Reviewed by Our obsession with skin care has become part ritual, part entertainment. With every scroll on social comes a new ingredient, hot take, or multifangled routine. We're tracking the rise of snail mucin and salmon sperm, debating whether three serums are necessary, and ultimately wondering what truly works.
Enter: The Women's Health Skincare Awards, curated by our beauty team and a panel of dermatologists, aestheticians, content creators, makeup artists, and product formulators. We sifted through hundreds of options to find these 77 smart, effective formulas that are more help than hype—and will have you covered from scalp to soles.
Face
To glow or not to glow—with these trophy winners, it's not even a question.
“The creamy formula lathers nicely, hydrates, and removes dirt and oil without overstripping.” —Corey L. Hartman, MD, a dermatologist in Birmingham, Alabama
“Some of my holy grail ingredients—cucumber extract, green tea, and licorice root—are in this super soother that calms redness.” —Madalaina Conti, an aesthetician in New York City
"When it comes to moisturizer, call me 'Goldilocks'—I'm looking for one that's jusssst right. Here it is: Hydrating enough to keep my complexion supple yet lightweight, so my skin never feels suffocated. Its power comes from bioactive compounds sourced from Iceland's famed Blue Lagoon—a destination renowned for its skin-healing properties." —Brian Underwood, Women's Health beauty director
"I've been a fan of Bioeffect's original EGF serum for years. It features proprietary growth factors that stimulate collagen production to keep skin firm—and I think it's done the job for me, thank you very much. This new serum has all that power, plus hydrating hyaluronic acid and a silky texture that's a dream. The OG is more of a liquid, so this one is perfect when you need an extra shot of moisture." —Underwood
“Most overnight treatments are way too heavy, but not this light balm. Its relaxing scent based on neuroscience principles will help you drift off.” —Underwood
“After only one use, my face was tighter, my pores were less visible, and my skin was nourished.” —Underwood
“The post-biotic ferment helps prevent acne-causing bacteria from sticking to skin. I chill mine in the fridge for that just-had-a-facial feeling.” —Joseph Carrillo, a facialist in New York City
"When it comes to sunscreen, it literally does not get more invisible than this. This sheer formula leaves no white cast, which I appreciate as someone with olive-tan skin. Unlike many other sunscreen-primer duos I’ve tried, this product dries quickly and has a lightweight and matte finish, making it ideal for layering makeup on top." —Katie Mogg, Women's Health beauty assistant
“The shades are gorgeous, and the SPF coverage is a nice bonus. Plus, it leaves you with a gorgeous glow.” —Kirin Bhatty, professional makeup artist
"I love that this serum offers a gentle yet effective option for all skin types. Combining three different retinoids—retinol, retinal, and retinyl esters—this triple-threat blend helps to maximize results while minimizing irritation. The unique additions of ectoin and glycerin help boost hydration and reduce the dryness and sensitivity that can come with retinoid use." —Marisa Garshick, MD, a dermatologist in New Jersey
"These wipes remove grime, cosmetics, and sunscreen in just a few swipes, and the "gentle" promise delivers: I experienced no flushing and zero stinging in my eyes. They're also travel-friendly—so refreshing after a plane ride. You can stash a pack in your gym bag for touch-ups—perfect for when you need to run a quick errand and don’t have the time to immediately wash your face." —Nicole Saunders, Women's Health beauty commerce editor
"This peel is like a facial in a jar: You'll wake up with the softest, most hydrated skin—no irritation or redness." —Todd Harris Wolf, a celebrity makeup artist
"Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury is known for her signature glowy-skin makeup, and this serum continues that premise—even when you're bare-faced. With vitamin C for overall brightening, tranexamic acid for gentle exfoliation, and a specially-designed 'even-tone complex,' it tackles pigmentation from all angles." —Underwood
"I use this scrub on clients when their skin is looking a little dull dull. The magnesium particles are super fine, sweeping away any dry patches of skin without making your complexion freak out." —Harris Wolf
"Whenever I have a client with dry, sensitive skin, I reach into my kit for my secret soothing weapon: this cream. It calms, soothes, and deeply hydrates with no greasiness. I even slather some on after a long flight to 'wake up' my skin" —Harris Wolf
"My teenage daughter introduced me to this product, and when I looked at the ingredients, it checked all my boxes for an effective acne face wash. I like its foaming formula and salicylic acid is a go-ingredient I always recommend for acne-prone skin. Here, it's paired with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to reduce oil and hydrate skin." —Dr. Hartman
"I am obsessed with these pads, which gently exfoliate and brighten while leaving my skin smoother every time. No irritation; just a glow." —Erica Taylor, makeup artist and content creator
"A great option for anyone looking to boost moisture while also achieving a glass-like finish, this serum combines polyglutamic and hyaluronic acids to boost moisture, plus amino acids to firm. It also gives skin an immediate pop of opalescence—instant and long-term results." —Dr. Garshick
"This serum features a stabilized version of ascorbic acid, so it's less likely to oxidize or degrade, a real concern with vitamin C products. When paired with the brand’s proprietary Molecur 3 technology, it reveals brighter, firmer-looking skin and a more even tone." —Dr. Hartman
"This soft, flexible red light therapy device doesn’t pinch or leave behind red marks on my face—it’s comfortable to wear the entire 10-minute treatment. The trifecta of red, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared wavelengths targets the top and middle layers of my skin and, with consistent use, I've noticed brightening and a more even tone. It shrank my hormonal acne in about 48 hours and my smile and eleven lines are less obvious after the first month." —Saunders
"I've always taken my skincare routine seriously, but never used tools consistently enough to really see the difference. Once I committed to using this one, though, I got results. Now, it’s a daily ritual. It really enhances absorption of my topical products and improved my skin tone notably." —Taylor
"Using this nose mask was a pleasant experience that combined both chemical and physical exfoliation, which left my pores feeling refreshed and unclogged. The adhesive on the mask molded perfectly to the contours of my nose, allowing the serum to penetrate hard-to-reach pores. The mask begins to bubble immediately after application, which creates a slight tingling sensation that makes the product really feel like its being put to work. And once I peeled it off after a few minutes, my nose had significantly fewer visible blackheads. I was impressed, to say the least." —Mogg
"When you have acne prone skin like me, finding a moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores can be a tall order. But I'm a big fan of this one. First, it's lightweight with no slick feel. Next, it contains ceramides, adaptogens, and niacinamide to calm red, irritated skin." —Underwood
"These blemish pads are a step above the rest. I apply them on clean dry skin at night and by morning, the blemish is gone without leaving dry flaky skin behind." —Harris Wolf
"This formula offers buildable, natural coverage. What really sets it apart, though, is the plant-based retinol—it’s skin care and makeup in one." —Harris Wolf
“An under-makeup SPF that gives my combo skin a boost without causing breakouts.” —Mogg
“This oil melts away makeup, sweat, sunscreen, and grime in seconds, leaving skin clean and hydrated.” —Harris Wolf
"This is like a real-life filter, locking in your makeup while giving your skin a soft glassy finish without looking wet or heavy." —Taylor
"A go-to for anyone looking for water-resistant, mineral-based sun protection that also evens out skin tone. What sets it apart is its flexible tint technology, which adapts to a range of skin tones and provides natural-looking coverage, allowing you to skip foundation on hot, humid days. It’s broad-spectrum, sweat- and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, and has niacinamide and antioxidants to protect against UV, blue light, and pollution." —Tiffany Libby, MD, a dermatologist in Rhode Island
"I'll be the first to admit that I'm no big fan of stick sunscreens—until I encountered this one from Bloomeffects. It glides over skin—no annoying tugging or pulling—with the silkiest, sheerest finish. At the end of the day, it's a delight to wear." —Underwood
Body
From better SPF to superior shaving products, your stock-up list is here.
“I love a good transformation: This ingenious cleanser morphs from a hydrating oil to a grime-busting foam in the shower. You’ll be dirt- and sweat-free and silky-smooth.” —Underwood
“This heavenly moisturizer smells amazing and feels luxurious, not greasy. I was genuinely surprised at how quickly it disappeared into my skin.” —Mogg
“These bars lather beautifully and won't leave skin feeling tight or dry. They also come in a variety of fresh and fun scents.” —Dr. Hartman
“A standout thanks to its velvety texture, which makes application effortless, without a white cast or icky film.” —Dr. Libby
"Safe for use on both the face and body, this sunscreen is hydrating but won’t feel heavy and is easy to rub in. In addition to providing broad-spectrum SPF 50 coverage, it's water-resistant, making it great for those who are active or spend a lot of time outdoors. With aloe vera and vitamin E, this one's soothing on the skin and a good option to battle dryness." —Dr. Garshick
"This lightweight lotion delivers encapsulated retinol, cocoa butter, squalane, and vitamin E to smooth texture, firm crepey areas, brighten, and deeply hydrate. I keep a bottle in my shower to apply daily and often recommend it to patients complaining of subtle loss of elasticity on arms and above the knees. Its whipped, fast‑absorbing texture penetrates quickly and I don’t find it irritating." —Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a dermatologist in New York City
"This is a multi-use product that you can slather on your body, face, and even lips. It works on all skin types to heal dry, stressed out skin. I also like to use it as a glossy highlight on the collarbones and orbital bones." —Bhatty
"Meet my red-carpet secret for glowing arms and legs that don’t look glittery or greasy. It imparts easy radiance and dries down beautifully—no small feat.” —Harris Wolf
“Most scrubs: messy, sticky, or too harsh. This scrub: gentle, moisturizing, and smells like a tropical vacay. If coconut isn’t your thing, just pick one of the other scents.” —Underwood
"A stay-all-day body butter claim you can trust. It’s the trifecta of argan oil, shea butter, and avocado oil that makes this airy body firming cream so darn dewy and long-lasting. This is the one body butter I constantly re-purchase." —Felicia Walker, skin care educator, content creator, and author
“A hassle-free solution for body bumps, the spray formula can be used upside down to target hard-to-reach areas.” —Dr. Libby
“A pit stick that stands up to serious sweating. Plus, it dries invisibly so it won’t stain your clothes.” —Underwood
"Inspired by Japanese hinoki cedar trees, this earthy and woody aroma is a zen dream. It also blends notes of basil, vetiver, and magnolia, adding a spa-like serenity to my morning routine. Scent aside, mandelic acid, triethyl citrate, and zinc ricinoleate neutralize my body odor, while nourishing vitamin E and coconut oil prevent irritated pits. It also glides on seamlessly without dragging or leaving embarrassing white marks on my dark tops." —Saunders
"This cream can be used to help heal dry skin and calm redness and inflammation, making it great for eczema. I especially love that it's fragrance-free and won’t leave skin greasy. It’s also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores, and has been accepted by the National Eczema Association." —Dr. Garshick
"With 10% urea to remove the build up of dead skin cells—a hallmark of keratosis pilaris—this lotion also contains shea butter to support and improve the skin barrier. I especially love that it doesn’t feel greasy and absorbs easily." —Dr. Garshick
“Firming and deeply hydrating. I love how it leaves the neck looking taut. My Zoom meetings are more snatched.” —Carrillo
"This cream combines powerhouse ingredients like centella asiatica, shea butter, and collagen-boosting peptides to improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and support barrier repair. The rich, velvety texture practically melts on, providing lasting hydration and a calming sensorial experience." — Dr. Libby
"Silicone sheeting remains one of the most evidence-backed scar treatments, and my favorite to recommend to patients are ScarAway’s. They're medical-grade, breathable, and flexible for use after surgery, burns, or injury. Clinical studies show visible softening and flattening of scars within 4–8 weeks, and I often recommend them post-procedure for new or hypertrophic scars. My patients report smoother texture and reduced redness with consistent use. These are much more effective than skincare in my experience." —Dr. Murphy-Rose
"An effective solution for managing and preventing ingrown hairs, particularly in sensitive areas such as the bikini line, underarms, and face, the formula is a blend of lactic and mandelic acids that exfoliate skin to release ingrown hair and prevent new ones from forming. Azelic acid in the formula helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can be a common side effect of ingrowns, especially in darker skin. The stick format makes it easy to apply without any mess, which patients have reported to be a plus." —Dr. Hartman
"I hate doing squats so thankfully there's this. It’s not a replacement for exercise—let's be clear—but with consistent use, the Brazilian peppertree- and caffeine-packed formula softens the look of dimples and firms the surface of skin. It gives me permission to hate squats just a little bit longer." —Walker
"Inspired by a childhood spent foraging for mushrooms and wild plants, Shikohin is a chic Japanese brand that specializes in luxurious bath and body products. These tablets are enriched with minerals from the Kinugawa Onsen hot springs in Japan. While I’m used to bubble baths, Onsen is much more chill and serene. These tablets help me relax, even when all I'm hearing outside my city apartment is the honking of car horns. The enticing yuzu smell helps elevate my Sunday self-care ritual." —Saunders
“Add a few drops of this beautiful bronzing solution to your favorite moisturizer and you’ll be left with a natural-looking faux glow." —Underwood
"Most body washes aren’t thick enough to create a safe barrier between my skin and the razor and using a dry razor will inevitably lead to nicks, irritation, or possibly injury. Billie’s shaving cream creates a pillowy layer of protection and all the glide I need to get silky-smooth legs." —Saunders
"At-home waxing kits used to intimidate me until I tried Flamingo. The strips require minimal prep work—just clean and dry the area, no microwave required. The soft wax is fast to use and includes step-by-step instructions with pictures to ensure I have the right at-home technique. There are twenty large body wax strips for the legs and eight medium-sized strips for the underarms. The kit even includes six post-wax clothes for easy clean up." —Saunders
“Five blades sandwiched between argan oil–infused lubricating strips help this razor glide gently across my skin. Close shave, great price.” —Saunders
“A high-speed motor, no-nick ceramic blades, and an LED spotlight to illuminate hard-to-see spots.” —Saunders
"Sure, it's a splurge, but Women's Health testers rave about this at-home diode laser—only one of two of its kind— because it removes hair on even darker skin tones. It also works on the face and the body for the most versatility." —Underwood
Eyes & Lips
The thin, delicate skin on these parts requires extra care.
“This lightweight cream absorbs quickly and helps smooth and firm creases with a biotech hexapeptide that supports natural collagen production.” —Dr. Hartman
“A brightening balm in an easy-to apply cooling stick.” —Dr. Garshick
"As a dermatologist, I love that this gel delivers both instant gratification and long-term benefits. The cooling roller applicator enhances absorption and provides a gentle lymphatic massage to help de-puff—the perfect thing to use first thing in the morning. The formula itself is packed with caffeine, algae, and sodium hyaluronate, which work synergistically to tighten, hydrate, and brighten." —Dr. Libby
“What I love so much about these is the soft, jellylike texture that cools, de-puffs, and hydrates on contact. Another major plus: They don’t shift or slide down like others.” —Harris Wolf
“Power-packed with high-performance plant ingredients, this gel-cream tackles your biggest eye issues: darkness, wrinkles, bags. And it doesn’t pill under concealer.” —Harris Wolf
“The colors: flattering and subtle. The texture: a moisture dream. The packaging: fun and covetable. What’s not to love here?” —Mogg
“I don’t like when lip balms with SPF have that sunscreen taste. This one is the opposite: It features a piña colada–esque flavor.” —Underwood
"Hands down, my favorite lip gloss. The formula and shades have the perfect amount of pigmentation and look great on every skin tone. I have all the colors in my kit, but 'Crush' is unlike anything I've ever used before—it instantly wakes up the complexion. It's also a gloss-balm hybrid, so you get the best of both worlds: moisture and shine." —Sarah Lucero, a celebrity makeup artist
“Packed with heavy-duty plant-based moisturizers, this oil-gloss imparts nourishment and shine.” —Mogg
"This is skincare for your lips: It’s hydrating, plumping, and doing something, not just tingling. My lips feel smoother, fuller and more healthy after I use it." —Taylor
"My favorite lip polish of all time—it's the perfect consistency to slough off dead skin without irritation. Powered by antioxidants and shea butter, this formula helps to keep lips feeling supple and hydrated. I use it once a week or as needed." —Conti
Hands & Feet
They do so much for us yet are often neglected. No more!
“Elegant and effective, this formula hydrates, smooths, and fades sunspots with a texture that’s rich but never greasy.” —Carrillo
“Revives cracked heels in one use, with the calming essence of lavender for spa vibes in a tube. Always on my nightstand.” —Walker
“This smells so good without being overpowering. It’s also clean, gentle, and leaves my hands hydrated. I love how affordable it is too.” —Taylor
“Ideal for dry, sensitive skin. I always have this in my kit—it smells incredible, and I find the texture very soothing.” —Lucero
"You've got to take care of your cuticles, and this oil, well, nails it. Perfect for acrylics, gels, or when you go au naturale, the nutrient-enhanced formula restores damage, delivers vital moisture, and improves the look of raggedy skin. I’m DIY mani girlie, and this is my go to for every session." —Walker
"Foot scrubs are essential because they help prep the feet to better absorb creams and lotions. Birkenstock’s can also be used on the lower legs to boost blood circulation. Pumice stone buffs away dead skin cells, revealing smoother skin. Thanks to rosemary oil, this foot scrub has an invigorating feeling that delivers major spa vibes to my apartment’s bathroom. It also contains peppermint for a calming effect." —Saunders
Scalp
What your hair sprouts from—that's skin too. When it comes to caring for it, these picks are at the head of the pack.
"This lightweight serum incorporates niacinamide and ginseng root extract plus a proprietary complex that helps to boost circulation and visibly improve thickness and fullness of hair. It can be used daily and applied to dry or damp hair making it easy to use. Plus, it’s paraben-free and gluten-free, making it a good option even for those with a sensitive scalp." —Dr. Garshick
"Pink Himalayan sea salt is the star here, helping to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and product build-up. I recommend using it as a pre-wash treatment, as it really helps to cleanse and remove gunk before shampooing. It’s safe for all skin and hair types and works well for textured hair types." —Dr. Hartman
Photographs by Lian Benoit
Styling by Jasmine Fontaina
Hair Francis Rodriguez with PARADIS using Kevin Murphy.
Makeup Adrian for Dior beauty.
Manicure Nori using Chanel Le Vernis for See Management.
Image 1: Khaite top, Alo sweater and skirt, APL socks, Gola sneakers, Awe Inspired earrings, Ali Weiss Jewelry ring. Monday bolero and bra top, Awe Inspired earrings, Ali Weiss Jewelry ring. Beyond Yoga bodysuit, Lady Grey earrings.
Image 2: Monday bolero and bra top, Awe Inspired earrings, Ali Weiss Jewelry ring.
Image 3: Monday Body sports bra, Alo shorts, Porter Lyons rings.
Image 4: Varley Sweatshirt, Porter Lyons Rings.
Image 5: Monday Body sports bra
Erica Metzger is an established beauty director, freelance writer, brand consultant, and content creator with 19 years of industry experience in print and digital media. She is the founder and editor of The Beauty Loop, a weekly industry newsletter that reaches 600+ beauty journalists and PR executives. Previously, Erica was the beauty, fashion, and travel director at Better Homes & Gardens and the beauty director at Ladies’ Home Journal, along with its MIN-award winning beauty blog Gloss Daily. She has written for Allure, Women’s Health, NY Magazine’s The Strategist, The Zoe Report, O Daily, Refinery29, Seventeen, Shape, and Martha Stewart Living. Erica has also appeared on GMA, TODAY, E! News, and ABC News as a beauty expert. She lives in Forest Hills, NY with her husband and two daughters.
Brian Underwood is beauty director at Women’s Health, where he oversees content strategy for the brand across all platforms, including digital, print, and social. Underwood previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily and O, The Oprah Magazine. During his tenure leading beauty content for the Oprah brand at Hearst, stories Underwood commissioned were awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Media Award and a Fragrance Award for Editorial Excellence (his second). He was the launch Beauty Director of Dr. Oz THE GOOD LIFE, and has held additional editorial positions at Fitness, Organic Style, Good Housekeeping, Life & Style Weekly, and Woman’s Day and has written for Self, Shape, Seventeen, Redbook, Cosmopolitan, and many more. Underwood previously served on the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and as partnerships director of the Trans Beauty Clinic, a New York-based charitable organization that provided beauty services and workshops to the city’s trans community.
