My Top Skincare Products of 2025

The world of skincare can be overwhelming — trust me, I get it. I’ve tried nearly every product under the sun in an effort to tame my acne-prone skin. Along the way, I’ve found a few gems that truly worked… and tested many, many, many that didn’t. It’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for me may not work for you. Skincare is all about finding products that fit your unique skin type and personal needs. That being said, after years of trial and error, these are my personal favorite skincare products of 2025. This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

SELF-CARE & BEAUTY

4/7/20257 min read

Best Cleansers of 2025
Product Name: La Roche Posay Toleraine Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
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If you're looking for a cleanser that actually leaves your skin feeling clean without stripping it dry, this one is a game changer. The Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser has a creamy texture that melts into the skin and removes dirt, makeup, and impurities — all while keeping your skin barrier happy and healthy.

It’s packed with ceramides and niacinamide, two powerhouse ingredients that hydrate and soothe sensitive skin. Plus, it's fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores or cause irritation — even if you have reactive or acne-prone skin.

After using it consistently, my skin felt noticeably softer, less tight after washing, and more balanced overall. It’s a simple, no-fuss cleanser that truly delivers.

👉 Perfect for: Normal to dry, sensitive, or compromised skin types.
👉 Pro tip: Use it as a morning cleanser or as the second step after a makeup remover in your nighttime routine!

Shop the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cleanser here! - https://amzn.to/4crLpY2

Product Name: Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
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If you're looking for a cleansing oil that’s gentle yet powerful, the Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil deserves a spot in your skincare lineup. Designed to melt away makeup, sunscreen, and stubborn blackheads, this lightweight oil feels silky on the skin and rinses off without any greasy residue.

Formulated with heartleaf extract — a beloved ingredient in Korean skincare — it helps to calm irritation, control excess oil, and refine the look of pores. It's especially great if you’re prone to clogged pores or sensitive breakouts, but still want a deep, nourishing cleanse.

After using it consistently, I noticed fewer blackheads around my nose and a softer, more balanced complexion. It’s the perfect first step in a double cleanse routine!

👉 Perfect for: All skin types, especially combination, oily, and sensitive skin.
👉 Pro tip: Massage it gently into dry skin for at least 1 minute prior to applying La Roche Posay Gentle Cleanser for the perfect double cleanse!

Shop the Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Oil Here! - https://amzn.to/3XRb8TD

Best Moisturizer of 2025
Product Name: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
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This moisturizer is a game-changer if you struggle with dry, sensitive, or easily irritated skin. The Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream is packed with ceramides to deeply hydrate and strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier — and it’s so gentle, it’s even safe for babies!

The texture is rich yet surprisingly lightweight, absorbing quickly without feeling sticky or heavy. After just a few uses, my skin felt noticeably softer, calmer, and more resilient against dryness and irritation. Plus, it’s vegan certified and perfect for both face and body, making it a versatile staple in any skincare routine.

👉 Perfect for: Dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, or compromised skin.
👉 Pro tip: Apply within five minutes of washing face!

Shop the Illiyoon Ceramide Cream Here! - https://amzn.to/4cjD4We

Best Sunscreen of 2025
Product Name: Centella Water-Fit Sun Serum
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If you hate the heavy, greasy feel of traditional sunscreens, you’re going to love the Centellá Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum. It delivers powerful SPF 50 protection while feeling incredibly lightweight — almost like a refreshing serum.

Formulated with centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid, it not only soothes sensitive skin but also provides a burst of hydration, making it perfect for both dry and oily skin types. Best of all? It leaves absolutely no white cast, blends effortlessly, and wears beautifully under makeup.

After using it daily, I noticed my skin felt calmer and more hydrated throughout the day, without any sticky residue or clogged pores. It’s truly a must-have for everyday sun protection!

👉 Perfect for: All skin types, especially sensitive, dry, or combination skin.
👉 Pro tip: Reapply every two hours for maximum protection without fear of pilling or greasiness.

Shop the Centella Water-Fit Sun Serum Here! - https://amzn.to/4jkHv5n

Best Vitamin C Serum of 2025
Product Name: Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Serum
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If you're looking for a gentle yet effective way to brighten your skin and fade dark spots, the GOODAL Green Tangerine Vitamin C Serum is a total gem. It uses a milder form of vitamin C extracted from green tangerines, making it powerful enough to visibly even out your skin tone while still being kind to sensitive skin.

Since adding it to my routine, I've noticed my dark spots fading and my overall complexion looking more radiant and fresh. The texture is lightweight, non-sticky, and layers beautifully under moisturizer and sunscreen. Plus, it’s packed with extra hydrating and soothing ingredients to minimize irritation — making it a great option even if you’re new to vitamin C!

👉 Perfect for: Dull skin, dark spots, uneven tone, and sensitive skin types.
👉 Pro tip: Use it consistently in the morning, prior to hyaluronic acid, for best brightening results!

Shop the Goodal Vitamin C Serum Here! - https://amzn.to/42ksutn

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum of 2025
Product Name: Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid
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When it comes to affordable, effective hydration, the Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum is one of my absolute favorites. With 1% hyaluronic acid, this lightweight, water-based serum draws moisture deep into the skin, helping it feel plumper, smoother, and more refreshed almost instantly.

The texture is silky, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly without leaving any stickiness behind. I love how it layers seamlessly with other skincare products, making it super easy to incorporate into my morning routine. Over time, I’ve noticed my skin feeling more hydrated, balanced, and even a little firmer — especially in drier weather.

👉 Perfect for: All skin types, especially dehydrated, dry, or aging skin.
👉 Pro tip: Apply it to damp skin to really boost the hydration effect, and seal it in!

Shop the Good Molecules Hyaluronic Serum Here! - https://amzn.to/4lkU42r

Best Night Serum of 2025
Product Name: Inkey List Ceramide Serum
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If your skin barrier is feeling dry, tight, or irritated, The INKEY List Ceramide Serum is a total game-changer. This lightweight serum is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to deeply rehydrate and strengthen your skin's natural barrier while you sleep.

I love how the texture is rich enough to feel comforting, yet still absorbs quickly without feeling heavy or greasy. After using it consistently at night, I noticed my skin looking calmer, smoother, and way more resilient — especially during colder months or after using stronger actives like retinol. It’s simple, effective, and delivers serious results for dry and sensitive skin types.

👉 Perfect for: Dry, dehydrated, or compromised skin needing barrier repair.
👉 Pro tip: Use it prior to your moisturizer at night for maximum hydration!

Shop the Inkey List Ceramide Serum Here! - https://amzn.to/43E7D6P

Best Exfoliator of 2025
Product Name: Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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This product is a holy grail if you struggle with uneven skin texture, clogged pores, or blackheads. The 2% salicylic acid in Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING BHA Liquid Exfoliant works like magic to gently exfoliate inside the pores, helping to clear out buildup and smooth the surface of your skin without harsh scrubbing.

Since adding it to my routine, I've noticed a huge improvement in my skin’s texture — my face feels softer, looks more even, and my pores appear less noticeable. Plus, it’s fragrance-free and gentle enough for regular use (I personally like to use it 2-3 times a week to avoid over-exfoliating). It’s a game-changer if you’re aiming for that refined, glowy, glass-skin look.

👉 Perfect for: Texture issues, clogged pores, blackheads, dullness, and early signs of aging.
👉 Pro tip: Start slow (1–2 times a week) and always follow up with sunscreen if using during the day, as exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive to the sun!

Shop the Paula's Choice Exfoliator Here! - https://amzn.to/4i7hd5A

Best Retinol of 2025
Product Name: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
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If you’re dealing with post-acne marks, uneven skin tone, or stubborn dark circles under your eyes, CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is a gentle but powerful option. This lightweight serum combines encapsulated retinol with niacinamide and licorice root extract to help fade discoloration, smooth texture, and brighten the skin — all without causing irritation.

Personally, I've seen a real difference in the darkness under my eyes and in the overall evenness of my complexion. I love that it’s non-comedogenic (so it won’t clog pores) and packed with ceramides to support the skin’s barrier, making it perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin. It’s effective, affordable, and layers beautifully under moisturizer.

👉 Perfect for: Dark spots, acne scars, uneven tone, early signs of aging, and dark circles.
👉 Pro tip: Use it at night, start slow (2–3 times a week), and always, always pair it with sunscreen in the morning to protect your results!

Shop the CeraVe Retinol Serum Here! - https://amzn.to/42mwEku

Best Toner of 2025
Product Name: Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner
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If your skin ever feels irritated, sensitive, or just needs a calming reset, the Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner is a must-try. Packed with 77% Heartleaf extract, this toner is all about soothing inflammation, reducing redness, and restoring hydration without feeling heavy or sticky.

The formula is lightweight, refreshing, and has a gentle pH of 5.5, making it perfect for supporting your skin’s natural barrier. Since using it, I’ve noticed my skin feels calmer, looks less blotchy, and stays more balanced throughout the day. Plus, it’s cruelty-free and vegan, which is always a bonus!

👉 Perfect for: Sensitive, irritated, acne-prone, or dehydrated skin.
👉 Pro tip: Apply it with your hands for an extra soothing feel, or soak a cotton pad and press it onto any particularly inflamed areas for a quick calming treatment.

Shop the Anua Heartleaf Toner Here! - https://amzn.to/4llp6Hz

Great skincare starts with the right foundation — and finding a gentle yet effective cleanser can truly transform your skin. Whether you’re battling dryness, sensitivity, or clogged pores, the products on this list are some of the best of 2025 for giving your skin the fresh, healthy start it deserves.

Remember: Consistency is key. Pair your cleanser with the right moisturizer, sunscreen, and targeted treatments, and your skin will absolutely thank you.

Here’s to glowing, healthy skin all year long!

woman in white bathrobe holding smartphone
woman in white bathrobe holding smartphone