You probably slather on sunscreen if you’re sitting at the beach or lounging by the pool. Or at least, you know you’re supposed to. But what about the rest of the year? Wearing sunscreen is one of the easiest things we can do to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays (even in the winter) and keep ourselves looking young. Not only does SPF help prevent skin cancer — one in five Americans develops skin cancer by age 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation —  but as a bonus, it’s also one of the best anti-aging ingredients. Rather than treating wrinkles and sun spots that have already formed with pricey serums or professional treatments, you can prevent them if used properly. But for some reason, adding yet another skincare product into our routines can feel exhausting. For that reason, you may turn to makeup to handle skin protection. But is it enough?

_{Prices are accurate as of July 18, 2025. Subject to change.}

What’s the Deal With SPF in Makeup?

It can be difficult to find a face sunscreen that you love. Some formulas pill under makeup, others feel too thick and heavy for everyday wear. It’s easy to turn to the base products you already love that include protection, some even claiming SPF 50. That’s what I’ve always done, until I learned the truth. SPF in makeup should be considered an additional layer of sun protection, not your only way of blocking harmful rays.

“To really get the full SPF listed on your makeup, you’d have to apply seven to 10 times more than the usual amount of foundation or powder, which is just not practical,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Susan Binder.

Pump out your typical amount of foundation on your hand. Now times that by seven. That’s a lot of makeup, more than you’d wear for even the most full-coverage glam look.

“Think of SPF makeup as a backup, not your main shield,” says Dr. Binder. “I always say, start with a large-number sunscreen of at least SPF 30 before you apply makeup. This way, your skin gets the solid protection it needs right from the start. And when you add on your makeup that has SPF, you are just adding another protective layer, which is better for your skin.”

How Much SPF Do You Need?

You may have heard of the “two-finger rule” when it comes to sunscreen, which is applying a line of product down two fingers and then rubbing that in. But according to Dr. Binder, it’s more like the four-finger rule, amounting to about 1/2 teaspoon of product to cover your face, neck, and ears.

“Many people still adhere to the older ‘two-finger rule,’” she says. “But it’s not really sufficient, especially if you have a larger face or are out in sunlight for long periods. Not using enough can reduce your sunscreen’s effectiveness, increasing your risk of sun damage.”

But what about reapplying over makeup? Try powder sunscreens or face mists, some of which include makeup-setting ingredients. “Using these can improve your sun protection all day without affecting your makeup,” says Dr. Binder

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen

Sunscreen falls into two categories: chemical and mineral. Mineral sunscreens sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and absorb the rays, converting to them to heat and releasing them from the skin.

Chemical sunscreens are often better at leaving no white cast behind and feel lighter, since they don’t sit on top of the skin. Mineral sunscreens might work better for those with sensitive skin or rosacea, as they won’t irritate the skin further. Both are effective, so it’s up to your personal preference to decide which type you go with. As Dr. Binder says, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll use.

Our Favorite Sunscreens

If you, too, have been relying on your favorite makeup to protect you from the sun, it’s time to invest in a great SPF. We have a list of our favorite clean sunscreens, some of which are included here, along with other personal favorites.

Thinksport Zinc-Oxide Sunscreen SPF 50

Sunscreen does not need to cost a lot. Get the protection of SPF 50 for just $15 with Thinksport’s matte sunscreen. It’s one of our top clean picks, and it lasts if you’re swimming or sweating.

Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50

Kiehl’s adds sun protection to a skincare-packed formula, and its price reflects it. But if you’re also utilizing serums for fine lines and uneven skin tone, this could be a one-and-done product.

Tower 28 SOS FaceGuard SPF 30

All of Tower 28’s products are tested by dermatologists and allergists to guarantee they’re effective, gentle, and safe. So you know its mineral sunscreen is great for those of us who need a little extra care. It’s fragrance-free and rubs in smoothly with no white cast or greasy feeling left behind. If you hate the feeling of most sunscreens, you should like the lightweight moisturizer feel.

Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

Supergoop is like the cool girl of the sunscreen world. It has a few different formulas, but we love its Play sunscreen, which feels similar to your tried and true moisturizer. One Better Report writer called it the only sunscreen she’ll use.

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 SPF 50

La Roche-Posay’s original cicaplast balm is a miracle product for my dry, eczema-prone skin, so I was ecstatic to find the brand’s new SPF version. It’s thick and moisturizing, just like its classic balm, but absorbs easily and gives me a glowy, but not greasy, look. My first introduction to this brand was over a decade ago when I tried the Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum with SPF. I love it, but at $45, I can’t use it consistently. The Cicaplast Balm is a great everyday option.

Featured Image Credit: gpointstudio/ iStock

If I told you red lights could reverse wrinkles, and blue light might heal acne, would you believe it? When it comes to beauty, there are plenty of gimmicks. Between all the goops, oils, and tools that promise you’ll look 10 years younger with longer, healthier hair, it’s hard to know what to believe. Though LED light therapy sounds too good to be true, it’s actually the real deal when used correctly.

_{Prices are accurate as of January 8, 2026. Subject to change.}

Table of Contents

– How Does Light Therapy Work
– What to Look for in a Red Light Device
– How to Use Light Therapy in Your Routine
– The Masks and Tools We Love

How Does Light Therapy Work?

If you use red light therapy consistently, you’ll likely see a reduction in wrinkles, but the explanation isn’t quite as simple as light alone smoothing lines. When the proper wavelengths of red light penetrate the dermis of the skin, it stimulates fibroblast cells, which then produce collagen and elastin, and thus wrinkles start to repair.

Blue light, at the correct wavelength, kills bacteria on the epidermis of the skin, helping to heal some types of acne. “Blue light therapy targets acne-causing Cutibacterium acnes by activating porphyrins within the bacteria, leading to their destruction,” explained board-certified dermatologist Dr. William D. Shipman III. “It also helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for mild to moderate acne.”

While we’re focusing on facial concerns in this guide, red and near-infrared light may also help treat thinning hair by improving blood flow and cellular metabolism in hair follicles, says Dr. Shipman. But don’t worry about a red light mask increasing facial hair growth. “Facial skin isn’t hormonally sensitive in the same way the scalp is,” he says. “So there’s no evidence that red light masks cause unwanted facial hair growth. The concern is more theoretical than clinical.”

What to Look for in a Red Light Device

When browsing these types of devices, you’ll see lots of claims and stats, like types of treatments and number of bulbs, but wavelength is the most important. You can’t use just any red or blue light and expect results.

“Effective red light therapy typically uses wavelengths between 630–660 nanometers (nm), and near-infrared therapy ranges from 810–850 nanometers,” says Dr. Shipman. “These penetrate the skin at different depths to stimulate collagen or improve inflammation.” For blue light, you’ll need a device that uses 415 nanometers. Dr. Shipman recommends opting for FDA-cleared devices that openly state their wavelength and clinical data.

How to Use Light Therapy in Your Routine

Consistency is key. One use every now and again won’t do anything. I like to keep my mask in my living room, so I see it when I lounge at night. If I kept it in my bathroom or closet, I know I’d often forget to use it.

Start with clean, dry skin. Remove makeup and SPF and wait to apply your skincare until after you’re done using your mask.

Many brands sell separate masks for your face, neck, and hands. It makes it easier to do it all in one treatment time, but that convenience will cost you. I do a treatment on my face and then move the mask to my neck and start another. It might not be a perfect execution, but it will do the job.

At-home devices are typically safe to use every day, but Dr. Shipman recommends starting with two to three times a week at first, especially for those with sensitive skin. If you see a dermatologist, ask them how they think you should incorporate it for your specific skin type and concerns.

If you use other wrinkle-fighting products, like retinol, you don’t have to choose one or the other. Dr. Shipman recommends waiting a few hours between a light therapy session and applying retinol, instead of applying it immediately after. If you have especially sensitive skin, you may want to go slowly and skip the mask on nights you use retinol until you know how your skin will react.

When Will You Notice Results?

Results won’t be instant, but there’s no exact answer to when you might start to see change. Most brands advertise results somewhere around six to eight weeks. For many people, it could take three months or longer. It all depends on the severity of what you’re treating, your skin, and how consistent you are.

As one dermatologist told me, light therapy works best on skin that’s already in recovery mode, like after a microneedling session. If you have deep lines and feel like you’re not seeing results, you might consider a trip to the spa to speed things up.

The Masks and Tools We Love

The Best: Shark CryoGlow

I’ve tested several light therapy masks, and Shark’s is hands down the best. The build quality was immediately obvious, and it offers more features for comfort, like forehead and eye padding and a three-point adjustable strap.

The attached remote allows for easily choosing the desired treatment and keeps track of how many you’ve completed. It also shows a countdown while you’re using it, so you can quickly see just how much longer you have to sit. It’s clear every detail was carefully considered when Shark was designing this skincare tool.

The CryoGlow has three modes: anti-aging, acne treating, and skin sustain, which you should switch to once you’ve seen desired results from the regular treatments. Metal plates, AKA Chill Pads, under the eyes help depuff and tighten skin. You can turn them on or off for any of the three treatments, or use just the cooling in between sessions any time your undereyes could use some TLC. I love the added cold therapy, but that means no LED lights are touching the skin under your eyes, which is a con since that’s an area many people want to treat.

These types of products are quite pricey; at $350, this isn’t exactly pocket change, but it’s more affordable than some of the competition. If you’ve been wanting to try light therapy, the CryoGlow is worth it.

Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand with Red Light

If you have wrinkles you want to target on your forehead, eyes, and neck, it’s best to just save until you can get a mask. It will work much better and faster. But if you’re targeting one area, like your undereyes or stubborn 11 lines, it might be worth it to go this route instead. But with a small surface area, it’s even more imperative that you be consistent with using it.

This little wand also uses heat and vibration, so it feels like a real spa treatment when you use it. Solawave now offers a full mask that we haven’t tried yet, but it seems to be similar to the Omnilux. I’m considering getting the Eye Recovery Pro to pair with my Shark CryoGlow.

Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

I’ve long been a fan of the Dr. Dennis Gross peel pads, which deliver real results with irritation, even for my sensitive skin that can hardly handle any exfoliation, so I was excited to try the brand’s mask. It’s more expensive than Shark’s, but it offers shorter treatment times at just three minutes each, and with no cooling pads, the red lights reach all the way to your undereyes. It also offers blue light for acne and includes amber light, which can help heal sun damage.

It’s not uncomfortable, but it isn’t as nice to wear as Shark’s. It also has a frustrating strap that continuously comes undone, something I’ve noticed lots of users complain about. But it’s not as bulky, so it’s easier to store (or take with you if you’re traveling).

Omnilux Contour

Flat masks are a little more uncomfortable to wear every day, but they’re easier to store and travel with, and are easier to use on other parts of your body, like your neck and hands.

The Omnilux Contour is one of the most popular, and it works well, but it offers only red and near-infrared lights. If you want to treat acne, too, you need to buy a separate mask for the same high price tag. Not everyone needs both treatments, but with so many options offering both for a similar price, it’s disappointing to see it missing here.

Therabody TheraFace Mask

I haven’t had the chance to try Therabody’s TheraFace mask, but it’s on my wish list. I have tested most of the brand’s fancy recovery tools — the SmartGoggles are one of my favorite gadgets ever — so I feel confident that its mask is likely as impressive. Even though the lack of nose holes is a bit scary.

I love that it includes vibration therapy, which Therabody is known for with its Theraguns. It makes it feel a little more like a full relaxation tool. At $650, this is one of the most expensive ones I’ve seen.

Feature Image Credit: New Africa/ Adobe Stock

With so many skincare brands falling short on ingredient transparency, it’s no surprise that more of us are turning to cleaner, healthier ways to care for our skin. Some drugstore products can even do more harm than good. The bright side? Creating your own skincare is simpler than you think, and you don’t have to be a cosmetic scientist to do it. You just need a few fundamentals to get started: good-quality essential oils and a nourishing carrier oil to dilute them. With our guide, you can max out on clean skincare tailored to your skin type. So, you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin (and why!). Tired of toxins and ready to transform your skin? Read on.

_{Prices are accurate as of April 22, 2025. Subject to change.}

Cliganic Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

Rosehip oil sits in the higher echelons of carrier oils — powerful on its own but supercharged when mixed with essential oils. Jam-packed with fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, it’s Mother Nature’s gift to our skin. Cliganic’s Organic Rosehip Seed Oil is GMO-free, cold-pressed, and single-ingredient. Read: no nasty chemicals in sight. Dreaming of a youthful glow? Rosehip’s got you covered. Dull complexion in need of a brightening boost? Again, rosehip’s here to help. It’s especially talented at reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks — excellent news for new moms or those recovering from surgery.

Handcraft Blends Organic Jojoba Oil

Since you must never apply undiluted essential oils to your skin — their potent concentration can wreak havoc — you need a stellar carrier oil in your natural skincare collection. Jojoba oil is the perfect solution, brimming with vitamins E and B, and a truck-load of antioxidants. The Handcraft Blends Organic Jojoba Oil is cold-pressed, organic, and premium-grade. In short, it’s the natural best friend of your essential oils. Apply it alone, or amplify its benefits by adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to enhance jojoba’s transformative powers.

Nexon Botanics Organic Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender might be your go-to for the diffuser, but did you know it’s a hall-of-fame essential oil for your skin, too? This organic lavender essential oil blends two nutrient-rich lavender oils, Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula hybrida. Meaning? Two oils, one unstoppable skincare hero. A staple in aromatherapy for its calming properties, it works the same magic on your skin. Lavender oil calms irritation, eases redness, and restores harmony. So, if your skin’s craving some calm, indulge in a botanical reset — radiant skin requires balance, and lavender oil delivers with every drop. But remember, never use undiluted essential oils directly on skin; always blend with a carrier oil.

Majestic Pure Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil is you on a best-self day: cool, calm, and collected. The primary active ingredient, menthol, promotes blood flow and soothes redness, giving you bare-faced beauty that’ll have everyone asking, “What’s your secret?” If you’re acne-prone — or even just tackling a rogue pimple — adding a few drops to your moisturizer can stop blemishes in their tracks. Extra credit: peppermint oil is renowned in the natural haircare sphere for its hair growth properties, especially when paired with rosemary oil. No doubt, peppermint oil is a beauty bag staple.

Cliganic Organic Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil’s beauty benefits have long been revered, with roots tracing back to ancient Arabia where it was (and is!) prized for its anti-aging, skin-repairing, and anti-blemish properties. Lucky for us, its reputation has traveled to the West, where it’s often found in luxury face creams, masks, and serums. However, you can skip the premium price tags and harness its powers without remortgaging your house. Snap up a bottle of Cliganic Organic Frankincense Oil, and craft your own luxe skincare blends at home.

UpNature Organic Tea Tree Oil

Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal? Tea tree oil fights all the bad guys — especially when it’s organic. UpNature Organic Tea Tree Oil is the Wonder Woman of skincare; the one you call on if blemishes are your chief nemesis. Brilliant for skin (again, always blend with a carrier oil), you can also turn to tea tree to elevate your haircare game. Add a few drops to your shampoo for a scalp refresh, and soak up the satisfying tingle and salon-fresh hair.

NOW Food Solutions Sweet Almond Oil

A little heavier than jojoba oil, sweet almond oil is a brilliant alternative if you’re seeking a more moisture-rich carrier oil. Nourishing thirsty skin is the name of the game with sweet almond oil, and it’s a master of its craft. If you’re forever battling dryness, sweet almond oil is your go-to. It leaves skin soft, supple, and beautifully balanced. For the ultimate does-it-all moisturizer, add one drop each of frankincense and lavender oil to two tablespoons of sweet almond oil, and voilà, you have the ultimate skin-worshipping formula. Bear in mind, those with oily skin should steer clear — heavy oils clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Feature Image Credit: Vanessa Nunes/ iStock

Retinol has become an anti-aging A-lister. Why? Its effects are impressive, and the science is solid. Retinol formulas are a must-try if you’d like fewer fine lines, smoother skin, and a more radiant complexion — and who doesn’t want that? All this in a few weeks, with no needles required. A form of vitamin A, retinol works its magic by promoting collagen production and accelerating skin cell renewal, resulting in that glowing complexion we all dream of. Read on for our top picks.

Retinol Pro Tips

– Always use retinol as part of your nighttime skincare routine. Applying it in the morning can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, potentially leading to sun damage.
– Start slow. Allow your skin time to build tolerance to retinol by using it a few times a week at first, then increasing to daily or every other day.
– Moisturize post-application. Retinol can be drying, so use your favorite creamy moisturizer after your retinol has absorbed to prevent any dry skin woes.
– Use SPF. This is skincare 101 — retinol or no retinol, always apply SPF to protect your skin from sun damage. Even when used at night, retinol can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV, so it’s best to stay safe.
– Avoid combining retinol with Vitamin A or exfoliating acids, as this can irritate the skin. Stick with your usual moisturizer — ideally, a gentle one.

_{Prices are accurate as of April 21, 2025. Subject to change.}

Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Serum

If retinol has just entered your vocabulary, the Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Serum is the perfect entry-level formula. Crafted with a blend of retinol, vitamin E, and hydrating agents, it’s also happily free of parabens and sulfates — absolute no-gos. This serum nourishes, replenishes, and gently smooths wrinkles without the harsh side effects of stronger retinols. Great for all skin types, it’s a brilliant first step into the world of retinol.

The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum

The Ordinary leads the charge when it comes to innovative (and affordable!) skincare. Debuted in 2024, the Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum has caused a stir in the skincare world, with its high-strength formula aiming to reduce wrinkles in just two weeks. Got crow’s feet creeping up? You’re in luck: this serum is an expert at tackling those lines. Bear in mind, its potent concentration of retinaldehyde is best suited to experienced retinol users. So, if you’re a newbie, it’s wise to start with a gentler formula and gradually work your way up.

Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment Cream

With a premium price tag comes premium results — at least in the case of Paula’s Choice. The 1% Retinol Treatment Cream contains a cocktail of skin-loving ingredients, but unlike your margaritas, it’ll have you looking fresh as a daisy the morning after. Add licorice extract into the mix, and you’re set for brighter skin and a vibrant glow, too. The slow-release cream ensures consistent absorption, mitigating any dryness or irritation, despite the high concentration. Start slow to see how your skin responds, and work your way up to daily use.

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane

Combining two powerhouse ingredients, retinol and squalane, The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane offers the best of both worlds. Not yet acquainted with squalane? Essentially, it’s an emollient, antioxidant, and hydration triple-win, keeping your skin nourished while the retinol works on your wrinkles behind the scenes. This formula is an excellent middle ground if you’re accustomed to a lower retinol concentration and looking to up your game before progressing to harder-hitting products. Oh, and if you’re acne-prone, no fear: this serum is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog those pores.

The Inkey List 1% Slow Release Retinol Serum

Yet another budget beauty big-shot, The Inkey List 1% Slow Release Retinol Serum is a brilliant choice. High strength? Tick. Minimal irritation? Tick. This gentle yet powerful serum is designed to deliver the anti-aging benefits of retinol, without the dreaded “retinol uglies” that often hit in the first weeks of use. That said, this is better if you’ve already introduced retinol into your routine — it’s a great level-up from a lower concentration, with all the beauty bonuses and less dryness.

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream

Dark circles and crow’s feet emerging? Enter Neutrogena’s Retinol Eye Cream. After all, our eyes are often first in the queue to show signs of aging, so let’s give them the care they deserve. It’s beginner-friendly and contains a symbiotic blend of retinol and hyaluronic acid (HA) — in short, a dream team of skincare ingredients. Laser-focused on dark circles and puffiness, this serum delivers on its promises. Thanks to the gentle formula, you can use it daily from the get-go. That said, it’s best for nighttime, as retinol can increase your skin’s UV sensitivity. And don’t be put off by the mini tube. A little goes a long way.

CeraVe Skin-Renewing Retinol Serum

CeraVe stays true to form with its dermatologist-developed Skin-Renewing Retinol Serum. Packed into this formula is the ultimate trio: retinol for wrinkles, HA for hydration, and niacinamide for soothing. Plus, three vital ceramides work in harmony to protect the skin’s barrier, fending off pollutants, allergens, and bacteria. So, if your skin’s starting to show signs of aging, we can’t recommend this product enough. It can’t turn back time, but it can certainly help slow down the clock.

Feature Image Credit: Alina Valetka/ iStock

As a woman in my late 20s, taking care of my skin is a priority. Even though I don’t have a dedicated skincare routine, there are a few products in my arsenal that I honestly can’t live without. One of those is the Kate Somerville Vitamin C Retinol Moisturizer, which, within just six weeks, improved the texture of my skin and visibly reduced the fine lines peeking through on my forehead.

_{Prices are accurate as of March 10, 2025. Subject to change.}

What is Retinol?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A with anti-aging effects, such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help unclog pores and boost collagen production in your skin for a plumper look. Retinol is also a great product for those looking to reduce hyperpigmentation or acne scars. You may have heard of the popular ingredient tretinoin, which is a prescription-strength vitamin A. It will get you results quicker than over-the-counter retinol, but can be much more drying. 

This cream has vitamin C in it as well, which also combats wrinkles by producing collagen and helps to brighten skin.

Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

How Soon Will You Notice a Change in Your Skin?

The Cleveland Clinic says retinol is almost immediately absorbed into your skin, but it will take a few weeks to show any effect. Kate Somerville’s cream wasn’t my first attempt at using retinol, but it’s the only time a product seemed to work for my skin. I used it for six weeks continuously, wearing it at night before bed after I took my makeup off. I first started to see noticeable changes in my fourth week of use.

Retinol Side Effects

With retinol, your skin will usually look worse before it looks better. I like to think I have pretty sturdy skin. I don’t break out, and apart from a few pesky blackheads, I don’t have too many skin issues. That said, I do have combination skin (with an extremely oily T-zone), which sometimes leads to dryness and skin peeling on cold winter days. This was definitely accentuated during the first two to three weeks of retinol use. My skin turned pretty red (bonus: I looked rosy-cheeked all day long), and the skin around my nose and forehead started to peel pretty consistently.

While peeling skin and redness are normal while you get used to retinol, it is still annoying, especially if you wear makeup daily. I used tons of moisturizers and facial sprays throughout the day to combat the dryness to no avail. I would calm the look of the dry skin, and within five minutes, more would appear. The worst part was that it burned too, especially when I applied more retinol at night. 

The mistake I made was that I immediately started using retinol daily. To get your skin used to it, it’s best to start slow. Use it once every two to three days to start, gradually moving to daily use. This will greatly reduce the side effects and keep the itching, burning, and redness to a minimum. Retinol makes you more sensitive to the sun, so I also recommend using a day moisturizer with sunscreen to keep your skin protected.

Once you pass the adjustment stage, that’s where the real magic happens. I noticed a daily glow and a clearer complexion in my sixth week of use. The dryness had finally abated, and now my skin just looked pink, plump, and, in general, full of color. My forehead creases were much less noticeable, and I noticed fewer blackheads and clogged pores on my nose. Of course, it’s not like my fine lines and enlarged pores disappeared completely, but I noticed how much clearer and healthier my skin looked after continuously using Kate Somerville’s retinol cream.

I’ve continued to use the cream since, even investing in a second bottle (my first lasted me about two months), and have noticed that my skin continues to remain free of breakouts, and luckily, it seems my wrinkle development has considerably slowed down.

While you don’t have to use the product for an extended period of time, bear in mind that if you do go off retinol, it will take about a week for your skin to go back to normal. Again, I’d also recommend stepping away from using retinol once summer arrives, as it can make you more prone to sunburn and sun damage.

Retinol works differently depending on your skin type. Remember to patch-test your new retinol cream to start, making sure it’s the right fit before you commit.

Verdict

All in all, there’s a lot to love about Kate Somerville’s Vitamin C Retinol Cream. The pump dispenser makes it easy for me to grab the right amount of cream every time without wasting or overusing. In addition to smoothing fine lines and fading dark spots, I was looking for a product to add some vitality to my skin, ideally hoping to make it look less worn out and tired. I found it with this cream. It has a subtle citrus scent, and a small amount goes a long way, making this a product well worth your buck. And, it really does deliver results. 

Featured image credit: Image courtesy of Kate Somerville

If you’re like me, you’re tired of complicated skincare routines that cost a fortune and take what can feel like hours to get through — who has the time or money to waste? Thanks to new technology in skincare, we can say goodbye to endless hours applying expensive creams and serums, and hello to the targeted power of skincare patches. From pimple healers to skin hydrators and itch relievers, they’re easy to use, don’t cost a ton and if you so choose, can be worn as you sleep. All you have to do is peel, place, and wait for the magic to happen! 

_{Prices are accurate as of February 1, 2026. Subject to change.}

Knemo Right Away Thincognito Spot Patch

We’ve all been there: a pesky pimple pops up right before a big event or an important meeting. Rather than cake on foundation and concealer — which tends to make it worse in the long run — pop one of these invisible pimple patches on. The transparent circle covers the pimple and creates a barrier against any makeup or picking (it’s so tempting!) while the hydrocolloid formula absorbs impurities and protects your blemish from further irritation. Plus, you get 42 patches for only $10!

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Fine Lines

When it comes to reducing fine lines with topical ingredients, retinol, a derivative of skin-renewing Vitamin A, is the gold standard. But so many of us have sensitive skin that can’t tolerate rubbing the potent ingredient all over our faces. That’s what I love about these patches, each featuring 1,390 dissolving micropoints infused with retinol to target just the fine lines that are making you feel self-conscious. Their curved design makes them easy to place over crow’s feet or laugh lines.

ONYX Professional Hard as Hoof S.O.S. Nail Patches

Dealing with damage from gel, acrylics, press-ons, or just everyday wear and tear? These patches are infused with keratin, hydrolyzed protein, Vitamin E, and retinol to help moisturize, strengthen, brighten, and restore shine to nails. You don’t even have to remove your nail polish before use! 

Grace & Stella Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

When I was a teen in the ’80s, you did everything and anything you could to hide a pimple so no one knew you were flawed. As a mom of three teenagers, it’s refreshing to see that this generation wears their zits — and zit patches — with pride, which explains why these blemish-concealing pastel hearts, flowers, and clouds are popular in my house. They’re not only cute, they also contain acne-fighting tea tree oil and salicylic acid. I even had the confidence to sport one on a recent ShopRite run. 

Bliss Clear Genius Blemish Patches

This box comes with two sets of hydrocolloid pimple patches so you can cover the different stages of a pimple. One uses salicylic acid and tea tree oil to help draw gunk out of and shrink the blemish and the other is infused with antibacterial zinc and skin-soothing aloe for when you feel a new one coming on.

Nat Pat Itch Relief Patches

I applied one of these patches after being bitten by a mosquito on a recent trip to the Bahamas. If you’ve ever had a bite on the tip of your winter-dry elbow, you know how irritating and painful it can be to scratch. To my surprise, the patch stopped the itching in seconds. Even more astonishing is that there are no chemicals or oils involved. The way the brand explains it, “the patch’s Grid-Relief Technology mechanically lifts the skin to drain the lymphatic system which has been injected by the mosquito’s saliva that causes the itch.” All I know is that I’m stock-piling them for summer.

Fazit Ingrown Hair Bikini Patch

Prone to ingrowns along the bikini line after shaving or waxing? You’re not alone. The good news is that these hydrocolloid bikini patches contain azelaic acid, niacinamide, Vitamin C, lactic acid, and glycerin to help absorb oil and pus and extract any ingrown hairs while brightening and exfoliating skin for a smooth, even surface. Just press one on before bed and gently peel off the next morning — you’ll likely see the hair on the patch! One caveat: If the hair is deep, you may need two to three applications.

PanOxyl’s Blemish Aftercare Brightening Patches

The dark or red spots left behind after a pimple has healed can be almost as unflattering as the pimple itself. Post-breakout, stick on this patch which contains skin-lightening and brightening niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and Vitamin C.  That cocktail of ingredients helps fade discoloration and improve skin texture. Bonus: They’re vegan and latex-free.

Wrinkles Schminkles Forehead Wrinkle Patch

These patches went viral on TikTok for their amazing brow-smoothing ability. Made from 100% medical-grade silicone which smooths wrinkles by pulling the skin taut and trapping moisture into the area, they stimulate blood flow and boost hydration and collagen production while preventing the movement that causes wrinkling — especially as you sleep. Plus, each one can be used about 20 times. I’ve been using them every night for the last few weeks and my furrows are less noticeable.

Hanhoo Custom Blemish Patch

For those times when you have a cluster of pimples you want to reach all at once, or you’ve got one that is larger than what the standard circle patches cover, these are the perfect option. The box comes with two large hydrocolloid blemish sheets that can be cut into any shape to fit your needs.

Hero Cosmetics Rescue Patch

Dry, dehydrated skin can feel tight, itchy, and uncomfortable. These moisturizing patches are formulated with skin-hydrating ingredients such as panthenol beta-glucan and oligopeptide. The cream sits on your skin and delivers a surge of hydration for as long as you leave the patch on and the cool, creamy sensation is so soothing on wind-burned skin.

All Golden 360° Firming Eye Patches

My biggest gripe when it comes to eye patches is that most are only made to go below the eyes. Sure, I want to get rid of undereye shadows and swelling, but my upper lids tend to get just as dark and puffy. These patches, while on the pricier side, come in a C-shape to hit both at once and offer ingredients that firm and lift droopy upper lids as well. Win-win!

Featured Image Credit: sergey kolesnikov/ Shutterstock

They seemed to have popped out of nowhere. What was once a face dotted with cute post-summer freckles that I had acquired in my teens, was now a more seasoned, creased facade accompanied by larger, splotchier-looking dark spots — like the ones my grandmother had on her face, neck, and hands. “Dark spots can be caused by a variety of factors,” explains Dr. Alexis Stephens, board-certified dermatologist. “But two of the most common are spots resulting from sun exposure and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that occurs after a breakout.” If you’re over 40 like me, you’re probably on the hunt for a way to fade them fast, and according to Dr. Stephens, several ingredients and products can be incorporated into our skincare routine to help. Here are the best ones, as recommended by Dr. Stephens and other top dermatologists.

_{Prices are accurate as of January 23, 2026. Subject to change.}

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum

As a long-time beauty writer and editor, I can honestly say that there isn’t a La Roche-Posay product I don’t love. The formulas are gentle on sensitive skin and backed by years of research and testing. The prices are usually reasonable too for the quality. The Mela B3 Serum is no exception. The formula contains dark-spot-fading gold-standard niacinamide which works in tandem with La Roche Posay’s patented Melasyl, a pigment inhibitor/blocker, to reduce a range of skin discoloration, including sunspots, age spots, and post-acne marks. All you need to do is rub in a few drops twice a day for visible results in about eight weeks.

OLAY Super Serum Night Repair 

There are two reasons why Dr. Stephens regularly recommends OLAY’s Super Serum Night Repair to her patients as an effective dark spot reducer. The silky serum contains niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 that studies have shown significantly decreases hyperpigmentation (AKA dark spots) and increases skin lightness after four weeks of use. This serum also contains lactic acid, which helps to break down skin cells faster for brighter, more even-looking skin. “I also love to pair this with OLAY’s Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer to maximize skin turnover and provide skin with long-lasting hydration,” says Dr. Stephens. 

L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Exfoliant Peel 

This peel from L’Oreal is made with a blend of alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and polyhydroxy acids — chemical exfoliants that aid in the removal of dead skin cells and promote cellular turnover. “Its exfoliating strength is equivalent to a mild professional peel that is suitable for all skin tones and types,” says Dr. Chris Tomassian, Los Angeles-based board-certified dermatologist. You should see a brighter skin tone, improved skin texture, and visible fading of post-acne dark spots within two weeks of use, but I tried it and was amazed to see that after just one use, my sensitive skin appeared brighter and softer without irritation. Dr. Tomassian’s tip: Use it every other day after your basic cleanser and before your moisturizer for best results. 

Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is one of the more potent ingredients that dermatologists suggest looking for in a dark spot reducer. It inhibits melanin (skin’s pigment) production, which helps to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. Plus, thanks to its antioxidant properties that protect skin from damaging UV rays, it can also help prevent new spots from forming. This serum is not only packed with fresh green tangerine extract which is said to have 10 times more vitamin C than lemons, but it also has niacinamide, adding to its spot-fading power. One pump twice a day is enough to slather on your face, hands, or neck.

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Micropoint for Dark Spots

You’ve likely seen the little patches made for pimples, and if you’re like me, your hormonal perimenopause acne has you trying each and every brand’s options. But as a Hero Cosmetics stan, I was so excited to see that they offer a patch to combat dark spots as well. While they’re made for reducing the dark spots left from acne, the ingredients are just as great for hyperpigmentation of any kind. On top of the lightening and brightening heroes included — niacinamide, vitamin C, and licorice root to name a few — these tiny patches have even tinier, dissolvable micropoints with ultra-fine tips that allow for deep ingredient penetration. I popped one on a newer post-acne scar before bed, and after three days of use, the scar had visibly faded.

Allies of Skin Mandelic Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum

This one’s a splurge, but well worth it, especially if you have darker skin. Its key ingredient, mandelic acid, works twofold. It inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that controls the production of melanin, and provides gentle chemical exfoliation to remove dead, discolored skin. It’s also known to be more suitable for dark skin tones than other acids, and is a favorite of Dr. Trisha Khanna, board-certified dermatologist. “As a BIPOC woman myself, I take tremendous pride in treating patients of color and those who struggle with pigmentary disorders,” she says. “The Allies of Skin Mandelic Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum effectively addresses hyperpigmentation and improves skin texture.” Win-win!

Featured image credit: Youngoldman/ iStock