The subreddit r/SkincareAddiction is a treasure trove of skin-care information, product recommendations, routine critiques, reviews, and "shelfies," where users display their products like awards. The users are so knowledgeable about skin care, it will completely transform the way you think about products. It'll also clue you into ingredients to look for and avoid.
I first got into skin care when I turned 30 and spent hours on this subreddit. It became clear that Redditors on the forum have go-to products that they love. On r/SkincareAddiction, users are wary of expensive products when a cheaper one will do, so this list of Reddit holy grail skin-care products are easy on the wallet. Your face will thank you.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Face and Body Moisturizer, $12.14, at Walmart
r/SkincareAddiction users love the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Face and Body Moisturizer so much that it is affectionally referred to as "the tub." It's used as an all-around moisturizer, but excels most as an occlusive — the last layer of a skin-care regime that seals hydration and products into the skin.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, $8.70, at Sephora
Many products by The Ordinary are lauded by Redditors, but the Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a favorite chemical exfoliant. You get a lot of product for $8.70. On the advice of r/SkincareAddiction, I tried this out and now it's become one of my personal holy grails. I even use it on my arms and legs to avoid keratosis pilaris.
It can be irritating, so work your way up to nightly use. I use it two to three times per week and feel like that keeps my skin happy.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer, $68, at Sephora
The Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer is a ~controversial~ product in r/SkincareAddiction, but those who love it cite its heavenly texture and inclusion of epidermal growth factors and proteins. Others roll their eyes at the high price and recommend the Acure Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream, which is a 91% Drunk Elephant Protini dupe.
Maximum Strength Alcohol Free Acne Pads 55 Count, $7.72, at Walmart
Another beloved product, the Maximum Strength Alcohol Free Acne Pads are a BHA pad used to fight acne. It contains salicylic acid, which is the gold standard in beating zits and blackheads. Users refer to this as the "red box."
Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, $38, at Sephora
Redditors adore the Fresh Soy Cleanser for its gentleness. It doesn't contain fragrances and doesn't strip skin of natural oils, but it does get skin squeaky-clean. This should be used as part of a double-cleansing routine. Use it directly after a cleansing oil.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50 PA++++, $15.99, at oo35mm
Asian sunscreens are far superior to American sunscreens for their higher sun-protection coverage and cosmetic elegance. This Japanese sunscreen is a holy grail for many Redditors. Its perfection can't be overstated. It feels as if you've applied a gel moisturizer and dries quickly for a matte finish that doesn't pill or disagree with makeup. It does contain alcohol as a drying agent, so those sensitive to alcohol should try a patch test first.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, $7.20 at Sephora
Another Ordinary fave, the Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is an intensive chemical peel that is often compared with the Drunk Elephant Sukari Babyfacial. It's a bright red color, so it looks like you've smeared your face with blood — perfect for a Halloween peel!
Hada Labo Rohto Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion, $14.98, at Amazon
r/SkincareAddiction fans rave about the Hada Labo Rohto Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion. It's a deeply moisturizing toner and should be applied after cleansing. I tried this and was blown away by how plump my skin looks that same day. It's become my winter holy grail.
Kikumasamune Rich Moisture Japanese Sake Lotion, $12.99, at oo35mm
Redditors also love the Kikumasamune Rich Moisture Japanese Sake Lotion as a toner/essence, and it really comes down to preference over the Hada Labo lotion. This one does contain fragrance, so it may irritate those with sensitive skin (or those who just hate products with fragrances).
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $21 at Sokoglam
Even though this product contains 96% snail mucin, it's formulated into a watery essence, which helps it absorb into the skin better than creams. Redditors love snail mucin, citing its anti-redness, smoothing, and brightening benefits. I can also attest that snail slime rules!
Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, $33.99 at Mad Hippie
r/SkincareAddiction users religiously apply vitamin C products. The Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum contains the trifecta of vitamin power: vitamin C as sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ferulic acid, and vitamin E. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is recommended for those who can't handle l-ascorbic acid. The brand sent me a bottle to try out, and I quickly saw why Redditors love it so much.
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