24 Beauty Products That Reviewers Say Actually Work As Advertised

Keep reading if you like getting exactly what you paid for.
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We’ve all been there: You’re excited to use a new beauty product, then feel let down when it doesn’t meet your expectations. Get ready to leave those days of disappointment behind you. We’ve rounded up beauty products that actually do what they advertise  — and we have the customer reviews to prove it. Say hello to finally getting your money’s worth! 

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1
An acne patch
Perfect for those days when a pimple pops up at the worst possible moment. Hydrocolloid, tea tree oil and calendula oil are gentle on the skin while still drawing out fluids and pus from your pimple.

Promising review: "These did exactly what they said they would. I had a rather large acne area breakout under my chin. Overnight it nearly disappeared! I will say these are best on spots with a whitehead as they work by drawing the yucky stuff out. I will definitely be getting these again." — Heather E Tapp

Get a pack of 40 patches from Amazon for $8.49.
2
A box of pore-tightening, skin-lifting face masks
This mask will truly terrify you at first because you'll look like a zombie. But it's also so darn effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Promising review: "Smells great! This face mask does exactly what it says. My skin is nice and lifted, hydrated, noticeable reduction in fine lines, improved texture, reduced my pore size, and eliminated some newly developed rough patches forming around the hairline. Couldn't be more satisfied with this product! I have pretty good skin for 37, but this mask has really helped take my skin to the next level" — Samantha

Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $30.48.
3
A Revlon hot air brush
It'll help you go from wet, tangled, frizzy hair to a shiny, salon-worthy blowout in minutes. The brush has special vents that allow air to flow so hair dries faster. Plus, it's quicker than using a dryer and then a flat iron or curling iron, which means less heat damage. FYI, this is the hot air brush that all the influencers you follow on Instagram are raving about because it is just 👏 that 👏 good 👏

Promising review: "This product did what it said it would and more. It is easy to use, and it has saved me time getting ready in the morning. My hair is so shiny and full of volume. It feels very healthy. Even the ends of my hair look good. I have even been able to use it to extend days between washes. Very impressed." — Sara Kovach

Get it from Amazon for $41.88+ (available in four colors).
4
A Schick Silk dermaplaning razor
You'll want this if the thought of trimming your brows reminds you of the horrible time in middle school when you accidentally shaved off half your eyebrow. Thankfully, this has a precision cover to prevent such mishaps.

Promising review: "Performed as advertised. I have RA and plucking was painful but, these are perfect." — No

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $4.99.
5
A tub of brightening, firming and rejuvenating eye cream
So you at least look like you got some sleep, even if you were up until 2 a.m. scrolling through Instagram.

Promising reviews: "Loved this product. It does what is advertised. I will buy again." — Jo Beth Green

"Exactly as advertised. Great price, super creamy, and moisturizing. Will definitely purchase again." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
6
A soap brows kit
Perfect for anyone who wants to try this beauty trend they've seen all over TikTok. This method will help make your brows look thicker using just your existing hairs. And of course you can go in with a brow pen or powder to add even more fullness.

Promising review: "Great product! Just as advertised." — Rabbits And Rainbows

Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
7
Or a no-fuss clear eyebrow gel
It'll hold each hair in place so your brows always look perfectly groomed.

Promising review: "This brow gel is exactly as advertised. It goes on smooth and will last all day, no chunking or flaking. For the price it's just incredible." — Becca

Get it from Amazon for $4.82.
8
A blackhead remover
It features a powerful head to suction up blackheads, whiteheads, grease and leftover makeup. It comes with four different attachments for all your skin care needs, as well as five suction levels so you can clear up your skin without painful blackhead-removing strips.

Promising review: "This product works as advertised. I was surprised and a little grossed out by the stuff it pulled from my pores. I've been using it about a month now and it's helping my pores look smaller (and cleaner!) Works great for oily skin and clogged pores." — Hugatree

Get it from Amazon for $25.59+ (available in four colors).
9
A cruelty-free lengthening mascara
You need this if your dream is for your lashes to hold a voluminous curl. It's lightweight, won't transfer, doesn't smudge and lasts all day — what more could you ask for?

Promising review: "One of the few products that actually performs as advertised. I was so impressed by the waterproof version that I also got the regular — both are fantastic (and I have tried A LOT of mascaras). Best value ever!" — Candace70

Get it from Amazon for $4.99.
10
A versatile pore-cleaning clay mask
This effective face mask empties your pores and brightens dark spots — but it also excels as a hair mask, especially if you have natural hair, and foot soak. Reviewers recommend mixing it with ACV, but you may want to skip this step if you have sensitive skin.

Promising review: "Works as advertised. I’ve been using this product for about two months and it’s worked wonders on my adult acne. My skin is noticeably brighter and I’m no longer having painful breakouts or breakouts at all. I’m so thankful that I’ve discovered this." — Kessla S.

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.
11
A bottle of rosehip oil
You'll want this if your skin has lost its glow. Its antioxidants and fatty acids may help brighten dark spots and restore your skin's plumpness. Use it on your face, nails and body for scrumdiddlyumptious results.

Promising review: "Excellent product. Heals scars and rejuvenates your skin just as advertised. I wholly recommend." — ThothDaMagi

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.
12
A Coty setting powder
It helps in regulating your skin's oil production so you can face — pun intended! — another sweaty day like a pro. This long-lasting loose powder also smooths the appearance of fine lines and blemishes (looking at you, adult acne).

Promising review: "Works well. I'm new to makeup and as far as I can tell this product works well and works as advertised." — Jessica Sexton

Get it from Amazon for $5.97 (available in four shades).
13
A collagen-coating hair treatment
Bek O'Connell / BuzzFeed
It'll revitalize a mane that's dry, damaged and overprocessed. Waking up with frizz-free hair? Yes, please!

Promising review: "I have very thick, very long curly hair. My expectations for this product were extremely low since I have tried a great variety of products that seemingly work but eventually fail. This product stands out among the rest. It does exactly what it advertises. I was amazed at how easily I was able to comb through my hair after just one use. I am so excited to have found this and will keep purchasing it in the future." — Gigi

Get it from Amazon for $6.99.
14
A multiuse skin care oil
This can be used to treat a variety of issues, including uneven skin, stretch marks and acne scars. It helps your body retain moisture (bye-bye, dry skin!) and absorbs into the skin fast so you won't feel greasy.

Promising review: "This oil is wonderful. It smells amazing, has a perfect consistency, and makes my skin smooth and not greasy — just as advertised. Will absolutely purchase again." — Holly Anger

Get it from Amazon for $8.92.
15
A moisturizing hair treatment
Perfect if you're the impatient type. In just eight seconds — eight! — it starts working to leave your mane feeling silkier, softer and smoother after washing.

Promising review: "This does everything as advertised and makes you believe it. This product is the s**t." — Morningwood

Get it from Amazon for $8.97.
16
A cruelty-free NYX matte lipstick
It boasts a fantastic color payoff and lasting power so you can get your money's worth. It won't get dry and flaky on your lips, plus you can always top it off with a ~poppin'~ gloss of your choice.

Promising review: "I love lipsticks and have a lot but I hate paying high prices. This lipstick does exactly what it says and is inexpensive so I can buy a ton of them!" — Sharon Hope

Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in 41 colors).
17
A Rimmel setting spray
Because you want your makeup to maintain that matte look all day — and by all day, we mean ALL DAY. It controls shine, locks in your makeup, dries quickly and is oil-free.

Promising review: "Works exactly as advertised. Closes pores for a great, smooth complexion. Doesn't irritate skin." — Fluidity

Get it from Amazon for $5.97.
18
A waterproof NYX liquid eyeliner
So you can draw wings that are sharper than your biting sarcasm.

Promising review: "I put this eyeliner on around noon, went on several walks, got very sweaty throughout the day, and even took a shower and the only reason it smudged was because I was rubbing my eyes. The shower water itself did nothing to this eyeliner. I'd say it does what's advertised and I highly recommend it and would buy it again." — Zoe Stigon

Get it from Amazon for $7.11 (available in two colors).
19
A cruelty-free and vegan Milani baked blush
It'll make those cheeks pop! It comes with a mini brush to help you expertly build up coverage so you're literally glowing all day.

Promising review: "I was a little skeptical at first that this would work as advertised. First time took a little getting used to as it was so different than the blush I had used for years. But I got so many compliments that I use it every day. Love it." — SLD

Get it from Amazon for $6.39+ (available in eight shades).
20
A Maybelline concealer
Kayla Suazo / BuzzFeed
It helps mask dark circles and reduce under-eye puffiness (because what is sleep?). It may be what feels like the millionth Monday you've woken up wishing it was still the weekend, but at least you'll look fresh, well-rested and ready to take on the day.

Promising review: "This product does what it advertises. It is nearly full coverage, though I sometimes have to reapply on really red areas. I would not call it a moisturizer, but it does not dry out my skin as much as some other cosmetics. The way the applicator is designed makes it easy to apply without having to use my fingers or a sponge." — Maria Coker

Get it from Amazon for $7.98 (available in 18 shades).
21
A detangling brush for 3A–4C hair
A great product if you've ever fantasized about snapping your current hair brush over your knee. This revolutionary brush has eight flexible comb arms with dozens of bristles that'll painlessly unknot your hair, whether it's wet or dry.

Promising review: "This brush is head-ready for the type hair advertised! It's a great head scrubber when shampooing, or detangling and defining coils!/curls. I love it! The lightweight airiness of the brush is easy to hold and keep clean!" — Yogii

Get it from Amazon for $7.66+ (available in five colors).
22
A keratin treatment
It has argan oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, aloe, amino acids and more so your scalp and strands are moisturized, soft, silky and so freaking shiny.

Promising review: "Excellent product and just as advertised. The smell is amazing — not too strong nor too flowery. I normally have very dry, frizzy hair, and this conditioner helped to combat some of the frizz and dryness. It made my hair more softer, and smoother. It also did not weigh my hair down like some conditioners do, and my hair felt very light. The only con I have is that the bottle is small, and it's a bit expensive." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
23
A Glossier cream blush
Because you're tired of applying blush and looking like a clown. This blendable, buildable formula gives you a beautiful and natural-looking flush of color. Apply it with your fingers for a stunning glow.

Promising review: "I wear Glossier Skin Tint in Light and I bought Cloud Paint in Haze. Wow. It is absolutely wonderful. It feels amazing on my cheeks and adds so much dimension without me having to try. Haze has a pretty rich pigment, so a little goes a really long way! It also works with skin tint really well. It blends seamlessly as advertised and feels weightless. I can't wait to buy the rest of the colors!!" — Kc

Get it from Glossier for $18 (available in eight shades).
24
A cruelty-free vitamin C serum
It'll give your skin a much-needed pick-me-up. Just listen to the 47,000+ people who gave it a 5-star review: This stuff brightens, softens and dramatically fades hyperpigmentation.

Promising review: "Works as advertised. I find it makes the dark marks disappear much quicker after a breakout. I bought this for mild under eye wrinkles and have definitely seen the difference. Been using it for two months or so and now it's part of my holy grail products. I also noticed that I have had less breakouts since I started using this product." — M. Russell

Get it from Amazon for $19.99.

Before You Go

20 Effective Skincare Products That Might Make You Think, "Why Didn't I Buy This Sooner?"
A Farmacy Cleansing Balm(01 of20)
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Melt away dirt, grime and stubborn makeup with this ginger root- and sunflower oil-based formula.

Promising review: "This product is truly a pleasure to use! I enjoy it as the first step in my evening double cleanse, and it really does an amazing job just melting away any makeup or sunscreen. It's gentle enough to use around the eye area, and it feels so nice to massage into my face. It cleans off easily in water, making it a great first step in the cleansing process. Also, this product smells GREAT — so fresh and clean. I normally don't prefer fragrance in my skincare products, but since this is a wash-off product, it's not a deal-breaker. I highly recommend it, and I will be re-purchasing!" — TheWittyKnit

Get it from Sephora for $34.
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A Drunk Elephant Antioxidant Face Oil(02 of20)
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If you're done dealing with dry skin, this hydrating face oil will help boost moisture, thanks to Marula seed oil and other antioxidants.

Promising review: "This oil is so good. I use it at night over my serum and moisturizer. It’s super lightweight and just locks in the moisture! I wake up with a glow and I usually never wake up with a moisturized glow despite my use of an ultra hydrating moisturizer! I like to gently pat this product in and only use a small amount. It stays on all night and only a slight residue is left in the morning. It does not feel sticky or thick at all, which is great. I have combo, acne-prone skin that is on the sensitive side and this does not make me break out!" — kar100

Get it from Sephora for $72 (available in two sizes).
(credit:Sephora)
A customized skin care regimen(03 of20)
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Personalize your regimen with this skin care-friendly subscription that'll provide you with a face wash, night cream and more essentials.

Get a 30-day trial subscription for $30.
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A bottle of Tend Skin Solution(04 of20)
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Apply it once a day after shaving to help keep ingrown hairs and razor bumps at bay.

Promising review: "This stuff is AMAZING. You would never believe it, but it works wonders. One of the worst parts of summer for me is razor burn and chafing/irritation, particularly at the beach when the hair follicles on my legs dry up from the saltwater. This stuff prevents ALL of that. No bumps, no pain nothing." — Claire

Get it from Amazon for $16.
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A Versed Wash It Out Gel Cleanser(05 of20)
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Gently cleanse your face with gentle gel-based formula that'll remove debris and makeup without stripping the skin barrier.

Promising review: "This is a simple cleanser, but it does everything I need a simple cleanser to do. It cleanses without stripping the skin, it doesn't leave any residue and it is eye-safe. It is slightly peppermint-y, but it doesn't sting my skin or eyes, which is something I was definitely worried about at the beginning. Because it is so gentle, I typically use this as a second cleanse or my cleanser in the morning. Overall, it is such a great cleanser and I enjoy having it in my routine." — MOREBEVERLYCHERIE

Get it from Versed for $12.99.
(credit:Versed Skincare)
A jar of First Aid Beauty Radiance Pads(06 of20)
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Get a glowing complexion in as much time as it takes you to pick up a pad, gently swipe it across your face and toss it in the trash. They're alcohol-free and safe to use on sensitive skin.

Promising review: "I started using this product months ago when I started noticing clogged pores and tiny bumps on my cheeks. This product has been a life-saver! Not only did this help eliminate my clogged pores, but it leaves my face glowing! I have very sensitive skin and haven't had any issues with it." — Melissa House

Get a pack of 28 from Amazon for $18+ (available in two sizes).
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An Eva Naturals face serum(07 of20)
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It's formulated with aloe, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, retinol and salicylic acid that help minimize dark spots and excessive redness.

Promising review: "I am a licensed esthetician who suffers from hormonal cystic acne that leaves horrible scarring on my sensitive skin, my skin has improved so much since I started using this product! For the first couple of weeks my skin purged out any underlying blemishes but afterwards was clearer and smoother than I’ve seen it in YEARS! I love that it not only targeted my acne scarring with the vitamin C, but it also soothes the redness with the niacinamide, has anti-aging properties from the retinol and helps minimize my blackheads and pore size with the salicylic acid." — Jackie

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.
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A tube of Tatcha sunscreen(08 of20)
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Use as a shield against the sun (thank you, SPF 35!) and as a makeup primer so your foundation will stay on all day.

Promising review: "The best daily sunscreen I have ever used! It has improved my skins texture, blurs pores, absorbs in immediately and leaves my skin feeling great!" — ancanc

Get it from Sephora for $65.
(credit:Maitland Quitmeyer / BuzzFeed)
A Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser(09 of20)
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This conditioning face wash doubles as a makeup remover, making it easy to cleanse your skin and take off concealer, foundation or blush.

Promising review: "Love this stuff so much! Since I have sensitive skin, it's always been hard for me to find a good cleanser. But this stuff is awesome. It's so gentle and feels so nice when you massage it into your skin. Its texture is amazing and better than any other gel cleanser I've tried. I can tell that my skin has improved after using this stuff. A bonus is the subtle rose smell, which is thankfully not from any artificial fragrance. This cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin." — glitter

Get it from Glossier for $9+ (available in two sizes).
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Mighty Patch pimple patches(10 of20)
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These babies suck nasty gunk out of your zits overnight, so you can wake up with clearer skin and avoid popping pimples.

Promising review: "I do not claim to understand the science behind this tiny miracles, but they have changed my life. I spent my workday looking forward to going home and putting one of these bad boys on my newly erupted Mt. Zit and the overnight results were shocking. Not only is it grossly satisfying, but it saved me several days of walking around with a bloody crater in my face because my previous method of dealing with unsightly blemishes was to pick, pick and pick." — Amazon Customer

Get a pack of 36 patches from Amazon for $12.50.
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A Versed Daily Brightening Solution(11 of20)
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Target post-breakout dark spots with a combination of AHAs, kojic acid and bearberry extract that'll gently exfoliate and reveal a brighter-looking complexion.

Promising review: "My skin is brighter than it's ever been and it's so soft to the touch. The texture of my nose is noticeably smoother. The prices can't be ignored, either; I was willing to pay much more if reviews told me I needed higher priced products. Versed is affordable and really works. I'm a Versed convert!" — JOYOUS202

Get it from Versed for $17.99.
(credit:Versed Skincare)
A Mario Badescu facial spray(12 of20)
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It's infused with calming chamomile and lavender for a quick hydration boost. Spritz it on your face whenever your skin is feeling dry and tight.

Promising review: "This is a worthwhile indulgence and great value for a luxury beauty product. The smell is exquisite and not overbearing or overly floral. I purchased this because I find the scent of lavender very soothing and it helps me manage stress. The added bonus is that this actually feels as though it moisturizes and soothes my dry winter skin." — Melissa

Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in two sizes).
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A bottle of Ancient Greek Remedy facial oil(13 of20)
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Instead of using a million products to hydrate your complexion, this multipurpose oil blend will help lock in moisture and keep irritation at bay. You can also use it on your hair to help tame frizziness.

Promising review: "I brought initially on a whim because I was tired of buying the oils I needed separately and wanted to try something new. I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. I have kinky, curly and dry hair and I dye/bleach it often. I use this for moisture and my hair loves it. I also add it to hair masks or a pre-poo. For my skin, I mix this with my lotion and my shea butter. My skin is moisturized all day and thriving. I also use it on my feet in the winter when I go to sleep and it helps a ton with cracked heels. For my face, one pump does more than enough. If my hands are damp, I can use one pump for my face and my neck. This is now a staple in my skincare routine. I've stopped having breakouts, my skin is glowing and thriving and my tone has evened up. My sister is also now hooked on this as its one of the only moisturizers that have helped with her acne, tone and doesn't bother her sensitive skin." — Lo

Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
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A Glossier Balm Dotcom Skin Salve(14 of20)
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Get a moisturized pout with this lip balm that leaves subtle tint and hydrates with castor oil, beeswax and lanolin.

Promising review: "I love, love, love this product! My lips feel so hydrated and soft and I especially adore the tinted balms! Gives your pout that perfect hint of color without being overpowering." — Jennifer S.

Get it from Glossier for $12 (available in eight shades/scents).
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A tube of Bliss Jelly Glow Peel(15 of20)
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Watch dead skin cells get lifted away with this nonabrasive exfoliator that's packed with papaya and pineapple enzymes.

Promising review: "This stuff is great! You can actually feel the dead skin it pulls up, which is kinda gross but 100 percent awesome! I have super sensitive skin so I was worried that I would react badly to this peel, but it’s so gentle. I only use it two times a week max but it always makes me look like I’m glowing when I get out of the shower." — Jackie H 93

Get it from Amazon for $9.
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A Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask(16 of20)
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Even out skin tone and increase hydration with this mask that'll be the perfect treat.

Promising review: "I’ve used this mask every night for about a week and it has made my skin super moist and plump. My skin both looks and feels so healthy. My skin sometimes flares up and is kind of sensitive, but it LOVES this mask. I will keep buying this forever!" — April

Get it from Glossier for $22.
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An Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask(17 of20)
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Extract gunk from your pores and get smoother skin with this deep-cleansing face mask that more than 17,000 reviewers swear by.

Promising review: "This has really helped me with my cystic acne! I have tried topical medications and even laser to help me with my skin, when I wasn't seeing any results I came to this and it has really changed the game! I am feeling so much better about my skin and my large cystic bumps have significantly reduced and even my skin tone has evened out. I read that you are to only use plastic with this (plastic cup/bowl and plastic spoon) and to use apple cider vinegar in a mixture with the clay, so I have done so and seen great results. Please try this!" — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.95.
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A pack of 16 hydrating face masks(18 of20)
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Bring the spa to your home with this set of face masks that'll provide you with a little self-care — and help you achieve a brighter and more hydrated complexion.

Promising review: "I use these masks once a week to moisturize my skin and focus on a little self-care. I am sensitive to some facial products, but I have had no issues with these masks. They are great for moisturizing, and I can see a visible difference in brightness under my eyes/on my forehead after use." — Millie Simmons

Get a set of 16 from Amazon for $9.99.
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A set of oil-absorbing tissues(19 of20)
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These absorbing tissues will soak up pesky excess oil around your cheeks, nose and chin.

Promising review: "I've had oily skin my whole life and have used countless types of oil blotting sheets because they're life savers. THESE ARE AMAZING. They're a great deal, big sheets and they pull out one at a time so easily. I'll never go back to other brands. Give these a try — they're completely worth it. They work well and are easy to use. I have no negative things to say at all." — Kelsey

Get a pack of 200 sheets from Amazon for $11.95+ (available in two formulas).
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And a Versed Overnight Facial Peel(20 of20)
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Vitamin A, glycolic acid and lactic acid get to work on your dull complexion while you catch up on sleep, leaving you with brighter skin in the morning.

Promising review: "I cannot describe how amazed I am by this product. I was very skeptical at all the claims that this would work overnight, but I am here to tell you it really, truly does. After my most recent hormonal breakout, my skin was looking dull, irritated and my jawline was full of healing blemishes. Not expecting much, I put this on before bed. Upon touching my face when I woke up, I immediately noticed how smooth and soft my skin felt. I started examining every angle of chin, cheeks and forehead because all my breakouts were gone (few very minor marks here and there) and my skin was completely soothed and looked fresh as a daisy! I've slowly started replacing my skincare routine with Versed products and they play really well together. This overnight treatment is no exception!" — Whoopitsk

Get it from Versed for $19.99 (available in two sizes).
(credit:Versed Skincare)

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