Unlock Your Glow: The Best Skincare Products to Try This Year

Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Skincare Products of 2024

Okay, babe, let’s talk skincare. If you’re just getting into it or you’re ready to shake things up, I’ve got you covered! The world of skincare can feel super overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve done the hard work for you. I’ve rounded up the best skincare products of 2024 that are affordable and actually work, no matter what your skin type or concerns are. So grab your coffee (or wine), and let’s dive in!

The Best Skincare Products of 2024

1. Prequel Lucent-C Brightening Vitamin C Serum ($23)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Highly Potent Yet Gentle: Unlike many Vitamin C serums that can irritate sensitive skin, this formula combines stabilized Vitamin C with soothing antioxidants to brighten and protect without causing redness.

  • Visible Results Fast: Expect to see improvements in dark spots, dullness, and uneven skin tone after using it consistently for 6+ weeks. Once I discovered this vitamin C, I stopped all the other ones because this gave me the best results.

  • Budget-Friendly: At just $23, it’s an affordable alternative to pricier options, making it ideal for anyone looking to enhance their glow without breaking the bank.  PS- I even consider it a “dupe” for this high-end one.

prequel vit c

Prequel Lucent-C Brightening Vitamin C Serum

You’ve probably heard that vitamin C is an important ingredient to add to your skincare routine, and I agree. But the majority of the ones out there are so expensive. This potent yet gentle Vitamin C serum is a game-changer for achieving a radiant complexion. It’s perfect for those seeking visible results quickly and affordably.


2. Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 ($22)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Two-in-One Sun Protection + Glow: This moisturizer eliminates the need for a separate bronzing drop, simplifying your routine while delivering SPF 50 protection. It has the perfect addition of a tint to make your sun glow like you’ve been kissed by the sun.

  • Weightless Formula: Its non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture leaves your skin feeling hydrated and dewy without the sticky sunscreen feel. It blends out beautifully so you have no white cast- perfect for brown and deep skin tones.

  • Skin-Loving Ingredients: Packed with niacinamide to help improve your skins complexion while protecting it from harmful UV rays. 

Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50

Naturium is back again on my list this year in the sunscreen category. However, this year, they spiced it up a little. If you’re tired of juggling multiple products in your morning routine, this two-in-one moisturizer and sunscreen has you covered. 


3. ELF Suntouchable All Set for Sun SPF 45 ($14)

What makes this product stand out:

  • On-the-Go Friendly: This lightweight spray sets your makeup while providing broad-spectrum sun protection, making it perfect for reapplication throughout the day. It’s the easiest way to stay protected without messing up your makeup.

  • Mattifying Finish: Ideal for oily or combination skin, this product controls shine while keeping your skin protected. My biggest fear when applying sunscreen is getting greasing throughout the day but this helps combat that.

  • Affordable Luxury: At only $14, it’s proof that effective skincare doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

ELF Suntouchable All Set for Sun SPF 45

This budget-friendly multitasker is perfect for busy days when you need sun protection and a makeup refresher in one. Genius! Compact and effective, it’s a must-have in any skincare arsenal.


4. Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm ($36)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Thorough Yet Gentle Cleansing:  It effectively dissolves makeup, dirt, and oil without harsh scrubbing, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. Literally melting makeup in seconds.

  • Natural Ingredients: Infused with sunflower and ginger root oils, it’s a soothing treat for sensitive skin. Plus, it does cause or irritate acne. 

  • Eco-Conscious Packaging: Farmacy prioritizes sustainability with its recyclable jar, making it a great choice for eco-conscious beauty lovers.

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Struggling to remove stubborn makeup and sunscreen? This cleansing balm is your ultimate solution for a thorough yet gentle cleanse, leaving your skin refreshed and residue-free. It is a must for clear skin!



5. Pond’s Dry Skin Cream Facial Moisturizer ($8)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Timeless Classic: A beloved product for decades, this rich moisturizer deeply hydrates dry skin, leaving it soft and smooth. Some things don’t need to change.

  • Budget Hero: At just $8, it's widely available and incredibly affordable, making it an accessible option for all. I apply double layers on extreme dry spots.

  • Great under makeup: Despite its richness, it absorbs quickly, making it the perfect makeup base. Because of how hydrating this product is, it helps prevent caking under makeup.

Pond’s Dry Skin Cream Facial Moisturizer

Remember your mom or grandma using this product? They knew what they were doing! This classic moisturizer is a tried-and-true favorite. It’s deeply hydrating, affordable, and perfect for maintaining soft, smooth skin all year round.

6. Thayers Blemish Clearing Toner with 2% Salicylic Acid ($15)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Targeted Acne Solution: This toner helps clear blemishes and prevent future breakouts with its 2% salicylic acid concentration. It does not sting, make you dry, or irritate skin.

  • Alcohol-Free: Unlike many acne treatments, this toner is alcohol-free, so it won’t dry out your skin.

  • Soothing and Calming: With witch hazel (its secret ingredient) and aloe vera, it soothes and hydrates your skin while keeping blemishes at bay. Hundreds of years later, Thayers still harvest their own organic witch hazel every year!

Thayers Blemish Clearing Toner with 2% Salicylic Acid

Another cult-favorite for good reason! Say goodbye to breakouts with this gentle yet effective toner. It’s perfect for tackling acne and keeping your skin clear without over-drying.

7. Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher ($48)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Multitasking Exfoliator: This 3-in-1 formula exfoliates, brightens, and hydrates your skin for that coveted glass skin look.

  • Gentle Yet Effective: Featuring cellulose beads, it provides a non-abrasive exfoliation suitable for even sensitive skin types. While using this product, the beads slowly melt into your skin.

  • Renews your skin: With regular use, this delivers smooth, radiant skin while improving your overall texture and tone.

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher

The secret to glass skin look? No dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. Best way to remove them? This gentle yet powerful exfoliator! 

8. Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb with Peptide and Ceramide ($38)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Intensive Hydration: This cream provides up to hours of moisture, making it a game-changer for dry or mature skin without making you look oily. 

  • Strengthens Skin Barrier: With ceramides and peptides, it reinforces your skin’s barrier, improving elasticity and resilience.

  • Lightweight and Non-Greasy: This moisturizer absorbs quickly without leaving any residue, making it perfect for oily and combination skin.

Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb with Peptide and Ceramide

If your skin craves intense hydration, look no further than this moisturizing bomb. It’s designed to keep your skin plump and supple for hours on end.

9. Osea Ocean Eyes Age-Defying Eye Serum ($58)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Targeted Anti-Aging: This serum visibly reduces fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles, leaving your under-eyes looking refreshed.

  • Marine-Based Ingredients: Infused with seaweed and hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates and nourishes the delicate eye area.

  • Cooling Applicator: The metal tip delivers a soothing, depuffing sensation, perfect for morning use. Literal joy every morning.

Osea Ocean Eyes Age-Defying Eye Serum

Tired of tired-looking eyes? This age-defying eye serum is here to brighten, hydrate, and firm your under-eye area, making you look refreshed and awake.

10. Fenty Skin Thicc N Smooth Rich Peptide Eye Cream ($42)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Deep Nourishment: This creamy formula is rich in peptides and helps improve elasticity while reducing signs of fatigue.

  • Brightening Benefits: It also includes caffeine to diminish the appearance of dark circles over time.

  • Little goes a long way: This cream is so hydrating and creamy that one twist of the product will be enough for your under eyes!

Fenty Skin Thicc N Smooth Rich Peptide Eye Cream

For an ultra-nourishing solution to under-eye concerns, this peptide-rich cream hydrates, firms, and brightens your skin while delivering luxurious care. The packaging is perfect for my long nail lovers.

11. Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum ($38)

What makes this product stand out:

  • Radiance Boosting: This serum delivers an instant glow while improving skin texture and tone over time.

  • Lightweight and Non-Greasy: This serum absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, making it perfect for all skin types.

  • Perfect Prep Step: It’s an excellent primer for makeup, ensuring a smooth, flawless application. My makeup looks flawless everytime I use this underneath.

Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum

Glow up instantly with this lightweight serum that preps your skin for makeup or simply enhances your natural radiance. It’s perfect for a dewy, hydrated look.

Final Thoughts

See? Skincare doesn’t have to be this big, confusing, expensive thing. These products are total game-changers and make it so easy to build a routine that actually works. Whether you’re hunting for the best sunscreen, a killer anti-aging serum, or the perfect moisturizer, I’ve got you covered. Now, go treat your skin—you deserve it!


Disclaimer: This is just my opinion, and everyone's skin is different. Always do a patch test before trying any new products.

Get the Perfect Skincare Routine with These Top 12 Products of 2023 That Will Leave Your Skin Looking Incredible

Unveiling the Ultimate Skincare Arsenal of 2023

Are you ready to unveil the ultimate secret to radiant, flawless skin? Dive into the world of skincare with me as I reveal the top 12 products that have been my steadfast companions throughout the year 2023. These gems, a fusion of affordable finds and luxurious indulgences, have transformed my skincare routine, ensuring that my skin looks and feels incredible every day. From battling breakouts to achieving that enviable dewy glow, these products have been my go-to arsenal, elevating my skincare game to new heights.

The best skincare products of 2023 that will leave your skin looking incredible! Plus, I show you te exact order to apply the products!

1. Cleanser: Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5%

Starting with a clean canvas is crucial, and Naturium's Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser 5% does just that! It's gentle yet powerful, effectively combating acne and breakouts without stripping your skin's natural moisture. If you are dealing with breakouts, try this to get a super fresh cleanse and prevent future acne.

2. Toner: Ren Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

Ren Skincare’s AHA Tonic works wonders in exfoliating and brightening your skin. With a blend of lactic and azelaic acids, it gently dissolves dead skin cells, revealing a radiant complexion. I used this once a day with a reusable pad and saw my skin brighten and pores clear up over time.

3. Essence: Rhode Glazing Milk

Rhode’s Glazing Milk is an absolute gem, hydrating your skin deeply while enhancing its natural glow. It’s lightweight, making it a perfect addition to any skincare routine, locking in moisture and vitality. It leaves your skin with the juiciest plump - a true Hailey Beiber finish!

4. Eye Cream: Clarins Double Serum Eye Firming & Hydrating Concentrate

The delicate skin around your eyes deserves extra care, and Clarins' Double Serum Eye Concentrate does just that! It firms, hydrates, and minimizes dark circles, giving your eyes a refreshed and youthful appearance. I love that this is part cream and part serum formula- giving you the best of both worlds! Plus, the packaging is absolutely lovely and gives you the correct amount with each pump. 

5. Vitamin C: Paula's Choice 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum

For that coveted radiant complexion, Paula's Choice Vitamin C Serum is a must-have. Packed with antioxidants, it brightens, evens skin tone, and defends against environmental stressors. I loved the cream formula of this product! I think this helped give me a glow while reducing dark spots over time.

6. Retinol: Kiehl’s Retinol Fast Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum

Bid farewell to fine lines and wrinkles with Kiehl’s Retinol Night Serum. Its fast-release formula minimizes signs of aging and promotes smoother, firmer skin overnight. This product is super fresh because, upon purchase, you physically create the retinol. It's also on the stronger side which is perfect for someone who has been using retinol for a while. 

7. Serum: Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate

Lancôme's Advanced Génifique Serum is a game-changer! It boosts radiance, evens skin texture, and leaves your skin feeling rejuvenated and youthful. This luxury formula gives you rich hydration all day long! 

8. Moisturizer: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Lock in hydration with La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Moisturizer. Formulated with prebiotic thermal water, it soothes and replenishes your skin's moisture barrier, perfect for sensitive skin. I don’t even have dry skin but this product was on repeat during the colder months of the year. My skin was left very hydrated, which prevented future dryness, and even helped repair my skin barrier. 

9. SPF: Naturium UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50

Sun protection is non-negotiable, and Naturium's SPF products offer stellar protection! The UV Reflect and Dew Glow Moisturizer provides broad-spectrum coverage while giving your skin a radiant glow. Both options are brown girl-approved leaving NO white cast at all! They blend out in no time at all.

& Dew Glow Moisturizer SPF 50

If you have normal to oily skin, I recommend the UV Reflect Antioxidant SPF 50.

If you have dry to normal skin, I recommend the Dew Glow Moisturizer SPF 50.

10. Lip Balm: Fenty Skin Plush Puddin

Treat your lips to the luxurious care they deserve with Fenty Skin’s Plush Puddin Lip Balm. It's ultra-nourishing and leaves your lips feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. You will not need another lip balm after trying this one! Chapped lips who?! The twist-up packaging is brilliant for anyone with long nails and also prevents contaminating the product in the jar. This is a thick n juicy formula that lasts so long and heals your lips!

11. Acne Patches: Hanhoo T-Zone Pore Patch

Combat pesky breakouts and dark spots with Hanhoo's innovative patches! The T-Zone Pore Patch helps control excess oil which gets all the junk out overnight.

& Hanhoo Dark Spot Brightening Patch

While the Dark Spot Brightening Patch fades hyperpigmentation for clearer skin. I saw a change in my dark spots after a pimple in just 3 days!


12. Face Oil: Osea Dayglow Face Oil

Osea’s Dayglow Face Oil is a skincare superhero, packed with antioxidants and vitamins. It restores balance to your skin, leaving it radiant and revitalized. This has been my favorite face oil to use for all my gua sha face workouts in 2023. It smells wonderful and doesn’t feel too thick. 

Use code KRITY10 for 10% off

Elevate Your Skincare, Elevate Your Confidence

As I reflect on the past year, these top 12 skincare products have been the stars of my routine. They've been the reliable companions I've reached for day in and day out, offering a blend of affordable solutions and luxurious treats. From the gentle caress of Naturium's cleanser to the transformative effects of Lancôme's serum, these products have contributed to the radiant, healthy skin I proudly wear.

Remember, skincare isn’t just about flawless exteriors; it’s about the confidence that comes from feeling comfortable in your skin. Experiment, explore, and find the perfect blend of products that suit your unique needs. Whether you opt for an affordable gem or splurge on a luxurious treat, what matters most is the care and attention you give your skin.

May your skincare journey be filled with self-care, self-love, and the joy of watching your skin thrive.

Thank you for reading!!

XOXO,

Krity 

*I get a commission for purchases made through links in this post*

Four Vitamins That Should Be In Your Skincare Routine

My skin is feeling ____, what skincare product should I use? 

Skincare vitamin serums and how skincare benefits

Are you trying to prevent wrinkles or reduce the appearance of the wrinkles? Would you like your skin to look less dull, possibly add some glow? Or are you looking to even out your skin tone and texture? Many of us are trying to better the appearance of our skin, fighting one of the issues above or all three. The main question is how!? Well, I believe it is through using the correct skincare products with the right vitamins. Vitamins A, B, C, and E all target different skincare issues and they are a vital part in preventing aging. But which one does what? And when should you use them? Can I use all four vitamins at the same time? Well I’m breaking down each skincare vitamin below in simple English.

Comment below and tell me which skincare concern you most relate to.

VITAMIN A - Anti -Aging

Are your main skincare concerns the wrinkles you currently have or want to prevent? If so, adding vitamin A will help! Retinol is one of the best ingredients to help prevent fine lines as well as help reduce the ones you may already have. Vitamin A not only helps fight signs of aging but can help control acne and reduce acne scarring over time. 

Use retinol and night 2-5 times a week depending on your age. If you’re new to retinol, start slow and work your way up to more days. Apply to dry skin (not damp skin). Make sure to always follow up with SPF the following day. I prefer to use retinol at night after cleansing and follow up with a moisturizer. Do not use retinol if you are pregnant or doing laser hair removal to the area where you are applying retinol. Shop some of my favorite retinol below. 

Vitamin pairs well with vitamin B

VITAMIN B- SKIN BARRIER PROTECTOR

Is your skin feeling dry or looking blotchy? If so, consider adding vitamin B into your skincare routine. Vitamin B is one of the best ingredients for sensitive skin and pairs well with a lot of other skincare ingredients. Vitamin B builds moisture for dehydrated skin. It helps even out skin tones/ pigmentation. A prime example of vitamin B is Niacinamide. Niacinamide pairs really well with retinol (vitamin A). Retinol can cause irritation for many people, and adding niacinamide to the routine, can alleviate some irritation. 

VITAMIN C- Enhances Clarity & Glow

Is your skin looking dull or uneven? Vitamin C is a miracle worker and is one of my all-time favorite skincare ingredients. If you feel that your skin looks dull, uneven, or sun-damaged with dark spots- vitamin C will be your go-to! I recommend using vitamin C 3-6 times a week in the morning and following up with sunscreen. Over time, you will see a huge improvement and gain a glowing complexion. Vitamin c also pairs well with vitamin E and can be found combined together in some serums. Some of my favorite vitamin C serums are below. 

Check out my post on vitamin C  HERE

VITAMIN E- Emergency Repair

Okay so maybe you overused a skin ingredient too much and now your skin feels aggravated, reddened, dry, or is flaking. If that is the case, vitamin E will be your go-to! I also recommend using vitamin E if your skin is mature or has scars. A couple of examples of vitamin E are facial oils (like jojoba seed, rosehip oil) or moisturizers. While vitamin E may not be the most drastic skin improving ingredient, it works really well when combined with other ingredients like vitamin C. Making sure your skin is moisturized correctly over time will help tremendously- most of us don’t hydrate our skin enough. 

Skincare vitamin serums and how skincare benefits

In my personal opinion, a combination of using all four vitamins is crucial for youthful and healthy skin. I recommend alternating between the vitamins through your morning and evening routines and alternating different days throughout the week. Also keep in mine to give your skin and these ingredients time to actually work. It can take 6 to 12 weeks to see changes so keep at it! 


Thank you for reading!!

XOXO,

Krity 

Photography by Ashley Gallerani

*I get a commission for purchases made through links in this post*

April 2018 Beauty Favorites

It's finally feeling like Spring here in NYC and my skin is totally loving the warmer fresher air! I wanted to share my easy morning routine with you all this month because I have seen a difference in my skin from using the following products. I have an oily t-zone but some dry parts too, like my chin, so I try my best to give every area of my face the kind of love it requires. I do this skin prep before I apply any makeup on or just as is if I'm not in the mood for makeup that day.

1. Wash my face

I make sure to rinse my face off every morning to start off with a clean slate. I prefer to use a mild face was like Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser- creamy formula or Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. These products help get dirt, oil, and dead skin off of your face without harming your skin.

2. Scrub lips

I absolutely hate when my lips are chapped and cracked. Once or twice a week I scrub my lips with Found Exfoliating Lip Scrub to get all the dead skin off. I apply on a generous amount and massage in the product then after 1-2 minutes, wipe off the product. It leaves my lips feeling oh-so-smooth!

3. Nourish under eyes

On days where I really see black circles/ redness/ or just look really tired, I like to perk my eyes up by using the Patchology Rejuvenating Eye Gels. I simply apply the eye mask on and leave it on for 5-10 minutes. The feel nice and cool under the eye. After the time is up, feel free to rub in the excess serum into your skin!

4. Serum 

I started using a serum on my face about a year ago and I didn't know how nice it well it helped the skin! I apply one pump of the Innisfree Intensive Hydrating Serum all over my face and let in soak in. The serum is light weight and filled with amino acids and minerals to nourish the skin. 

5. Jade Roller 

After I apply the serum, I take a cool jade roller and roll my face and neck. I keep my jade roller in the fridge or cool it in ice for 5 minutes prior to using. This simple step cools the jade down and really helps wake the skin up. Make sure you always roll the jade roller in an upwards motion. 

6. Under Eye Cream

Under the eyes are a sensitive spot and will show the first signs of aging first. So make sure to take care of them. I use the Innisfree Youthenriched Eye Cream. The formula is creamy and really eyes my dry under eye skin a lift. The Jeju Orchid helps strengthen, firm, smooth, nourish and brighten the look of skin around the eyes

7. Moisturize Skin

I am currently using the Patchology Daily Gel Moisturizer and loving it! It is a water-based gel moisturizer that is perfect for my oily skin! It gives serious hydration powder but leaves my skin looking matte all day. It's lightweight and pore-friendly, never sticky or greasy. I love Patchology products and trust them to create items I love!

8. Target Dry Areas

My chin is dry and needs a little extra love. So I use a heavier cold cream that really nourishes the dryness so my skin does not flake. The perfect cream for dry skin is the Aloepure Maximum Moisture Complex. This cream also helps prevent wrinkles! 

9. Lips

Last but not least, I finish off by using the classic chapstick to prevent and cure chapped lips! The classic flavor is my favorite!

Thank you for reading!!

XOXO,

Krity 

*I get commission for purchases or clicks made through links in this post*