out some of our other top picks. Amazon For some babies, cradle cap can be difficult to control. Though the condition isn't typically harmful and eventually resolves on its own, shampoos and special tools can help you get rid of it faster. Unlike most baby shampoos, Mustela Cradle Cap Foam Shampoo For Newborns is designed to gently exfoliate your baby's scalp to get rid of those flakes. It also uses avocado polyphenols to soften the flakes on your baby's scalp. Since it's tear-free, you can also use it on your baby's eyebrows, another common spot where cradle cap pops up. The fragrance-free shampoo is also paraben- and phthalate-free. Amazon For babies with eczema, you want something that isn't going to strip away moisture and make their skin even more dry and itchy. 'Vanicream's line of baby products are all gentle and hydrating, as well as soothing for eczema-prone skin or skin that's already irritated,' says dermatologist Dr. Rachel Day. It has a very small list of ingredients, which is helpful because the more ingredients, the more likely there will be something in the product that will irritate your baby's skin. Vanicream Foaming Wash For Baby is free from dyes, fragrances, lanolin, paraben, botanical extracts, formaldehyde releasers and gluten. Amazon Many pediatricians and dermatologists recommend fragrance-free shampoos for babies to reduce the risk of irritation. However, some parents prefer products that smell really good. Alaffia Babies And Kids Shampoo And Body Wash smells so delicious, I want to eat it—though, obviously, don't do that. There are three scents available: coconut strawberry, coconut chamomile and lemon lavender. It's free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones, mineral oil and artificial colors. It's also made without synthetic fragrance, so while it has a scent, it's less likely to irritate your baby's skin compared to an artificial fragrance. Parents should note that due to some of the ingredients like alcohol and phenoxyethanol, there's a chance it could dry or irritate baby's skin. None of my three kids have ever reacted poorly to it, and they all loved the smell. Tubby Todd Bath Co. When I've used Tubby Todd shampoo with my kids, it has always lathered well and left their skin soft. Their hair and body wash is available fragrance-free or with a lavender and rosemary scent. They also occasionally offer limited-edition seasonal scents. Some parents love lavender to help their kids wind down for bed and find the scent very soothing. The shampoo is free from sodium lauryl sulfate, gluten, dairy, synthetic fragrances, parabens and steroids. To me, it feels extra soothing and effective because it's able to create the suds that many other baby shampoos can't while still being gentle. 'My youngest had mild eczema as a baby and this was our go-to baby shampoo. It's super mild and smells great,' says Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear editor Esther Carlstone. Though this is a pricier option, the brand offers refill pouches that can help save both money and plastic. Walmart Pipette Baby Shampoo And Wash is an eco-friendly option that's Environmental Working Group (EWG)-verified. This certification ensures transparency and helps parents feel confident that the ingredients in the shampoo are safe. 'It will wash and cleanse the skin with hydrating ingredients like squalane without drying or causing irritation. This entire brand is great for babies' skin,' says dermatologist Dr. Anna Chacon. You can choose from fragrance-free, vanilla and ylang-ylang or sweet wildflower scents. All of the scents are derived from plants, so there aren't any synthetic fragrances. When I've used this shampoo with my kids in the past, I've noticed a natural or musky smell—even with the fragrance-free version. Amazon This EWG-verified shampoo is so natural that it's made of 100% edible ingredients. Babies often don't understand that they need to keep their mouth closed when there's soap or shampoo running down their face, and when they become toddlers, they'll probably drink bath water like it's a delicacy. While we don't advise eating shampoo, knowing it's full of familiar ingredients like oats, arugula, radish and coconut oil, may give you some peace of mind. The shampoo doesn't have any sulfates, parabens or synthetic fragrances, either. The baby and kids gear team at Forbes Vetted is made up of journalists and parents who know how important it is to choose the right products for your baby's skin. We frequently test and research products so we can help you find the right options for your kids, like the best bassinets and the best baby pool floats. I've used a lot of different baby shampoos over the years. To curate our list, we considered my experience, interviewed experts and compared properties and ingredients of various baby shampoos. Though many baby shampoos are designed to reduce irritation, every baby is different. It's always a good idea to do a small patch test before using a new shampoo with your baby and keep an eye out for any reactions or irritation. 'When choosing a baby shampoo, you want to look out for ingredients that can trigger irritation or, if your baby's skin is eczema-prone, worsen inflammation,' says Day. Some of the ingredients you want to avoid include: Many of these ingredients can cause irritation and dryness. On the flip side, there are some helpful ingredients that you may want to look for in your baby's shampoo. Some of these include: These ingredients can do many things to help a baby's skin, including moisturizing it, hydrating it, gently cleansing it and helping build the skin barrier. There are a few different formulations you often see with baby shampoo, including tear-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and pH-balanced. These are all great to look out for, but since they're not regulated terms, it's still important to watch how your baby responds to the shampoo. 'Even if it is 'hypoallergenic,' read the ingredients. Fewer chemicals in simpler formulations are best,' says Johnson. Gentle ingredients can also help make a shampoo less irritating to the eyes. As a mom of three and product tester who has tested many baby and kids shampoos, I can attest that just because a shampoo says it's tear-free doesn't necessarily mean it is. Look for tear-free formulations, but know that it could still irritate your baby's eyes. Many parents like to use a baby shampoo that smells good, but that's not always what's best for your baby's skin. 'I think it's easy to be persuaded into delicious-smelling options for babies, scents like lavender, for example, are often marketed as 'calming or relaxing' which sounds like a dream to any new parent,' says Chacon. 'However, fragrance, even from naturally derived essential oils, can be harsh on delicate tissues. There really is nothing better than the smell of a fresh clean baby but I would recommend their own unique smell over something harsh or synthetic any day.' If you decide to get a shampoo with fragrance, look for one that comes from natural ingredients rather than synthetic fragrances. Which Brand Is Best For Baby Shampoo? Our top pick for baby shampoo is Cerave. It has gentle ingredients, is designed to protect baby's skin barrier and doesn't have added synthetic fragrances. It's also NEA approved, making it ideal for babies with eczema. Do Babies Need Special Shampoo? Yes, babies need special shampoo because it's gentler on their delicate skin. 'We should always remember that baby skin is not the same as adult skin. When shopping for baby products like body wash or shampoo, parents should prioritize gentleness, safety, and natural ingredients more than they might when choosing these products for themselves,' says Russi. What Is The Difference Between Baby Wash And Baby Shampoo? For most baby shampoo brands, there is no difference. Many baby shampoos and washes are all-in-one, so you can use the same product for their hair and body.
